This Black History Month we hear from Esther Lendore, president of Rowan NAACP, on her journey as a Rowan student and her passion for creating a sense of community for students of color. A double major in political science and law & justice studies, senior Esther Lendore, from Far Rockaway, NY, holds a variety of […]
black history month
#PROFspective: Student Leader Fadi Khan Says “This is Only the Beginning”
Today we feature student leader Fadi Khan (he/him) of Pleasantville, NJ (Atlantic County). Fadi is a senior Biological Sciences major and lives on campus in Holly Pointe Commons, where he is also a Community Assistant. A first-generation college student, Fadi shares with us his perspectives on life, his major, and getting the most out of […]
Rowan Global Student Makes History as First to Earn Diversity and Inclusion Certificate of Graduate Study
LaWana Boone of Gloucester County, NJ chose Rowan’s Diversity and Inclusion Certificate of Graduate Study for its rigorous curriculum, classes both online and close to home, and opportunities to get involved on campus. This fall, she earned her graduate certificate — the first to do so — and plans to leverage her knowledge to help […]
Black #PROFspective: A Conversation with Cristofer Conner, A Public Health and Wellness Major
Story by:Lucas Taylor, senior secondary English education major
Black #PROFspective: Radio/TV/Film and Journalism Dual Major Kariyah Bennett
Today we feature Kariyah Bennett, a Radio/Television/Film and Journalism double major. Kariyah is from Washington Township, NJ (Gloucester County) and is a senior graduating this spring. Kariyah spends her free time as a member of Rowan Radio and the Rowan Television Network. She also works at the Rowan Recreation Center. Kariyah shares her experience as […]
DEI Spring 2022 Book Study Recommendations
Monika Williams Shealey, Ph.D. (she/her/hers), Professor of Special Education and Senior Vice President of the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, shares details on Rowan’s community-wide book study initiative with essential reads as we celebrate Black History Month. The Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) launched in 2019 with a listening tour which included […]
Black #PROFspective: Junior Sports Communication and Media Major Zai Smith
Today we speak to Zai Smith, a junior Sports Communication and Media major with a concentration in Sports Journalism from Trenton, NJ (Mercer County). Zai is a transfer student from Virginia State University and lives on campus.
Thank you to Tatianna Addison, senior communications studies major from Browns Mills, NJ (Burlington County), for this series idea to honor Black students during Black History Month.
What is your student experience here at Rowan, as a Black student at a Primarily White Institution?
My experience at Rowan as a Black student isn’t bad at all. I didn’t expect certain things that I’ve experienced. I feel supported by my peers and my professors, alongside my advisor.
How did you find your friend group here at Rowan?
My friend group came from the track team.
How would you describe inclusion?
In my opinion, it’s kind of seen as “human rights.”
What advice would you give to a Black high school student considering your major here at Rowan?
Just go hard, reach for the stars, because nobody will get in your way and in your head more than you will.
What are your professional goals?
I want to become a famous writer because I love to write, and I have quite a story to tell. I also want to own my own business.
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Story by:
Rachel Rumsby, sophomore communication studies and public relations double major
Header photo by:
Anthony Paisley, senior history major
Alumni Success: Student-Athlete, Trailblazer Brad K. Leak
Today, we feature alumnus Brad K. Leak ’94, who earned a bachelor of science degree in Business with a specialization in Accounting. He also led the men’s Track & Field team as captain from 1991-94. As a three-time all-American champion, Brad wisely balanced the many responsibilities of being a student, an athlete and a leader.
Where do you currently work?
“I am the Associate Managing Director of Financial Aid at Kean University, but I still love my school [as Brad proudly shows he’s wearing Glassboro State College apparel]. Although it was awkward for me, accepting a job at one of my school’s rivals, my wife and I were excited at the opportunity for my kids to attend college for free. I’m also going to run the EOF program for Kean University! I was equally blessed that my fraternity brother is the first African American president of Kean University. He was putting together a diverse team [to lead Kean]; my name came to his mind as someone who would not only relate to the students of today but also knew how to go about understanding federal compliance as it relates to financial aid and helping students to graduate. Just three weeks previous, I was offered to be the first African American Director of Finance of Union Township, but the local politicians wanted to ensure they put all options of the table for the betterment of my career. I could not turn down the opportunity to assist in molding the future minds of society.”
What was your experience as an undergrad?
“I received a bachelor of science in business with a specialization in accounting. As an only child, my mother said I always [pretended] to have a business office and clients. I also excelled in mathematics in school. [Although] I wasn’t interested in the complicated formulas, numbers had always interested me. In the church, anytime the offering was going to be taken, I wanted to help manage the finances of the church.”
Eventually, somebody pointed Brad toward accounting. In high school, he took an accounting class, learning the concepts of debits and credits. From a young age, Brad “knew [he] wanted to study accounting, become an accountant, and build a whole career as an accountant.”
Brad’s favorite class was Accounting 102 with Dr. Diane Hughes, one of the few African American teachers he met in his entire educational experience. Brad later became the president of the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) at Rowan from 1993-94. Brad earned the position by impressing IMA’s advisor at the time, Dr. George Romeo, through class and one-to-one basketball sessions.
Coming through the EOF program, built solid friendships and learned more about the campus environment. Brad credits his start in EOF in helping him make it through college because it was a major adjustment from his hometown in North Jersey. Living only six minutes from the Newark airport and 20 minutes from New York (on a good day), he remembers being surprised Glassboro only had one Wawa in the area.
Can you tell me more about your extracurricular activities?
“I specialized in the 800-meter race and ran the anchor leg in the 4×400 relay. The anchor leg was tough, especially at nationals where everybody gets excited. I [also] ran run cross country because as a middle-distance runner, you have to be fast and strong.
“I am a member of the Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. I pledged in the spring of 1990, and that network has led me to have a fraternity brother who is the president of a major university in the state of New Jersey. The model of our fraternity is focused on service for humanity. Phi Beta Sigma recruited you so that you could become a leader of the community. It was less about yourself and more about what you could do for other people. There’s a difference between aspiring to be a leader, and already being a leader who wants to serve people. I stayed active through the alumni ranks.
“As one of the historically Black fraternities and sororities, the alumni portion of [Phi Beta Sigma] is as strong if not stronger than the collegiate ranks. [As an alumni], it’s less about college parties and more about community service, networking, and conferences; and, because of that, we’ve become an intellectual thinktank.”
Brad remembers being a social butterfly and recruiting members for Phi Beta Sigma, starting off with five to six members and gaining up to 25 new recruits. This experience helped shape Brad into the leader he is now. He believes that intentionally creating positive situations will lead to positive results and that “iron sharpens iron.”
Could you share with us a little bit about racial inclusion and the student culture while you attended Rowan?
“In my day, the only diversity that came through the campus was from the EOF/MAP programs. In 1992, the Rodney King verdict was released, and we marched down 322 onto the football field during a game. We tried to stop the game. After that, we immediately went to the President’s house [Hollybush Mansion] and camped out. I also went to NAACP events in Clayton and Camden as well as Black Cultural League once a month.”
Coming from North Jersey, Brad remembers driving back home and about 35% of the time he drove up the highway home, he was pulled over by NJ state troopers. It happened so often with one state trooper, he eventually remembered Brad as “the college kid.”
What advice would you give to students, especially Black students?
“Always understand that you want to be the change that you want to see. The blessing is, with [the culture] today, I can comfortably speak about the Black Lives Matter Movement. Where in my day, you didn’t want to be so radical. We were being trained to assimilate to corporate America. You didn’t see a lot of African American CEOs or presidents of major corporations, you only really ever saw us in sports and entertainment. Now, we have had an African American president [and now a Vice President] of the United States. So, I would tell those students — especially the males — to understand that if Black Lives Matter then Black education MUST matter. I want them to value their education first and foremost.
“Education is more than just the process of going to class and going back to your dorm and playing the PS5 or whatever kids are playing with today. Education means you have to join a professional organization. Make sure you not only do sports but also participate in academia and build a relationship with your professors. Ask them about their professional experiences.
“I challenge them, [especially] African American males, to set the example and change ‘perception.’ Make sure you’re holistically involved in the campus, be involved in the ENTIRE process of being a college student. You’re only going to be able to do that for four or five years. If I had the chance to do it all over again, I would do it all over again. I would do a couple of things differently and I could make my career that much greater just by the basis of my college education and experience at Rowan University.”
Brad has always appreciated the power of education, especially being the second person in his immediate family to attend college. His aunt, Dr. Violet Martin, was the first to go to college and also calls Rowan her alma mater. Brad and Dr. Martin now have six other collegiate-level students or graduates in their family.
What was your journey like after college?
“When I graduated from college, I had applied to a lot of the Big Six accounting firms. I wasn’t getting the opportunities I really wanted. Because, at that time, if you didn’t go to one of the Ivy League schools where the Big Six recruited on those campuses and where they have associations set up, they did not look at you. Being the president of IMA, I got sent to a three-day weekend at UPenn. [Even] being one of the most outgoing people in the organization and having a down-to-earth attitude (coming from Rowan), the only kids they were recruiting from were from UPenn, Drexel, or Villanova. I didn’t let it bother me. Long story short, I found out I have a second cousin, Walter Frye, who owns a CPA (Certified Public Accountant) firm. Walter brought me into his firm, and I’ve continuously worked with him for 25 years at the same time as my other jobs. The firm had a contract with KPMG to audit New York City. We made sure to send diverse accountants because the people auditing the city should look like the public. I received training by KPMG in Denver, Colorado. This opportunity set up my whole career. I became a top executive for Atlantic City Housing Authority. I began my own firm and worked with housing authorities all over America, traveling 80% of the time. I would not have believed a small kid from North Jersey would become a key figure in the housing authority. Now, I’ve pivoted back to college and higher education.”
What do you hope to see in the future of Rowan?
Brad appreciates the fact that the minority base at Rowan is growing. He hopes that everyone feels accepted at Rowan and that diversity will not be treated as just a statistic. He also hopes to see the faculty one day look like the people they are teaching.
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Story by:
Marian Suganob, senior public relations and advertising major
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Alumni Success: “What’s Good” with Isaiah Showell ‘15, Multimedia Journalist and Local Storyteller
Black History Facts All Students Should Know
Today we speak to Rowan students from three different colleges who share insight on key moments in Black history and suggest books and movies to learn more.
“Black History Month originally began as Negro History Week, created by Carter G. Woodson in 1926. It only became Black History Month in 1976 when President Gerald Ford called for the public to ‘seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.’ The month of February also coincided with the birthdays of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln.”
Gregory Williams, a freshman Dance major from South River, NJ (Middlesex County) is a resident on campus at Magnolia Hall. Gregory says he learned about Black history mostly through social media and his own research online. He recommends students read “Stamped from the Beginning” by Ibram X. Kendi or view the movies “Selma,” “13th” and “Harriet” to educate themselves about Black history.
“Jack Johnson became the first African American to be a world heavyweight champion.”
Latiesha Small, a freshman Biological Sciences and Mathematics double major from Matawan, NJ (Monmouth County), is a resident on campus at Evergreen Hall. Latiesha says she learned about Black history from her family.
“Before Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat on the bus, there was a young girl named Claudette Colvin who refused first.”
Jamar Green, a junior Law & Justice Studies major with an Africana Studies minor, is from Linden, NJ (Union County). Jamar transferred to Rowan from Union County College and is a resident on campus at 230 Victoria. He is a first-generation college student. Jamar says he learned about Black history by researching. “I was always told by my grandfather if you want to know your history you have to learn it for yourself, so I read articles, books and watched videos, documentaries and movies.” A book that he recommends for students to educate themselves about Black history is “What to the Slave Is the Fourth of July?” by Frederick Douglass.
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Story and photo of Gregory by:
Rachel Rumsby, sophomore communication studies and public relations double major
Photo of Latiesha provided by:
Latiesha Small, freshman biological Sciences and mathematics double major
Photo of Jamar provided by:
Jamar Green, junior law and justice studies major
Header photo courtesy of:
Pixabay
Alumni Success: New Jersey State Police Sergeant Danyel Barnes
Danyel Barnes, a 1994 alumnus, shares his Rowan story and how it shaped his life today as a Sergeant with the New Jersey State Police.
Danyel’s college journey is an amazing story in and of itself.
In high school, Danyel considered joining the military and was being recruited by the Army and Air Force. A guidance counselor at Camden High School, Ms. Sanders, encouraged him to apply to college. After getting into Rowan (then Glassboro State College), he told his grandmother that he got accepted but didn’t have the money for school, so he’d have to choose the military. That same day, his grandmother wrote him a check and told him to go to college.
As you can tell, education was very important in the Barnes’ family. Danyel comes from three generations of college, so he was happy to keep the legacy going.
When Danyel got to campus, he had an awesome experience. He lived in Chestnut Hall his freshman year and got involved in Greek life early on. Being in a fraternity was one of Danyel’s “musts” going into college, so his second-semester freshman year he pledged Phi Beta Sigma. Danyel speaks about the strength of this brotherhood. “Our kids call each other aunties and uncles. We all keep in touch and are close to this day,” he says.
When asked about any influential people at Rowan, Danyel easily recited a whole list. One of the people mentioned was a former Rowan president. “Herman James was always on the ground with students — we would see him every day in the Student Center just walking around and talking to people, he had a quiet calm about him,” he says. “I learned a lot from the way he carried himself. Professors and staff at Rowan really taught me how to be a benevolent leader.”
Danyel, who majored in Sociology, also mentioned a really influential Women’s and Gender studies course. “Dr. Gallant taught me all about real feminism. I was the only boy who didn’t drop the class because I really wanted to learn.”
Currently, Danyel serves as a Sergeant for New Jersey State Police. He got into law enforcement from inspiration from his brother and recruiters who visited Rowan’s campus. Danyel got information from the recruiters, passed a written exam, and went to the New Jersey Department of Corrections to start his career. Danyel felt that Rowan prepared him for his career by giving him a strong foundation in writing. He also learned a lot about human behaviors from being a sociology major and taking courses like anthropology.
When asked what his advice to graduating Rowan students would be, Danyel says, “Everything you do isn’t about you, it’s about everyone else — you have to give back.”
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Story by:
Loredonna Fiore, junior public relations and advertising major
Photos by: Rachel Rumsby, sophomore communication studies and public relations double major
Related posts:
How One Student Uses Skills Learned at Rowan to Fight Crime
Air Force Veteran, Strategic Communication M.A. Student Alex Walpole on His Road to Rowan
“Momma Bear” Cooper Nurse & Camden Native Keeps The Faith
Today, we feature Michelle Hackett, a student in Rowan Global’s master of science: nurse practitioner program. Here, she shares her story about her time at Cooper Hospital in Camden, NJ and offers insight on the reality of being a nurse.
I stayed in trauma med surg at Cooper Hospital in Camden for nine years. Loved it. I got through to a lot of these little young fellas out here who wanted to fight and gangbang and shoot. I’m a momma bear kind. I’m really not that afraid, because I grew up here in the city. So I’m not, “Oh, they’re going to shoot me! They’re going to come back and kill me!” and I’ve been threatened and all, but I’m not concerned. In the end, they know that I care about people. In the end, they are human.
My boys here in the city, sometimes when I’m off from work we run into each other and they’re, “Hey, Miss Michelle!” and I say, “Hey!”… but never speak of where we know each other. They are very protective. They turned around from being argumentative and threatening to embracing me like a family member.
Some of them are repeat offenders. I had one kid who was on drugs, and he was a male prostitute who used to rob his clients. He would come in frequently. We met him when he was really young. I used to always tell this kid, “One of these days you’re not going to make it up here to the floor. You really need to stop.” He’d say, “Oh, Miss Michelle, I know what I’m doing. I’ve got this.” And, lo and behold, he came through trauma admitting one day. He was shot multiple times for robbing one of his guys … and he was killed by him. I thought, “Dammit, I told you this would happen.”
So, all the outcomes aren’t good. I have to keep it all in perspective. My mom died when I was 13, so I’ve been on my own since I was 15. Even though I have a very large family, the social constructs of living in Camden are different — some things you hear about Camden are true, and some things are not. But I try to keep things very practical and try not to overthink things. Death is a part of life. I do cry, I do grieve my patients. There are people I will never, ever forget. But I just try to keep it in perspective and know that I did the best that I could for them while they were here.
It can be traumatic if you are faint hearted as a nurse, because you’re seeing these broken bodies, you’re seeing these bodies that are mutilated. You’re seeing people die. It is not something that I shy away from, because I am a spiritual person and I do believe that there is a God and that there is something beyond this. My faith teaches me that this isn’t something to be afraid of. That’s what I give to my families, too, so I can inspire them through my faith to help them through the healing or grieving process.
I love what I do, but I decided to get the master’s because I was working nights and crazy hours and I wanted to enjoy my kids, who I had late in life. I knew I wanted to do a NP [nurse practitioner] program because I want to teach. I know there’s not a lot of money in teaching, but that’s my passion and that’s my heart’s desire. Earning the NP serves a dual purpose for me: one, I can teach; and two, I’m going to be cutting edge and still be abreast of what’s going on in practice, so I can share that with my students.
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Black #PROFspective: Junior Law and Justice Studies and Africana Studies Double Major Jamar Green
Today we speak with Jamar Green, a junior double major in Law and Justice Studies and Africana Studies from Linden, NJ (Union County). Jamar, who transferred to Rowan from Union County College, is a first-generation college student. Jamar lives on-campus at 230 Victoria.
Thank you to Tatianna Addison, senior communications studies major from Browns Mills, NJ (Burlington County), for this series idea to honor Black students during Black History Month.
What is your student experience here at Rowan like, as a Black student at a PWI (Predominantly White Institution)?
I feel that going to a PWI will better benefit me. The experience I have had so far at Rowan had been on the positive side. I do feel included at Rowan. In both of my majors, I feel like they support Black students well.
How did you find your friend group here at Rowan?
The way I found my friend group at Rowan was by joining clubs and a transfer group chat when I first attended.
Are you involved with Black Rowan?
Yes, I am. I am on the executive board for the African Student Association and the NAACP chapter.
What advice would you give to a Black high school student considering your major here at Rowan?
Be ready to work hard and don’t give up no matter what anyone says. It’s not a field they want to see us in, but a field they’re going to need us in if they want to see change.
What are your professional goals?
I want to become a criminal defense attorney.
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Story by:
Rachel Rumsby, sophomore communication studies and public relations double major
Alumni Success: Teacher and Soror Kathleen Gordy-Mathis
Kathleen Gordy-Mathis, an alumna and current preschool teacher, tells us about her amazing experiences since graduating. Kathleen graduated with a bachelor of arts degree in Communications with a specialization in Public Relations in 1990.
What was your experience like as an undergraduate at Glassboro State College?
“As an undergrad, my experience was absolutely awesome. It was a bit of a culture shock for me because it was rural and something I wasn’t accustomed to. Deer and rabbits were basically escorting you across [Route] 322 to get to the Student Center.
Originally, I’m from Atlantic City and though there are casinos, to me [Atlantic City] is still a small town with big city money. To go from that to Glassboro, was very different. To me, there were enough students but there weren’t too many. It wasn’t overwhelming.
I chose communications because I like to talk and I love to write. Glassboro was known for being one of the best communications schools out there. [I chose Glassboro] because it was far enough away but yet close enough to go back home.
I learned, as a freshman, not to take 8 a.m. classes and to opt for 9:30 a.m. classes instead! It was an interesting experience trying to get up every morning and get myself to class. I learned to enjoy the moment and not to put too much pressure on myself. Though school was very serious [to me], I didn’t stress out about it to the point where I would make myself anxious or nervous. I truly enjoyed my experience at Glassboro.”
Can you tell us about your journey from graduation to now?
“In my senior year, I took the PRAXIS or the National Teachers’ Exam and I passed it on my first go-around. Right out of college, I was a substitute high school teacher for one year. Then, I worked for a nonprofit. Then, I went on to work for Computer Sciences Corporation as a corporate trainer, contracted with the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration). [I realized my passion for teaching in] becoming a corporate trainer, where you get to interact, facilitate and answer questions. You get the opportunity to see people’s thought patterns and mindsets. You have the opportunity to provide [others] with the tools to navigate anything.
I left the corporate sector to become a full-time teacher. I am currently a preschool teacher in Atlantic City. I love working in pre-K because they are willing to learn anything you teach them! They are so hungry for knowledge!”
Working with the FAA, Kathleen trained people in interpersonal skills, navigating change, proactive listening and teamwork dynamics. As a corporate trainer, she discovered her passion for teaching and became a full-time teacher in 2003. Kathleen has taught first and second grade, but loves pre-K the best.
What do you remember the most about Glassboro State?
“Black History with Dr. Gary Hunter was very informative and his style caused you to reflect upon what was presented to you and what you had gained before going into his class.”
Kathleen’s memories of Dr. Hunter’s popular class on black history was also enriched by her experiences of pledging to Alpha Kappa Alpha in the same semester. For Kathleen, the most significant lesson she learned from Dr. Hunter was how to be a continuous learner.
“The motto I try to mold my life after is: you cease to learn, you cease to grow.”
What was your experience like in the sorority, Alpha Kappa Alpha (AKA)?
“I pledged as a freshman. So for the most part, my entire career at Glassboro, I was a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha. It was an awesome, life-changing experience. It gave me the opportunity to, not only network with sorors but also with other people in the greek family. They are lifetime bonds. [That experience] was truly worth it.”
Kathleen served as president of AKA and has been an active member of AKA for 33 and a half years (34 years in May)! She fondly remembers practicing for step performances in the kitchen of an Evergreen apartment. Kathleen’s solid sorority connections have continued to bring her skill-strengthening opportunities, such as mentoring Kathleen in her first permanent teaching job. She has had sorority sisters working by her side and cheering on her success.
Another fond memory Kathleen shares with her sorority sisters is the absolute elation they felt when Kamala Harris was elected Vice President of the United States.
Could you share a little bit about racial inclusion and the student culture while you were a student?
“We kind of stuck to ourselves, as far as like-minded people and groups that we were ‘a member of.’ We didn’t really venture outside of that dynamic. It definitely was not as diverse as it is now.”
Kathleen remembers being inspired by Herman James, the first African American president of Rowan, saying “he always went out of his way to make you feel welcomed.” Kathleen remembers protesting with AKA against Coca Cola’s involvement in South Africa regarding apartheid and against other social issues, whether local, national, or international. AKA made themselves known.
Kathleen’s time with the Black Cultural League helped share valuable information focused on the African American experience ranging from the nuances of college life or life post-graduation. Kathleen continues to be involved in the Rowan community, including Homecoming and the Rowan University Black Alumni Network (RUBAN) panel discussions which span the 80’s to the 00’s. She enjoys annual Homecoming tailgate parties and celebrating with lifelong friends.
Kathleen remains excited about the future of Rowan, knowing that Dr. Penny McPherson-Myers, her fellow soror and the Vice President of Rowan’s Division of Equity and Inclusion, works to make sure that the efforts in working with the student population are balanced and focused on providing the tools students need to be successful.
“[I hope] to see a continued level of diversity and also, what is needed to sustain it. As our general population changes, I feel that Rowan also has to adapt in order to properly serve those who come through its doors.”
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Story by: Marian Suganob, senior public relations and advertising major
TRANSFERmation Tuesday: Sociology Major LaDaysha White
Today we feature LaDaysha White, a first-generation senior Sociology major from Florence, NJ (Burlington County). She also has a Certificate of Undergraduate study in Public Policy. LaDaysha is a transfer student from Ramapo College of New Jersey, and she tells us about her Rowan experience. Tell us a little bit about your favorite class at […]
Rowan Global History Graduate Student is Teaching and Learning with a “New Set of Rules”
Meet Diamonnique M., a Rowan Global student from Essex County who began her master’s degree in history pursuit in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic. She’s going back to school at the same time as she navigates her first year teaching social studies and English language arts (ELA) at the elementary school level. Here, Diammonnique shares her thoughts on the power of education and dispels myths about studying history.
When I first started pursuing my associate degree, I thought that was just pretty much my stopping point. I’ll just get that associate degree, this will be it, and I’ll move forward with my life and hopefully find a job that’s better paying than the job I had at that particular time.
And I realized that no, Diamonnique, you need to pursue, continue forward, pursue the next step. And it just kind of became like an addiction, pursuing education. And I kind of started thinking to myself, well, you’re pursuing these degrees, what is it that you’re going to end up doing?
Because I already had a background in education as far as caregiving within the daycare system, and then moving forward to serve as a paraprofessional, I said, OK, this is ideally what my my track seems to be, my path seems to be to serve as an educator, teaching what it is that I have and imparting that knowledge to younger students who are up and coming to be scholars and change agents.
I teach social studies and ELA to on a second and third grade level. Prior to earning a full-time teaching position, I served as a paraprofessional and a substitute educator. It’s been a tremendous task for me to adapt to a different learning style, and make sure that I’m doing my best to keep students engaged, virtually opposed to being in person where I can use other tactics and different techniques.
It’s a new system, it’s a new set of rules that I am doing my best to implement, making sure that I’m keeping the students engaged, but at the same time, imparting all the knowledge that I need to impart within a certain amount of time.
I have a variety of students: learners who learn easily, learners who have a different way of learning, such as the visual learners, and so forth. I really do my best to make sure that I’m incorporating all learning styles in my presentation daily, so that I can make sure these students are not lacking in anything. And yes, we can easily use not being in person to learn and to teach as an excuse. But that won’t be an excuse that I am interested in making use of.
I take education very seriously: for my students, anyone that I encounter, even with my own children. Education is very big in our household. My son is 5 years old reading on a higher level. This is very important to me. And I hope that when my students progress to the next grade, they can constantly be praised for their efforts and the knowledge that they are sharing with the educator and other students that they come into contact with.
The impact that I hope to have on the next generation of historians is to really just tackle all of your goals fearlessly pursuing them in a manner in which you have a mentality that you are unstoppable, you are capable of doing anything and everything. Despite all of these different voices, all of these different obstacles, you get back, you fall down, you get back up, that’s just the sense of being that I wish others to have when listening to me knowing my story.
What’s so interesting is that when people learn about the history program being available, there’s … this negative connotation. And the negative connotation is pretty much: What can you do with a history degree? Are you sure? Don’t you want to reconsider?
I hope this thought process can shift as far as the negative connotation that’s associated with history in itself, and that it can shift to being something that is of more of an essence, it’s valuable, and it’s seen as necessary.
There are so many things that you can do utilizing a history degree. Clearly, predominantly, a lot of the participants of the history program pursue teaching. But there are other things that you can do, such as engaging in the political arena, engaging in areas that you can serve somehow, in a museum field, the list can continue.
That’s what I love about Rowan University. It’s very diverse, you have so many different areas of focus, such as global studies, gender studies, Africana studies … everything is just really tailored to what it is that you want to do as far as going out into the world and utilizing your degrees. And I’m really thankful that they had that when I first came in. I know that I don’t want to be confined to one particular area of content.
And I honestly promise you, it is not nearly as boring as people perhaps consider it to be. I feel like with the right educator, and the manner of delivery and the different visuals that are combined, in reference to the teaching skill, it can be only as exciting as the educator makes it be and only as exciting as you condition your mind to believe it is.
With that being said, even though the workload this recent semester was extremely heavy, I learned so much. And I enjoyed every little little bit of it.
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Men of Color Alliance (MOCA) at Rowan University [VIDEO]
President Michael Nash (Public Relations) and Vice President Chase Campbell (Advertising), both from Burlington County, share their accomplishments and goals surrounding the Men of Color Alliance. MOCA has had a great positive impact on both the club members’ personal lives and the community they aim to support.
Alumni Success: Attorney Jennifer Webb-McRae
Rowan alumna Jennifer Webb-McRae shares how impactful her college experience was to her current career as an attorney.
Jennifer admits that Rowan (Glassboro State College at the time) was not her first choice going into college. Growing up in Vineland, she didn’t think she could possibly have her ideal college experience living 30 minutes away from campus.
Sure enough, Jennifer ended up exactly where she was meant to be and made Rowan her home. “I stayed on campus, I rarely went home, and was a part of a phenomenal little community.”
On campus, Jennifer was a Resident Assistant her junior and senior years, a member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority, and was part of the Gamma Tau Sigma law and justice society of Rowan University.
Coming into college, Jennifer knew she wanted to be a lawyer and felt that way all her life. “My parents would tease me and say I would argue every point, so I had that idea since I was a little girl,” she says.
During her time at Rowan, Jennifer made impactful connections that helped catapult her to that goal. “My advisor Dr. Douglass from the Law & Justice department really helped me get into law school by preparing me and guiding me through the process. He steered me in the right direction and gave me advice on taking the appropriate classes and getting good grades so I would be a competitive applicant to get into law school.”
Jennifer got accepted and attended Rutgers Law School after graduating from Rowan.
Jennifer says her education from Rowan really helped her transition to law school. “I was definitely prepared for law school. It was really the mentors I had at Rowan that pushed me, supported me, and made me feel like I could do it.” Jennifer says she still keeps in touch with those people to this day.
Jennifer serves as Cumberland County prosecutor, the first female and first African American appointed to this role.
She also teaches classes at Rowan for the Law & Justice Studies department. During our interview, Jennifer personally offered herself as a resource to this contributor and any other Rowan student. “I was very fortunate to have mentors in my life at every step of my career, and that starts in college,” she says.
Jennifer’s advice for graduating Rowan students would be “go for it, plan for it, and take advantage of opportunities college has to offer you.”
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Story by:
Loredonna Fiore, junior public relations and advertising major
Header photo by:
Anthony Raisley, senior history major
Lifting Black Creative Voices
Today we are highlighting Black students who major in creative fields at Rowan University. Each share insight on being a Black student in a major/field where there is not strong representation and tell us where they are headed in their professional careers.
“I really didn’t have an insight being a Black student coming from a predominantly white high school; however, when I got to college I was able to express myself about my views. In terms of my professional goals, I want to work behind the scenes in movies.” – Jabreeah Holmes, senior Radio/TV/Film major, Camden, NJ
Check out some of Jabreeah’s work on her YouTube channel.
“Since Black women artists are not predominant in the art field nor get the representation that they deserve, it motivates me to stand out and make work that’s unique or different. Also, to make work that responds to Black issues and beauty. For my professional goals, I’m still debating about that. Right now, I’m considering a career in the museum field like a museum archivist, a curator or a crime scene technician in the forensic/ law and justice field.” – Giovanna Eley, senior Art major with a minor in Law and Justice and CUGS: Forensic Studies, transfer student from Rutgers Camden, Plainfield, NJ (Union County)
Check out Giovanna’s portfolio here: https://giovannaeley.com
“It feels really good to be who I am and be a part of this field that I think is also teaching me more and more of who I am. I was mainly the only Black person in my writing courses, there were maybe one to two more if that. My professional goals are to just write, to be happy in doing so, I hope to maybe get a book published of a selection of pieces I have written! Maybe even submitting a script to a production company!” – Sabrea Bishop of Newark, NJ (Essex County), junior, first-generation college student, Writing Arts (Creative Writing) major, transfer from Albright College, PA
Check out Sabrea’s work here.
“It gets a bit lonely, especially walking into a class and being able to count the Black students in the room on one hand. But with that it mind, it keeps me determined to make sure other Black creatives feel comfortable enough to be in the room in the first place. I feel as though creative fields aren’t taken as seriously, but people are always enjoying new books and shows and pieces of art. So, I feel as though by being confident in myself in my creative life, I can be an inspiration for others to actually go for their creative craft, instead of pushing it away because of fear. My professional goals are to write movies, books, and possibly television shows for people to enjoy. I also want to create different forms of art like paintings and sculptures and have my work displayed in galleries all over.” – Daija McNeil, junior, first generation college student, Studio Art major with a minor in Creative Writing, Willingboro, NJ (Burlington County)
See Daija’s artwork here.
Read Daija’s written piece, “A Love Letter To Black Women,” here.
“It’s definitely difficult, when I come to class I am either the only Black student or it may be me or maybe two others, never more than five. In any field you want to see a model to follow and it’s hard when you have to be your own model. In terms of professional goals, I have so many; however, the one related to this field would be to start my own production company.” – Desi Jones, junior Radio/TV/Film major, transfer from Camden County College, Camden County, NJ
Check out and purchase Desi’s book “Daily Dose of Desi, A Year of Light, Love, and Inspiration” here.
“The writing industry is no stranger at all to minorities, but Blacks are rarely highlighted in that field. I think a part of that is due to both the immutable nature of the industry and Blacks being unaware of how much they can benefit from having a career in creative fields. I feel that Black students are the perfect participants for writing arts by the simple fact that we don’t go through the same experiences as everyone (even ourselves) and have a different view on life than most others. While I’m currently a freelance writer for an online publication (Screen Rant), I plan to expand my writing to an even greater professional level with my ultimate goal of working on a TV series or film.” – Bryce Morris, junior Writing Arts major, Trenton, NJ (Mercer County)
Read one of Bryce’s published pieces here.
“I feel like there’s a different type of pressure. I personally feel like I have to be better and focus more in order to do what. One reason I wasn’t interested in doing broadcasting was my hair. I didn’t want to have to wear it straight or certain way to look “professional.” I find it difficult on how to be myself yet also “professional” because the second you might sound rude you have an “attitude” or maybe you talk “too loud” and now you’re considered the loud Black girl with an attitude. For my professional goals, I hope to become a magazine writer, focusing on music!” – Mya Calderon, junior, first-generation college student, Journalism major with a minor in Psychology from Hanley Falls, Minnesota
“For my professional goals, I want to be a freelance concept artist for a video game one day. But I also want to make and direct on my projects and hopefully be financially stable. Some advice for Black high school students going into creative majors: Make sure you build your portfolio and be aware that traditional pieces are a must have when trying to get into the art program. Make sure you bring at least two traditional art pieces for your review! This was a hard pill for me to swallow when I first did an art portfolio review, and I only drew cute anime-inspired chibis. But trust me, your hard work will pay off! Cartoony/semi-realism stuff is okay to add too! If you do digital, I recommend coming in with a time-lapse of your workflow process on a tablet/laptop to show! Also, don’t listen to cynical individuals saying you drawing anime and character art, won’t get you a job. Sure, the market is competitive but there are plenty of art jobs out there looking for different art styles of all sorts! Anime included! Make sure you do your research!” – Khadijah Owens of Sicklerville, NJ (Camden County), junior Art major working toward a dual major in Art Education, transfer from Rowan College at Gloucester County.
Check out some of Khadijah’s work here.
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Story by: Bianca Torres, senior Music Industry major
Photography not submitted by: Jabreeah Holmes, senior Radio/TV/Film major and Joe Gentempo, senior Art major
The Path to Finding My Major: Junior Kayla Tucker
Today’s story is by Kayla Tucker, a junior Public Relations major from Bordentown, NJ (Burlington County). She lives on campus at 220 Rowan Boulevard. Kayla writes about her experience picking a major at Rowan.
When it was time for me to come to Rowan, I thought I had everything figured out as far as my major was concerned, but boy was I wrong. In my first semester, I started out as a marketing major. It did not take very long for me to figure out that a major pretty heavily based on mathematics was not going to be a good fit for someone like me. So, I began my journey to find my happily ever after.
Something that I feel like most high school students could use help with is finding a major during their search for colleges. At the high school I attended, we had very little assistance when it came to finding a major and or a career path. Most of the heavy lifting fell on the students. This being the case, I started to look for jobs and careers that typically make a lot of money, and at the very least, I knew I wanted to be in the business field. I thought I had found a career that played to my strengths when I had discovered marketing but did not do enough research on the courses required for the degree.
I have always been interested in the creative side of things and struggled with anything numeric. When I got to campus as a marketing major and looked at the classes provided by my advisor, I was hopeful that my semester would go well. I knew taking classes such a micro-economics and other required math courses, I was going to be in for a wild ride. By the end of the semester, I knew that marketing just wasn’t the major for me and switched to exploratory studies. Making that switch was by far one of the best decisions I made my freshman year.
By making that change, I was able to take the proper time to work on completing my Rowan Core classes, all while taking additional classes that piqued my interest, which lead to me finding public relations. Rowan has so many different majors out there to explore for students to find what fits them best. For me, it was public relations. After declaring PR as my new major, I began to see myself flourish academically and even socially.
The best advice that I have to offer incoming students or even students who have declared a major that they feel unsure about is to major in exploratory studies. Coming to college is scary enough and then having the additional pressure to pick a major that will one day lead to your career is heavy stuff. There is nothing wrong with taking the time to find your perfect fit for a major because taking your time might be what leads you to your happily ever after.
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Story and photos provided by:
Kayla Tucker, junior public relations major
#PROFspective: Accounting Major David Nicolas
Today we feature first-generation college senior David Nicolas, an Accounting major from Trenton, NJ (Mercer County). David is a part of the Accounting Society and NABA – National Association of Black Acountants. What are your career aspirations? One of my aspirations is to get my Series 6 license. I am in the process of doing that […]
My Favorite Class: Bre’Anna Kidd-Smith, Plant Diversity
This story is a part of the “My Favorite Class” series.
Today we speak to senior Biological Studies major and Africana Studies minor Bre’Anna Kidd-Smith. Bre’Anna is from Gloucester County, NJ. Here, she shares details on her favorite class at Rowan.
What was the name of your favorite class at Rowan?
My favorite class at Rowan is Plant Diversity.
What department was the class in?
Plant Diversity is a class in the Biological Sciences Department.
Who taught the class when you took it?
Dr. Sara Wright was the professor of my section of Plant Diversity.
Tell us a little bit about the class.
This class focuses on the study of numerous plants in regards to their morphology, ecology, physiology, and evolution in addition to the role that human and nonhuman factors have on the diversity of plants.
Share with us a few details on why this class was interesting.
This class was interesting because I was able to learn about the evolutionary relationships between the major groups of plants in addition to their characteristics. I also found this class interesting because Dr. Wright, my professor, gave the class a photo journal project that we were able to complete throughout the semester. This assignment gave me an opportunity to not only learn about different plants but also document their characteristics and the environmental factors that they encounter in their daily lives.
What makes this professor great?
Dr. Wright is extremely thorough when talking about plants and provides a lot of visual aids to go along with her lectures. She takes the time to not only create videos that provide students with information on the current topic being taught in class but also incorporate supplemental readings that will explain things even more.
How did this class help to support your academic or personal growth or your professional goals?
This class helped to support my personal growth because I was able to get back in touch with nature by taking time out of each day to get some fresh air. In addition, I now have a fresh perspective and appreciation for life. After taking this class, I’ve also become more compelled to step out of my comfort zone in regards to certain goals that I would like to achieve.
What are your professional goals?
My professional goals are to establish a personal brand within the cosmetic industry and become a business owner.
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Story by:
Rachel Rumsby, sophomore communication studies and public relations double major
Photos provided by:
Bre’Anna Kidd-Smith, senior biological studies major
My Favorite Class: Cheyenne Smith, Introduction to American Studies
This story is a part of the “My Favorite Class” series.
Today we speak to Cheyenne Smith, a senior Early Childhood Education major with a dual minor in American Studies & Africana Studies from Somerdale, NJ (Camden County). Cheyenne is a transfer student from Camden County College and commutes to campus.
What was the name of your favorite class at Rowan?
Introduction to American Studies is my favorite class.
What department was the class in?
The class is in the American Studies Department.
Who taught the class when you took it?
Professor Brian Dashefsky was my professor for Introduction to American Studies.
Tell us a little about what the class is.
In Intro to American studies, we learned about history, but in a new light. This course was an introduction to the history, the people, and the culture of America, and to encourage critical thinking and writing. In addition to this, we learned about the Vietnam war and WWII through different perspectives, in the form of a story from a different point of view and forces you to think critically and change your perspective on it. We learned about how pop culture was developed and who runs pop culture. We looked at ads from the 1950s and old commercials and compared them to today and saw not much change in the approach.
Share with us a few details on why this class was interesting.
I loved the material we talked about in class. It was a lot of critical thinking and using the critical eye to observe and reflect. You learn about pop culture and how it was born, view world history in a new light than your typical classes in the past to expand and broaden your perspective.
Is there anything else that made this class impactful?
The project that you have to do at the end of the semester is amazing! I had so much fun doing this. It was incorporating pop culture of today with what we learned over the semester and present it to the class in about a seven-minute presentation. I volunteered to go first because I was that confident in the material I was equipped with to present my project.
What makes this professor great?
Professor Dashefsky is the best professor! Has a great sense of humor, easy-going guy, has easy grades. He may give a pop quiz ONLY if the class is not participating. He likes conversation and equal participation in the class. His approach to the content of the class was unforgettable and made it easy to learn and feel great learning. It almost felt like we weren’t in a lecture but a general educated conversation for three hours! Time flies when you’re having fun with Professor Dashefsky!
How did this class help to support your academic or personal growth or your professional goals?
This class helped me realize that what I’m always taught is not always right and that there are other people in this world who also have feelings. The content and material in the class forced us to change our point of view and place ourselves in other’s shoes.
What are your professional goals?
I want to be a teacher in a public school and hopefully, eventually, work my way up to being the principal, and then get on the board of education to improve and make a change in the world one child at a time.
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Story by:
Rachel Rumsby, sophomore communication studies and public relations double major
Photos by:
Stephanie Batista, sophomore music industry major
Black STEM Majors Share Advice for Black High School Students Interested in STEM
Today, we’re highlighting Black STEM majors as they share some advice on where to start when looking into STEM.
“Attend as many events as you can to meet new people that has the same interests as you and to also carry out with your interests,” says Ylanda Souffrant, a sophomore, first-generation college student and Math Education major from Trenton, NJ (Mercer County)
“It’s alright if you know you’re interested in STEM, but you don’t know what you want to do with it in life. Carefully choose the school/program you join because that is how you will position yourself and expose yourself to experiences and individuals that will guide you along your journey,” says Josephine Babatunde, a senior Biochemistry major and transfer student from Union County College (Union County, NJ).
“One major key of advice I would give for high school STEM students is to not give up. I know this sounds a bit cliché, but you’re going to run into many obstacles and people who try to hold you down or stop your progress, but you can’t let nothing stand in your way. The road is going to be rough and tough but like my family always used to preach to me, ‘If someone already did it, you can too,'” says DéVon Malloy, a junior, first-generation college student and Biomedical Engineering major from Hillside, NJ (Union County)
“Hold your head up high! The courses may seem rigorous and tedious, but you are more than capable. You are just as competitive as anyone else around you; don’t give up! Ask for help if you need it, take advantage of programs that cater to your major whether it is directly or indirectly correlated with the unrepresented, be sure to make connections any chance you get, and try to get some some volunteer experience in the field if possible.” — Briana Davy, junior, first-generation college student and Biological Sciences major (planning on receiving a CUGS in Spanish), Honors Concentration, transfer from RCSJ Cumberland, Vineland, NJ (Cumberland County)
“Start early. Time flies really fast and you never know what the next day will bring you. Get involved in programs, especially offered by the schools you go to, because it not only looks fantastic on your resumé but also the skills and knowledge you acquire from it goes a long way. Get involved early too, don’t be afraid of clubs and participating, and don’t be afraid to reach out to people in college now and ask questions.” — Akil DeBruhl, junior Biological Sciences major with a minor in Psychology, South Orange, NJ (Essex County)
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Story by: Bianca Torres, senior Music Industry major
Photography by: Stephanie Batista, sophomore Music Industry major and Joe Gentempo, Senior Art major
Queer People of Color (QPOC) [VIDEO]
Queer People of Color (QPOC) is a multicultural, LGBTQ+ social group that works to promote well-being, inclusion, and diversity to students of all backgrounds. President Jahnaya Peyton and Vice President Reinaldo Vazquez share how they aim to build community and relationships, as well as educate others about cultural and LGBTQ+ issues. Allies of all walks […]
Black #PROFspective: Senior Art Major Ugonna Ugorji
Today we speak to Ugonna Ugorji, a senior Art major and commuter from Willingboro, NJ (Burlington County). Ugonna is a transfer student from Mercer County Community College.
Thank you to Tatianna Addison, senior communications studies major from Browns Mills, NJ (Burlington County), for this series idea to honor Black students during Black History Month.
What is your student experience here at Rowan like, as a Black student at a PWI (Predominantly White Institution)?
My experience at this school has been pretty exciting. You may say that Rowan is a “PWI,” but in my opinion, it has just the right amount of diversity in an institution. Being a Black art major and having a series of professors left and right, they have all pushed me to be the best that I can and to hone my “still developing” artistic talents.
How did you find your friend group here at Rowan?
Well, I’ve interacted with people who have the same or even similar interests I have.
Are you involved with Black Rowan?
I’m not that involved with Black Rowan unfortunately, but I would love to do more!
How would you describe inclusion? Could you highlight a Rowan classroom or campus experience that was inclusive and made an impact on you?
I would say being a part of the Expressive Drawing class that is run by Dr. Appelson. That man wants all his students to be the best at what they can do, and he will not hesitate to harshly critique your work. Instead of [letting] that make me feel insecure about my art, it made me realize that everyone has their own way of expressing themselves. Some may not like what you do or understand it, but that shouldn’t stop you from being you.
What advice would you give to a Black high school student considering your major here at Rowan?
If you’re an aspiring artist like myself and if you take Expressive Drawing with Dr. Appelson, don’t take it personally if he roasts certain assignments of yours. He knows you can do better, [you] just gotta push yourself.
What are your professional goals?
My professional goals are to become a full-fledged graphic designer/game designer. At my last institution, my major was Game Design, so I learned a few things here and there. I was disappointed when Rowan didn’t have a Game Design major so I initially went into Computer Science, thinking it was the same thing. I quickly changed my major to Art for the second semester. I feel I have a knack for character designs, in my own style, of course, so I can combine my graphic arts skills and create video game characters. That’ll be pretty cool.
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Story by:
Rachel Rumsby, sophomore communication studies and public relations double major
Photos by:
Joe Gentempo, senior art major
Black #PROFspective: Senior Economics Major Tamora Hill
Today we speak to Tamora Hill, a senior Economics major from Salem, NJ (Salem County). Tamora is a transfer student from Cumberland County College and a commuter student.
Thank you to Tatianna Addison, senior communications studies major from Browns Mills, NJ (Burlington County) for this series idea to honor Black students during Black History Month.
What is your student experience here at Rowan like, as a Black student at a PWI (Predominantly White Institution)?
I started at Rowan in Spring 2020, so I’m not really sure how Rowan was before the pandemic. I feel that the Black clubs we have are not pushed or marketed as much. I found the Black clubs on my own from wanting to have more extracurricular activities at Rowan.
How would you describe inclusion? Could you highlight a Rowan classroom or campus experience that was inclusive and made an impact on you?
My Intro to Africana Studies class has had the biggest impact on me compared to any other course I have taken at Rowan. I learned a lot of things about the Black culture in history, art, and even economics. I had Professor Lola Ames, and she was amazing.
What advice would you give to a Black high school student considering your major here at Rowan?
I would ask them what it is in economics they want to do. I want to work on studies and projects with the Black economy and improving its well-being nationally and internationally.
What are your professional goals?
As of right now, I am very open. I currently am a freelance writer and do different articles for websites on economic topics. My goal is to have a successful business consultant company and my own economic firm to do research on personal finance, race/inequality, and possibly global economic topics.
If you are open to it, could you share a little about your Black heritage?
Honestly, my grandparents don’t know any history prior to their parents. Their parents were born on plantations and are unsure where their parents’ parents actually came from. My grandmother knows that her grandmother is from the West Indies, but does not know which island in particular.
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Story by:
Rachel Rumsby, sophomore communication studies and public relations double major
First Year Voices: Tara Long Discusses BLM, Mental Health
Today we feature Human Services major Tara Long from Mount Laurel, NJ (Burlington County). She tells us about why she chose her major, involvement with Black Lives Matter and how her freshman year is going. Tara is a part of PROFFAMILY, a newly formed freshmen group focused on inclusion and fun. Why did you choose […]
Black Lives Matter Poem by Peterson Dossous
Today we feature Peterson Dossous, a recent Rowan Sociology graduate from Jersey City, NJ (Hudson County). Peterson wrote this piece in regards to racial division in the United States.
The world we live in is a monopoly, it speaks for itself. The greed, the power, and ambition of having it all. It’s sad, what the government says to keep us civilians contained, to have a sense of control … how can you overpower others if your home is not taken care of first … our home; what we call earth is camouflaged to manipulate humans to appeal to their satisfaction through government aspirations and it starts early; to the simplicity of smacking a baby’s butt, to see if it meets the qualifications of falling in line to following the government set guidelines; it’s crazy. It consists of schooling, teaching a child their ABC’s to having intelligence, money to form ambition and greed, order to be obedient, torture to understand setbacks, religion to provide a sense of hope when all is wrong. The structure is what they call it, so you can be used as a utility. That’s messed up, in my opinion. Life itself is its own whooping, but they pull the strings in every event to accommodate their foolishness. They figure why to worry if there would be a replacement in a matter of seconds but when we overpopulate they form disease or send us off to war to manage the economic pole and space … the purge was always in effect, it’s just we haven’t realized it yet … there isn’t enough space for us or money and I find that crazy we are our worlds virus and we are killing it slowly it’s just a matter of time where there isn’t enough space in the dirt to even be buried and it’s all the cause of one-word; POWER …
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Story written by:
Peterson Dossous, Rowan sociology May 2020 graduate
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