Graduate Spotlights
Our latest graduating class is a testament to the ambition and excellence that define Bowie State University. These graduates are scholarship recipients, innovators, artists, educators and future healthcare professionals, each forging their own path with confidence and purpose. Many are stepping into competitive graduate programs, leadership roles in their industries and service opportunities that impact communities both locally and globally. Their dedication, resilience and Bowie Bold mindset have inspired everyone around them. We celebrate their hard work as they carry our legacy forward into new challenges and opportunities.
Faculty, staff and students are invited to nominate outstanding soon-to-be alumni to be featured on this page by submitting a nomination form.
Winter 2025
Ingrid N. Portillo '25
Degree Type: Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Next Steps: RN at Johns Hopkins Howard County Medical Center
Hometown: Columbia, Maryland
When Ingrid Portillo began her college journey, she knew she was also carrying the dreams of her family and community. As first-generation college student from El Salvador, she chose Bowie State University for its strong nursing program and commitment to diversity. Portillo is now graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and will begin her career as a registered nurse at Johns Hopkins Howard County Medical Center.
Laila Gwathmey '25
Degree Type: Bachelor of Science in Psychology
Next Steps: Registered Behavioral Tech at Above Par ABA Services
Hometown: Tappahannock, Virginia
Laila Gwathmey came to Bowie State University with a lifelong passion for helping children — a calling shaped by her large family and deeply rooted Christian values. She is graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and will begin her career as a registered behavioral technician at Above Par ABA Services. She ultimately hopes to work in pediatric neuropsychology and support children with traumatic brain injuries and developmental disorders. Gwathmey exemplifies Bowie State’s mission to develop students who are dedicated to improving the lives of others.
Yassine Kamara '25
Degree Type: Bachelor of Science in Health Services Administration
Next Steps: MBA program at Charleston Southern University, full track scholarship
Hometown: Hyattsville, Maryland
Yassine Kamara understands what it takes to succeed at a high level. As a member of the Bowie State University track and field team, she has won many events in shot put and discus and has been recognized for numerous achievements. She is graduating this winter with a Bachelor of Science in Health Services Administration and preparing to take her next step as both a scholar and an athlete. Kamara has earned multiple athletic achievements during her time at Bowie State, and she has applied the same discipline and drive that fuel her success in competition to her academic pursuits. After graduation, she plans to pursue her MBA and continue her track and field career at Charleston Southern University.
Jevon Hamilton '25
Degree Type: Bachelor of Science in Biology
Next Steps: Pharmacy school, synthesizing drug compounds
Hometown: Waldorf, Maryland
Jevon Hamilton came to Bowie State University as a standout football player, but after discovering that his true passion is in the classroom, he will be leaving as an academic all-star. Hamilton credits his success to the support of the Department of Natural Sciences and the Minority Association of Premedical Students. He is graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and plans to attend pharmacy school, where he will focus his research on synthesizing drug compounds—a testament to Bowie State University’s commitment to nurturing talent on and off the field.
Kiara Moore '25
Degree Type: Bachelor of Science in Communications
Next Steps: Pursuing grad school
Hometown: Washington, D.C.
Kiara Moore, a first-generation college student from Washington, D.C., is graduating this winter with a Bachelor of Science in Communications, concentrating in broadcast journalism. With a passion for storytelling and elevating underrepresented voices, Moore plans to continue building her professional portfolio and pursue roles in broadcast media. She is currently awaiting responses from several graduate schools. Moore’s journey has been defined not only by her academic achievements but also by her commitment to amplifying stories that matter.
Nasir Williams '25
Degree Type: Bachelor of Science in Communications
Next Steps: Management development program at CarMax
Hometown: Bryans Road, Maryland
Nasir Williams exemplifies leadership and achievement at Bowie State University. As president of the Public Relations Student Society of America Bowie State chapter and a student ambassador for the Communications department, he has led numerous initiatives and earned recognition for his contributions. He is graduating this winter with a Bachelor of Science in Communications with a concentration in strategic public relations, and he is preparing to take his next step in the Sales Manager Program at CarMax. Williams has applied the same discipline and drive that fuels his entrepreneurial and academic success to his future career goals.
Media Inquiries
Members of the press seeking information or coverage of our upcoming Commencement are encouraged to contact the Division of Marketing and Communications. We welcome your interest in sharing our students’ stories and celebrating their achievements.
For all media inquiries, please email media@bowiestate.edu.
For general questions regarding the Graduate Spotlight Campaign, please email Tayvea Sylver at tsylver@bowiestate.edu.