Graduates' Spotlight - Spring 2025
Tayvea Sylver
Marketing Content Writer & Strategist
Division of Marketing and Communications
tsylver@bowiestate.edu
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.
Kamila S. Palacios '25
Hometown: Bowie, Maryland
Degree Type: Bachelor of Science in Government
Next Steps: Full Scholarship to the University of Baltimore School of Law
Kamila Palacios, a senior government major in Bowie State University’s Department of History and Government, is graduating this spring and preparing to take her next step toward a career in immigration law after receiving the prestigious Fannie Angelos Scholarship to attend the University of Baltimore School of Law. Palacios is a participant in Bowie State’s government program, which supports students pursuing careers in law, public service and civic leadership. But her journey has been marked by more than just academic achievement.
Palacios has maintained high marks in the classroom despite being recently diagnosed with dyslexia. The scholarship covered the cost of diagnostic testing that she suspected was needed for years but could not afford.
“Growing up, I always had a feeling I had dyslexia,” Palacios said. “But I did well in grammar and high school, so teachers never thought anything was wrong.”
Palacios often spent extra hours reading and completing her assignments, frequently going beyond what was required just to stay on track. The official confirmation helped to reframe her experience.
“It was a relief,” she said. “It meant there was nothing wrong with me. My brain just works a little differently.”
Impact of the Bowie State Experience
After her diagnosis last year, Palacios was quickly connected to Bowie State’s Student Success Center, where she was provided with a variety of services and accommodations — including extended exam time — to support her learning needs. She credits the university’s smaller class sizes and supportive faculty for helping her feel seen and understood.
“My professors know my name and they know my goals,” she said. “They’ve helped me with internships and opportunities that align with what I want to do.”
Born and raised in Bowie, Palacios draws inspiration from her parents — both immigrants — and from her strong connection to the local community. Her long-term goal is to become an immigration attorney and advocate for families navigating the legal system.
“That has always been close to my heart,” she said. “My parents taught me to support our community and be a reflection of it.”
While she admits she is not entirely sure what the future holds, her mission is clear.
“I just want to help people,” Palacios said. “Whatever law firm I work for, I want to know that I am making a difference.”
Taj Smith '25
Hometown: Upper Marlboro, Maryland
Degree Type: Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
Next Steps: Cybersecurity Engineer at Adobe
Taj Smith’s passion for technology led him to Bowie State University, home to a computer science program recognized by the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security as a National Center of Academic Excellence. While at Bowie State, he took advantage of the university’s partnerships with major companies like Adobe. Smith secured an internship with Adobe that ultimately led to a full-time role as a cybersecurity engineer in their office in San Jose, California.
Smith chose Bowie State for the strong computer science program, where he gained technical skills, research experience and hands-on learning. He made the most of every opportunity as a student—securing an internship with Apple Inc., working with the Division of Enrollment Management and Student Affairs, and competing in the Honda Campus All-Star Challenge.
“My internship and job experiences were excellent,” said Smith. “Bowie State played a major role in helping prepare me for those opportunities.”Smith’s initial interest in cybersecurity began as a student at Dr. Henry Wise High School in Prince George’s County, Maryland, when he joined the CISCO Academy. While at the academy, he was introduced to server creation and began building computers and disassembling iPhones. This early hands-on experience sparked his passion and laid the foundation for his future studies.
Impact of the Bowie State Experience
Smith credits Bowie State with giving him the confidence, discipline and mindset to transition successfully from student to professional.
“From a boy to a man,” said Smith, reflecting on his time at the university. “I learned how to manage time, build confidence and prioritize.”
Smith embraced the “Bowie Bold” mentality, which motivated him to face challenges head-on. He also took advantage of campus resources such as the Writing Center to strengthen his résumé and learned interpersonal skills from his time as an RA.
Smith has already secured a full-time position as a cybersecurity engineer at Adobe, but he also plans to pursue a master’s degree in computer science and an MBA. He believes education is key to long-term success.
“College ends very soon,” said Smith. “Remember to have fun, go to class, be educated and well-rounded. Do what you need to do to become as successful as possible.”
With his strong foundation and drive, Smith is ready to make a meaningful impact in the cybersecurity field and beyond.
Sydney Rivas '25
Hometown: Capitol Heights, Maryland
Degree Type: Bachelor of Science in Chemistry
Next Steps: PhD Candidate at Georgetown University
Sydney Rivas has built a solid foundation for her future in research by immersing herself in collaborative, hands-on opportunities at Bowie State University. Her dedication to research and proactive approach to academic experiences, such as the Biomedical Research Initiative Summer Program, helped her secure a place at Georgetown University, where she will pursue a PhD in chemistry.
Rivas’s journey began during her senior year of high school, when she participated in a USDA research program and helped identify a new blackberry virus. The experience sparked her interest in chemistry, and she was soon drawn to the intricate world of organic chemistry, where the power of chemical structures and reactions fascinated her.
“What piqued my interest specifically in chemistry…was the structures and how you can…have the different reactions to get your specific product,” said Rivas.
Impact of the Bowie State Experience
Peer-led research programs created through the Department of Natural Sciences, such as the Biomedical Research Initiative Summer Program, helped Rivas strengthen her skills in scientific research, presentation, and collaboration, paving the way for future success.
Her passion for research deepened under the mentorship of Dr. Jacqueline Smith, associate professor of chemistry. Dr. Smith played an instrumental role in Rivas’s academic growth, guiding her transition into research and opening doors to internships and conferences.
“Build strong relationships with professors and peers, as these connections can lead to invaluable research experiences and personal growth,” she said.
As Rivas prepares for her next academic chapter, her journey at Bowie State stands as a testament to the power of mentorship, dedication, and a passion for discovery. She expressed immense gratitude for the support she received from faculty and peers alike.
Megan Borga '25
Hometown: Denton, Maryland
Degree Type: Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership
Next Steps: Pursuing Formal Leadership Roles in Education
Bowie State University is a catalyst for transformative leadership, as exemplified by Megan Borga, a 2025 graduate of the Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership program. Borga, a seasoned elementary school teacher from Eastern Shore, Maryland, has spent over 15 years shaping young minds. However, her journey at Bowie State expanded her influence far beyond the classroom, positioning her to impact education on a systemic level.
“I realized I wasn’t just passionate about teaching; I was passionate about creating environments where students and educators can thrive,” said Borga.
This realization drove her to pursue a doctorate in Educational Leadership, a decision that would shape her future. Borga’s path to Bowie State began through an information session, where she discovered the program’s unique offerings, including accessible courses at Chesapeake College and flexible online learning options. The university’s approach was a perfect fit for her demanding role as a full-time educator.
Impact of the Bowie State Experience
As a member of the university’s inaugural Eastern Shore doctoral cohort, Borga’s experience was marked by collaboration with a diverse group of educators. This exposure broadened her understanding of educational leadership and fueled innovation in her own leadership practices.
“My experience at Bowie State reaffirmed that leadership isn’t just about directing—it’s about listening, learning and adapting to the needs of the community you serve,” she said.
Borga’s was also the first in her cohort to successfully defend her dissertation — a milestone that reflected both her dedication and the program’s robust support system. Her academic journey was also supported by Bowie State’s virtual resources, including the Writing Center and the One Search library tool, which were instrumental in refining her dissertation.
Now, as she prepares for leadership roles in education, Borga is committed to advocating for educators and driving positive change in the educational landscape. Her journey showcases the lasting impact of Bowie State University’s commitment to developing future leaders in education.
Elijah Taylor '25
Hometown: Baltimore, Maryland
Degree: Bachelor of Science in Communications with a Concentration in Public Relations
Next Steps: Exploring PR Opportunities Nationwide
Elijah Taylor, a classically trained vocalist and Recording Academy member, has turned his passion for music into national impact. As a Grammy U ambassador, he worked with Academy leaders to advocate for creators' rights on Capitol Hill, sharpening his communication, networking and outreach skills. Now, approaching graduation, he’s ready to channel that expertise into entertainment PR and is pursuing opportunities in major cities across the country.
A Baltimore native, Taylor chose Bowie State University to stay close to family. Through his involvement in clubs and organizations, including the choir and communications department, he’s traveled to cities like Chicago, Atlanta and New York.
"I'm definitely leaving the DMV area," Taylor said. "Maybe L.A. or New York. The environment here [Bowie State] has helped me grow and become a better person.”
Impact of the Bowie State Experience
Taylor joined the Bowie State University Concert Choir where he met Professor Brandon Felder in the Fine and Performing Arts Department. Professor Felder recognized Taylor’s classical training and raw talent and quickly became a mentor, connecting him to opportunities that bridged music, PR and the entertainment industry.
These connections led to his role as a Grammy U ambassador, allowed him to perform for jazz vocalist Samara Joy, and gave him the opportunity to lead a fireside chat with Joy during her campus visit. Taylor also Said that events like Media Day at Bowie State allowed him to engage with industry leaders and gain hands-on experience.
“We brought a lot of media professionals, such as news anchors, producers, radio hosts [and] marketing executives. Rocsi Diaz was here,” said Taylor. “Being in those spaces and networking has been one of the most important things for me.”
These opportunities, combined with his academic experience, have prepared Taylor for a career in music and entertainment PR. Now, he’s ready to take the next big step, but no matter where he goes, he’ll always be a Bulldog for life.
Hope Convert '25
Hometown: Fort Washington, Maryland
Degree Type: Bachelor of Science in Visual Communication and Digital Media Arts with a Concentration in Digital Cinema and Time-Based Media
Next Steps: Exploring Screenwriting and Producing Opportunities
Hope Convert plans to use her experience at Bowie State University to launch a career as a screenwriter and producer in the film and entertainment industry. While at Bowie State, she gained valuable hands-on filmmaking experience, contributing to everything from short films to sports broadcasts.
Her passion lies in using storytelling to make a difference, and Bowie State gave her the platform to do just that. She combined her filmmaking education with leadership experiences to co-write and produce “Shutter,” a short film about a young woman being stalked on a college campus. The film earned second place in the HBCU Reel Film Festival.
“My role in ATOD is what prepared me for my role as producer for "Shutter,” Convert said, referring to her time as Lead Peer Educator and President of the Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs Prevention Center. “I was helping in all capacities. I had responsibilities in pre-production, production and post-production.”
Impact of the Bowie State Experience
Convert is a clear example of how Bowie State empowers students to turn their passions into purpose. Her desire to support others through storytelling was shaped not only by her military family background but also by the university’s emphasis on leadership, service and real-world experience.
While at Bowie State, she secured multiple internships that expanded her skills and professional network, including a production assistant role at MegaMind Media in Fall 2022, a graphic design internship with the United States Patent and Trademark Office in Summer 2024, and an internship with BLAK INK during the 2023 NFL Draft in Kansas City.
Convert is also very active on campus, and has served as a new student orientation leader, resident assistant, and advocate for alcohol, tobacco and drug-use overdose prevention. Each of these roles helped her build the confidence and resilience she now brings to her creative work.
“Bowie State has developed me into the woman I am today,” she said. “I’ve learned a lot about perseverance and having the self-confidence to set goals and execute a plan to reach them.”
Mishkka Murphy '25
Hometown: St. Andrew, Jamaica
Degree Type: Master of Arts in Human Resource Development
Next Steps: Pursuing an HR career
Bowie State University empowers students to lead with purpose, and Mishkka Murphy exemplifies that mission. Initially drawn to Bowie State for its welcoming environment and close proximity to home, she found a community that affirmed her future in HR learning and development, particularly within the University System of Maryland.
“I looked into MBA and project management programs,” she said. “But human resource development just made sense. It focuses on people, on how employees grow, and how organizations can support that.”
Murphy’s decision to focus on people-centered leadership shaped every step of her academic journey. She is graduating with a Master of Arts in Human Resource Development. During her studies, she identified a gap between individual needs and organizational support—and realized she could help bridge it.
“I want to focus on how much employees feel like they are part of the organization and how the organization as a whole supports them,” she said.
She currently serves as a graduate assistant in Bowie State University’s Office of Human Resources and is pursuing SHRM certification to strengthen her credentials. Both her role and pursuit of additional certification reflect her deep commitment to the field.
Impact of the Bowie State Experience
Murphy’s experience at Bowie State has been defined by leadership, global engagement and real-world application. She served as vice president of the HRD Evolve Society in spring 2024 before becoming president for the 2024–25 academic year. She helped organize the department’s annual HRD Symposium in 2023 and 2024 and represented the program at the 2025 BSU Adobe Showcase Showdown competition.
Internationally, Murphy co-presented a research paper at the 2024 Global Followership Conference in Scotland, exploring the lived experiences of Black leaders, an experience that expanded her academic and professional worldview. She also represented Bowie State at the 2024 Data Analytics Hackathon at the University of Minnesota, deepening her skills in data interpretation and visualization.
Murphy continues to seek out development opportunities, earning Adult CPR/AED certification through the Graduate Student Association and participating in the International Student Association to support a vibrant, inclusive campus community.
Raenelle Taylor ’25
Hometown: Aquasco, Maryland
Degree Type: Master of Education in School Counseling
Next Steps: Pursuing School Counseling in Maryland Public Schools
Teacher, mental health advocate, community builder and soon-to-be bride — Raenelle Taylor is preparing to graduate from Bowie State University with her Master of Education in School Counseling. After graduation, she plans to serve as a professional school counselor for Maryland Public Schools, resume coaching varsity softball, pursue counseling licensure and celebrate her wedding in May 2026.
Throughout her journey, Taylor has remained dedicated to uplifting young people, championing mental health, and creating spaces where students feel seen, heard and supported.
Her advice to future students is heartfelt: “Surround yourself with a strong support system. When challenges come, your community will carry you forward.”
Currently a teacher for Prince George’s County Public Schools, Taylor found her calling early on, majoring in psychology at a time when conversations about mental health were rare. She recognized then — and even more now — that emotional well-being is just as vital as physical health, and she committed herself to breaking harmful stigmas around seeking support. With her passion, resilience and heart for service, Raenelle Taylor embodies the spirit of Bowie State University and the promise of brighter futures for every student she supports.
Impact of the Bowie State Experience
Through resources like the Ujima Counseling Fellowship — which offered financial aid, practical training, and access to national conferences — Taylor sharpened her skills and strengthened her commitment to advocacy. She said returning to Bowie State for her graduate studies felt like coming home.
“Bowie State is a village where everyone pours into each other, lifting one another up and holding each other accountable,” said Taylor.
The deep sense of community, along with the support of professors, advisors and peers, helped her grow both personally and professionally.
Kyra Cabbagestalk ’25
Hometown: Accokeek, Maryland
Degree Type: Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Small Business and Entrepreneurship
Next Steps: Pursuing MBA Admission, Growing Skincare Business
Bowie State University offers an abundance of resources for business-minded students, and Kyra Cabbagestalk has taken advantage of every opportunity to strategically build her academic experience around supporting her skin care business, Cab Lane. She is graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Small Business and Entrepreneurship. She plans to pursue her MBA and continue growing her skin care business.
“Even in high school, I knew entrepreneurship was my career path,” said Cabbagestalk. “Bowie State is very centered around entrepreneurship, and I knew this was the best school for me. I didn’t even apply to another school.”
After graduation, Cabbagestalk will participate in the Summer Launch business incubator program through the EIC to take Cab Lane to the next level. During the nine-week paid program, she and other students will work full-time with industry experts to accelerate the growth of their businesses.
Impact of the Bowie State Experience
While at Bowie State, Cabbagestalk used the Entrepreneurship Innovation Center to help her grow her home fragrance and body care business, Cab Lane, which she co-owns with her mother. She credits the center with playing a major role in her journey.
“I’m just very grateful for the EIC. They’ve really helped me curate my business and gave me several vendor opportunities on campus where I could sell my products to students and staff on campus,” Cabbagestalk said.
Beyond her studies and business, Cabbagestalk was active in student life. She served as president of Bowie State Models Inc., a modeling organization focused on self-expression, confidence, and artistic development through runway performance.
“I’ve learned so much about leading myself and others through Models Inc.,” she said. “Bowie State has been great to me. It’s given me the opportunity to network with so many people and be a part of many different groups,” she added.
Atiya Muhammad ’25
Hometown: Burtonsville, Maryland
Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts in Communications
Next Steps: Plans to Pursue Graduate Degree in Counseling
Atiya Muhammad graduates from Bowie State University with a Bachelor of Arts in communications, concluding an academic journey that spanned 10 years. Muhammad never gave up, and neither did her professors. She credits them with having a profound impact on her future and supporting her when she needed it most.
“I had professors personally reach out to me, checking up on me. That makes such a difference,” she said.
One standout moment came when a professor moved her from the back of the class to the front—both literally and figuratively reminding her that she belonged in the spotlight. Muhammad’s achievement is a powerful reflection of the Bowie State University community and the strength of the HBCU culture.
Initially, Muhammad dreamed of a career in broadcast journalism, but her perspective shifted while working as a paraeducator at a local high school. The connection she formed with students—and the impact she realized she could make—helped her reimagine her future.
“Counseling is more personal, more intimate. I want to shape young people into future leaders,” Muhammad said.
Now, with a hard-earned degree and a heart full of purpose, Muhammad is determined to mentor the next generation of students and provide the same encouragement that helped her grow.
The Impact of the Bowie State Experience
Despite facing setbacks—including dropping out multiple times—Muhammad credits the unwavering support of Bowie State’s faculty for pulling her back in and helping her see her worth.
Her desire to empower youth stems from her own transformation—moving from what she describes as “a little-picture type of kid” to someone who now encourages others to “go big or go home.”
With plans to pursue a graduate degree in counseling and possibly one day open her own practice, Muhammad is far from done. Her story serves as a powerful reminder that success isn’t always about sticking to one script—it’s about finding your voice, pivoting when necessary, and always striving to make a difference.