Commencement Exercises
Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University Tallahassee, Florida
Friday, the Second of August Six O'Clock in the Evening
The Year Two Thousand and Twenty-Four
Alfred Lawson Jr. Multipurpose Center and Teaching Gymnasium
Florida A&M University Commencement Exercises
Friday, August 2, 2024
Six O'Clock in the Evening
Alfred Lawson Jr. Multipurpose Center and Teaching Gymnasium
Program
Friday, August 2, 2024 • 6 p.m.
PRESIDENT LARRY ROBINSON, PH.D. UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT, PRESIDING
Prelude: “Elsa’s Procession to the Cathedral” .......................................... Richard Wagner
Processional: “War March of the Priests” from Athalia Felix Mendelssohn
Selection: “Star Spangled Banner” ................................................. Francis Scott Key A'Zhariyah Vaughan and Elajah Carty, Senior Music Majors
Meditation ..........................................................
Rev. Dr. Nikki Henry-Clemons Pastor, New Bethel AME Church Port St. Joe, Florida
Greetings Loryn May
Member, FAMU Board of Trustees and President, Student Government Association
Introduction of Speaker President Larry Robinson, Ph.D.
Commencement Address ........................................................... Melissa Butler
Alumna and Founder/Chief Executive Officer, The Lip Bar, Inc.
Special Recognitions
Administration of the Military Oath of Office CPT Precious Walston
U.S. Army, Assistant Professor of Military Science
Awarding of U.S. Army Commissions................................................... CPT Walston
Presentation of the Deans Allyson L. Watson, Ph.D. Provost and Vice President, Academic Affairs
Conferring of the Degrees ...................................................... President Robinson
Senior Transcendent Ceremony Curtis E. Johnson, Jr. President, Florida A&M University National Alumni Association
Alma Mater University Symphonic Band (No walking or movement during the Alma Mater; and men should remove hats/caps)
Benediction Rev. Henry-Clemons
Recessional “Pomp and Circumstance” .............................................. Sir Edward Elgar (The audience will remain seated during the Processional and Recessional)
Academic Honors
Candidates for the baccalaureate degree who maintain high scholarship are graduated with honors. Graduation with honors is based on earning a minimum of 45 semester hours at Florida A&M University and maintaining a cumulative 3.00 grade point average or higher for all work completed prior to the awarding of the degree. Candidates graduating with honors wear cords during the commencement exercises. The averages necessary for earning graduation honors for all bachelor and doctor of pharmacy degrees are listed below.
***Summa Cum Laude: 3.70 - 4.00 — Orange and Green
**Magna Cum Laude: 3.30 - 3.69 — Green
*Cum Laude: 3.00 - 3.29 — Orange
Academic Honors for College of Law
Honors for the College of Law graduates will be awarded as follows:
***Summa Cum Laude: highest honors to graduates with a cumulative GPA of 3.80 or higher — Orange and Green
**Magna Cum Laude: high honors to graduates with a cumulative GPA of 3.5 - 3.79 or higher — Green
*Cum Laude: honors to graduates with a cumulative GPA of 3.1 - 3.49 — Orange
Military Graduates
Candidates for Degrees
COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE AND FOOD SCIENCES
PRESENTED BY G. DALE WESSON, PH.D., DEAN
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN AGRIBUSINESS
Kaleb Kyree Floyd Devin Jordan Thomas
David Joseph Golden Yanai Zaree Reynolds
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE
Hubert Livingston Fernander, Jr. ** Andreaz J. Leggett*
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE CONCENTRATION IN ANIMAL SCIENCE PRE-VET OPT
Mikiyah Racquel Baldwin Da'sire Briana Richardson **
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE CONCENTRATION IN FOOD SCIENCE-BUS & IND OPT
Shontavia Lashay Huggins
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE CONCENTRATION IN FOOD SCIENCE-SCI & TECH OPT
Jaydon Dewan Sanford**
Zaria Riele Meeks*
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE CONCENTRATION IN VETERINARY TECHNOLOGY
Mahasin J'nae Mateen-Eason
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN BIOLOGICAL & AGRICULTURAL SYSTEMS ENGINEERING
Jylon N. Bennett * Micala Tanaye Jones
COLLEGE OF EDUCATION
PRESENTED BY SARAH PRICE, PH.D., DEAN
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ELEMENTARY EDUCATION
Sicoya Chavers ** Veronica Jasmin Ortega **
Taylor Gabrianna Skelton *** Rashida Jaala Denyll Thomas ***
Tamia Jadé Vanover Tamerah Briana Williams **
COLLEGE OF EDUCATION (cont’d)
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN HEALTH, PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND FITNESS
Camiea B. Ardoin **
Jayfus Jabari Ellis-Davis *
Jordynn Nia Johnson ***
Jared Nathan Townsend ***
Christian Alexander Jones
Jalen Jones *
Jalen Rashard Niles *
Markya Shy'Tavia Richardson
Kendal Skoros *
Dallas Graeme Tease
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN PHYSICAL EDUCATION
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN SECONDARY EDUCATION AND TEACHING
Zion Regina Navaa' Heard ** Torkiana Phillips ** Jaquan Kevin Rasheed Pryce *
COLLEGE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
PRESENTED BY RICHARD ALÓ, PH.D., DEAN
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN BIOLOGY
Analisia Anderson
Elijah Ariboinote *
Asha Ivona Bailey
Makiah Shawntise Charles *
Aisha Lashay Cobbs
Sydnee Fo **
Madison Baylee Gordon ***
Ashleigh Nichole Deenise Holland **
Sasha Tamia Jones **
Samiyah Sanaa Lawrence *
Antonia Tremayne Moore II
Kristy Myrtil ** Christopher Tutt II *
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN CHEMISTRY
Haftah Ludezar Choute Daeshavon Johnson
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN COMPUTER SCIENCE
Samuel Goodman III
Derrick Nathaniel Johnson, Jr.
COLLEGE OF SOCIAL SCIENCES, ARTS AND HUMANITIES
PRESENTED BY VALENCIA E. MATTHEWS, PH.D., DEAN
Michayla Celine Cherichel **
BACHELOR OF ARTS IN ENGLISH
BACHELOR OF ARTS IN PHILOSOPHY & RELIGION
Adoniah Kaela Dunson *** LaEsha Nachelle Jones **
BACHELOR OF ARTS IN THEATRE
Gary Lamar Calhoun
COLLEGE
Jari D'naye Armstrong **
Mikylah Tion Bertrand *
Nicole Esther Brito
Christian Ahmad Canidate
Allyson Michelle Christian-Johnson *
Sada Shanique Cummings **
Justin Christopher Daniels
Nichole E. Galloway *
Dayani Kiara Garner **
Jordan Triston Barker *
Tellicia S. Mitchell
BACHELOR OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
Rykaia Esanti Garrett *
Garrett Leslie Green **
Vanetta Ka'leiah Hall **
Demaar Roje Hinton *
Sean Hunter, Jr.*
Frantzleah Michelle Jeanty *
Jacquell Darne Lewis
Nydasia Diondra Lewis *
Bill Mango, Jr.
Abria Senise Moultire *
Travis Dwayne Oliver, Jr.*
Troi Pettway
Joseph Lucian Pierini III **
Jameson Ze'keius Pressley *
Zenea Chanae Thurston
Marlaisha Jermiyah Vereen ***
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN AFRICAN AMERICAN STUDIES
Shannon Kerry King *
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN HISTORY
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN INTERDISCIPLINARY STUDIES
Anitra Akins **
Kimberley R. Bailey
Myiah Jonae Barrett
Tionna A. Beard-Brown *
Love Justen Bettis *
Khalil Stephon Brown
Tyreonna Brown
Quinn Bryant
Genisy C. Cohen
Antricia D. Copeland
Yao N. Densu
Arielle JaNae Everett
A'zhariyha Tasel Mone' Vaughan
Jacob Austin Granger **
Shannon Grant
Taylor Kaleece Hall
Lovie Archaize-Lamar Jenkins
Jarvis Jones
Marvel Michel Joseph
Keith Jalen Lamar *
Felicia Camile Leamard
Youssef Michael *
Austin Allen Moore
Orion Lorenza Phipps *
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN MUSIC
Marvin Da'shawn Walker III **
Shayla Celeste Rawls **
Christania Reed **
Kristian-Emmanuel Salomon
Logan Reed Sharpton **
Chandler Marie Stewart
Chidiebere Ukaga
Charlie James Walker III
Deondre Lorenzo Walker
Veronica Williams **
Christian Alexander Wise
Woodraun Ricardo Wright, Jr.
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN MUSIC INDUSTRY
Elajah Carty *
Javareus Dupree Williams *
Amaya A. Burton
Elois Camille Hannah
Kennedy Michelle Hayden **
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN PHILOSOPHY
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN POLITICAL SCIENCE
Londe Mondelus **
Chad Alexander Preston **
Amani Nicole Turner
Kerrian Woods
COLLEGE OF SOCIAL SCIENCES, ARTS AND HUMANITIES
Chadera Anderson ***
Abigail Grace Bamping
Mandy L. Bienaime **
Shiaan Campbell
Shyonna Joelle Stevae Carter ***
Jordan Olivia Cassaberry*
Christina Caster
Jada Kionna Chaney
Jayla Shian Civil ***
Ashanti Demetria Crawford *
Neika T. Eustache
Brandon J. Fleming
ArDaijah Kialani Forehand ***
Robert Glanton IV
Tyarra Quynice Gray
Kyle Leon Green ***
Danielle Hanson **
Robbie Jenelle Hawk **
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN PSYCHOLOGY
Keivon Heaven
Journi Denise Hudson
Gentle Lavon Hunt *
Tyler E. Ingram
Elcarla Sthasie Lafleur
Makayla Alexis Langford
Imani Nicole Lewis *
Stevens Matthew Timothy Louissaint *
Genesis Lyles-Nelson
Halima N. Mckenzie *
RaDeja Jaliyah McNeil ***
Castillo Davante Mitchell
Delaysia Deshae Mitchell *
Dwight Damond Moment, Jr. *
Natarsha Morris **
Aaliyah-Lin Sai Nobles
Isis Nyomi Outlaw
Malyah Ania Palmore *
Destiny A Perkins **
Lance Torrey Roberts, Jr.
Peter L. Sailsman
Kernica Robiana Sainfleur **
Taylor Micke'l Seymour *
Amber Shann **
Raven Shepherd
Lauren Jane Shirley **
Morgan Chanelle Stewart
Tylecia Thomas *
Danaya Lola Thomas-Prescott **
Khalia Anayah Thornton
Karrington Tukes
Rashunda Verdell
Genesis N. Walker **
Jatauris Arnez Williams
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN SOCIOLOGY
Carlos Joseph Machado *** Erin Mykell Nesmith **
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN THEATRE
Jazmin Fletcher Imani Rae Henry *
BACHELOR OF SOCIAL WORK
Artemis Dove ***
Christele Fleuristal Guerrier *
Destiny Dashay Hills
Aziah Monique Johnson **
Ashley Clairissa Lauriston ***
Jenia Battista Victoria McClendon ***
Brandi Nicole Munnerlyn *
Tiaura Amaya Robinson ***
Keith Thomas, Jr.
FAMU-FSU COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING PRESENTED BY SUVRANU DE, PH.D., DEAN
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN CHEMICAL ENGINEERING
Kenneth Arturo Bains
Joshua Davis
Jamar Colinjordan Brown
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN CIVIL ENGINEERING
Andre Lanier Harper Rayana Nichelle Watford *
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN COMPUTER ENGINEERING
Rahsaan Saladin Corbin II
Kevin Jerome Harvey II
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING
De'Angelo Isaiah Humphrey
Bryce Collier
Joshua Collins Wesley
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERING
Jaylan Geneise Maddox
James Keir Williams II
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN MECHANICAL ENGINEERING
Solomon Mi'shon Andrews
Roshard Antonio Jackson, Jr. *
SCHOOL OF ALLIED HEALTH SCIENCES
PRESENTED BY MARY SIMMONS, PH.D., DEAN
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN CARDIOPULMONARY SCIENCE
Emmanuel Richkard Augustin
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN HEALTH CARE MANAGEMENT
Olivia Shaudae Bartley **
Grace Emerald Desire ***
Jamecia Nicole Hawkins
Sharaye Deoni Johnson
Tiffany Nicole Long *** Cherrelle Lashawn Pound *
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN HEALTH SCIENCE INFORMATICS AND INFORMATION MANAGEMENT
Tyrik James Anderson **
Imani Austin **
Hellena Bess *
Abdiasley Charles **
Ja'Nya L. Franklin **
Helena Ariana Jean **
Bryclyn Mariana Jefferson *
Nicole Elise Jones ***
J'nayah Vanessa Lake **
Daemiesha Nayshelle Mena **
Dorothy S. Michael **
Goddeene Marjorie Pierre **
Drisana Jenine Pollock **
Armani Raji **
Brea Leann Smalls
Staresa Smith ***
Destiny Christina St. Val
Immani Simoneta-Bethia Ward **
Kienaya Teonna Workman *
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN HEALTH SCIENCE
Ty'Tiana Ny'Riah Anderson *
Ja'Mya Chanel Barber
Jada Elena Bedford *
Jose Christina Benoit
Jayla Burnette
Desteni M. Copeland
Da'Mizia Na'Tiana Davis ***
Asia Dickey **
Jana Jasiel Domingue
Edmaelle Estinvil
Shuntoria Charneciah Ferrell ***
Nehica Gedeon
Darvel Green *
Hope Amory Harris
Laquandria Breshay Harris
Zion Eugene Hart *
Deja Norell Henry **
Zahrrya Hill *
Nia Humber
Theodore Glen Ingram IV **
Lyric Ivey *
Jada LaJoyce Johnson
Darius Shemar Jones
Syncere Sirmion Kirk
Lourdelandie Laguerre
Eliya Joelle Lewis
Jayden Dessa Louis **
Jasen Derrick Lovince **
Alana Ruth Masslieno *
Johnnie Mitchell, Jr.
Danae Elyssa Moulton *
Dakhari Latroy Nimmons
Jhamia D. Nobles
Ja'Mya Leshawn Oliver **
Joshua Wyman Oliver
Benjamin Chinatu Onwuzo *
Ianita Gwenela Padilla **
Uniya Alexia Pascal ***
Jasmine Reid
Julissa Marie Ross ***
Aaliyah Atarah Russell
Nevaeh Lillian Sapp
SCHOOL OF ALLIED HEALTH SCIENCES (cont’d)
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN HEALTH SCIENCE
Auhazia Lavondria Smith *
Taylor Victoria Simone Smith ***
Ariel S. Stewart **
Savannah S. Walden
Kaleigh Janae Williams *
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN HEALTH SCIENCE CONCENTRATION IN PRE-OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY
Kylen Payton Callum
Chnelley Cynthia Dumay ***
Zhanay Noel Albury *
Shekinah Lupetu Bombo *
Kelis Chevelle Capers *
Viginy Katty Cenatus **
Hadiya Clay
Taisha Chedlie Dugazon *
Marcy Valery Jovany Pricile Louissaint * Den'niyah Q. Pugh *
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN HEALTH SCIENCE CONCENTRATION IN PRE-PHYSICAL THERAPY
Aryana Golson ***
Ajonia L. Hicks *
Emerald A. Jacobs *
Morgan Taylor Jones
DyTerres J. Lindsey *
Dewarderick Mikkel Morris, Jr. ***
Shakari Tanyce Perry **
Sean Sebastian Reed **
Nyah Ashanti' Roberts *
Katessa Joi Smith *
Veronica Jade Ulysse *
SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE AND ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY
PRESENTED BY ANDREW CHIN, M. ARCH., DEAN
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ARCHITECTURAL STUDIES
Kah-Ren D. Brown **
Josephine Bratcher
Linette Cottrell *
Darren O'Keith Gibbs
Anyah Divine Hicks *
SCHOOL OF BUSINESS AND INDUSTRY
PRESENTED BY SHAWNTA FRIDAY-STROUD, PH.D., DEAN
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ACCOUNTING
Jordan Anielle Fields *
Jeremiah Jawuan Fisher
Isaiah T Hardy
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
Abdulelah Hassan Z. Altubayshi *
Brianna Bree Tatianna Arnold
Jada Nycole Barnes *
Tatiana Alycia Barnes **
Niya Baskett *
Jasmine Simone Blue
De'Nee Marie Bonner
Reginald Lamar Brown *
Tiara Shania Burrell **
Nevaeh G. Champ
Herberd Jermain Cherfrere
Takobe Clark
Myles Evan Cowart **
Caleb Brian Danner
Cenai Desiree Etienne-Dugue
Phillip Joshua Fulton **
Mahkel Renee Gordon *
Aurora Sekai Grier **
Shemai'ah Jordan Grooms **
Maya Kayleen Harmon
Jalen L. Henderson
Kiera Makayla Hill *
Akira Renee Hollis
Ivan Moses Hopkins *
Tamia McKenzie Howie *
Essence Kiarra JeanBaptiste
Adontre Z. Johnson **
Season Pearl Kirk
SCHOOL OF BUSINESS AND INDUSTRY (cont’d)
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION (cont'd)
Christian Jerome Loney-Macedo *
Tariq I. Lucona
Maiya Lyn-Ah-Ping
Collis Banard McKenzie, Jr. **
Sa' Coya McKenzie **
Jhinisha Janique Janet Mills **
Dylan Monticel Mobley, Jr.**
Anthony Charles Patterson II
Laniyah Nashelle Payne
Kamyah Charmaine Pontiflet
Reshmeena Kumari Ratnaswamy
Cheree Ciara Rembert ***
Ryan Rowe
Sheniah Aaliya Ruth
Christopher Blake Sanford * 5Yr.
Timiah L'jhne Louise Sinclair ***
Tierra Elise Strong **
Makayla Yvonne Swainson *
Talynn Shanell Watts **
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ECONOMICS
Isabelle Valcena **
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ECONOMICS WITH MINOR IN BUSINESS
Adwin Mark Ashman
Cush A Chakari
Fredrick Allen Cox III
Marvin Francois
Marcus Sandile Taylor **
Miles S. Taylor **
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT
Alecia Tariell Johnson *
SCHOOL OF JOURNALISM
Donovan Bailey Kanisha Dion Clark ***
Chelsea Latrice Blake *
Tahod-ja Veniece Bond
Eddie L. Ransom III
& GRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
PRESENTED BY MIRA LOWE, DEAN
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN GRAPHIC DESIGN
CydNey DaLynn Flanagan
Shanique Latonya Harris **
Jaylan Michael Rawlings
Susan R. Salinas *
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN JOURNALISM
Jordan Cheynne Forbes **
Imani Bianca Williams
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN PUBLIC RELATIONS
Emmani Hannahlease Fairweather **
India Synai Gay ***
Tiffany Roniese Herman
Jared Alexander Melhado **
Markayla Darriyana Oats **
Kiana Yvette Simmons **
SCHOOL OF NURSING
PRESENTED BY SHANNON BRIGHT SMITH, PH.D., DNP, DEAN
Anuoluwapo A. Aderinwale ***
Faniola Demosthenes
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN NURSING
Tomiko Taree Gowins ***
Benisha La'Chell Sergi *
Brittney Tequira Yancy
Avia Lauren Cesarone **
SCHOOL OF THE ENVIRONMENT
PRESENTED BY VICTOR IBEANUSI, PH.D., DEAN
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES
Autumn Georgette Dancy *
Chanel Annette Andrews
COLLEGE OF LAW
PRESENTED BY CECIL E. HOWARD, J.D., INTERIM DEAN
B.S., University of North Florida, 2017
Alec Javier Brito *
B.S., University of South Florida, 2018
Ivanna Raquel Cuevas Hernandez
B.S., University of Central Florida, 2020
Kandace N. Lewis
B.S., Spelman College, 2014
JURIS DOCTOR
Minora Divot Pamphile
B.S., Florida Atlantic University, 2014
Christian Sterling Shephard, Jr.
B.S., University of Florida, 2020
Tyasia Re'al Thomas
B.S., University of Central Florida, 2019
SCHOOL OF GRADUATE STUDIES AND RESEARCH
PRESENTED BY MICHAEL ABAZINGE, PH.D., DEAN
COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE AND FOOD SCIENCES
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE CONCENTRATION IN PLANT SCIENCES
Dupe Stella Ogundipe
B.S., Federal University of Agriculture, 2018
Thesis Title: “Identification and Genetic Characterization of the Isolated FL
Autochthonous Muscadine Wine Yeast sp. in `Floriana¿ `Noble and `Carlos Varietals”
Thesis Chair: Dr. Violeta Tsolova
Simeon Chancha Chancha
Eniola Blessing Olaoye
B.S., Federal University of Technology, 2021
Thesis Title: “Functional Classification of Untargeted Volatilome Profile in Flowers of Selected Muscadine (Muscadinia Rotundifolia Michx.) Cultivars”
Thesis Chair: Dr. Islam El Sharkawy
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE CONCENTRATION IN SOIL AND WATER
B.S., Federal University of Technology, 2014
Thesis Title: “Evaluation of Contamination
Level and Environmental Fate of Acaricides
Used in the Historic Treatment of Livestock at the Brooksville Agricultural and Environmental Research Station”
Thesis Chair: Dr. Odemari Mbuya
Maia Alise Woodard
B.S., Florida A&M University, 2022
Thesis Title: “Management Practices Influence on Soil Carbon and Nutrient Release in the Chipola Experimental Forest”
Thesis Chair: Dr. Lucy Ngatia
COLLEGE OF EDUCATION
MASTER OF EDUCATION IN CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTION
Stephan Ranson Davis
B.S., Florida A&M University, 2016
Danon M. Bell, Jr.
Matthew Ian Weinberger
B.S., Florida A&M University, 2022
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN SPORT MANAGEMENT
B.S., Florida A&M University, 2007
Shelbra J.W. McKnight
B.A., Southern New Hampshire University, 2022
Jane'a Elizabeth Mobley
B.S., Florida A&M University, 2023
Demetrius Michael Morris
B.S., Florida A&M University, 2020
Skila Danyelle Rogers
BCJ, Florida A&M University, 2022
Chad Everett Williams, Sr.
B.S., University of North Florida, 2023
COLLEGE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN BIOLOGY
Halleluyah Onaara Ademilua
B.S., University of Lagos, 2014
Thesis Title: “Comparative Performances of Florida Pompano and Red Drum Fed Hemp
Protein Alternative Diets”
Faye Rachel K. Peterson
Lakasjah Annette Brown
B.S., University of Florida, 2022
Thesis Title: “The Cytoprotective Effect of Hunteria umbellata in Intestinal Epithelial Cells”
Thesis Chair: Jillian L. Pope, Ph.D.
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN CHEMISTRY
B.S., Florida A&M University, 2021
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN COMPUTER INFORMATION SCIENCES
Damilola Abraham Abioye
B.S., University of Ilorin, 2017
Shahrzad Sayyafzadeh
Thesis Title: “Thumbnail Image Forensic Acquisition and analysis in the Age of Artificial Intelligence”
COLLEGE OF SOCIAL SCIENCES, ARTS AND HUMANITIES
MASTER OF APPLIED SOCIAL SCIENCES
CONCENTRATION IN CRIMINAL JUSTICE
Lavarius Anthony Foreman
B.S., Florida A&M University, 2023
Keanna Tyesha Watkins
B.S., Florida A&M University, 2022
CONCENTRATION IN GLOBAL SECURITY AND INTERNATIONAL AFFAIR
Aonesti Nicole Brooks
B.S., Florida A&M University, 2022
Joseph Clayton Martin II
B.S., Florida A&M University, 2023
SCHOOL OF GRADUATE STUDIES AND RESEARCH
(cont’d)
COLLEGE OF SOCIAL SCIENCES, ARTS AND HUMANITIES (cont’d)
CONCENTRATION IN HISTORY
Brittney Shanelle Jackson
B.S., Florida A&M University, 2023
Linda Alexis
CONCENTRATION IN PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION
B.S., Florida A&M University, 2022
Shaterria Lacosha Dawson
B.S., American Public University, 2023
David Deon Lawton
B.S., Florida A&M University, 2022
Malik Travon Alberic
Danih Fahd S. Shaibi
B.S., King Abdul Aziz University, 2019
Kye Sims
B.S., Florida A&M University, 2023
MASTER OF SOCIAL WORK
BSW, Florida A&M University, 2021
Denise Ariel Coombs
BSW, Florida A&M University, 2022
Candice Alisha Davis
BSW, Florida A&M University, 2019
Tia Monique Henry
BSW, Florida A&M University, 2021
Fantasha Shaneiqua Jackson
BSW, Florida A&M University, 2023
Asia Briana Jarmon
BSW, Florida A&M University, 2023
Ayanna Larkins
BSW, Florida A&M University, 2023
Rachelle Bures Lukacs
BSW, Florida A&M University, 2023
Amanda Phylicia Roan
BSW, Florida A&M University, 2022
COLLEGE OF PHARMACY AND PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES, INSTITUTE OF PUBLIC HEALTH
MASTER OF PUBLIC HEALTH
Vernescia J. Williams
B.S., Florida A&M University, 2014
Raviteja Bulusu
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES
M.S., Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University, 2019
Esther Kesewaah Frimpong
MPH, East Tennessee State University, 2021
Kweku Ofosu-Asante
B.S., University of Ghana, 2020
SCHOOL OF GRADUATE STUDIES AND RESEARCH
SCHOOL OF ALLIED HEALTH SCIENCES
MASTER OF HEALTH ADMINISTRATION
(cont’d)
Aniyah M. Buie
B.S., Florida A&M University, 2022
Jailah T. Durham
B.S., Florida A&M University, 2022
Pius Saanwie
B.S., Foreign Institution High School, 2022
Weslie Simon
B.S., Florida A&M University, 2022
Allah Alberto Whittaker
B.S., Florida A&M University, 2022
SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE AND ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN ARCHITECTURE
Ondriana S. L. Jenkins
B.Arch., Florida A&M University, 2021
Chase Jovan Barrs
DeMarcus Jabarie Means, Sr.
B.S., Florida A&M University, 2020
SCHOOL OF BUSINESS AND INDUSTRY
MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
B.S., Florida A&M University, 2023
Khyla Lynnett Bell
B.S., Florida A&M University, 2023
Michael Antonio Cobb, Jr.
B.S., Florida A&M University, 2023
Andrew James Dansoh
B.S., Florida A&M University, 2023
Camila Victoria De La Rosa Herrera
Amanda L. Douglas
B.S., Florida A&M University, 2000
Claire Alexandria Gelin
B.S., Florida A&M University, 2019
Thomas James Dow II
Jamaal Williams Joseph
B.S., Florida A&M University, 2023
Cameron David Kelly
B.S., Florida A&M University, 2023
Emaje' DaiQuan Marcus
B.S., Florida A&M University, 2022
Tyler J. Span
B.S., Florida A&M University, 2023
Christopher Blake Sanford
Ashton Williams
B.S., Florida A&M University, 2022
Quentin Frank Williams
B.S., Florida A&M University, 2023
JOINT MBA/MS SUPPY CHAIN MANAGEMENT
B.S., Florida A&M University, 2022
Sheyla Criss Alvarez
SCHOOL OF NURSING
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN NURSING
Zaire Burgess-Robinson
B.S., Florida National University, 2020
Ashley Elizabeth Brown
B.S., Herzing College, 2022
BSN, Southern Adventist University, 2016
Macy LeighAnn Fields
B.S., Bethune-Cookman University, 2017
BSN, University of Florida, 2018
SCHOOL OF GRADUATE STUDIES AND RESEARCH
SCHOOL OF NURSING (cont'd)
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN NURSING (cont'd)
(cont’d)
Whitney Mae Reed Jason
B.S., Southern University and A&M College, 2009
M.S., Southern University and A&M College, 2013
Alexis Vanessa Mcshay Marcus-Atkinson
BSN, Florida State College at Jacksonville, 2022
Gabriella Lynn Lirio
Emily R. Padgett
B.S., University of North Carolina, Wilmington, 2020
Demetria Monique Robinson
B.S., University of Southern Mississippi, 2011
Alishea Young
B.S., Florida A&M University, 2011
SCHOOL OF THE ENVIRONMENT
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
B.S., Florida State University, 2021
Thesis Title: “Using shell morphometrics to understand ocean acidification impacts on the calcification of foraminifera”
Thesis Chair: Michael Martinez-Colon, Ph.D.
COLLEGE OF PHARMACY AND PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES,
INSTITUTE OF PUBLIC HEALTH
DOCTOR OF PHARMACY
Celestine DeCoster Chandler
Amanda LeAnn Collier
Sydney Elizabeth Green
Remonda Youssef Harkas
Olivia Holliday
Rykiah L. Kenderick
Shakaria N. Leonard
Bianca Obianuju Maduka
Bermane Majuste
B.S., Florida A&M University, 2018
Marie D. Majuste
B.S., Florida A&M University, 2018
DelMishy Pryor
COLLEGE OF EDUCATION
DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP
Phyllis Young Watson
B.S, Florida A&M University, 1985
MBA, Nova Southeastern University, 1993
Dissertation Title: “Strategic Utilization of Institutional Resources: A Correlation Analysis of Expenditures and Graduation Rates at Historically Black Colleges and Universities”
Dissertation Chair: Patricia Green-Powell, Ph.D.
SCHOOL
OF GRADUATE STUDIES AND RESEARCH (cont’d)
FAMU-FSU COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING
DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING
Maryam Ramezanzadehmoghadam
B.S., University of Central Florida, 2019
M.S., Florida A&M University, 2021
Dissertation Title: “A Blockchain-Based Decentralized Federated Learning Framework for Deepfake Detection in Digital Forensic Scenarios ”
Dissertation Chair: Shonda Bernadin, Ph.D.
COLLEGE OF PHARMACY AND PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES, INSTITUTE OF PUBLIC HEALTH
DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES
Olayiwola Sikirullahi Popoola
B.S., University of Jos, 2016
M.S., Florida A&M University, 2023
Dissertation Title: “Real-World Treatment Patterns, Outcomes, and Healthcare Resource Utilization Among Advanced Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Medicare Patients”
Dissertation Chair: Askal Ali, Ph.D.
Camillia R. Comeaux
Nikema Trenay Peterson St. Fleur
B.S., Florida State University, 2015
MPH., Florida A&M University, 2017
Dissertation Title: The maternal health experience of Black women diagnosed with a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy
Dissertation Chair: Sandra Suther, Ph.D.
DOCTOR OF PUBLIC HEALTH
B.S., University of Missouri, 2009
M.S., Meharry Medical College, 2012
Dissertation Title: “Nutritional Status and Social Determinants: Addressing Racial Disparities in Maternal and Child Health Outcomes”
Dissertation Chair: Fran T. Close, Ph.D.
Shalton W. Evans, Jr.
COLLEGE
Afaf Nidal Qasem
B.S., Florida State University, 2012
M.S., Florida State University, 2014
Dissertation Title: “Research-Based and Practice-Based Food Insecurity Interventions in Healthcare Settings: An Exploratory Study”
Dissertation Chair: Fran T. Close, Ph.D.
OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN PHYSICS
B.S., Prairie View A&M University, 2009
M.S., Florida A&M University, 2021
Dissertation Title: “The Retrieval of Molecular Alignment Signals by Deconvolution of Intensity Averaged Data as an Aid for the Control of Molecular Dissociation”
Dissertation Chair: James Strohaber, Ph.D.
SCHOOL OF GRADUATE STUDIES AND RESEARCH (cont’d)
Foroozan Arkian
SCHOOL OF THE ENVIRONMENT
DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
B.S., Tehran University, 1993
M.S., Tehran University, 2000
Ph. D., Islamic Azad University, 2009
Dissertation Title: “Role of Atmospheric and Chemical Processes in Governing the Distribution of NOx in Coastal and Remote Marine Regions”
Dissertation Chair: Steven Morey, Ph.D.
Joy Jefferson-Yager
B.S., Florida State University, 2006
MASS, Florida A&M University, 2016
Dissertation Title: “STEM Identity, Interest and Influence of Underrepresented High School Students in Out-Of-School Time Programs: A Mixed Methods”
Dissertation Chair: Richard Gragg, Ph.D.
Ashley Augdreania Lacey
B.S., Florida A&M University, 2016
MPH, Florida A&M University, 2018
Dissertation Title: “Comparative Analysis of Resident and Visitor Perceptions and Effectiveness of the NOAA Harmful Algal Blooms Forecast Product”
Dissertation Chair: Charles Jagoe, Ph.D.
Willis Oneil Lyons
B.S., Jackson State University, 2010
Dissertation Title: “Understanding Possible Factors Related to Red Tide Exposure and Policy Support in Sarasota County, FL.”
Dissertation Chair: Michael Abazinge, Ph.D.
Ryan Olsen Rasulla Nedd
B.S., University of Guyana, 2010
M.S., University of Arkansas, Pine Bluff, 2018
Dissertation Title: “Land use/land cover, Land degradation, and Sustainable Development Goals: Assessment and Conceptualization”
Dissertation Chair: Aavudai Anandhi, Ph.D.
Candidates for Commission as Second Lieutenants in the United States Army
PRESENTED BY CPT PRECIOUS WALSTON, U.S. ARMY, ASSISTANT PROFESSOR OF MILITARY SCIENCE
Makiah Charles
Audrey Alexander
Claudine Beale
Carey Brown, Sr.
Vernon E. Bryant
Thomas Cavano, Ph.D.
Shelby Chipman, Ph.D.
Christina Compere-Minor
Carmen Cummings Martin
Commencement Committee Members
Rufus Ellis, Ph.D.
LTC Christopher E. Everett
Regina Gardner
Lavetta B. Henderson, Ed.D.
Desi Jenkins
Herbert Johnson
Merlin R. Langley, Ph.D.
Marny Marsh
Bomani H. Spell, M.A./M.S., Chair
Cornelius McGlockton
Candace Stuart Morris, Esq.
Carucha Nelson
Harold Parker
Col. Benjamin Ringvelski
Antoneia Roe
Bryan Smith
Marquis J. Stewart, Ed.D.
Valencia E. Matthews, Ph.D., Co-chair
GRAND MARSHAL
Valencia E. Matthews, Ph.D.
Grand Marshals
Tanya Tatum
Kenedria Thurman
Michael Walker
Roger Walker
Angela Williams
Senovia Williams
Antonio Witherspoon
Sabrina P. Thompson, M.Ed., Co-chair
ASSOCIATE GRAND MARSHAL
Reginald Perry, Ph.D.
Graduate Marshals
Kyle Harris, Ph.D.
Phyllis Reaves, Ph.D.
Law School Marshal
Reginald Mitchell, Sr., J.D.
Undergraduate Marshals
Elizabeth Dawson, Ph.D.
Kimberly Harding
Ph.D. Marshal
Lavetta Henderson, Ed.D.
Eugene Matthews, Ph.D.
Kenneth Jones
Luther D. Wells
Mace-Bearer
Maurice Holder, Ph.D.
Special Acknowledgements
Esposito’s Garden Center • FAMU Plant Operations and Maintenance • Dunbar Walker Productions • TS Media/Design
Senior Transcendent Ceremony
Alumni President
Will the members of the graduating class please stand? As you prepare to make the transition from student to alumnus, I want to impress upon you that, for the past several years, you have been an integral part of the many exciting events that have taken place at Florida A&M University. You are now about to become a part of its history, forever.
You are among the privileged who have been nurtured in the spirit of the many men and women who have passed this way and are rendering distinguished service to mankind because of the dedication of Florida A&M University to QUALITY EDUCATION.
You have been trained by men and women who have passed on to you, the very best that time and experience have given to them and that you do well to remember their dedicated service.
As a member of the Florida A&M University National Alumni Association, do you solemnly promise to:
REMEMBER THAT YOU ARE THE RECIPIENT OF A GREAT AND PRECIOUS HERITAGE; THAT YOU WILL STRIVE WITH ALL YOUR MIGHT AND ENERGY TO PROVE YOURSELF WORTHY, THROUGH SERVICE TO MANKIND; AND TO SUPPORT THE PROGRAMS OF FLORIDA A&M UNIVERSITY AND ITS ALUMNI ASSOCIATION. DO YOU SO PROMISE?
Graduates
I DO!
Alumni President
By the authority vested in me as President of the Florida A&M University National Alumni Association, I pronounce that you have full membership in the Association with all the rights, privileges and duties appertaining thereto. We invite you to join us for progress at the University in the years ahead.
Congratulations! Please be seated.
About The Speaker
MELISSA BUTLER
Alumna and Founder/CEO, The Lip Bar, Inc.
Melissa Butler is the founder and chief executive officer of The Lip Bar, a beauty brand she started in her kitchen while she was working as a licensed stock broker on Wall Street.
Fed up with the toxic one-shade-fits-most beauty industry, the Detroit native and Florid A&M University (FAMU) alumna turned her frustration into action, stepped off the corporate ladder and into her kitchen to whip up vibrant vegan lipstick. A rejection on TV’s “Shark Tank” only fueled her tenacious Rattler spirit motivating her to reclaim power over her own dream, and she grew The Lip Bar beyond lipstick to TLB: the award-winning maximum impact, minimal effort beauty must-haves for all. Since its founding, the brand has become a pioneer on beauty and inclusion.
Butler describes her journey from stocks and bonds to beauty as a natural progression, not because she loved makeup, but because she was fed up with the industry and therefore created a solution.
Since she launched The Lip Bar, Butler has been featured in Forbes, Fast Company, Entrepreneur, Inc., Allure, Cosmopolitan and Essence magazines.
While Butler has already accomplished much, she continues to take the beauty world by storm through innovation, integrity and passion. Her goal is to empower women everywhere of all ages, races and body types to be confident in their own skin by challenging traditional beauty standards through imagery, ingredients and affordable pricing.
“Everyone deserves to have representation. Without it, we are left seeking validation,” Butler, who graduated from FAMU’s School of Business and Industry with a bachelor’s in business finance.
The Academic Attire
The academic attire, which makes an inaugural procession colorful, is as old as universities. The attire represents eight centuries of a continuous tradition; it is not a modern revival of medieval customs. It goes back to the days when students were “clerks” – that is, members of the minor clergy – and wore monkish gowns and hoods. In those days of unheated study halls and garret sleeping quarters, the hoods served a very practical purpose. When the hood was pulled over the head, the “tippet,” a sort of hollow tail, served as a convenient pocket. Today, the hood is only an adornment.
The mortarboard, which seems to have evolved from the square biretta of Renaissance churchmen, came into use after the hood had ceased to be worn on the head. The tassel on the mortarboard may be either black or the “color of the faculty” – as described below; or for the holder of a doctorate degree, it may be of gold. Many universities replace the mortarboard with their own distinctive headgear.
Both the gown and the hood indicate the degree held by the wearer. The gown for the bachelor’s degree has pointed sleeves. Bachelor’s hoods have only recently become a part of the attire in the United States. In the master’s gown, the wearer’s arm projects from the sleeve at the elbow, or, in the more modern gowns, at the wrist, and the lower part of the sleeve, ending in another tippet, dangles below the arm. The doctor’s gown has bell-shaped sleeves. Bachelor’s and master’s gowns have no trimmings, but the doctor’s gown is faced down the front with velvet and has three velvet cross-bars on each sleeve. This velvet may be either black or the color of the faculty members’ discipline.
Graduates of some institutions, on all continents, may wear gowns in the color of the university that awarded their degree, for instance, orange and green for Florida A&M University. In the United States, the hood is edged with velvet in the color of the faculty and lined with the colors of the university conferring the degree. For all academic purposes, trimmings of the doctor’s gowns, edgings of hoods and tassels of caps, adhere to the colors for the different subjects as indicated:
College of Agriculture and Food Sciences - Maize; College of Education - Light Blue; FAMU-FSU College of Engineering - Orange; College of Law - Purple; College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences - Forest Green; College of Science and Technology - Bright Gold; College of Social Sciences, Arts and Humanities - White; School of Allied Health Sciences - Olive; School of Architecture and Engineering TechnologyLilac; School of Business and Industry - Drab; School of Journalism and Graphic Communication - Crimson; School of Nursing - Apricot; School of the Environment - Light Gold; Doctor of Philosophy - Royal Blue; Doctor of Physical Therapy – Sage Green; Doctor of Public Health - Salmon
The Ceremonial Mace
Symbolizing the authority vested in the president by the University’s governing body, the Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University Ceremonial Mace is made of bright gold plated bronze and mahogany wood. The shaft of the mace bearing the seal of the University is made of bright gold plated bronze, double-sided medal surrounded with orange and emerald green Swarovski crystals around the outer edge upon a six inch diameter chrome plated polished mace head with clear Swarovski crystals around the circumference.
Ten gold plated engraved nameplates featuring the names of each university president are mounted on a 2-inch diameter mahogany baton. A 1.5 inch mahogany wood staff with wood and chrome plated polished aluminum turnings separates the rest of the baton from its base. The baton is made of mahogany, which symbolizes the trees of knowledge, which adorn the campus of the University. The overall length of the mace is 30 inches long. At the very base of the mace is a gold plated brass “Rattler”, the symbol of the University. Its coiled posture represents the fact that although the dark clouds may surround the horizon, the “Rattler” will strike, strike, and strike again!
The Presidential Medallion and Chain of Office
Dating to medieval times, the Presidential Medallion and Chain of Office signify the symbol of authority vested in the President as head of the University. The current chain is approximately 36 inches long and is made of gold plated bronze. It features ten 1-3/4 inch gold plated sculpted engravings of each president from 1887 to the present. Under each sculpted model are ten banner link engravings inscribed with the names of each president and his term of office. At the base of the chain is the Presidential Medallion, which features the seal of the University.
Kristin Harper Chair, Founder and CEO of Driven to Succeed, LLC
Deveron Gibbons, J.D. Vice Chair, Senior Vice President of Public Affairs and Business Development at Amscot Financial
Ezzeldin Aly, Ph.D. President, Faculty Senate Florida A&M University Professor of Sport Management
Otis Cliatt II President of Pacific Harbor Line, Inc.
Board of Trustees
John Crossman President/CEO, CrossMarc Services, LLC
Natlie G. Figgers, J.D. Founder & Managing Attorney The Law Office of Natlie G. Figgers
Kelvin L. Lawson
Executive Vice President, Business Development for Channel Partners
Loryn May President, Student Government Association Florida A&M University
Belvin Perry Jr., J.D. Personal Injury Attorney, Morgan & Morgan Law Firm
University Administrators
Craig Reed Vice President and Chief Procurement Officer for Thermo Fisher Scientific
Kenward Stone Co-Chief Executive Officer, Broughton Pharmaceuticals
Nicole Washington Principal, Washington Education Strategies
Michael White Co-founder and Chief Business Development Officer of Indelible Solutions
Larry Robinson, Ph.D. University President
Donald E. Palm, Ph.D. Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer/Interim Vice President for University Advancement
Allyson L. Watson, Ph.D. Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs
William E. Hudson Jr., Ph.D. Vice President for Student Affairs
Rebecca Brown Vice President for Finance and Administration
Charles Weatherford, Ph.D. Vice President for Research
G. Dale Wesson, Ph.D. College of Agriculture and Food Sciences
Sarah Price, Ph.D. College of Education
Richard Aló, Ph.D. College of Science and Technology
Valencia E. Matthews, Ph.D. College of Social Sciences, Arts and Humanities
Shawnta Friday-Stroud, Ph.D. School of Business and Industry
Joseph Maleszewski, MBA Vice President for Audit
Keith Miles Director of Communications
Carmen Cummings Martin, M.S. Assistant Vice President for University Engagement/Alumni Affairs
Linda Barge-Miles, Esq. Chief of Staff
Danielle McBeth, J.D. Director of Government Relations
Tiffani-Dawn Sykes, M.S. Vice President and Director of Athletics
Roddrick D. Jones, Ph.D. Vice President for Strategic Planning, Analysis and Institutional Effectiveness
Academic Deans
Cecil Howard, J.D. (Interim) College of Law
Suvranu De, Ph.D. FAMU-FSU College of Engineering
Andrew Chin, M.Arch. School of Architecture and Engineering Technology
Mary Simmons, Ph.D. School of Allied Health Sciences
Michael Abazinge, Ph.D. School of Graduate Studies and Research
Rica Calhoun, Esq. Chief Compliance and Ethics Officer
D. Denise Wallace, J.S.D. Vice President of Legal Affairs and General Counsel
Erick Akins, Ph.D. Director of Title III
Robert Seniors Vice President, Information Technology Services/CIO
Kyle Eidahl, Ph.D. Faculty Senate Representative
Daniel Osborne Ph.D. Faculty Senate Representative
Mira Lowe School of Journalism & Graphic Communication
Victor M. Ibeanusi, Ph.D. School of the Environment
Shannon B. Smith, DNP, Ph.D. School of Nursing
Johnnie L. Early II, Ph.D. College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Public Health
Alma Mater
College of love and charity
We gather ‘round thy noble shrine; We lift our voice in praise to thee, And ask a blessing all divine.
Chorus
FAM-U! FAM-U! I love thee! I’ll fight and win whate’er the battle be, The Orange and the green thy sons shall e’er defend And loyal to thy voice of love attend FAM-U! FAM-U! FAM-U! I love thee!
On gridiron, diamond, track and field, Thy sons the vict’ry never yield, And while they tread a broader life Thy love shall stay them in the strife.
(repeat chorus)
God ever keep us true to thee; Thy faith that truth shall make men free, Shall guide thy loyal sons aright And fend them thru the skeptic night.
(repeat chorus)
