Briana Palmore addressed the student body and attendees as the student commentary speaker during the winter commencement ceremony on Dec. 16.
The Hackensack, N.J. native has a record of being devoted to service to others that will serve her well in her career path of public service. She has served in support positions of the Student Government Association as a freshman and sophomore. After earning her bachelor of science degree in chemistry and a minor in criminal justice, Palmore hopes to pursue a career with Maryland State Police.
“I always wanted to work in law enforcement. I chose the science route. I want to start out in the field to gain experience and hopefully progress to the federal government,” Palmore said.
During her speech at graduation, Briana took some time to recognize fallen hawks Aleksandria Padgett (’21) and Jason Louis (’21) with a moment of silence.
“Alex was a dear friend of mine and was always there whenever I needed her. She had such an amazing personality and was never afraid to speak her mind, whether you liked what she had to say or not. Jason and I had both crossed the same semester of Fall 2020. Whenever I saw Jason he was always ready to have a good time. He did not let his cancer set him back from living his life to the fullest. Homecoming did not feel the same without you both, but you both were still there in spirit making sure we all enjoyed ourselves,” Palmore said.
She also discussed the importance of networking stating “My fellow hawks, I ask that you utilize the relationships you created here at UMES to network. Networking is not just about going to places to see what people can do for you. It is about how can I help you help me. I challenge each of you to raise the bar for yourself, raise the bar for your friends and raise your expectations for your own life. Stop living in the past and focus on the person you are going to continue to be once you walk across this stage.”
During her time at UMES, she was involved in student activities and organizations including the Campus Activities Board, the Student Government Association, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, Haus of Legacy, Delta Sigma Theta, Inc., and Ambiance Dance Company.
“UMES felt like home away from home once I stepped foot on campus,” Palmore said about her UMES experience. “It built me into the woman I am today. UMES is what you make it. It’s all about growth.”
By Tahja Cropper
