Some 292 University of Maryland Eastern Shore students received their degrees during the 138th Spring Commencement on May 16, joyously completing their long academic journey.
For many, it was a transformation into adulthood, while for others, it was the accomplishment of a well-deserved goal.
The ceremony, in the William P. Hytche Athletic Center, was highlighted by Maryland Gov. Wes Moore’s keynote address, which highlighted the importance of attaining the honor.
“There are many people who begin a race, but we celebrate those who finish because graduations are not a given,” Moore said. “Regardless of your journey, regardless of your path, regardless of what contours you had to take to get there, today is your day.”
The UMES Class of 2025 was full of tales of unexpected obstacles and the determination to see them through.
“Growing up, people always say you have to go to college, but they don’t tell you what that experience looks like,” said Kaleigh Powell of Baltimore, who graduated with degrees in sociology and social work and a 4.0 grade point average. “The day I received my acceptance letter, I cried. I never thought I would go to college and no one in my family had ever made it past high school. It never seemed like it was an option.”
Kenesha DeShields, an administrative assistant in the Office of Leadership and Engagement, initially started at UMES in 2003, but left after a semester.
DeShields returned to school in 2021 as a dual degree student, and Friday earned her bachelor’s in sociology and social work. Despite having many competing responsibilities, she returned as a fulltime student.
“I am a full-time employee, a full-time wife, a full-time mother and I have a 16-hour-a-week internship, so I didn’t want to be a part-time student,” she said. “I’m thankful that I have a family supportive and understanding enough to help me accomplish this. There were many sleepless nights, some tears, and times I wanted to quit, but through it all I remained centered.”
Along the way, many graduates racked up their share of accolades and recognition.
Computer science major Kaleigha Hayes of Chesapeake Beach, Maryland, had the opportunity to intern at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security the summer of her junior year. Hayes was able to parlay that experience into attending DEF CON, a major conference for computer hackers as a delegate.
She said being at UMES allowed her to be more confident in pursuing these opportunities.
“I was able to learn about myself, which allowed me to open myself up for more opportunities,” Hayes said. “There were times I questioned myself too much, but being able to take advantage of these chances opened a lot of doors.”
Khamara Logan, a fashion merchandising major from Upper Marlboro, Maryland, not only participated in the Fashion Institute of Technology program to receive her associate of arts degree, but she was also named a White House HBCU Scholar during the 2023-24 school year.
“These experiences meant a lot to me as I had to make strong impressions,” Logan said. “They’ve also helped me understand the importance of time management and becoming a leader.”
It took just one year for Quinton Smith, of Newark, New Jersey, to make an impact at UMES.
In just his second year, Smith became the youngest person elected as Mr. UMES. He also helped create the organization Men Achieving their Dreams in Education (MADE), which focuses on mentoring young black and brown men in the classroom.
Now, as a first-generation college graduate, Smith aims to help continue mentoring and shaping young minds as he returns to school to pursue his master’s degree in education.
“UMES is what you make it, and I was able to make it remarkable,” he said. “I found a place where I could truly be myself and be able to cultivate and bring out the best in other young people, which is what I want to do.”
Kristian Francis, an accounting major from Frederick, Maryland, summed up the experiences and journeys of her fellow classmates as she gave the commencement senior student commentary.
“This moment isn’t just for us,” Francis said. “It’s for every person who prayed for us, supported us, or even doubted us. It’s for the version of you who once questioned your worth, your strength, your voice—and still rose to the occasion.”
