Bulldog Scholars Academy supports the college transition through (1) Academic Counseling--a high touch, individualized opportunity for scholars to discuss their academic plans and learn about academic and administrative processes; (2) Grownish Seminars: held weekly, these seminars support students in taking charge of their college experience, (3) Alumni Spotlight, which brings together BSU alumni to discuss their college experiences and career paths, and (4) Welcome Week orientation activities. This year, the Academy hired two graduate-level interns to support the first-year transition experience.
An Academic Counseling intern takes the mic during Alumni Spotlight, held every Wednesday.
Academic Counseling
All scholars participated in Academic Counseling sessions with Patience Amankwa and her team of graduate-level interns. The experience began with a check-in and conversation about fall schedules, housing and financial aid, along with an invitation to ask questions. During this time, scholars were introduced to Bulldog Connection to ensure that they knew how to locate schedules, academic requirements, and other functions. They discussed how to access their term bill, award offers, and the payment system, along with what it means to maintain satisfactory academic progress (SAP) and good academic standing. Students who required further assistance were referred to the Wellness Center, Academic Advising Center, Housing, Disability Support Services, Office of Financial Aid, Office of Student Accounts, and the Office of the Registrar. The scholars appreciated the individualized help and opportunity to ask questions.
A scholar asks panelists a question during Alumni Spotlight.
Grownish
Grownish seminars were offered on Fridays to assist scholars with their college transition. All students were required to attend as a condition of participating in the Academy. These sessions were designed to be engaging, discussion-oriented, and directly related to the experiences of incoming freshman. Grownish topics included:
Week 1: Purpose & Discovery; College Knowledge
Week 2: Professionalism
Week 3: Culture, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Week 4: Financial Aid & Financial Literacy
Week 5: Transition & Navigation
Alumni Spotlight
The Academy invited BSU graduates to reflect on how their college experience prepared them to excel in their careers and beyond. Alumni Spotlight was held weekly in the Student Center Ballroom. Students were instructed to dress in professional attire and taught to distinguish between business casual, formal dress, and other styles. Sessions commenced with a networking dinner, followed by a question-answer period, facilitated by scholars. Spotlights closed with an opportunity for students to engage in one-on-one conversations with the panelists.
Erica Burke (former BSA participant and mentor) now works as a nurse in the labor/delivery unit at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland. Tennille Craig is a counselor, licensed in the State of Maryland.
BSA scholars hosted the Alumni Spotlight panels.
Alumni Spotlight Panelists
Erica Burke graduated from Bowie State University in 2021 with a bachelor’s degree in Nursing. During her time at BSU, she balanced her studies with participation in various on-campus organizations. Those organizations included the National Council of Negro Women, Gay Straight Alliance, President of the 2021 Nursing Cohort, and a member of the Zeta Delta Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Incorporated member, where she served as president for the 2020 -2021 school year. After graduating, she became a Registered Nurse at The Johns Hopkins Hospital and has worked in various specialties. Those specialties include the Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit, Med-surge, and now, the Labor and Delivery/Postpartum.
Nancin Gukas graduated in 2016 with a Bachelor of Science in Business with a concentration in Accounting. During her freshman year, she served as the Treasurer of the African Student Association (ASA). In her sophomore and junior years, she worked as a desk assistant in the residence halls and an accounting tutor at the business school. In her junior year, she also became secretary for the National Association of Black Accountants (NABA). Nancin has accumulated nearly eight years of professional experience since graduating in 2016. She began her career as a financial statement auditor and has gained experience in financial statement consulting, IT audit, and lease accounting standard implementation. Currently, Nancin is venturing into Human Capital, a field that aligns more closely with her interests and career aspirations.
Rah Matthews speaks with scholars after the alumni panel discussion.
Rah Matthews (Pronouns: They/them) is a proud Black and a vibrant member of the LGBT+ community who graduated from Bowie State University in 2020 with a BS in Theatre, specializing in Acting and Directing. Initially drawn to musical theatre, Rah’s journey post-graduation revealed a deep passion for all facets of theatre beyond performing. Rah has worn many hats as a performer, teacher, producer, director, and writer. Theatre isn't just a career for them; it's their purpose, providing a family-like community where they can authentically be themselves. Rah’s time at Bowie was transformative, sparking their love for directing, highlighted by their senior capstone, "What to Send Up When it Goes Down," which made history at BSU by being invited to the Annual Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival. Since then, Rah has been involved in diverse projects, from touring nationally with The National Players to creating and directing their original show, "A Different Cinderella Story," and currently shaping young minds as a Middle School Drama Teacher. Whether Rah is under the spotlight or behind the scenes, each moment reaffirms their purpose in this world. Rah believes strongly that if there isn't a place for you, you have the power to create it. Their journey has taught them the importance of embracing who you are and striving to become who you want to be—it's a superpower in itself. Rah comes with an infectious personality and a laugh that's contagiously joyful!
Jacklyn Amankwa-Amoyaw speaks with scholars about her college experience and career journey.
Jacklyn Amankwa-Amoyaw graduated from Bowie State in the Spring of 2013 with a BS in Social Work. She then went on to earn her Master of Social Work at the University of Maryland Baltimore in 2015. After graduating, she began her tenure as a social worker in the DC community with the homeless population, providing transitional assistance for housing. She then went on to join the efforts of the foster care system in delivering permanency care for families and aiding them in reuniting with their children. Jackie also gained experience supporting individuals dealing with drug and alcohol abuse. In recent years, she has maintained her work with in-school social work, providing emotional support for middle and high school students in Prince George's and Montgomery County. While at Bowie State, Jackie joined the Social Work Club's executive board as treasurer and became Miss African Student Association for the 2012-2013 academic year. Now, as a new wife and mother to a 10-month-old Ana, Jackie continues to enjoy working with young people in mental health and behavioral support as they navigate their educational journeys.
Tennille Craig speaks with scholars about careers in counseling.
Tennille Craig is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the State of Maryland. She obtained her Bachelor of Science in Psychology in 1998 and Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling, both from Bowie State University. Tennille has worked in the mental health field for nearly 20 years and has a passion for working with youth. She has experience working with at-risk youth and their families through outpatient clinics, in-home visits, and school-based therapy programs. Tennille has experience working with adults and the foster care population, which has substantially impacted her work. Tennille’s approach is collaborative and strengths-based while assisting and supporting clients in being the authors of their own lives. She adapts her approach to each client’s individual and therapeutic needs. Tennille works with clients who are experiencing ADHD, anxiety, depression, disruptive behaviors, relationship challenges, self-esteem, and trauma.
In her free time, Tennille enjoys traveling, cooking, bowling, crocheting, music, and spending time with her family.
In her free time, Tennille enjoys traveling, cooking, bowling, crocheting, music, and spending time with her family.
Tobi Owolobi is a 2013 graduate of Bowie State University. While at Bowie State, he was actively involved in campus life as a brother and chapter president of Groove Phi Groove SFI, chapter president of the Criminal Justice Honor Society, a track athlete, and a member of the National Honor Society. With 10 years of experience in Cybersecurity, he has journeyed from being a SOC analyst to specializing in penetration testing, earning a Master's degree in Cyber Forensics along the way. He has managed vulnerabilities for over 50 hospitals across the U.S., provisioned and configured enterprise-wide infrastructure, and developed custom programs to enhance security monitoring for a variety of government agencies. Now, he shares his knowledge at O-Line Security, helping individuals transition into Cybersecurity and IT careers, even with no prior experience.
Audience members ask panelists questions during Alumni Spotlight.
Dawaine Cosey is a distinguished advocate for purpose, a champion for people, and a promoter of potential. As a published author and motivational speaker from Washington, DC, Cosey—affectionately known as such—is an esteemed alumnus of Bowie State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Communication. During his time at Bowie State, Cosey served as Elections Chair, Senior Class President, Student Intern with the Dept of Student Affairs, member and President of the Delta Mu chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, mentor, and leader of IGNITE, which is celebrating 10 years of impact this coming semester. Furthermore, he holds a Master of Applied Positive Psychology from the University of Pennsylvania, which he integrates into his professional and personal endeavors to enhance the lived experiences of young Black men. Cosey’s unwavering belief in the potential of others is evident through his passionate engagement in various roles both professionally and personally. Professionally, Cosey is the first and former Director of Culture and Empowerment at Ron Brown College Preparatory High School, the only all-male public high school in Washington, DC, and currently serves as a consultant for organizations dedicated to Black male development and wellbeing, a Wellness Coach for a private therapeutic practice, and the Assistant Director at the Center for Research and Mentoring of Black Male Students and Teachers here at Bowie State. With a career deeply rooted in the field of education and personal development, Cosey is committed to transforming the lives of Black and Brown boys by providing them with the tools to achieve optimal living. Beyond his professional achievements, Cosey is a proud father to Zion and Jayde and a dedicated mentor to numerous young, black men.
Kirk W. Pressley also known as “MC Boom Boom” is a native of the Metropolitan area. He is a graduate of Bowie State University and two-time Student Government Association President and University Council member. Making his mark on entertainment and community culture in the DMV he is best known for his work with Miss Black USA, Radio One Blitz as a correspondent, "UGLIES" on BRBTV, POSE on FX Extra, Songwriter for HBO Legendary and Host of CheerStarz of America. He has hosted over 700 shows nationwide! Kirk is an active member of the House of Balenciaga as well as other aspects of the House & Ballroom community. His work within the community health space is proving to be an out of the box way to get people involved in education and safe space building. He currently works at Bowie State University in the Alcohol Tobacco and Other Drugs Prevention center as the program coordinator. He is the advisor for Bowie Models Inc, Couture Bowie and Iota Phi Theta Fraternity INC. He is the writer of “The Evolution of Struggle” stage play and “For Colored Men” the stage play which both premiered at Bowie State University. If you want to take your event to the next level then bring the boom into the building. His life slogan is #GetExcited and that's what he will do!”
Kyle Jones graduated from Bowie State University in 2018 with a degree in Communications - Broadcast Journalism. He is now known as “The ultimate Millennial Hype Man” and your go-to entertainment host and media personality. He lives by the motto: “Why try to fit in, when you are born to stand out!” Kyle's energy is infectious, whether he’s firing up fans in big arenas, hosting HBCU tours, or lighting up the screen on TV. You can listen to him across 245 + DTLR STORES on "The Hype Man Show" every Saturday from 10am to 1pm DTLR Radio. You may have also seen him on the red carpet at several BET Award Shows, The Tyler Perry Studio's grand opening, and he has hosted the CIAA Basketball Tournament for the past 4 years. Off-air, Kyle is just as active, giving back to his community and involved in lifting as he climbs as a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. With KyleOnTheMic, it’s always a good time filled with laughs and great vibes.
Sheila Matthews is a versatile correspondent, writer, and digital producer at ESPN's Andscape (formerly The Undefeated), where she anchors "Logged In," a weekly digital show exploring trending sports topics that resonate within the Black community, with a particular focus on the NBA. Sheila also covers red carpet events and major sporting gatherings like NBA All-Star Weekend and NBA Summer League. Beyond ESPN, Sheila is recognized as a panelist and moderator, leading discussions for influential figures such as Beyonce's former stylist, The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Madam Vice President Kamala Harris, The White House, and the NBA front office. Her writing for Andscape's Culture vertical dives into music, beauty, and entertainment, aiming to inform, inspire, and deeply engage with the digital audience. Sheila is a 2018 graduate of Bowie State University, a 2015 initiate of The Exquisite Eta Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc, the 70th Miss Bowie State University, and a Congressional Black Caucus alumna.
Phylecia Faublas, Esquire is a civil rights attorney at the law firm Murphy, Falcon & Murphy in Baltimore City. In 2018, she earned her Bachelor of Science in History and Government with a minor in pre-law. From early on in her undergraduate career, Phylecia strived to zealously advocate for the student body, serving as Freshman Class Treasurer, Sophomore Class Vice President, Junior Class President, and Student Government Association President. Somehow, Phylecia further made time to be an Honors Student, Resident Assistant, New Student Orientation Leader, and tutor, and sister of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated. While at Bowie State, Phylecia successfully completed a program to receive a scholarship to attend law school, and, following her graduation, she pursued a law degree from the University of Baltimore School of Law. Phylecia’s student advocacy continued as a member of the Black Law Student Association, where she aided in petitioning and protesting the school to improve the quality of life and educational environment for Black students.
Dr. Kayla J. Rayford is an intellectual property professional at Ballard Spahr, LLP. A native of Los Angeles, Kayla began her academic journey at Bowie State University on a full academic scholarship in the Fall of 2013. At Bowie State, she was an active participant in The Honors Program, Honda Campus All Star Challenge, and the Minority Association of Pre-Medical Students. She also became a member of the Zeta Delta Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. As a biology major, Kayla engaged in summer research experiences at The University of Oregon and Georgetown University. After graduating Magna Cum Laude in May 2017, Kayla was accepted into the University of Maryland Baltimore’s Science Training for Advancing Biomedical Research Postbaccalaureate Program (STAR-PREP). In the Fall of 2018, she entered the PhD program in Biomedical Sciences at Meharry Medical College in Nashville, TN. Her research focused on the molecular mechanisms of infectious disease pathogenesis under the mentorship of Dr. Pius N. Nde. During her doctoral training, Kayla presented her research at 11 national conferences, won 12 awards and scholarships, and authored 8 peer-reviewed publications. In 2021, she was awarded the Individual Predoctoral Fellowship to Promote Diversity in Health-Related Research (F31) by the National Institutes of Health. Kayla has also taught and mentored medical, doctoral, master's, and undergraduate students. Additionally, she served as a student leader through her involvement in the Graduate Student Association and Pre-Alumni Association at Meharry. After completing her dissertation research in the Fall of 2023, Kayla joined Ballard Spahr, where she is currently working towards becoming a Life Sciences patent attorney.
Mercedee Smith graduated from BSU in May 2016. During her time at Bowie State, she was actively involved in the Student Government Association Campus Activities Board, served as president of the Student Nurses Association, and was a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Upon passing the NCLEX, Mercedee immediately began her career as a Trauma/ER nurse at the University of Maryland Capital Region Health, formerly known as PG Hospital. After nearly two years, she transitioned to travel nursing, gaining diverse experience by working in over seven hospitals, as well as in dialysis and case management.
Taylor Jackson is a 2017 graduate of Bowie State University, where she majored in Criminal Justice and Forensic Science. During her time at Bowie State, Taylor was an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW), the National Society of Leadership and Success, and Radiance, a freshman leadership group. After graduating, Taylor began her career as an Intelligence Research Specialist with the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA). In her role at the DEA, she has been briefed at the Pentagon, helped establish an HBCU mentorship program at Virginia State University (with plans to expand to Bowie State in the fall), volunteered at recruitment and college fairs, and traveled to multiple states and countries to fulfill her job duties. In addition to her work with the DEA, Taylor has invested in her community by buying and remodeling depleted homes in Baltimore to provide affordable housing. Last month, she opened a mental health and substance abuse clinic in Baltimore, offering therapy, substance abuse treatment, vocational skills training, and other services to those in need. Taylor is passionate about teaching, giving back to her community, and creating generational wealth.
Brittany Ofori graduated from Bowie State University in the Spring of 2013 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Music Technology. A sister of Tau Beta Sigma National Honorary Music Society, she cultivated leadership, educational achievement, and music appreciation as an active member of "The Symphony of Soul" Marching, Pep, and Concert bands. Since graduating from Bowie State, Brittany has earned both an MBA, and a Master of Science in Information Technology with a concentration in Software Engineering. Today, she works as Senior Principal Software Engineer for a Defense Contractor developing software in support of the U.S. Navy.
Ben Chicha is from Brockton, MA and graduated from Bowie State University in 2022 with a BS in Bioinformatics. He was a member and president of the honors program and ran on the track team for BSU. Within his department (Natural Sciences) he TA’d for several classes from genetics to physics and worked in the labs of Dr. Smith and Dr. Ray. Following his graduation, he started his PhD program at Johns Hopkins where he currently studies retinal development in human organoids.
