Class of 2020 Photo Gallery

Phenol Faublas

Hometown:

• Roselle, NJ

Degree(s):

• BS, Biology

Internship(s):

• Lincoln University, 2016-2017
• Claflin University, Summer 2019

Academic Leadership:

• Horace Mann Bond Honors Program

Organizational Affiliation(s):

• Orange Crush Roaring Lions Marching Band, 2016-2020
• Tri Beta Collegiate Society and Academic Fraternity, 2018
• Kappa Kappa Psi National Honorary Band Fraternity Inc., 2018-2020, President

Plans during the first two years after graduation:

I will be looking for a position in a laboratory so I can further my pursuit of research. I plan to use this opportunity to help me achieve my career in drug discovery.

My LU Journey:

My experience at Lincoln University was an experience I will be eternally grateful for. I appreciate every individual that I met and every opportunity that was presented before me. Being at such an HBCU showed me an aspect of culture I was unfamiliar with, but I enjoyed every moment of it. I believe I've grown so much from my time here. From becoming a member of the Orange Crush family to becoming a brother of Kappa Kappa Psi, overcoming every academic obstacle that I was faced with, and to ultimately reach the end is surreal. But after all the work and effort I had to put to get to this point, I refer back to the Bible in John 19:30 and say "It is finished". 

Closing words of wisdom to the students next in line to graduate and those coming into the fold as first-year students.

Strive for the highest in all of your endeavors. Be ready for the challenges. Nothing or nobody hits harder than life. Life can beat you down and keep you there if you let it. But it's not about being the toughest, it's about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward. Know your worth, then go out and get it.

Phylicia Ayim Bey

Hometown:

• Pittsburgh, PA

Degree(s):

• BS, Computer Science

Internship(s):

• University of Pittsburgh, Summer 2019

Organizational Affiliation(s):

• National Society Black Engineers (NSBE)
• Student Veterans Association (SVA), Vice President 

Scholarships, Honors, and Awards:

• NASA PSC Space Grant, 2019 - 2020
• Dean’s List, Fall 2017, Spring 2018, Fall 2018, and Spring 2019

Plans during the first two years after graduation:

I will be doing hardware development for a technology company in New York.

My LU Journey:

As an incoming freshman, I had concerns about how I would manage being away from home and how I would multitask being both a full-time student while still serving in the military. As my time at Lincoln progressed, I met students and service members similar to myself, I was able to share my experiences and troubles with them. I overcame my doubts and fears and was able to be the first of my family to receive a degree from a four-year institution. If I could go back and speak to my freshman self, I would encourage myself more and push myself to try everything I wanted to try and not let doubt or fear of not being good enough stop me from experiencing college.

Closing words of wisdom to the students next in line to graduate and those coming into the fold as first-year students.

To the next class of graduating seniors, now is the time to begin your transition of an undergraduate to a graduate. Do not let fears of not getting a job straight out of school or not going to graduate school right after graduation discourage you from one of the greatest achievements one could attain. Be sure that you are your own idol and be proud of EVERYTHING that helped mold you into the person you have become. Stand tall and remember that even your trials and tribulations have not stopped you from achieving this life-long dream. To the incoming freshman, be sure to put your education first and focus on the end goal of obtaining your degree. Set goals for yourself and make a lasting impact on the campus every day you step outside your residence hall doors. You have defied the odds and made your family and community proud. Good luck and Godspeed!

Rakeyla Little

Hometown:

• Pittsburgh, PA

Degree(s):

• BS, Sociology
• BS, Anthropology

Internship(s):

• Melmark, Spring 2020
• Pittsburgh Public School, Communication Office, Summer 2019

Academic Leadership

• Peer Mentor
• Student Government Association

Organizational Affiliation(s):

• Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., Vice President
• Lincoln University Cheerleader 2016-2018
• S.I.S.T.A.H’s
• NCNW, 1^st Vice President
• Miss Junior 2018 - 2019
• Street Team

Scholarships, Honors, and Awards:

• Dean’s List,  2017 - 2020
• GPA scholarship

Plans during the first two years after graduation:

I have been offered a full-time job as an ABA counselor at Melmark Institution while attending Temple University’s graduate program in Fall 2020 studying Applied Behavioral Analysis. After graduating with my masters I will also take the test to become a Board Certified Behavioral Analyst.  

My LU Journey:

Here at Lincoln University I have overcome a lot of obstacles financially, spiritually, and academically. Having my friends, family, and God by my seize the entire way I was able to accomplish everything I set my mind too. Every organization, job, graduate school, and so forth were all goals I set before attending Lincoln’s university. Once I got here I then did any and everything I had to do to get there while still maintaining my GPA.

Closing words of wisdom to the students next in line to graduate and those coming into the fold as first-year students.

Don't give up on yourself even when it gets hard. I would definitely encourage students to ALWAYS have a plan never step through a door not knowing what you want to gain from entering.
Stay positive and Speak into existence.

Renée Onque

Hometown:

• Newark, NJ

Degree(s):

• BA, Mass Communications
• BA, English Liberal Arts

Study Abroad:

• Egypt, Summer 2018

Internship(s):

• Girls; Live, Love, Laugh Inc., Newark, NJ, 2019-2020, Social Media Manager

Academic Leadership:

• Horace Mann Bond Honors Program

Organizational Affiliation(s):

• Pan-Africana Student Union
• Sigma Tau Delta English Honors Society, Alpha Zeta Delta Chapter, Secretary/Treasurer 2018-2019
• Writing and Reading Center Tutor, 2018-2020
• Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. Royal Court, Miss Black & Gold of Nu Chapter 2018, Miss PAAC Pennsylvania Association of Alpha Chapters, Black & Gold 2019
• National Council of Negro Women
• National Association of Black Journalists, Lincoln Chapter
• HBCUs for Bernie, Campus Corps Leader

Scholarships, Honors, and Awards:

• Chad School Foundation Scholarship, 2017
• Lincoln University Tier 1 Scholarship, 2017
• Dean’s List, 2017-2020
• Summa Cum Laude

Plans during the first two years after graduation:

I will be earning my master of art in journalism from CUNY University, Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism.

My LU Journey:

After graduating from high school with my associate's degree, in order to apply the credits that I earned, I matriculated into Lincoln University as a transfer student. As amazing as this was, it meant that I had to declare my major immediately. At 18, I wasn't sure about what I wanted to major in or if I wanted to graduate at 19. After declaring Mass Communications as my major and English as my minor, I realized that I loved each concentration equally and decided to double-major in them. This gave me more time to enjoy the Lincoln experience and earn my degree in three years instead of two, graduating at age 20. While at Lincoln, I pushed myself out of my comfort zone. I competed in pageants which helped me to build my confidence and deeply understand what it truly means to be a queen. I found my strength through pageantry, especially when I competed in a pageant and it seemed like everything was going wrong. I didn't have a makeup artist, or a hairstylist, or even a team to help me change between sections of the competition. Yet, I still prevailed by giving it my all, which caused me to hold the title of Miss Black & Gold of PAAC. Being at Lincoln also caused me to meet many incredible students and faculty. With the help of Professor Poe, I was able to study abroad in Egypt during the summer after my first year at Lincoln. Thanks to Dr. Deas, I was introduced to the idea of being a multimedia journalist, as I served as her research assistant for her amazing podcast. Dr. Hoogeveen and Professor Berry proved to me that the sky is the limit, which is why I should never limit myself. Last but not least, Professor Webb taught me that my Black body matters and that as long as I have a voice, I should use it. I’ve learned incredible things at Lincoln about myself and life in general. I will forever be grateful for my HBCU.

Closing words of wisdom to the students next in line to graduate and those coming into the fold as first-year students.

To my fellow Lincoln Lions, the one thing that I want to tell you is to be yourself. Being away from home and immersed into a small, close-knit community of your own is amazing at times, but sometimes it can cause you to feel like you're not doing enough. Depression is extremely prevalent on college campuses and something that I experienced myself while comparing my own experiences to others; yet I just want you to know that you are who you're meant to be. You'll grow at Lincoln, but never change yourself for the acceptance of others. Be your authentic self, and you will find yourself. Also, do not be afraid to seek help if you need it. We have so many resources that you can use. This will be an amazing, transformative experience for you, and I just can't wait to see you all grow.

Rita Omuero

Hometown:

• Bayelsa, Nigeria

Degree(s):

• BS, Nursing
• BS, Biology

Internship(s):

• Drexel University, Summer 2016
• Lincoln University, Summer 2017, 2018, 2019

Academic Leadership:

• Professor Assistant / Teaching Assistant
• STEM Supplemental Instruction Leader
• Student Leader Ambassador

Organizational Affiliations:

• African Student Organization
• Annual Science Fair, 2nd Place
• Dean’s List, Fall 2019, Spring 2019, Spring 2020
• Jackson-Sadler Memorial Endowed Scholarship, Fall 2019, Spring 2020

Plans during the first two years after graduation:

Attend graduate school.

My LU Journey:

Coming back to Lincoln for a second degree seem challenging at first but I met some great people who made my journey easier. I am grateful to my friends and professors.

Closing words of wisdom to the students next in line to graduate and those coming into the fold as first-year students.

Focus on what's ahead. Don't let your mistakes define you, everyone makes mistake, move to pass them, and keep pursuing your dream. Reminder: Don't Forget to Live!

Roesha Thelmon

Hometown: 

• Brooklyn, NY

Degree(s): 

• BS, Health Science

Academic Leadership: 

• Student Leader Ambassador

Organizational Affiliation(s):

• Reconstructing Sisters Visions and Purposes Inc. (R.S.V.P. Inc.), Vice President
• Caribbean Student Association, Historian
• National Council of Negro Women

Scholarships, Honors, and Awards: 

• Dean’s List, Fall 2016, Spring 2018, Fall 2018, Spring 2020

Plans during the first two years after graduation: 

After graduation, I will be working in the Health Care field in NY while preparing to apply for OT school.

My LU Journey: 

Coming into Lincoln, I came in as a Biology Major. I chose this major because I originally wanted to be a Pediatrician since I love working with children and in health. I truly didn't like my major because I didn't feel any true joy when it came to attending classes and just being involved. It came to the point where my sophomore year I was so unmotivated and lost my purpose and at the end of the fall semester term I received a 1.5 GPA. However, this setback served as a reality check because I knew I needed to rediscover my purpose and true intended career path. After researching possible careers where I could combine my love of children and health, I fell in love with Occupational Therapy. So I changed my major to Health Science and at the end of the spring semester of my Sophomore year, I received a 3.75 GPA. I am happy for the setback because I found my passion again and it pushed me to pursue leadership positions and become more active in my community.

Closing words of wisdom to the students next in line to graduate and those coming into the fold as first-year students. 

I would like to say that your Lincoln experience is always going to be YOUR experience. If there is something that you would like to see, be the person to make it shown. You have a community that is ready to back behind you in everything you want to do so use them and let them support you.

Roshaun Titus

Hometown:

• St. Croix, USVI

Degree(s):

• BS, Engineering Science with Electrical Concentration
• BS, Mathematical Sciences
• Minor, Physics

Study Abroad:

• Thessaloniki, Greece, Summer 2017

Internship(s):

• University of Delaware, Summer 2019

Academic Leadership:

• Professor Assistant / Teaching Assistan

Organizational Affiliation(s):

• National Society of Black Engineers, Vice President

Plans during the first two years after graduation:

PhD in Materials Science and Engineering at the Georgia Institute of Technology.

My LU Journey:

At Lincoln, I got the chance to think more critically about the types of impact I want to make in our society. I have a clearer vision of the roles and responsibilities I would like to have. At first, fresh out of high school, I only knew that I wanted work in fields with science and/or engineering.

Closing words of wisdom to the students next in line to graduate and to those coming into the fold as first year students.

Remember that in some sense, the world of work is a competition. Don't get too comfortable with just "passing." Try to leave Lincoln with a vast amount of information on your career field, which includes academic knowledge that can be built by studying more than necessary for courses.

Sarina Murray

Hometown:

• Long Island, NY

Degree(s):

• BS, Biology

Internship(s):

• University of Delaware, Summer 2017
• University of Iowa, Summer 2018
• Temple University, Summer 2019

Organizational Affiliation(s):

• Biology Department Laboratory Assistant
• Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.,  Zeta Omega Chapter
• Orange Crush Marching Band

Scholarships, Honors, and Awards:

• Dean’s List, 2017, 2019

Plans during the first two years after graduation:

Attending graduate school at the University of Iowa for a Ph.D. in cancer biology.

Shanell Pommells

Hometown:

• Patterson, NJ

Degree(s):

• BS, Criminal Justice
• Minor, Psychology

Organizational Affiliation(s):

• Orange Crush Roaring Lions Marching Band
• Tau Beta Sigma National Honorary Band Sorority Inc. (ΤΒΣ)
• National Council for Negro Women (NCNW)
• The National Society of Leadership & Success (ΣΑΠ)
• The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP)
• The National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE)
• Alpha Phi Omega Fraternity Inc.

Scholarships, Honors, and Awards:

• Dean’s List - Fall 2017, Spring 2018, Fall 2018, Spring 2020

Plans during the first two years after graduation:

I hope to go directly into my field and career within these next two years.

My LU Journey:

My college experience was great. I came into college with credits that I took while I was in high school. Fortunately for me I was able to graduate in 3 years because I came in with so many credits. College allowed me to learn who I was and it taught me to open up to people who care about you most (professors & friends). I have grown and I learned how to balance my social, school, and extracurricular life!

Closing words of wisdom to the students next in line to graduate and those coming into the fold as first-year students.

Lincoln is a very close-knit campus and that was great for me, it was what I needed to be successful during my time there. I am thankful for all the ups and downs that I encountered while at Lincoln because it made me into the woman I am today!  To those graduating after me and to first-year students, use all resources given to you and if none are given then go and find some to take advantage while you are there because they will always be a lifeline of support even after college. Learn to be comfortable with being uncomfortable!

Shawn Weaver

Hometown:

• Lansdowne, PA

Degree(s):

• BA, Music Performance

Internship(s):

• Upper Darby Summer Stage, Summer 2019

Organizational Affiliation(s):

• Kappa Kappa Psi National Honorary Band Fraternity Inc., Mu Sigma Chapter,  Secretary & Treasurer
• Concert Choir, Bass/Baritone Section Leader & Student Conductor
• Orange Crush Roaring Lions Marching Band
• Sigma Alpha Pi National Society of Leadership and Success

Scholarships, Honors, and Awards:

• Dean’s List, Fall-Spring 2016-2017, Fall 2017, Fall 2019
• Outstanding Opera Workshop Student, Spring 2017
• IMA Royzell L Dillard Scholarship Competition, 3rd Spring 2018 & 2nd Place Spring 2020
• National Association of Teachers of Singing Competition, Lower Musical Theater Category, 2nd Place - Spring 2018

Plans during the first two years after graduation:

I plan to begin my journey into the world of musical theatre and acting in Philadelphia and New York while cultivating the skills I've gained at Lincoln with my sights set of an eventual Broadway debut in New York City.

My LU Journey:

When I first came to Lincoln I assumed nobody knew me or would have cared to even speak to me, so I kept to myself and never put myself out there. I closed myself out from everyone to the point where you would never quite know how I felt. I kept my voice and opinions to myself since I believed it would protect me. Thanks to Choir, Band, Kappa Kappa Psi, and everyone else I've met at Lincoln, I can proudly say that I've become a strong individual that can be the leader of a choir of 60 in front of the whole student body or sing in front of an audience of thousands of people. Thanks to Lincoln, I'm confident in my abilities as a leader, musician, and actor, and I know that one day you'll see a Lincoln alum on a Broadway stage!

Closing words of wisdom to the students next in line to graduate and those coming into the fold as first-year students.

Never be afraid to take a risk and go against the grain to change your life for the better. Everyone is given a choice in life to conform to society or create your own path, and it's up to you to make the best of that choice. Your individuality is what truly makes you stand out so never hesitate to show the world the best of what you've got! Only you get to show off to everyone what you're capable of, and it's your turn to brag, push past limitations, and truly learn to roar like a lion!

Shinise Hopson

Hometown:

• Philadelphia, PA

Degree(s):

• BS, Health Science

Academic Leadership:

• Student Government Association, Executive Assistant
• WE Are 1, President

Plans during the first two years after graduation:

Going to get my certificate in X-ray

My LU Journey:

I’ve changed tremendously. Lincoln taught me a lot of lessons and I overcame a lot of obstacles.

Closing words of wisdom to the students next in line to graduate and those coming into the fold as first-year students.

Continue being you, focus on the main goal, network, and be very observant.

Sydney Anderson

Hometown:

• Williamstown, NJ

Degree(s):

• BA, Human Services

Internship(s):

• Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia CIRP, Summer 2019

Organizational Affiliation(s):

• Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.- Zeta Omega chapter, Chapter President
• Student Athletic Advisory Committee, President
• Lincoln University Women’s Track and Field Team, 2016-2018
• Student-Athlete Ministry
• Sophomore Year Experience

Scholarships, Honors, and Awards:

• Dean’s List, Fall-Spring 2016-2017, Fall-Spring 2017-2018, Fall-Spring 2018-2019, Fall-Spring 2019-2020

Plans during the first two years after graduation:

I will be attending Temple University to obtain my master of science in sport business.

My LU Journey:

Coming from a predominately white school district I was not sure what to expect coming to an HBCU. However, I can honestly say that attending Lincoln was one of the best decisions I have ever made! I love my HBCU! It has contributed to my growth in all aspects. I will forever be grateful for the people I have met, the lessons I have learned, and everything that I have accomplished throughout my time at Lincoln.

Closing words of wisdom to the students next in line to graduate and those coming into the fold as first-year students.

To those students next in line to graduate and to those coming into the fold as first-year students please remember to stay true to yourself and make the most out of your time at Lincoln. There are so many opportunities to grow and learn at this institution, you just need to take advantage of them! Good luck!

Tara Brookins

Hometown:

• South Jersey

Degree(s):

• BA, Biology
• Minor, Spanish

Internship(s):

• University of Delaware, Summer 2019

Academic Leadership:

• Student Government Association

Organizational Affiliation(s):

• Senior Class President
• Orientation Leader
• Peer Note Taker
• Sustainability Club, President
• SPECTRUM, Founding Member
• Lady Lions Soccer Team
• SAAC, Board Member 2017 - 2019
• Onyx Dance Troupe, Queen 2017, Treasurer 2018 - 2020
• HBCUs for Bernie, campaign organizer
• SACNAS, Secretary
• NPHC, Board Member
• Zeta Omega Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Vice President 2018 – 2019, and Board Member 2019 - 2020,
• Student-Athlete Ministry
• Sophomore Year Experience

Scholarships, Honors, and Awards:

• Dean’s List, Fall 2016, Spring 2017, and Fall 2019
• Women's Soccer, Highest GPA 2016-2017
• SYE Program
• National Society of Leadership and Success
• Tri Beta Biology Honor Society

Plans during the first two years after graduation:

Beginning a graduate school program to receive my Doctorate in Physical Therapy

My LU Journey:

Through my four years at Lincoln I have had some of my biggest triumphs as well as my worst failures; I have both succeeded and struggled academically, financially, spiritually, emotionally, and physically. The saving grace was the family that Lincoln is; through all of the ups and downs I had the Lincoln University community to lean on and guide me through all of my hardships and triumphs. Between faculty to my peers, I never had to look hard for any help or support that I needed. I have grown from freshman year to be a strong, confident, independent black woman, mature and with the necessary tools to face the real world and be as successful as I know, I can be.

Closing words of wisdom to the students next in line to graduate and those coming into the fold as first-year students.

I would like to first thank the LU community for always being there for me these past 4 years. I will never forget the lessons learned and the support I gained. I would like to leave these words for the underclassmen, but specifically the class of 2021: take full advantage of everything that Lincoln has to offer. Whether it be an internship, study abroad, tutoring, an organization, counseling-- Lincoln has a lot to offer that can help you survive college, but also thrive in college. Likewise, there are the resources present to help you become a prepared adult for the professional world. Most importantly, though, take this year and the class of 2020's senior year being cut short to remember that tomorrow is not given and enjoy college while you're still in it, because you don't want to look back with regrets on things you didn't do or never accomplished or never even tried-- we don't always get the opportunity to do all that we want to so if you have the ability to, leave your positive mark on this campus.

Taskeen Khalas

Hometown:

• Philadelphia, PA

Degree(s):

• BS, Human Service
• Minor, Sociology

Plans during the first two years after graduation:

I will be working as a Blended Case Manager PATH (People Acting to Help) in Philadelphia.

My LU Journey:

As a transfer student from a PWI I had a difficult time adjusting to my change of environment but later became comfortable and developed an unbreakable with some friends I’ve met along the way. I've come a long way compared to my first semester at Lincoln and can confidently say that Lincoln University has helped me grow as a woman and professional. There were so many silent trials and tribulations that I have encountered but somehow I still managed to take away and that I can thank Lincoln for. 

Closing words of wisdom to the students next in line to graduate and those coming into the fold as first-year students.

Be yourself! Be confident! Do your work on time! Stay focused!

Tatyana Ellis

Hometown:

• Philadelphia, PA

Degree(s):

• BS, Health Science

Internship(s):

• Terrace at Chestnut Hill, 2019-2020

Organizational Affiliation(s):

• NSLS

Scholarships, Honors, and Awards:

• Dean’s List, 2016-2020

Plans during the first two years after graduation:

Entrepreneurship / Pa

My LU Journey:

I didn’t come this far to only come this far! Lincoln’s support pushed me to be a better student and person overall.

Closing words of wisdom to the students next in line to graduate and those coming into the fold as first-year students.

Everything you planned for your life will not always turn out how you wanted but with faith you will succeed!

Taylor Hall-Johnson

Hometown:

• Philadelphia, PA

Degree(s):

• BS, Nursing

Academic Leadership:

• Student Leader Ambassador

Organizational Affiliation(s):

• National Honors Society of Leadership and Success
• National Council of Negro Women

Scholarships, Honors, and Awards:

• Dean’s List, Fall-Springng 2016 - 2017, Fall 2017, Spring 2019
• President's List, Spring 2018
• GPA Merit Scholarship, Fall-Spring 2017 - 2018, Fall - Spring 2019 - 2020

My LU Journey:

A challenge I faced coming to Lincoln was making new friends. I am an introvert so I tend to stay to myself most of the time unless I am comfortable around you. I came from a predominantly white high school so I was not sure how my interactions with my peers would be. I overcame this because the floor I lived on in Ashmun was filled with positive welcoming females which made it feel like a family. Another challenge I faced was preparing for the nursing program at Lincoln University. The program did not accept any letter grade below a B and I was struggling during my freshman year in BIO and my sophomore year in A&P. I overcame this obstacle by changing my study habits and utilizing the tutoring services in Wright Hall.  Over the years, I feel like Lincoln molded me into a mature, ambitious young lady. Lincoln showed me that I can be prosperous on campus and off-campus by offering different organizations to join, motivational speakers, and volunteering. Through these services I was able to meet new people and build networking connections.

Closing words of wisdom to the students next in line to graduate and those coming into the fold as first-year students.

My last words to the incoming freshman and current upperclassman are to stay true to yourself. Do not focus on the hype of what the student body wants you to be. You came to school to be something better and to make your loved ones proud. Continue to do that and do not let anyone or anything get in your way. Stay positive no matter what and just have faith that you will get over any obstacle you may face. Lastly, do not settle for less because you are only cheating yourself of endless opportunities.

Taylor Peebles

Hometown:

• Philadelphia, PA

Degree:

• BS, Health Science

Internship(s):

• NovaCare Rehabilitation, Summer 2019
• St. Christopher's Children Hospital, Summer 2019

Organizational Affiliation(s):

• National Society of Leadership and Success
• Health Science Club
• Pre-Alumni Council
• NAACP
• NCNW

Scholarships, Honors, and Awards:

• Completion of Sophomore Year Experience Lion Leadership Academy, 2018
• Dean’s List, 2016 - 2019
• Chapman & Ann Bouldin Endowed Scholarship

Plans during the first two years after graduation:

I plan to attend graduate school for Occupational Therapy in Philadelphia.

My LU Journey:

As a freshman I stayed in my room and didn't attend many events. I barely even talked to my roommate. I only socialized with my friends I knew from home. As the semesters went on, I got out of my shell and started talking to more people and gained some lifetime friends. I began to attend more events and go to more parties. Being with this new set of friends allowed me to do things like being a tour guide and getting myself out there. Without them, I probably would not have made a lot of the connections I have made. Being as though Lincoln is such a family-like campus, it made me more comfortable to get out and do things.

Closing words of wisdom to the students next in line to graduate and those coming into the fold as first-year students.

Never forget what you came here to do. When they tell you in the beginning that you may not see the person to the left and the right of you, they were not kidding. The majority of the students I came in with are no longer here. Always focus on your end goal and do not let anyone get in the way of it. Hard work pays off, never give up, and never accept failure as an option.

Tierra Russaw

Hometown:

• Westland, MI

Degree(s):

• BS, Health Science

Internship(s):

• Maxim Healthcare, 2020

Academic Leadership:

• Student Leader Ambassador

Organizational Affiliation(s):

• SAAC, Secretary
• Volleyball, Captain
• Softball, Captain

Scholarships, Honors, and Awards:

• Dean’s List, 2017

Plans during the first two years after graduation:

Accelerated Nursing Program at Madonna University

My LU Journey:

My time at Lincoln has brought good times and a decent amount of bad times. However, I was able to overcome them all and came stronger than before. Throughout these journeys I've met my forever friends who are more like siblings. The experiences that I gained have helped me determine who I am and what I stand for. Going forward I now have a clearer path and determination to succeed regardless of the circumstances. Playing sports at Lincoln has given me a chance to be a part of a family that ranges further than the sports that I play. From men’s and women’s basketball to baseball every individual on a sports team and in the department I can proudly call family.

Closing words of wisdom to the students next in line to graduate and those coming into the fold as first-year students.

I didn't get a chance to finish my senior year the way I wanted to but for those who have a chance to enjoy all four years at Lincoln make the most of everything. You will get a chance to develop leadership skills and many others. There are so many opportunities to succeed you must put in the effort. Nothing will ever fall into your lap so work hard and give it everything you got.

Trevor Vaughan

Hometown:

• Brooklyn, NY

Degree(s):

• BS, Computer Science
• Minor, Black Studies

Internship(s):

• Aramark, Summer 2018
• Lincoln University, Office of Information Technology, Spring 2019

Academic Leadership:

• Peer Mentor
• Student Leader Ambassador
• Resident Assistant
• Student Government Association

Organizational Affiliation(s):

• Pre-Alumni Council
• Admissions Student Ambassador Program (ASAP);
• Varsity League
• Lion Media
• Lincoln University Office of Special Events, Special Event Management Liaison
• TEDxLincoln University, Event Manager

Scholarships, Honors, and Awards:

• Clarence Renwick 1952 Scholarship
• Delta Sigma Theta Scholarship, Fall-Spring 2016-2017, Fall-Spring 2017-2018, Fall-Spring 2018-2019, Fall-Spring 2019-2020 

Plans during the first two years after graduation:

Building an exciting Black pioneered business, while traveling and cultivating new experiences.

My LU Journey:

During the early stages of my journey at Lincoln University I found adversity at nearly every pivotal turning point. Understanding the struggles of transiting to a college student from a completely different atmosphere is nothing short of breathtaking. Over the years I've encountered hurdles like becoming better with time management, becoming financially responsible, understand the importance of personal character development & knowing when and when not to be socially engaged are all lessons we all must learn. Lincoln University gave me the support system to be confident in my studies. With the family orientated community campus became the intellectual embodiment of my academic success.   

Closing words of wisdom to the students next in line to graduate and those coming into the fold as first-year students.

To those next in line to start their next great endeavor, understand where you are in life. Know that you matter more than most may think. You have the power to live your life however you see fit, and whatever that may be, make your make on the world. Finally enjoy your last year to the fullest. To the class of 2024 you will see Lincoln University grow alongside you on your journey. Make as many mistakes as you can and learn from each and every one of them. Know that there will be ups and downs and all of those experiences are more than worth being had. Don't be afraid of taking chances & good luck to you all.

Tymeya Thompson

Hometown:

• Philadelphia, PA

Degree(s):

• MA, Human Services, 2020
• BA, Human Services, 2017

Scholarships, Honors, and Awards:

• Dean’s List

Plans during the first two years after graduation:

I will be applying to obtain my doctorate degree.

My LU Journey

I actually attended Cheyney University my freshman year. Transferring to Lincoln was one of the best decisions I've ever made. My experience at Lincoln was fulfilling and impeccable. The life-long friends I've made, the staff who turned into family, and the organizations I was a part of made my HBCU experience like no other. Lincoln has definitely shaped the woman I am today!

Closing words of wisdom to the students next in line to graduate and to those coming into the fold as first-year students.

To the future graduates, never give up on your dreams! Always remember that networking is the KEY!

Zyaire Twyman

Hometown:

• Coatesville, PA

Degree(s):

• BS, Psychology

Scholarships, Honors, and Awards:

• Outstanding Student of the Year Award, Fall 2019 & Spring 2020
• Dean’s List, Fall 2019

Plans during the first two years after graduation:

Continuing working as a caregiver and starting nursing school

My LU Journey:

My journey at Lincoln was by far the most challenging experience I have faced. While it has molded me into the young woman I am today, there were quite a few times when I felt Lincoln took my life away from me. I came into Lincoln not knowing what to expect other than what you see on movies of what college is “like.” I was antisocial and shy so I stayed in a shell. I met some people, a few who I still communicate with today. But for the most part I isolated myself so I became depressed. Had I known then what I know now about myself, my capabilities, resources, the people, etc, I would redo my whole experience over. I am grateful however for my time at Lincoln and I am still saddened by the sudden departure from my second home. While at Lincoln I gained a few friendships I will forever cherish. I obtained my CPR certification along with some awards which I did not expect. Hard work definitely goes unnoticed and there is always someone watching even if you think there isn’t. I met some incredible professors who have contributed to me graduating this year. If it weren’t for them, I would have given up. Lincoln has taught me to not be afraid to go after what I what. It has taught me that there will be more no’s before yes’s.

Closing words of wisdom to the students next in line to graduate and to those coming into the fold as first-year students.

Dear Lincoln Lion,
As you go through your journey here at Lincoln remember to always keep God or whomever your higher power is first. Think positive in ALL situations and try your hardest no matter what. Even if you are doing good or bad, do your best! Use all your resources and ask questions. Engage in the Lincoln community. Get to know your professors. Always stick with what you know, never doubt yourself or capabilities. Most importantly, take care of yourself mentally and find what brings you peace and happiness.