Student Speakers

Meet our student speakers for winter 2025 commencement.

Speakers by college:

Jess and Mildred Fisher College of Science and Mathematics (FCSM)

Graduate Speaker | Aaron DeLong

Aaron is graduating with a master’s degree in biology after completing a thesis titled “Critical thermal limits and sprint performance of northern snakeheads (Channa argus).”

Aaron previously received a B.S. from Bridgewater College in 2015 and will start a Ph.D. in the fall of 2026.  

Aaron was president of the Biology Graduate Student Association, and an active member of the biology department. Aaron is grateful for his family, bicycles, fishes and the opportunities studying at Towson University provided him.

College of Health Professions (CHP)

Graduate Speaker | Joyce Makori

Born and raised in a small town in Kenya, Joyce Makori knows what it means to persevere. At 17, she relocated to the U.S., leaving her family behind to pursue education and opportunity.

Her journey began at Montgomery College, continued at the University of Maryland College Park — where she earned a bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry — and culminates today with a master’s degree in the Physician Assistant Program at Towson University.

Joyce embodies hard work, tenacity, and purpose. Soon, she will begin her career as an endocrine physician aAssistant at the University of Maryland Medical System, where she will demonstrate her passion for patient care and inspire others to pursue their dreams despite challenges.

College of Education (COE)

Graduate Speaker | Pamela D. Graham

Pamela D. Graham is earning her master’s degree in teaching, becoming the first in her family to earn a graduate degree. Pamela brings over sixteen years of experience in education across North Carolina and Baltimore City and currently serves as a teacher of record within Baltimore City Public Schools.

At Towson University, she remained committed to educational equity, representation and student advocacy — values informed by her lived experience. Pamela credits Professor Tonya Shelby and Dr. Ann Eustis for their unwavering support as she balanced graduate school, family and professional responsibilities.

A proud wife, mother of four, and GiGi of three, Pamela leads with faith, purpose and service. After graduation, she will continue her work in Baltimore City Schools while preparing to pursue her Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Fall 2026, aiming to advance into educational leadership and strengthen systems serving children and families. Pamela extends heartfelt gratitude to her family, mentors, and community for their love and encouragement.

College of Liberal Arts (CLA)

Undergraduate Speaker | Halyna Sokoliouk

Originally from Kolomyya, Ukraine, Halyna Sokoliouk is graduating with a bachelor’s degree in political science and information technology, along with minors in german and international studies.

After moving to the United States in 2019, Halyna excelled academically and professionally. She served as a supplemental instructor for ECON 205 and as a research assistant on the Measurement of Voting Equity (MoVE) Project.

Beyond campus, Halyna applied her skills as a student trainee for the U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC). After graduation, she plans to remain in research and pursue graduate studies, following in her parents’ footsteps. Halyna thanks her parents, younger brother, friends worldwide and Towson faculty for their support.

College of Fine Arts and Communication (COFAC)

Undergraduate Speaker | Tyler Story

Tyler Story is earning dual bachelor’s degrees in mass communications (journalism) and electronic media and film (media studies), with a minor in marketing. After transferring to Towson University, Tyler immersed himself in campus media and leadership.

He served as Senior Editor for The Towerlight, Towson’s student newspaper; was a College of Fine Arts and Communication (COFAC) student council member; and worked as a Study Abroad student ambassador after traveling to Italy on the inaugural media and culture course.

On campus, Tyler also worked as a team-building facilitator and University Union desk attendant, completing internships with the College of Business and Economics and Event and Conference Services.

His portfolio spans film treatments, travel websites, mini documentaries, brand strategy decks, blogs, video essays and podcasts. Tyler is deeply grateful for the kindness and support of Towson faculty, staff and students. After graduation, he plans to explore the Pacific Ocean while conducting research for a travel guidebook.

College of Business and Economics (CBE)

Undergraduate Speaker | Lakeisha Temu

Lakeisha Temu is graduating with a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a concentration in marketing. During her time at Towson University, Lakeisha served as a tutor for multiple subjects, worked as a Union Building Coordinator, and competed as a club basketball athlete.

She actively engaged with the College of Business and Economics, attending career fairs, networking events, and the Strategic Sales Competition — winning 1st place in her first semester. Lakeisha’s academic excellence earned her numerous awards and scholarships, including induction into Beta Gamma Sigma, a global business honor society recognizing the top 10% of students. Recently named an Outstanding Graduate of the College of Business and Economics, Lakeisha is deeply grateful to her professors and CBE faculty for shaping her academic journey.

 

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