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Excellence in Action: Journeys of PGCPS Alumni
Suggest an alumnus/a
Prince George’s County Executive Aisha N. Braveboy
I
am
a
proud
Largo
Lion.
Few
things
fill
me
with
more
pride
than
being
a
graduate
of
Largo
High
School.
My
warmest
memories
are
of
the
incredible
teachers
who
invested
in
me,
who
guided
me
with
patience,
challenged
me
with
rigor,
and
provided
me
with
a
first-class
education
that
became
the
foundation
for
all
my
academic
and
professional
pursuits.
Those
formative
years,
supported
by
my
parents
and
surrounded
by
a
community
that
truly
cared,
helped
shape
my
character
and
ignite
the
aspirations
that
propelled
me
forward.
Who
I
am
today
is,
in
many
ways,
because
of
the
roar
of
the
Lions.
Prince George’s County Executive Aisha N. Braveboy
I
am
a
proud
Largo
Lion.
Few
things
fill
me
with
more
pride
than
being
a
graduate
of
Largo
High
School.
My
warmest
memories
are
of
the
incredible
teachers
who
invested
in
me,
who
guided
me
with
patience,
challenged
me
with
rigor,
and
provided
me
with
a
first-class
education
that
became
the
foundation
for
all
my
academic
and
professional
pursuits.
Those
formative
years,
supported
by
my
parents
and
surrounded
by
a
community
that
truly
cared,
helped
shape
my
character
and
ignite
the
aspirations
that
propelled
me
forward.
Who
I
am
today
is,
in
many
ways,
because
of
the
roar
of
the
Lions.
Prince George’s County Executive Aisha N. Braveboy
Prince George’s County Executive Aisha N. Braveboy
Our Stories
Alumni Spotlights
Ricky Arnold
Ricky Arnold
Astronaut, Bowie High, 1981
"My teachers in Prince George's County Public Schools and the experiences they provided started me on a journey that took me to places that my younger self couldn't possibly imagine."
Reginald Barringer
Reginald Barringer
Central Control Supervisor, CBS Washington, DuVal High, 2004
"At DuVal, the halls weren’t just passages; they were the veins of a community, circulating connection and shared spirit."
Aisha Braveboy
Aisha Braveboy
Prince George's County Executive, Largo High
“I am a proud Largo Lion. Few things fill me with more pride than being a graduate of Largo High School. My warmest memories are of the incredible teachers who invested in me, who guided me with patience, challenged me with rigor, and provided me with a first-class education that became the foundation for all my academic and professional pursuits. Those formative years, supported by my parents and surrounded by a community that truly cared, helped shape my character and ignite the aspirations that propelled me forward. Who I am today is, in many ways, because of the roar of the Lions.”
Tray Chaney
Tray Chaney
Actor, Forestville High, 1999
"Never give up. Even if it seems like it’s not going to happen or seems hard - if you are going through trials, tribulations and struggles - never give up on your dream. I didn’t give up. I am a representative of Prince George’s County Public Schools and what can happen when you chase your dreams."
Joe Clair
Joe Clair
Television and Radio Personality, Largo High, 1989
Joe Clair, a proud native of Seat Pleasant, Maryland, is a distinguished alumnus of the Prince George’s County School District (PGCS). Currently the drive-time radio host for WHUR 96.3 FM, the Nina and Joe Show. Mr. Clair has built a celebrated career as a national on-air personality—traveling the world and interviewing some of the biggest names in Hip Hop as the former host of BET’s Rap City. He has also made his mark as a stand-up comedian, bringing laughter to audiences across the country. Joe attributes his early years at PGCS as the foundation of his success. “PGCS instilled in me the determination to excel and reach back to give to the community,” he says. His advice to students: “Find the things you like and hone those skills. Don’t be afraid to ask questions in the process.”
Kira Dior
Kira Dior
Kira Dior Hair and Company, Charles H. Flowers High, 2014
"At 13, I made my first wig for a woman battling cancer and seeing her smile in the mirror showed me that purpose is bigger than beauty. It was about confidence, healing and impact. Today, I stand here as a business woman, a creative, and most importantly a mother. Grateful for the teachers, mentors and community that planted the seeds for my success. I am honored to stand here and this moment reminds me that greatness truly begins in Prince George’s County."
Jordyn Foster
Jordyn Foster
Los Angeles Rams, Football Operations Fellow, Douglass High, 2019
"Although I didn’t join PGCPS until high school, my time there was pivotal in helping shape the direction of my future. PGCPS exposed me to new perspectives, real-world experiences, and opportunities that challenged me to grow both personally and professionally. It helped reinforce the foundation I already had and gave me the confidence to pursue goals beyond what I could see at the time. To current PGCPS students: trust the process, stay disciplined, and don’t let timing or comparisons discourage you. Wherever you are right now is exactly where you need to be — keep pushing forward and take full advantage of every opportunity in front of you."
Breonte Hackley
Breonte Hackley
The DMV Daily, Largo High, 2008
"As a student at Largo High School, I gained so many skills that I use today as a business owner. I learned how to interact with people, be creative, think outside of the box, lead a team and so much more. Still, I am always growing and learning and encouraging my team at "The DMV Daily" to do the same. We are grateful for the success that we have gained and look forward to doing more. I encourage students to follow their dreams and to never give up."
Dr. Kenneth Harris II
Dr. Kenneth Harris II
Rocket Scientist, NASA, Eleanor Roosevelt High, 2010
"As a proud PGCPS graduate and former member of the Board of Education, I’m grateful for—and proud of—the students, educators, and staff who shaped my path. True leadership recognizes we are but microcosms in a story far greater than ourselves, and I strive to honor that story by leading in a way that expands opportunity for the next generation.”
“Mya” Marie Harrison
“Mya” Marie Harrison
Actress, Eleanor Roosevelt High, 1995
“It’s been years since I was a student in high school but I remember it so well and I have a lot of great memories and lessons from those days, especially senior year, which prepared me for the world outside. But the way I like to approach life is, the world is my stage, and every floor is the opportunity and space to step one foot in front of the other, to overcome every obstacle and challenge that is thrown my way and you can do the same.” (PGCPS Graduation Speech 2020)
Taraji Henson
Taraji Henson
Actress, Oxon Hill High, 1988
“Your high school diploma is your ticket to ride the roller coaster of life, embracing every twist and turn with enthusiasm and thirst for knowledge of the unknown. I was once a little kid who liked to play hopscotch and double dutch, running around with my kinky curls and ribbons in my hair… with my shop set up in my basement to do my girls hair and nails as a side hustle. Today, I have a hair care line and a full salon in my house. I didn’t picture that when I was coming out of high school. But I am clear that all of the failures along the way gave me the fight to keep going.” Commencement Speech - 2020
Congressman Steny Hoyer
Congressman Steny Hoyer
United States Representative, Suitland High, 1957
"I emerged from Suitland High School with the education, confidence, and friendships to aim higher and go further than I ever thought I would. Crucially, Suitland taught me the importance of serving others and to giving back to our community. I'm pleased to see Prince George's County Public Schools continue to equip new generations of Prince Georgians with the skills and experiences they need to get ahead. They are producing students who will make our county, state, and country stronger."
Craig Kofi Farmer
Craig Kofi Farmer
Children's Author with Macmillan Publishers, Eleanor Roosevelt High, 2014
"I was born and raised in Prince George's County. My time in Prince George's County Public Schools helped instill values of resilience, ambition, and community within me. PGCPS has a beautiful way of using teachers, administrators, and even community mentors to hold up a mirror to their students and help them find their authentic selves. My time in the schools helped me uncover my love for storytelling -- and those PGCPS values of resilience, ambition, and community helped me take my love for storytelling, turn it into a passion for writing, and work hard until I became an award-winning children's author. Thank you to PGCPS for the inspiration and the beauty it gives to the county, the state, and the country. And for all the students reading this, look into that mirror for yourself -- and find who you are."
Martin Lawrence
Martin Lawrence
Actor, Eleanor Roosevelt High, 1984
"I want to encourage you to continue to work hard and always follow your dreams. You will make it. I did right from where you are."
Del. Jazz Lewis
Del. Jazz Lewis
Maryland State Delegate, Charles H. Flowers High, 2007
"As the proud product of Prince George’s County Public Schools, I have carried the lessons I learned from my teachers and classmates throughout my career in public service. PGCPS is filled with bright young minds who I know can change the world and I believe that all of our students can achieve great things within our great county and beyond."
Tamani Lyn
Tamani Lyn
Founder, WOMEN OF LYN, Charles H. Flowers High, 2016
"Write it down and watch it come to life. When you put your vision on paper, you give it power - you create clarity, strengthen your mindset, and ignite your passion. With prayer, community, and unwavering faith, you can accomplish anything you set your mind to. So start today, write it down and make it happen."
Rick Martin
Rick Martin
Author and former CNN Senior News Editor, DuVal High, 1987
"Living laser focused means believing in your purpose even when the path isn’t clear—and committing to it anyway. My education in Prince George’s County Public Schools helped shape that mindset by teaching me resilience, discipline, and the power of my voice. PGCPS showed me that greatness can come from anywhere when preparation meets belief. Like many of you, I once sat where you sit now—full of dreams, questions, and possibilities. What I learned then, and what I know now, is that success isn’t about perfection; it’s about persistence. Stay curious. Work hard. Don’t let setbacks define you—let them refine you."
James McCarl
James McCarl
Dentist, Parkdale High, 1976
"A Bible verse struck me many years ago, 'To whom much is given much is required'. When I finally embraced this truth the service adventures began to take off. But the word humanitarian just means taking care of others. Whether you are going overseas to treat refugees… or just helping out a senior neighbor or encouraging a kid who needs some direction. I just want to encourage you to keep going and ways that are big or small"
Ebony McMorris-Bego
Ebony McMorris-Bego
White House Correspondent, Largo High, 1996
"Prince George’s County Public Schools gave me more than an education, it gave me confidence, culture and community as a proud 1996 graduate of Largo High School. I carry the heart of Prince George’s County wherever I go from the classroom to the halls of the White House. Today, as the White House correspondent for American Urban Radio Networks, one of the few black owned and operated media outlets in the White House, I stand on the foundation that PGCPS help build."
Del. Joseline Peña-Melnyk
Del. Joseline Peña-Melnyk
Maryland House Speaker
"I grew up facing challenges that could have limited my path, but determination, education, and community opened every door I needed to walk through. To every student: your story is still being written. Lead with courage, stay committed to your goals, and never underestimate what you can achieve."
Abby Phillip
Abby Phillip
CNN Anchor, Bowie High, 2006
“I want to encourage all of you today to make the choice to think of how you can serve, how you can give back to your community and world. I can’t wait to see what each of you does next…you are destined for greatness. So get out there and make us proud.” Commencement Speech – 2020
Karen Piper Mitchell
Karen Piper Mitchell
Attorney, Largo High, 1990
"Do not allow another person’s opinion of you to define how you see yourself. Be confident knowing that God individually created you as you are with a unique purpose."
Paul Reed Smith
Paul Reed Smith
Founder of PRS Guitars, Bowie High, 1974
"Having the opportunity year after year before COVID to teach PG County high school students "How to Make Your Dreams Come True", was a real opportunity for me and the students. I wish someone would have done the same seminar with me when I was going to Bowie High School. Basically, the students through the group interview process, decided which qualities might make their dreams come true and which qualities would most likely scuttle them (like intentionally sinking a boat).” Mr. Reed went on to say the group discussions with the students were invaluable and thanks his alma mater for inviting him to teach the sessions.
Laurie Robinson Haden
Laurie Robinson Haden
Oxon Hill High, 1990
"My Prince George’s County Public Schools education gave me the foundation to dream big and the courage to turn those dreams into reality. No matter where you start, your determination, discipline, and belief in yourself will take you anywhere you want to go. Never stop learning — and never stop believing that you belong in every room you walk into."
Ebone Thornton
Ebone Thornton
Fashion Designer, Eleanor Roosevelt High, 2011
"I am very proud and hold deep honor behind being an Eleanor Roosevelt alumni. It brings me so much joy that I can relate my collection, which is based on marginalized groups and the change they make, to my roots that run so deeply through this community."
Tracee Wilkins
Tracee Wilkins
Investigative Reporter, NBC 4, High Point High, 1993
"If it weren’t for the Prince George’s County Public School system, I wouldn’t be where I am today. I attended Martin Luther King, Jr. Academy, but it was at High Point High School that I found my voice. I was picked to be on the morning announcements team and that’s where I found this is what I enjoy doing. It was my algebra teacher who used to say to me every day - have you ever thought about a career in broadcasting?"
Kellie Williams
Kellie Williams
Actress, Central High, 1994
"More than anything, you have to give your kids the ability to launch. So, I think as adults, we have to give our young people the best opportunity to make it."
Monty Williams
Monty Williams
Former NBA Player and Coach, Potomac High, 1989
"Never let anyone put a deadline on your dream; don’t let people tell you that you come from the wrong area or your neighborhood is too rough; get with good people, let them pour into you; make good decisions and you can be successful."
Dr. Carey Wright
Dr. Carey Wright
Maryland Superintendent of Schools, DuVal High, 1968
"I am so proud to be a graduate of the Prince George’s County Public Schools and I honestly believe that the foundation of my success in life is due to the outstanding education that I obtained here. It is also notable that I began my teaching career in Prince George’s County Public Schools."
🎓 Notable Alumni and Their Alma Mater
🎓 Notable Alumni and Their Alma Mater


  • Jim Henson, Muppets Creator;
    Northwestern High School, 1954


  • Paula Vogel, Theatre/Playwright;
    High Point High School, 1969


  • Sugar Ray Leonard, Sports (Boxing);
    Parkdale High School, 1974


  • Kevin Merida, Journalism;
    Crossland High School, 1975


  • Tuajuanda Jordan, Higher Education/Former College President;
    Suitland High School, 1978


  • Keith Battle, Pastor;
    Fairmont Heights High School, 1983


  • Charles Harley, Football Coach/Athletic Administrator;
    Central High School, 1985


  • Frank Cho, Comics Artist;
    High Point High School, 1990


  • Trammell Tillman, Actor;
    Eleanor Roosevelt High School, 2003


  • Zerina Akers, Fashion Designer/Stylist;
    Suitland High School, 2004


  • Greg Howard, Journalism;
    Eleanor Roosevelt High School, 2006


  • Giulia Blough, YouTuber/Influencer;
    Eleanor Roosevelt High School, 2024


  • Kamau Mbonisi Kwame Agyeman (KAMAUU), Singer/Rapper and Poet;
    Frederick Douglass High School, 2009


  • Jasmine Jones, Founder and CEO of Myya, Miss District of Columbia 2016;
    Frederick Douglass High School, 2007

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