Alumni Spotlights

Chelsea Adinuba

CEO and Founder of ChelsDesigns LLC., Bowie HS, 2021

"Blossomed flowers are a product of strong roots." Prince George's County shaped who I am today. At the time, being from the richest black county in the World with people in Prince George’s/PGCPS who would help me grow, molded me to become a woman of ambition, follow my passions, and achieve destiny. I am nothing without my roots, the things that have been instilled inside of me helped me get to where I am today, and where I will continue to go in the future. I would encourage current students to not take for granted where they are from. There are people all over the World that would do anything to have the opportunities, resources, and people that we have here in Prince George’s County. Don't take it for granted...utilize what you have, and continue to build off of that. It will take you farther than your mind could ever imagine. And most importantly, keep God first. He is the most important one we will have in this beautiful thing called life.”

Quinci Baker

Co-Founder, Down Gallery, Suitland High, 2012

“My time at Suitland High School was incredibly transformative. I made lifelong friends, learned to channel my creativity, and became more immersed in the culture of my home region. My experience instilled in me an appreciation for all arts and a unique sense of self-worth. Being able to dedicate a large portion of my curriculum to a creative practice not only prepared me for a career in fine art, but equipped me with essential life skills including: research, emotional regulation, creative problem solving, and collaboration. I also benefited greatly from access to the various honors programs available at Suitland, such as the IB and AP Program. For many of my peers, the vocational academy was a similarly valuable resource.”

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.”

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.”

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

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."

“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)

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."

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."

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

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.

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."

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."

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."

Ryiesha Simms

Published Author, Suitland High School, 2005

"As a proud graduate of Suitland High School and a lifelong learner, I credit Prince George's County Public Schools with helping me develop the curiosity, resilience, and determination that have guided my career. From serving my community as a public librarian to becoming a published author, every step of my journey began with the foundation I received in PGCPS. To today's students: your dreams are worth pursuing. Read widely, stay open to new opportunities, and never underestimate the power of hard work and consistent prayer. The path to success may not always be straight, but persistence, preparation, and belief in yourself can take you further than you've ever imagined. Go Rams!" Author pseudonym is Necole Ryse, published by Simon & Schuster UK and HarperCollins.