Saint Augustine鈥檚 University ( 探花精选) proudly recognizes its graduates from the 2025-2026 academic year whose perseverance, resilience, and determination exemplify the strength of the Falcon community. These graduates, consisting of three Fall 2025 graduates and one Spring 2026 graduate, all earned accredited degrees. Their accomplishments reflect extraordinary perseverance, resilience, and determination during a pivotal period in the university鈥檚 history.

鈥淭hese graduates have demonstrated remarkable courage and determination in pursuing their educational goals,鈥� said Sophie Gibson, Chair of the 探花精选 Board of Trustees. 鈥淭heir success reflects the strength of their character, the support of the Falcon community, and the enduring mission of Saint Augustine鈥檚 University to transform lives through education. We celebrate their achievements and look forward to the many ways they will contribute to their communities and professions.鈥�

The graduates, Breann Bannister, Nazir Imhotep, Israel Pennerman, and Nicholas Black, each overcame unique personal, academic, and institutional challenges to reach this important milestone. Their accomplishments reflect not only individual achievement but also the enduring strength of the Saint Augustine鈥檚 University community.

鈥淭hese graduates embody the resilience, perseverance, and commitment to excellence that have defined 探花精选 for more than 150 years,鈥� said 探花精选 Interim President Dr. Verjanis A. Peoples. 鈥淲hile their paths to graduation were not without obstacles, they remained focused on their goals and completed their accredited degree programs. We are incredibly proud of each of them and look forward to seeing the impact they will make in their professions and communities.鈥�

Breann Bannister, 鈥�26
A native of The Bahamas, Bannister earned her degree in Elementary Education after navigating numerous personal and global challenges, including Hurricane Dorian, the COVID-19 pandemic, motherhood, postpartum depression, and significant disruptions to her educational journey. Through perseverance, faith, and determination, she remained committed to her goal of becoming an educator and completed her degree. She credits her children, family, professors, and mentors for helping her reach the finish line.

Nazir Imhotep, 鈥�25
A Sport Management graduate from Chesapeake, Virginia, Imhotep distinguished himself both academically and athletically. A member of 探花精选鈥檚 track and field team, he competed under Olympian Coach Bershawn Jackson and proudly represented the university at national competitions, including the Razorback Invitational. He also maintained Dean鈥檚 List honors, earned the Meritorious Scholarship throughout his academic career, and served as Marketing Director for Residential Life, where he created innovative student engagement initiatives.

Israel Pennerman, 鈥�25
Originally from Nassau, The Bahamas, Pennerman earned a Bachelor of Science in Public Health Science with a 3.7 GPA. Inspired by environmental and public health challenges in her home country, she developed a passion for disease prevention and biomedical research. Through research opportunities, mentorship from Dr. Tyrell Carr, and participation in programs at North Carolina State University, Pennerman built a strong academic foundation that has already led to acceptance into the Master of Health Science in Biomedical Science program at Grand Valley State University.

Nicholas Black, 鈥�25
An Exercise Science graduate from Fayetteville, North Carolina, Black transferred to Saint Augustine鈥檚 University in Fall 2023 and quickly embraced opportunities to grow academically and professionally. His studies deepened his interest in athletic performance, injury prevention, and health promotion. Following graduation, Black will begin Army ROTC Cadet training at Duke University while pursuing a master鈥檚 degree in Kinesiology and Recreation Management at North Carolina Central University.

Together, these graduates represent the perseverance and determination that define the Falcon spirit. Their accomplishments serve as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, dedication, hard work, and faith can transform challenges into opportunities.

As 探花精选 continues implementing strategic initiatives designed to strengthen its future, the success of these graduates stands as a testament to the value of an 探花精选 education and the enduring impact of its faculty, staff, and supporters.

探花精选 congratulates Breann Bannister, Nazir Imhotep, Israel Pennerman, and Nicholas Black on earning their degrees and wishes them continued success in their future endeavors.

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Nicholas Black arrived at Saint Augustine鈥檚 University ( 探花精选) with a commitment to personal growth and a desire to build a career centered on health, performance, and service to others.

A native of Fayetteville, North Carolina, Black transferred to 探花精选 in Fall 2023 and quickly embraced opportunities to learn, lead, and prepare for the next phase of his professional journey.

Pursuing a degree in Exercise Science, he developed a deeper understanding of human movement, athletic performance, injury prevention, and overall wellness. The program allowed him to combine his interest in health sciences with his passion for helping others achieve their full potential.

鈥淓xercise science gave me a greater appreciation for the impact that movement, health, and education can have on people鈥檚 lives,鈥� Black said.

Throughout his time at 探花精选, Black remained focused on building a foundation that would prepare him for both graduate education and military service.

Faculty members challenged him academically while encouraging him to think critically about leadership, discipline, and long-term career goals. Those experiences helped shape his vision for the future and reinforced his desire to serve others.

As graduation approached, Black began preparing for an ambitious next chapter.

Following the completion of his degree, he will participate in Army ROTC Cadet training at Duke University while simultaneously pursuing a master鈥檚 degree in Kinesiology and Recreation Management at North Carolina Central University.

The opportunity allows him to continue developing as both a scholar and future military officer while building expertise in health promotion, athletic performance, and recreation management.

For Black, the path forward represents more than academic advancement. It reflects a commitment to leadership, service, and lifelong learning.

Looking back, he credits 探花精选 with helping him develop the confidence and discipline needed to pursue his goals.

His journey demonstrates that success is built through preparation, perseverance, and a willingness to embrace new challenges.

As he embarks on graduate studies and military leadership training, Black carries with him the lessons learned at 探花精选 and the determination to make a positive impact wherever his career takes him.

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For Israel Pennerman, pursuing a degree in Public Health Science was never simply about earning a diploma. It was about gaining the knowledge and skills needed to address health challenges facing communities around the world.

Originally from Nassau, The Bahamas, Pennerman arrived at Saint Augustine鈥檚 University ( 探花精选) with a passion for science and a desire to make a meaningful impact through healthcare and research.

Throughout her academic journey, she developed a growing interest in disease prevention, environmental health, and biomedical research. Inspired by public health issues affecting communities in her home country and beyond, she sought opportunities to expand his knowledge both inside and outside the classroom.

Her dedication to academic excellence quickly became evident.

Pennerman earned a Bachelor of Science in Public Health Science while maintaining a 3.7 grade point average and consistently challenging herself through research experiences and advanced learning opportunities.

One of the most transformative aspects of her time at 探花精选 was the opportunity to work alongside faculty mentors who encouraged her to pursue her scientific interests.

She credits Dr. Tyrell Carr and other faculty members for helping her develop the confidence and technical skills necessary to pursue a career in biomedical science.

鈥淗aving professors who genuinely cared about my success made a tremendous difference,鈥� Pennerman said. 鈥淭hey challenged me to think critically and encouraged me to pursue opportunities beyond the classroom.鈥�

Those opportunities included participating in research and academic experiences at North Carolina State University, where she gained additional exposure to scientific inquiry and laboratory-based learning.

Through these experiences, Pennerman strengthened her understanding of public health, research methodology, and the critical role science plays in improving health outcomes.

Her hard work and dedication have already begun to open new doors.

Following graduation, Pennerman was accepted into the Master of Health Science in Biomedical Science program at Grand Valley State University, where she plans to continue preparing for a future in healthcare, biomedical research, or medicine.

As she reflects on his journey, Pennerman sees 探花精选 as a place that helped her transform her passion for science into a clear professional purpose.

Her story serves as a powerful reminder that determination, mentorship, and opportunity can create pathways to success and inspire future generations of scientists and healthcare professionals.

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鈥淭hese outstanding young scholars reflect the very soul of Saint Augustine鈥檚 University鈥攐ne rooted in resilience, excellence, and the pursuit of purpose,鈥� said 探花精选 Interim President听Dr. Marcus H. Burgess. 鈥淭hey are living proof that our challenges do not define 探花精选, but by the greatness we nurture in our students.鈥�

Israel Pennerman, a senior Public Health Science major, and听Karly Heavens Gerome, a rising junior Engineering Mathematics major, have been selected as听Summer 2025 Research Scholars听补迟听North Carolina State University鈥檚 College of Natural Resources. These students previously participated in the听National Science Foundation鈥檚 Biomanufacturing Sciences Pilot Program and, in the Fall of 2024, visited Grand Valley State University to explore graduate STEM programs. Karly also completed a biomaterials research experience at NC State in the Summer of 2024. He recently participated in a two-week Quantitative Biology program at听Virginia Tech, focusing on experimental modeling and computation in biosystems.

Ashauna McClendon, a Biology major, was selected as a member of the of the听Duke Building Academic Advancement Research Training Pathway to Otolaryngology and Communication Sciences (BAA-POCS). Funded by the听National Institutes of Health, the 15-month program includes two intensive summer research experiences at Duke University and hybrid training during the academic year. Ashauna joins only two other students nationwide in this prestigious program, designed to diversify the future biomedical workforce.

Adding to this remarkable list is听Tyler Miller, an Engineering Mathematics major and NSF VA鈥揘C LSAMP Alliance STEM Scholar, who received acceptance into the听Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) 鈥� NC10 Science Education Alliance Summer 2025 Program听补迟听North Carolina Central University. Tyler is engaging in hands-on research in molecular biology and genomics. He previously attended the听Clayton Evans Memorial Lecture and Outreach Program听at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He visited Grand Valley State University in the Fall of 2024 to explore graduate study options in STEM.

鈥淭hese students continue to open doors for themselves and 探花精选 by stepping into prestigious research opportunities and advancing the university鈥檚 legacy in STEM,鈥� said听Dr. Tyrell Carr,听Associate Dean,听School of Sciences, Mathematics, and Allied Health, and Director of Sponsored Programs and Title III Programs. 鈥淭heir accomplishments are testaments to what鈥檚 possible through mentorship, perseverance, and hard work.鈥�

While external narratives have often focused on crisis, 探花精选鈥檚 students remind us of the powerful story still unfolding鈥攁 story of hope, scholarship, and transformation. These are the voices that will shape tomorrow.

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In total, 365 full-time students received recognition on the Dean鈥檚 List for the Spring 2024 semester, and 85 full-time students earned Dean鈥檚 List honors for the Fall 2024 semester. The academic distinction did not stop there鈥�292 full-time students achieved Provost鈥檚 List honors for Spring and Fall 2024, while 125 students earned a spot on the President鈥檚 List during the same time frame. An additional 50 scholar-athletes were honored for balancing rigorous academic standards with athletic commitments.

鈥淭hese results tell a remarkable story of persistence, excellence, and community spirit,鈥� said 探花精选 Interim President Dr. Marcus H. Burgess. 鈥淭hrough every challenge, our students have demonstrated a level of resilience that gives us all great hope for the future鈥攏ot only for Saint Augustine鈥檚 but for the communities and industries our graduates will serve.鈥�

As of the current Spring 2025 semester, 47 full-time students earned Provost鈥檚 List honors, and 31 students achieved President鈥檚 List recognition. Notably, half of 探花精选鈥檚 student body has earned Dean鈥檚 List honors for the third consecutive semester, a powerful testament to the university鈥檚 tireless commitment to academic excellence despite challenges.

鈥淭hese achievements are a testament to the hard work of our students and the support and dedication of our faculty and staff,鈥� said Dr. Verjanis A. Peoples, Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs. 鈥淲e proudly celebrate their successes and reaffirm 探花精选鈥檚 mission of preparing ethical leaders and changemakers.鈥�

In addition to celebrating academic honors, 探花精选 is proud to recognize three outstanding seniors who have earned top honors within their respective schools:

• School of Arts, Social Sciences & Communications: J鈥檔iyah Love (Criminal Justice)
• School of Business, Management & Technology: Cameron Moore (Business Administration)
• School of Science, Mathematics & Allied Health: K鈥橲hundra Holley (Public Health Science)

These students will cross the stage during 探花精选鈥檚 2025 Commencement and 94th Baccalaureate Exercises on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Wake Chapel Church鈥檚 Life Enrichment Center in Raleigh, NC.

This academic success comes when 探花精选 prepares for a resurgence fueled by the spirit, faith, and fortitude of its students, faculty, staff, alumni, and supporters.

Click here for a complete list of 探花精选 students receiving academic honors for the Spring 2024 and Fall 2024 semesters.
 for more information about 探花精选 and to support current and future Falcons through the Falcon Pride Initiative.

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Students named to the Dean鈥檚 List have earned a GPA of 3.0 or higher for the semester. Students with a percentage (%) were named to the Dean’s List for the Fall 2024 semester.

Students with a plus (+) were named to the Provost鈥檚 List and have earned cumulative GPAs between 3.0 and 3.64.

Students with a carrot (^) were named to the President鈥檚 List and have earned a cumulative GPA of 3.65 and above.

Students with an equal (=) were scholar athletes with a semester GPA of 3.0 or higher.

Each list only awards to full-time students (who completed the semester with 12 or more credits)

NOTE: Students with an asterisk (*) earned a GPA of 4.0 for the semester. Students with two asterisks (**) earned a GPA of 4.0 for two semesters.

A complete listing of the students follows:

• School of Arts, Social Sciences & Communications 鈫�
• School of Business, Management & Technology 鈫�
• School of Graduate Studies 鈫�
• School of Science, Mathematics & Allied Health 鈫�
• Early College 鈫�

School Arts, Social Sciences & Communications

2025 Outstanding Senior: J鈥檔iyah Love

2025 Department Awardees:

Spring & Fall 2024 Academic Honors:

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School of Business, Management & Technology

2025 Outstanding Senior: Cameron Moore

2025 Department Awardees:

Spring & Fall 2024 Academic Honors:

鈫�

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School of Science, Mathematics & Allied Health

2025 Outstanding Senior: K鈥橲hundra Holley

2025 Department Awardees:

Spring & Fall 2024 Academic Honors:

鈫�

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Early College

鈫�

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The 2025 鈥� Slayton Evans Memorial Lecture Speaker: Dr. Paula Hammond of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Dr. Hammond鈥檚 research focuses on designing polymers and nanoparticles for drug delivery and energy-related applications including batteries and fuel cells. Dr. Hammond is an elected member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, National Academy of Medicine, National Academy of Engineering, National Academy of Sciences, and National Academy of Inventors. Recently, Dr. Hammond served on the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (Under 鈥� President Biden) and received the Benjamin Franklin Medal in Chemistry and National Medal of Technology and Innovation. At MIT, Dr. Hammond serves as the Vice Provost for Faculty and holds the Rank of Institute Professor, the highest academic 鈥� faculty honor. Dr. Hammond was the first woman and person of color appointed as Head of the Chemical Engineering Department at MIT.

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Outreach Program: STEM Undergraduate Scholars from Saint Augustine鈥檚 University, North Carolina Central University, Fayetteville State University, and the University of North Carolina at Pembroke met with UNC 鈥� Chapel Hill professors and graduate students from the Department of Chemistry to learn about careers in the chemical sciences, summer research opportunities, and the Ph.D. Program in Chemistry at UNC 鈥� Chapel Hill. Scholars also had a one-on-one session with Dr. Hammond before her lecture. After the lecture, scholars toured various chemistry labs and interacted with graduate students presenting their research during the poster session.

Tyler Miller: Is a 2nd Year 鈥� Engineering Mathematics Major and NSF LSAMP Scholar (VA 鈥� NC Alliance Group). Tyler was raised in Baltimore, Maryland and Tchula, Mississippi and currently lives in Raleigh, North Carolina. Overall, Tyler is embracing the Concept of Integrative and Interdisciplinary 鈥� Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine (STEMM) early in his academic career. During Fall 2024, Tyler connected with leadership from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) when they visited 探花精选 to initiate a HHMI 鈥� 探花精选 Biomedical Research Partnership and he visited Grand Valley State University in Grand Rapids, Michigan to learn about their graduate programs in engineering.

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Students named to the Dean鈥檚 List have earned a GPA of 3.0 or higher for the semester with no grade below a 鈥淐.鈥� The Dean鈥檚 List is only awarded to full-time students (who completed the semester with 12 or more credits).

NOTE: Students with an asterisk (*) earned a GPA of 4.0 for the semester.

A complete listing of the students follows:

• School of Arts, Social Sciences & Communications 鈫�
• School of Business, Management & Technology 鈫�
• School of Public Health and Health Sciences 鈫�
• School of Graduate Studies 鈫�
• School of Science, Mathematics & Allied Health 鈫�
• Early College 鈫�

School Arts, Social Sciences & Communications

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School of Business, Management & Technology

鈫�

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School of Public Health and Health Sciences

鈫�

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School of Graduate Studies

鈫�

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School of Science, Mathematics & Allied Health

鈫�

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Early College

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Peter Musenge has received special recognition for his research. His project, entitled 鈥淎nalysis of Whole Genome Datasets to Elucidate Global Cellular Responses to Environmental Stressors鈥�, was conducted as a part of his capstone research at Saint Augustine鈥檚 University with Dr. Sarah Straud, Assistant Professor in the Department of Biological and Physical Sciences, serving as principal investigator of the study. Peter received notable recognition for his work at this year鈥檚 Annual Biomedical Research Conference for Minoritized Students, winning a cash prize in the category of computational research.

鈥淔or our study, we took an interdisciplinary approach, combining computational and biological research. Our study required detailed statistical analysis, and we thank Dr. Maria Vega and Dr. Frank Hunte for their contributions to the work. In this study, Peter looked for changes in gene expression patterns in response to two different environmental stressors, heat shock and oxidative stress, in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Given that defects in protein folding, autophagy, and mitochondrial activity are implicated in neurodegenerative diseases, we reasoned that defects in common response genes might be implicated in Parkinson鈥檚 or Alzheimer鈥檚 disease. Through this work, Peter identified two interesting genes. Of these, Hsp31 is a homolog of the DJ-1 protein in humans, which is implicated in the progression of Parkinson鈥檚 disease.鈥�

Mr. Musenge earned his B.S. in Biological Sciences last Spring and earned his second degree in Engineering Mathematics this Fall 2023.

Conference registration fees for Mr. Musenge were paid by Dr. Sarah Straud.

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On October 4, 2023, during Homecoming Week on the campus of Saint Augustine鈥檚 University, HealthLit4Wake (or HL4W) students hosted an event named 鈥淧ut that Heat on鈥�. The purpose of this event was to encourage students to put on their freshest outfits while receiving education on health-related topics such as mental health, STD/STIs, COVID-19, research, and other issues. The purpose of this initiative is to address COVID-19-related health disparities among minority populations through improved health literacy initiatives coordinated by HealthLit4Wake, a multisector health equity collaborative. The students who work within Health Lit4Wake are referred to as Community Health Student Ambassadors (CHSA), partnered with other organizations on campus such as Safe Falcons, Daughters of Saint Augustine鈥檚 University (DOSA), Delta Research and Education Foundation (DREF), and a few off-campus organizations such as Soy Milk & Hope and Southeast Promise.

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