Theme: Legacy Ignited: Fueling the Torchbearers of Transformational Change

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and the tragic events surrounding the televised murder of George Floyd, our society has been forced to confront deeply ingrained issues of trauma, racism, and inequality. As we stand at this pivotal moment in history, we must embark on a journey of healing and collective transformation.
The theme of this inaugural TEDxBowieStateUniversity , "Legacy Ignited: Fueling the Torchbearers of Transformational Change," encapsulates our commitment to challenging conventional narratives, offering fresh perspectives on empowerment, and sparking meaningful conversations that lead to actionable change. Through this event, we aim to shed light on the innovative and transformational work within the Bowie State University community.

TEDxBowieStateUniversity
Bowie State University
14000 Jericho Park Road
Bowie, Maryland, 20715
United States

Chris Provido

Honors Undergraduate-Biology

Chris Provido is a STEM leader, a scholar, and a learner. He strives to empower others with scientific curiosity and nurtures his own diverse STEM experiences. He is dedicated to advancing inclusive science.

DaiJonaire Washington

DaJonaire Washington is an Educator and Researcher who is passionate about educational equity, restorative practices, and safe spaces for children.

Euwanna Heard

Nurse, Assistant Professor

Dr. Euwanna Heard is a Bowie State (BSU) alumna. She is a registered nurse, a family nurse practitioner, an assistant professor, and the graduate program coordinator in the Department of Nursing at BSU.

Keadrick Peters

Dr. Keadrick Peters is a proud native of Prince George’s County, Maryland. Dr. Peters serves as a DEI champion at BSU. Belongingness, joy, and grace anchor him as a human.

Lanee Sheffield

Reading Specilaist, Educator

Lanee Sheffield is an educator and reading specialist with over 15 years of experience in literacy education. She is passionate about cultivating a love for literacy and the reading success of all scholars.

Lucia Santacruz

Scientist, Professor of Biology

| Lucia Santacruz, PhD, is a Professor of Biology at the Natural Sciences Department at Bowie State University, where she teaches Cell Biology, Introduction to Cancer Biology, and Biological Sciences. Originally from Colombia, Dr. Santacruz received a PhD in Physiology at UCLA School of Medicine and has an extensive record of accomplishment in biomedical research.

Marcus Mason

Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor

With over 12 years of experience working with youth and adults, Dr. Mason is a two-time alum of Bowie State University, having earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Child and Adolescence Studies and his Master of Arts degree in Counseling Psychology. Dr. Mason is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Board Approved Supervisor in the state of Maryland.

Masica Jordan-Alston

Dr. Masica Jordan Alston, a licensed counselor and CPRS, earned degrees from Bowie State and a Doctorate in Education. She's been featured on CNN, FOX, and Forbes for her work in marginalized communities and education. She founded Jordan Peer Recovery and Grief and Loss Centers of America and is a professor and tech CEO focusing on addiction, mental health, and culturally responsive support.

Mawule Sevon

School Psychologist, Adjunct Professor

Dr. Mawule Sevon is a practicing school psychologist, behavior analyst, and researcher focused on seeking educational justice for Black students. She is also an alumna of Bowie State University’s school psychology graduate program.

Shelagh Johnson

English Faculty

Shelagh Johnson teaches English and Creative Writing at BSU and is faculty editor of the university’s literary magazine, The Torch. Her fiction has been published in numerous magazines and journals.

Shonte Drakefored

Shonte Drakeford is a Nurse Practitioner, Army Spouse, Advocate, Foster Child, Farmer, and Life Enjoyer who is living with terminal Stage 4 Metastatic Breast Cancer. She creates change through her inspiration.

Terrance Staley

Executive Director of Alliance of Concerned Men

Terrance Staley is the Executive Director of the Alliance of Concerned Men, Community, and National Engagement Leader, and TA (Technical Assistant) to IIR, LISC, the White House Intervention Collaborative Task Force, and CBPS Collective. He served his country through three tours in Iraq and received the Army’s Combat Action Badge. Terrance earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Bowie State University.