2025 Our Stories

William S. Flores

Published May 6, 2025

William S. Flores, 20, is a focused first-generation student who never saw himself attending college. Encouragement from a Prince George’s Community College recruiter helped him to challenge his perspective and set his sights on higher education. Today, Flores is among the top-performing students at PGCC and will serve as the 2025 Distinguished Graduate at Commencement this year.

“I did so much research to learn what it was to just be in college,” Flores said. “As a first-generation Latino, I would say that college was never seen as a goal for me, just because I didn't know what it was. My parents don't come from an educational background, so I didn't have anyone in my life to tell me that I had to go to college. All I heard was that college is good for you. But for me, in my head, college was only good for those who were smart, those who were wealthier, and successful.”

Flores answered the bold call to see beyond his immediate reality and pursue a greater future for himself. He graduated from High Point High School and enrolled at PGCC, where he majored in general studies. After finishing at PGCC, he plans to transfer to the University of Maryland College Park, where he will major in public policy and minor in marketing. He aspires to run for Congress or governor in the future. He also has entrepreneurship goals of owning a farm and selling produce one day. Flores believes in the power of representation through his own story and strives to empower others.

“It was a PGCC Latina advisor that I got to meet at my local high school,” he said. “She was my representation. Looking back, I wouldn't think that I would be in the place I am if it weren't for the people who were surrounding me or the questions that I asked.”

In his free time, Flores gives back to the community through volunteering with other first-generation students, helping them with college readiness.

“It's more than just volunteering,” he said. “I love it. It's a passion of mine to be able to share with other Latino students who are unaware of the educational system here in America and give them the information that will be so valuable for them once they graduate from high school.”

While a student at PGCC, Flores was involved with the Southern Management Leadership Program, a Promise Scholarship recipient, the honors program, and served as a Student Senator during the College-wide Forum in 2023.

He appreciated the strong support system at PGCC and admitted that the level of care he experienced at the College made him feel special, seen, and heard.

“It's not just the professors and staff pushing you to do your thing,” he said. “They are there every step of the way, and they are there to help you whenever you look back and you have any questions. And that's really important when it comes to supporting students.”

Flores said he is proud of himself for pushing through his circumstances to achieve his goals and inspire others. He took a chance on college, and it changed his life. His legacy is a message of embracing the transformative power of fearlessness. He tapped into his own greatness by not being afraid to try something new.

“In order for you to taste or have that success, you must first taste that bit of failure in your life,” he said. “Many people tend to fear what could happen. You never know if you don't take that chance or leap of faith to continue.”

Nahir Moyer

Published March 24, 2025

The U.S. Department of State has selected PGCC adjunct faculty member Nahir A. Moyer to participate in the 2024-2025 Virtual English Language Educator Program. As part of this prestigious initiative, Professor Moyer will collaborate with English language learners and teachers in Vietnam, partnering with the Vietnam Association of Community Colleges to enhance the quality of English education in the region.

Professor Moyer has over 20 years of experience in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) education and is one of 100 educators chosen for this virtual project. The program enables experienced teachers to work with local teachers and educational professionals in more than 80 countries, improving English instruction and fostering global understanding.

For Moyer, the decision to join the program was driven by personal and professional motivations. “I decided to participate in the U.S. Department of State’s Virtual Educator program because I saw it as an invaluable opportunity for professional development and networking,” she said. “It allows me to engage with a diverse group of educators and exchange ideas to enrich my [own] teaching and benefit my students at PGCC.”

Professor Moyer’s career in education began with a bachelor’s degree in education, specializing in English language teaching, followed by a master’s degree in Teaching English as a Foreign Language. She has taught at various institutions, including private language schools, online platforms, and teacher-training colleges. She has spent several years focusing on English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), workforce preparation, and English for Academic Purposes (EAP) courses at the College.

“Being an English as a second language educator, I chose to teach at PGCC because I believe in the power of community colleges to provide accessible and high-quality education to a diverse student population,” Moyer said. “I wanted to be part of an institution that makes a real difference in the lives of its students and the community.”

At PGCC, she has focused on providing engaging and relevant instruction that equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in their careers. She is inspired by watching students overcome challenges and grow into confident, capable individuals.

As Moyer begins this new chapter of her career, she also reflects on the significance of her work within the broader context of International Women's Day, celebrated globally on March 8. International Women's Day honors women's social, economic, cultural, and political achievements worldwide, and Moyer’s journey as an educator and global ambassador is a testament to the power of women in shaping the future of education.

“This is a special moment for me, especially as we approach International Women's Day,” Professor Moyer said. “Being a woman in education and now contributing to a global effort to improve English language teaching aligns with the values of this day. It’s an honor to be part of a larger movement that celebrates the achievements of women worldwide.”

The U.S. Department of State’s Virtual English Language Educator Program, a key part of its English Language Programs, places educators like Professor Moyer with international institutions to improve English language teaching worldwide. Through this initiative, Moyer will help elevate English instruction in Vietnam, supporting local teachers and learners while fostering cross-cultural understanding.

“I am excited to contribute to this program and make a global impact on English language education,” Professor Moyer said. “It’s a fantastic opportunity to engage with educators across cultures, learn from them, and bring those insights back to PGCC.”

For Moyer, this program represents the next step in her lifelong mission to inspire and educate, helping students reach their full potential, no matter where they are in the world.

Florence Nelson

Published March 7, 2025

Florence Nelson, 46, enrolled in Prince George’s Community College after years spent working as a civil servant in the federal government. She was born and raised in Norfolk, VA, but has resided in Prince George’s County for the past 18 years. Two years ago, she pivoted to explore a media career and continues to put her strong advocacy skills to good use at PGCC.

Nelson is a diligent student leader and an active member of eight different student organizations on campus, including the Student Governance Association as senator of Academic Affairs; senior/head staff writer of The Owl News publication; PGCC Debate Team, PGCC Honors Program; Phi Theta Kappa Honors Society; National Society of Leadership and Success; vice president of National Alliance on Mental Health; and vice president of PGCC’s NAACP chapter.

In this interview, Florence shares her path from working at FEMA to finding a new purpose at PGCC.

What was your career path before coming to PGCC?

Nelson: Before enrolling at PGCC, I worked for the Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) as an equal employment opportunity specialist (EEO) in their Office of Equal Rights for over 15 years. This involved resolving allegations of discrimination against FEMA officials and ensuring that employees with disabilities had reasonable accommodations. I did this until I was terminated during COVID for speaking out against racial and disability discrimination and for submitting a report to the congressional committee on DHS about the agency's discriminatory practices. 

Explain the origins of your passion for political science and journalism. Why are they both important for modern times? 

Nelson: I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Norfolk State University. Initially, my goal was to be a public servant and eventually go to law school. While in undergrad, I was an active member of the Norfolk chapter of the NAACP, worked with my university to promote diversity and affirmative action initiatives that were supported by the Governor of Virginia, and worked to support awareness and education of mental health and advocacy programs. We are in uncharted territory and experiencing the impact of the government's erosion of our inalienable rights through executive orders. 

My passions for journalism and justice are so important for modern times because the current laws and policies designed to ensure equality and equitable treatment for Americans under those laws will detrimentally impact future generations if protective measures are not put in place to uphold them. Now is the time for leaders to lead and for new leaders to emerge, which I have been called to do.

What inspired you to enroll at PGCC, and how has it impacted your life?

Nelson: I was inspired to enroll at PGCC because after being terminated from FEMA, I wanted to forge a new career path, one where I was self-sufficient and did not rely on any company or agency to sustain employment. PGCC is the perfect place to "refresh" and forge new career paths, as there are plenty of resources and an array of majors and certifications to select from that are cost-effective and easy to complete. I always liked writing and believed I was good at it, so it was easy for me to decide journalism would be my major.

So far, deciding to enroll at PGCC has been the best decision of my professional career, possibly the best decision ever! It has impacted my life in such a positive way that I now have faith that I will accomplish my long-term goals. 

You recently participated in Student Advocacy Day on behalf of PGCC. Why do you think community colleges are essential? What did this outreach initiative mean to you?

Nelson: It was an honor to not only participate in Student Advocacy Day on behalf of PGCC but also to serve as the student speaker advocating for funding for all community colleges in the state of Maryland. Community colleges are more important than ever before; they are life-changing for many but also lifesaving as well.

As a student with a disability, the resources available to me at PGCC make a world of difference. While I have no problem advocating for myself and speaking up when needed, it means nothing if I am unable to get the necessary help. PGCC allows me to access viable resources needed to live. That's the meaning of outreach for me. 

What do you look forward to most about your future academic and career goals?

Nelson: I am presented with a real opportunity to make a considerable impact on society after graduating from PGCC and I am most excited to do so. Currently, I'm looking into graduate programs for journalism and to expand on personal projects I've started since attending PGCC. 

What is the best part about being a student at PGCC?

Nelson: What's often overlooked and not really discussed when considering going to a community college are the professors, faculty, and staff teaching at these institutions. Since enrolling at PGCC, I have met wonderful people that I would not have met otherwise or even had the opportunity to be in professional circles to meet them. Networking is just as important as completing the degree, so capitalizing on that is crucial post-graduation.  

Michelle Thomas

Published February 21, 2025

Michelle Thomas, 41, made a career switch for the long haul. After years spent in corrections and other careers, she decided to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License Class B (CDL) at Prince George’s Community College. Thomas received a PepsiCo scholarship that allowed her to take classes at PGCC for free.

“Once I learned that I can actually go many places with a CDL, I was encouraged to keep this license up because it opens doors for a lot of things,” Thomas said.

In about four months, Thomas completed the program at PGCC and landed a job at FedEx as a Swing Driver/ Cover Driver delivering packages. She describes her new career path as “freeing” and enjoys having a job where she can maintain an active lifestyle while serving the community.

A Class B CDL allows drivers to operate a vehicle of 26,001 pounds or more. Class B vehicles include smaller trucks such as buses, dump trucks, tow trucks, delivery trucks, and garbage trucks. 

In the future, Thomas would like to open her own transportation business and begin a career abroad. After researching global companies, she learned there were many international employment opportunities with global companies like Pepsi.

“I would like to be on an island where the climate is warm and the sun is always shining,” she said. “I've done four seasons for 41 years of my life, and I guess it's time for me and my child to travel.”

Thomas instills education values and the importance of travel in her 14-year-old daughter.

“Your child can't be what they can't see,” she said. “I plan to let her see the world and not just be confined to one spot or one space. I want to let her know it's a huge world out here.”

Thomas grew up in Capitol Heights but now resides in Washington, D.C. When she is not working or spending time with her daughter, she enjoys learning about nutrition, reading, sewing, and staying active. She is committed to being a lifelong learner and wants to take more classes at PGCC.

“The biggest thing is to never stop learning,” she said. “There's always more to life to learn than what you already know.”

Phyllis Tucker-Saunders

Published January 31, 2025

Well into her golden years, Phyllis Tucker-Saunders is not slowing down. Instead, she’s lacing up ballet shoes. Phyllis takes ballet and African dance classes at Prince George’s Community College, often surrounded by students decades younger than she is.

“My ballet shoes are older than some of the young students,” she laughs. The young dancers, who affectionately call her “Miss Phyllis,” keep her inspired and energized. For Phyllis, staying active is not just a hobby—it’s a way of life.  

“Dancing makes me feel alive,” Phyllis said.

She is also enrolled in the College's SAGE program, a special series for seniors who want to stay active and live life to the fullest. “The classes keep me moving, and I feel energized,” Phyllis said. “The friends I’ve made through SAGE are just as determined to stay strong and vibrant.”

In addition to dance and weight training, Phyllis also water walks to strengthen her muscles and joints without putting too much strain on her body. She meditates to keep her mind calm and tries to eat healthy, though she admits, “I don’t always stick to it. Life is about balance!” 

“Being around young people and other seniors who are just as active keeps me motivated,” she said. Her story is a reminder to everyone that staying active and healthy can be a joyful adventure, no matter your age.

One of her favorite experiences last semester was participating in the PGCC Dance Theatre’s concert, Q, celebrating the legendary music of Quincy Jones. The program was the vision of professor Veiga, director of the Dance Theater Program.

“It took me right back to my twenties and thirties,” Phyllis shared, recalling her years of acting in plays like Mo Tea Miss Ann and The River Niger. Being part of this performance brought back those memories and made her feel overjoyed.

Phyllis is also thankful for professor Lou Holder, her favorite teacher and an Emmy Award-winning broadcast journalist, who introduced her to the PGCC dance program. “He inspires me to keep moving,” she said.

Thanks to supportive professors like Holder and Veiga, and programs like SAGE, PGCC is a welcoming community for seniors who want to live vibrant and active lives.

Dr. Sherelle R. Williams

Published January 23, 2025

In the dynamic world of film and television production, few have as extensive and diverse an impact as Dr. Sherelle R. Williams. With over 25 years of experience in the industry, Dr. Williams has shaped the landscape of media production and invested her expertise in the classroom to inspire and guide the next generation of storytellers.

As an Associate Professor at Prince George’s Community College (PGCC), Dr. Williams teaches mass communication, media studies, and film and video production courses. Her wealth of experience spans from producing and directing television programs to consulting for nonprofit organizations and educational institutions. However, her passion for educating and mentoring students truly stands out.

“I decided to teach at PGCC when I changed from working in corporate America to the academic sector,” Dr. Williams said. “I was born and raised on a college campus at Tuskegee University, so I was familiar and comfortable with the academic setting. I wanted to follow in my parents' footsteps to become a professor, and PGCC gave me the opportunity to begin my career in higher education. My chair and fellow faculty members were very welcoming and guided me in my new profession.”

Her courses—ranging from Television Production I and II to Digital Video Editing—bring real-world experience to the classroom, providing students with practical and inspiring insights. Dr. Williams’s expertise isn’t just limited to theory; she has hands-on experience in the field, having worked as a producer, cinematographer, and editor on various projects, including documentaries, commercials, and PSAs. This rich background allows her to teach students how to apply classroom knowledge in real production environments.

“I try to bring information from my professional experience into the classroom,” Dr. Williams said. “This helps students connect textbook knowledge to real-world practices. I also assist them in finding internship opportunities where they can gain valuable hands-on experience. When possible, I invite students to join me on productions outside of PGCC, allowing them to observe and participate in the creative process.”

Dr. Williams’ influence extends beyond the classroom. She is deeply invested in her students' academic and professional growth, offering mentorship and guidance on career development. “I love helping students find their voice and share their stories,” Dr. Williams said. “I’ve even had students who started in unrelated majors switch to Mass Communications after taking my courses. It’s incredibly fulfilling to witness that kind of transformation.”

In addition to her work at the College, Dr. Williams teaches Digital Cinematography as an adjunct at Bowie State University. One project she is especially proud of is the short film Shutter, created by her students. The class worked collaboratively to bring the film to life, and their dedication paid off when they won second place in the 2024 #HBCU Reel Awards in Washington, D.C.

“Seeing my students come together to create Shutter and watching their hard work rewarded with recognition at the HBCU Reel Awards was incredibly gratifying,” Dr. Williams said. “That’s what it’s all about—helping students hone their skills, find their passion, and make meaningful contributions to the world of media.”

For Dr. Williams, filmmaking is more than just a profession; it is a calling. “Although I am an educator first and foremost, I am a filmmaker at heart,” Dr. Williams said. “I love creating content that tells compelling stories, and I want my students to learn the technical skills and discover their own creative voices. I hope to inspire them to create quality content that speaks to the world.”

As Dr. Williams continues to inspire and mentor her students, it’s clear that her legacy is one of empowerment—both through education and through the art of storytelling. Her work reflects a commitment to excellence in media production and a dedication to shaping the industry's future by fostering the talents of tomorrow’s creators.