Happy Mother’s Day! Celebrating the Resilience of the Class of 2026 Moms

While the 167th Commencement Ceremony celebrated the achievements of the entire Class of 2026, for a specific group of women, this accomplishment represented an even greater feat of endurance. These graduates navigated challenging academic demands while managing the responsibilities of motherhood. For them, this degree is a testament to the resilience required to thrive in both worlds.

We sat down with five extraordinary graduates from the Class of 2026 to discuss how a village of support and a growth mindset allowed them to turn their academic ambitions into a reality.

The Graduates

Danielle Evans-Clan ’26, Mom of Benjamin (2)
Master of Arts in Communication
Knight School of Communication

How has this experience changed the way you see yourself — as a mom, a student, a professional?

Nikel: It showed me that I’m very resilient and that I’m dedicated… it just definitely showed me that I’m more capable than I thought I was. That gives me more motivation now that I have my daughter, Kawaii.

Mikayla: My time at Queens has showed me that I’m resilient and dedicated. I’ve learned that I’m more capable of succeeding in whatever I put my mind to. Earning my degree gives me the motivation to keep moving forward, especially now that I have my son.

Kendra: This journey was a reminder that we are constantly evolving — not just as humans, but specifically as women and mothers. It proves that we truly can have it all. You don’t have to choose; you can pursue a meaningful career while being fully present for your family and everything else that matters to you.

Tyrajah: This experience has been a total shift in my self-perception. I’ve found a new confidence in my voice and my leadership, and I no longer see myself as someone just ‘getting through’ the day. Today, I see a woman who is capable, disciplined, and deeply purpose-driven.

Danielle: I honestly feel proud of myself. I know the effort and hours I put into my program, the late nights and early mornings to meet midnight deadlines. After nearly a decade out of college, I was nervous to begin the program and had to learn what it was like to be a student again. Yet now I feel more capable, knowledgeable, and confident in myself, my skills, and my abilities than I ever have.

Did you feel supported throughout your educational journey at Queens?

Nikel: The support from the entire program was incredible. From my classmates to my professors, everyone was behind me. When my teachers would immediately ask, ‘Oh, let me see the baby!’ it really proved how supportive and understanding the environment at Queens is. It made all the difference in my journey.

Mikayla: Queens allowed me to be a student and a mom all at the same time. From celebrating my engagement to meeting my newborn, my classmates and faculty were an incredible support system. I never had to hide my life to pursue my degree; they were right there cheering me on through every milestone.

Kendra: The support I received was very intentional. My advisor was so thoughtful in helping me balance my schedule, and when I faced obstacles, like the day my sitter was late, Dr. Sparks met me with such warmth. Leading with authenticity didn’t hinder my progress; it actually created the space for a deeper, more meaningful connection with my professors.

Tyrajah: The faculty at Queens recognizes that graduate students are balancing real-world responsibilities. That culture of understanding made all the difference. My peers were equally supportive. We always found ways to coordinate our schedules so that everyone could work together.

Danielle: Absolutely. I always felt supported as a mother and a student in the program. In addition, as a staff member at Queens, I am extremely grateful to my colleagues in Queens’ advancement department for cheering me on throughout this adventure.

What would you say to another mom who is thinking about going back to school?

Nikel: Don’t doubt yourself. Bringing a child into this world takes incredible strength. If you can do that, you can do anything else you put your mind to. You are more capable than you know.

Mikayla: Don’t wait — just do it. It’s the hard work and the sacrifices that make the degree so rewarding. The fact that it isn’t easy is exactly why it’s so impactful.

Kendra: My message to other moms is simple: do it scared. Move forward even when you’re uncertain. There is something incredibly powerful about sitting at the kitchen table and doing your homework right alongside your kids. Don’t wait, just do it.

Tyrajah: My advice to any mom is this: don’t wait for the perfect time, because it doesn’t exist. Life is always changing, but that shouldn’t stop you from pursuing your goals. You can reach the finish line, no matter what stage of motherhood you are in.

Danielle: It will challenge you in ways you don’t expect, but the sense of accomplishment you’ll feel at the end is worth it.

What’s next for you?

Nikel: I’m going to take some time to settle into this new chapter before diving into the next professional chapter. I’m just going to go with the flow.

Mikayla: I am profoundly grateful for the experience I had at Queens. I truly love this program and will advocate for it to anyone who will listen. For now, I’m soaking in the quiet moments. I’m going to spend some time relaxing, reflecting on how far I’ve come, and just taking it all in.

Kendra: My MBA marks an intentional shift in my professional journey. Having spent years in accounting, I reached a point where I wanted to expand my horizons and explore a different direction. This degree is the bridge to the new opportunities I see on the horizon.

Tyrajah: I’m transitioning into brand management to help brands tell better stories and build deeper relationships with their communities. I’m also excited to continue scaling my event planning ventures, bringing a strategic and creative edge to everything I build.

Danielle: I am so happy that I got to experience the Queens education for myself. This was an enriching experience that I truly believe will open doors for me. It’s rekindled my love of learning, sparked an interest in research that I hope to explore one day, and given me a sense of accomplishment and motivation. I’m so proud to be a Royal — staff and alumna!