Welcome New Firebirds!
We're thrilled to welcome new Firebirds to the Firebird community.
We're thrilled to welcome new Firebirds to the Firebird community.
Rhonda BowmanAdministrative Staff Assistant
College of Arts and Sciences
Rhonda Bowman is an administrative professional with more than 10 years of experience in higher education and government services. She previously served with the District of Columbia government and UDC’s Academic Resource Center. Bowman holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Trinity Washington University and is pursuing a master’s degree in leadership and organizational management.
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Unique Johnson Public Safety Dispatcher
Office of Public Safety and Emergency Services
Unique Johnson is a public service professional with more than 15 years of experience in law enforcement. A Washington, D.C., native, she holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and a master’s degree in human services.
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Jaleya LeonardExecutive Director
Human Resources
Jaleya Leonard brings 14+ years of progressive HR leadership in operations, compliance, talent acquisition and organizational development. A native of Washington, DC, she holds a Master's in Administration from Trinity Washington University. The proud mother of one son, she enjoys reading, volunteering and has a passion for people-centered leadership grounded in purpose.
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Carlos PuertaApplications Integration Analyst
Office of Information Technology
Carlos Puerta is a technology professional focused on designing and implementing solutions that empower people and strengthen organizations. Originally from Cali, Colombia, Puerta attended the University of Maryland, College Park, where he received a master's degree in data science and a bachelor's degree in psychology.
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Lisa RobinsonSenior Communications Associate
Office of Marketing and Communications
Lisa Clayton Robinson is a mission-driven writer and editor who served as the longtime writer in the office of Children’s Defense Fund President Emerita Marian Wright Edelman and most recently as a senior writer and editor at Symphonic Strategies. She is originally from Massachusetts and is the parent of three young adult children.
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Jamilia B. ShipmanDirector of Alumni Relations
Office of Institutional Advancement
Jamilia B. Shipman, CFRE, brings extensive experience in alumni engagement, philanthropy, nonprofit management and higher education advancement. Shipman holds a master’s degree in philanthropy and development from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota and a bachelor’s degree in communication studies from Christopher Newport University.
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Gregory SmithPublic Safety Service Desk Technician
Office of Information Technology
Originally from Prince George's County, Maryland, Greg Smith has a background in network infrastructure and cybersecurity. He is a proud brother of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., by way of the Delta Mu Chapter at Bowie State University, and is passionate about the continued growth and advancement of HBCUs. Outside of work, Greg is a musician with experience in piano and marching percussion, enjoys photography and cars and is committed to giving back through community service.
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Samuel Van HornProject Assistant for Soilless Systems
College of Agriculture, Urban Sustainability and Environmental Sciences (CAUSES)
Sam Van Horn advances sustainable food systems through climate-smart agriculture and nutrition-focused solutions. He oversees all soilless farming operations—including hydroponics, aquaponics and aquaculture—at Firebird Research Farm and UDC’s Urban Food Hubs, supporting innovative urban food production and community health.
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Aubrey YeboahProgram Manager
Title III
Aubrey Yeboah builds strategic partnerships, develops impactful marketing campaigns and leads programs that drive meaningful results. He holds an MBA in international business from Fort Hays State University and a degree in marketing and business management from Winston-Salem State University. His experience spans workforce development, higher education, entrepreneurship and community engagement.
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Briana ButlerStudent Life and Services Specialist
Student Development Services
Briana Butler, M.S., is a higher education administrator, educator and student success advocate dedicated to leadership development, financial empowerment and student engagement. A proud Morgan State University alumna, she is committed to creating transformative learning experiences and developing future leaders through service, scholarship and mentorship.
View ProfileHerbert HoldenCulinary and Nutrition Education Assistant
College of Agriculture, Urban Sustainability and Environmental Sciences (CAUSES)
Herbert Holden is passionate about nutrition, wellness and healthy cooking. Through education and community outreach, he promotes healthy eating habits guided by the philosophy of using food as medicine and medicine as food.
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Robert MaguireDirector of Marketing
Office of Marketing and Communications
Rob Maguire is a marketing and creative strategist with extensive experience in branding, communications and digital engagement. He founded StudioRMD and has spent more than 20 years helping organizations connect with their audiences. Maguire believes great marketing starts with listening and succeeds by earning trust.
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Romie PrinceVice President
Facilities and Real Estate Management
Romie Prince is a facilities and real estate leader with more than 25 years of experience in campus operations, construction and infrastructure management. He is committed to enhancing facilities, driving innovation and creating efficient, sustainable environments that support institutional success.
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