Posted May 8, 2025 — Their journeys began around the globe — born in India, England, Houston and beyond — and their families hail from Vietnam, Mexico, El Salvador and America. They all landed at the University of Houston College of Education, pursuing careers as teachers and health specialists, and they now share a remarkable achievement: earning perfect GPAs.

During the spring 2025 graduation ceremony Thursday evening, the College will honor six undergraduates who earned 4.0 grade point averages at UH and receive the ceremonial title of banner bearer.

“I used to believe I couldn’t succeed in school, but I’ve learned that success comes from hard work, self-belief and the willingness to take risks — whether that’s asking a professor to repeat something or proposing your own ideas for a project,” said Suma Chilukuri, a mother of two from India who’s graduating at the top of her class with a bachelor’s degree in teaching and learning.

Chilukuri joins about 470 undergraduate and graduate students crossing the stage at Fertitta Center, marking a milestone as they go on to work at schools, colleges, health care centers, businesses, nonprofits and more.

“For some families, graduation is a first-time-ever event; for others, it continues a family tradition over generations,” said Dean Cathy Horn. “To all who are part of this incredible journey — family, friends and the graduates themselves — we celebrate you, honor you and thank you for your dedication and persistence.”

Learn more about the College’s top undergraduates and their secrets to success in the following Q&A.

Ingrid Amaya Reyes

B.S. in Health, Minor in Psychology
Spring 2025 Graduate

Please share a little about yourself and your background.

I was born in a small town named Victoria, Texas, but moved to Houston when I was about 4 years old. I am a first-generation college student — both of my parents immigrated from El Salvador in search of a better future. I come from a family of six, being the middle child out of four siblings, and we all share different outlooks on our lives. As a young girl, I loved going to school as my parents taught me the value of having an education. With the love, sacrifice and support of my family, I dedicate all of my accomplishments throughout my academic career to them.

What drew you to apply to the University of Houston, and what sparked your interest in your major?

I chose the University of Houston because of how close it was to home. As someone who loves the city of Houston, I knew UH was the right school for me. I was drawn to the diversity and school spirit that the school has to offer. UH was one of the few universities that offered my major, Bachelor of Science in health with a concentration in public health. I decided to pursue my degree in health as I was fortunate enough to gain early exposure to the health care field at a young age. My passion for helping others make healthy choices to lead them to a better quality of life is the main reason why I want to go into the health field.

How did the College of Education help you feel more confident and prepared for your next chapter?

Every class I took taught me valuable lessons that continue to influence my daily life. From courses such as Introduction to Public Health to my internship course, I gained meaningful knowledge about my field and learned how to apply it to better myself. The College of Education has taught me to have a problem-solving mindset by preparing me to face any challenges I may encounter in the health care field.

Were there any College of Education professors or advisors who made a lasting impact on you?

My advisor, Emma Morales, did an amazing job preparing my time here at UH. As a transfer student, she did an excellent job at mapping out my classes and making sure I was comfortable with the course load I was taking each semester. Professors such as Dr. Jennifer Farmer, Dr. Chakema Carmack and Dr. Behjat Amirmohsen have impacted my passion for being more involved in public health. Each one of them brought a unique energy that sparked my excitement for public health. Their support, passion and teaching styles allowed me to obtain the best knowledge about the field.

What are your plans after graduation?

I will be attending Texas Woman’s University at the Houston campus to pursue my master’s in healthcare administration. I am excited to take this next step in my academic career towards my goal of becoming a hospital administrator for either Houston Methodist Hospital or Memorial Hermann Hospital. Additionally, I would love to go into global health to investigate health care delivery internationally. I am deeply passionate about making a meaningful impact both locally and globally.

What advice would you give future students who also want to graduate at the top of their class?

Use a planner! Staying organized is essential throughout college. Looking at each syllabus and keeping an eye on due dates is a major key to being successful. Every week, I always checked the syllabus for each one of my classes to ensure I was turning in my weekly assignments and highlighting any major papers or exams coming up. Something to prioritize is having a support system and self-care to ensure you have a balance of school and personal life to reduce burnout. Juggling through school can be difficult, but with a good weekly routine, anything is possible to be successful!

Suma Chilukuri

B.S. in Teaching and Learning
Spring 2025 Graduate

Please share a little about yourself and your background.

I was born and raised in India and moved to the United States with my husband in 2004. We are a family of four, and I’m the proud mother of two wonderful children. When I began my studies in the U.S., I faced challenges with language pronunciation and comprehension. To overcome this, I recorded my lectures, reviewed them at home, and asked my professors to repeat or slow down explanations when needed. Through persistence and dedication, I discovered that hard work truly pays off.

What drew you to apply to the University of Houston, and what sparked your interest in your major?

My educational journey began in architecture, but after my daughter was born, I became fascinated by early childhood development and inspired by how she learned. Growing up, I experienced a very teacher-centered system where students were ranked, and I was often at the bottom tier. Seeing how differently my daughter was learning sparked a desire in me to create a more student-centered, nurturing environment for children.

When I was considering colleges, friends spoke highly of the University of Houston for its diversity, inclusivity and hands-on learning. I applied and never looked back. The support, encouragement and high standards at UH helped me grow into a confident student who graduated with a 4.0 GPA at UH. Now, I hope to provide the same care and belief to my future students

How did the College of Education help you feel confident and prepared for your next chapter?

When I first started at UH, I felt unsure and unfamiliar with the teaching process. I’m naturally soft-spoken and was concerned about managing a classroom. But through my coursework and field experiences, I learned you don’t have to be loud to be effective — you just have to be intentional and impactful. UH taught me practical strategies for engaging students and supporting their diverse needs. The hands-on training, mentorship and encouragement I received helped me grow into the teacher I am today.

Were there any College of Education professors or advisors who made a lasting impact on you?

It’s difficult to name just one because I was supported by an incredible team of professors throughout my journey. That said, Dr. Justin Burris had a particularly profound impact. He was always available to answer questions — even on short notice — and took time to co-teach lessons with me. His guidance helped me build confidence and transition from theory to real-world teaching. He bridged the gap between the content I learned and adapting and applying it in the classroom, where true teaching begins.

What are your plans after graduation?

I’ve been offered a guaranteed teaching position in the school district where I’ve been training, and I’m excited to begin my career in the classroom. The foundation I built at UH has prepared me to face challenges with resilience and purpose. In a couple of years, I plan to return to UH to pursue graduate studies and continue growing as an educator.

What advice would you give future students who also want to graduate at the top of their class?

I used to believe I couldn’t succeed in school, but I’ve learned that success comes from hard work, self-belief and the willingness to take risks — whether that’s asking a professor to repeat something or proposing your own ideas for a project. Don’t be afraid to ask for help when needed. Stay persistent, be open to learning and believe you can overcome any challenge. If I can do it, so can you.

Nancy Fishbourne

B.S. in Teaching and Learning
Spring 2025 Graduate

Please share a little about yourself and your background.

I am a first-generation college student and have lived in Houston most of my life. I was born in England and moved to America with my mom, dad and sister in 2009. They have been my biggest support system throughout this journey.

What drew you to apply to the University of Houston, and what sparked your interest in your major?

I started off my college life at a different university, but I missed Houston and my family. I decided I wanted to move back and finish my degree at UH. I am so lucky to have grown up in a city with such an amazing university at its heart. I always knew I wanted to be a teacher, so much so that I even had my own play classroom where I would teach imaginary students as a kid. My family and I still giggle about those days. I once even had my mom take me to the teacher supply store to buy things for my “classroom.” I knew I was destined for a career in education and that I wanted to help shape the future!

How did the College of Education help you feel more confident and prepared for your next chapter?

The College of Education is a place of empowerment. I always felt like everyone, from advisors to professors, wanted me to succeed. I had the opportunity to serve on the Dean’s Student Advisory Council, where I got to be a voice for the student body. With every issue or idea, the dean was excited to work with us to make COE an even better place.

Were there any College of Education professors or advisors who made a lasting impact on you?

Every professor I have been lucky enough to learn from has positively impacted my life. Learning about education and what it takes to be a teacher is something that needs to be looked at from many different perspectives. The diversity of professors and their backgrounds in education has been a huge part of my experience at the University of Houston.

What are your plans after graduation?

After graduation, I will be attending Texas A&M University to pursue my master’s degree while also teaching in the elementary school setting.

What advice would you give future students who also want to graduate at the top of their class?

Be you! If you want to succeed, you will. Hard work and determination are all that it takes. It’s no secret that it’s a tough challenge, but is it a challenge if it’s not hard? Take each class with purpose, and always remember the journey is what you make it.

Ashley Kowalewski

B.S. in Teaching and Learning
Spring 2025 Graduate

Please share a little about yourself and your background.

I was born and raised in Houston, and I am incredibly proud to be graduating with the honor of summa cum laude. I have two younger sisters who are both currently attending Texas A&M University. I recently got married, and I can confidently say that I wouldn’t have made it through college without the continuous support of my husband and family. Their encouragement and love have been the foundation of my success.

What drew you to apply to the University of Houston, and what sparked your interest in your major?

I’ve always had a natural connection with kids and truly enjoyed being around them. Growing up, I spent a lot of time babysitting, lifeguarding, giving pitching lessons and even working at a daycare once I got older. Those experiences helped shape my passion for teaching and confirmed that education was the right path for me.

Although the University of Houston was not the first college I attended, I am grateful it is my last. It was actually my dad who introduced me to the University of Houston. He came across the teaching program and was really impressed with how well it was structured. After we looked into it together, we both felt it would be a great fit — and it absolutely was.

How did the College of Education help you feel more confident and prepared for your next chapter?

The University of Houston offers an AMAZING education program. The College of Education is filled with professors and mentors who genuinely care about your success as a future educator. Looking back at my time at UH, I can confidently say that the support, guidance and hands-on experience I received made all the difference. The program continually encouraged me to grow and not only prepared me academically, but also helped me develop the confidence, passion and resilience I need as I begin this chapter as a new teacher.

Were there any College of Education professors or advisors who made a lasting impact on you?

Two professors during my time in the College of Education really made a big impact on me and my experience studying to become a teacher: Dr. Heather Domjan and Dr. Justin Burris. Both of them went beyond teaching content — they shared real-life wisdom, offered encouragement and genuinely cared about everyone in class. Both professors took the time to get to know me and stay connected with how my educational journey was going. They consistently offered advice and a helping hand whenever I needed it. I’m incredibly grateful to have had them as mentors. Their guidance, support and passion for teaching has truly inspired me and has helped shape me into the person I am today.

What are your plans after graduation?

I have accepted a fifth grade math and science position from my former elementary school, Pecan Grove Elementary. I am super excited to join the team and utilize all the knowledge and skills that the University of Houston has provided me with!

What advice would you give future students who also want to graduate at the top of their class?

To future students: Never give up on your dreams because you can do it! Even when things get hard and stressful (and they will), keep pushing forward. Don’t forget to lean on your support system, friends, family and your UH professors — they truly are some of your greatest supporters.

Tiffany Thao Nguyen

B.S. in Health
Spring 2025 Graduate

Please share a little about yourself and your background.

I’m a first-generation, Vietnamese-American college student who grew up in Houston. Growing up, my family always encouraged me to try my best at everything I do. With their support, I’ve been able to get through the challenges I faced in college and reach graduation.

What drew you to apply to the University of Houston, and what sparked your interest in your major?

With a diverse range of students attending UH, I was drawn to the opportunity to hear about the different experiences of the people who would become my classmates. My interest in majoring in health stemmed from my childhood interest in health sciences. I would often go to appointments and translate the doctors’ and my grandparents’ words from English to Vietnamese (and vice versa). As I grew older, I saw how much my grandparents and parents relied on a combination of health practices — from Vietnamese-traditional medicine and Western medicine — to take care of their health, pushing me to pursue a major that delved into multidimensional aspects of health.

How did the College of Education help you feel more confident and prepared for your next chapter?

Looking back, the College of Education helped me learn about a broad variety of health-specific topics and prepared me to look ahead into what I plan to do after graduation. I’ve been able to delve into different specializations and career pathways during my time as a health major. Many of my professors at the College of Education provided me with many resources and advice about graduate school.

Were there any College of Education professors or advisors who made a lasting impact on you?

I would like to thank the faculty and the advising team who helped me navigate through college. I am thankful to all my professors who have taught me about important topics within health. I am especially thankful to Dr. Ken Ripperger-Suhler, Dr. Theresa Fedor-Amador, and (student success coach) Ms. Laura Lee for helping me with my graduate school applications, providing me with valuable advice and giving me some laughs along the way.

What are your plans after graduation?

After I graduate, I plan to attend graduate school in the fall of 2025.

What advice would you give future students who also want to graduate at the top of their class?

Find a method that works for you to manage your assignments, don’t hesitate to ask for help, get to know your classmates, and get to know your professors during office hours.

Bianca Silva

B.S. in Teaching and Learning
Spring 2025 Graduate

Please share a little about yourself and your background.

I am a first-generation student that is proud of my Mexican heritage. I have a 4-year-old son, whom I love dearly. I loved school growing up so much that after school I would come home to teach my stuffed animals the things I learned in class. I grew up in a small town outside of Houston.

What drew you to apply to the University of Houston, and what sparked your interest in your major?

I have always looked up to the amazing educators I had all throughout my educational career. From a very young age, I was inspired to share the knowledge that was passed on to me from my teachers. The classroom environment, nurturing of youth and the fascinating topics I experienced in school left an everlasting impression on me and my goals. Attending the University of Houston was a no-brainer for me as it was close to home but also has an amazing education program.

How did the College of Education help you feel more confident and prepared for your next chapter?

My professors provided me with meaningful teachings, skills and perceptions that have given me so much insight into how to manage my classroom and future instruction. My student teaching experiences gave me the opportunity to practice what I have been taught in a real job setting. I am very grateful for my teachers and site coordinator for giving me the proper support and tools in my time pursuing a degree.

Were there any College of Education professors or advisors who made a lasting impact on you?

Dr. Justin Burris was absolutely instrumental in my teaching psychology and incredibly influential to me during my time at the University of Houston. He provided me with insightful personal experiences, was very considerate of my personal obligations outside of college, and was someone I could look up to as a teaching role model. I would like to thank him for constantly supporting me and providing positive feedback and words of encouragement.

What are your plans after graduation?

After graduation, I am going to move into the education world as an elementary school teacher. Finally, I will achieve my lifelong dream to become an inspiring educator for the next generation. Eventually, I intend to come back to attain my master’s degree in education.

What advice would you give future students who also want to graduate at the top of their class?

“Querer es poder.” This Spanish saying roughly translates to “Where there is a will, there is a way.” It was difficult to balance my education and motherhood, but I knew that with determination and hard work I could accomplish this goal for my son and my family. Remember to work hard for what you want, be brave and enjoy the journey while it lasts.

—By Ericka Mellon

—Photos courtesy of the graduating students