Meet the Voices of Manor College’s 2025 Graduating Class

Posted on

These are some of the graduates who will receive their diploma on May 15. 

Every year, Manor College is honored to profile several of our upcoming graduates. Here are the nine soon-to-be alumni that we featured this year. 

Nicolas Altomare

Philadelphia – New Foundations Charter High School

Bachelor’s Degree, Child Development

After being diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome in fifth grade, Nicolas Altomare faced academic and social challenges but found support that helped him grow—especially at Manor College. Now graduating with a degree in Child Development, he aims to help children access the resources he wishes he’d had earlier.

READ THE STORY

 

Kimberly Alfaro Jimenez

Philadelphia – Academy at Palumbo

Associate’s Degree, Public Policy

Despite facing financial struggles, motherhood, and a pandemic-related pause, Kimberly Alfaro Jimenez persevered to earn her Associate’s Degree in Public Policy from Manor College. A former hospital worker who once helped a Colombian family by translating in Spanish, her passion for advocacy was deeply personal. Now preparing for law school, she hopes to use her experiences to fight for families like hers and encourages others to pursue their goals no matter the obstacles.

READ THE STORY

 

Jessie Dupre

Philadelphia – Swenson Arts and Technology HS

Bachelor’s Degree, Criminal Justice

Inspired by a powerful crime documentary, Jessie Dupre found her calling in criminal justice and will graduate from Manor College this May with a mission to protect vulnerable children. A once-quiet commuter student, she grew into a campus leader through support from faculty like Mary Sims. Now preparing to work as a Correctional Officer, Dupre is determined to create change in the system—and credits Manor for helping her believe in her own potential.

READ THE STORY

 

Kareem Haines

Philadelphia – Bishop McDevitt High School

Bachelor’s Degree, Computer and Information Systems

Once a self-described pessimist, Kareem Haines found confidence and purpose during his time at Manor College, transforming into an optimistic leader through his internship in the IT department. On May 15, he graduates with a degree in Computer and Information Systems—and just four days later, he’ll begin his new role as a Systems Administrator at Manor. Fueled by mentorship, family support, and a commitment to living life fully, Haines is ready for his next chapter.

READ THE STORY

 

Kaitlin Jefferson

Philadelphia

Associate’s Degree, Business Administration

As a first-generation college student, Kaitlin Jefferson embraced the challenge of leaving home to find her independence at Manor College. Graduating with an Associate’s Degree in Business Administration, she plans to return in the fall to pursue her bachelor’s. Inspired by her mother’s selfless example and supported by mentors like Dr. Parisnicole Payton, Jefferson is building a future in human resources—and encourages others to grow by stepping beyond their comfort zones.

READ THE STORY

 

Kimone Morris-Grey

Jamaica

Bachelor’s Degree, Business Administration

Kimone Morris-Grey brought the nurturing, service-driven spirit of her native Jamaica to the U.S., where she found a similar sense of community at Manor College. When a medical emergency forced her to stop working, the school’s SAFE Fund allowed her to continue her education and earn degrees in Healthcare Administration and Management. Now, with dreams of starting her own family and business, Morris-Grey is ready to transition from hands-on newborn care to a more balanced life—thanks to the support she found at Manor.

READ THE STORY

 

Rocio Rodriguez

Philadelphia, Olney High School

Bachelor’s Degree, Liberal Studies

After losing her father in high school, Rocio Rodriguez ’13 stepped up to help run her family’s grocery store while finishing school and caring for her siblings. She later earned her Associate’s Degree from Manor College, juggling classes, volleyball, and multiple jobs—then returned to Manor as a Financial Aid Counselor. Now preparing to graduate with her Bachelor’s Degree while six months pregnant, she’s motivated by her daughter Elena, who insists on watching her mom walk the stage once more.

READ THE STORY

 

Afreen Snaha

Philadelphia, School Lane Charter High School

Associate’s Degree, EFDA

Afreen Snaha came to Manor College in 2022 with the dream of helping children feel comfortable at the dentist, inspired by her own childhood experiences. Three years later, she’s earning her Associate’s Degree in Expanded Functions Dental Assisting and stepping directly into a job with her mentor, Dr. Vibha Bellary. Backed by her parents’ sacrifices and her own determination, Snaha is ready to make a meaningful impact in the dental field—one smile at a time.

READ THE STORY

 

Yorlenny Vaca Lazo

Philadelphia, Swenson Arts and Technology High School

Bachelor’s Degree, Swenson Arts and Technology High School

After surviving years of abuse and harassment, Yorlenny Vaca Lazo found the courage to seek help—and the support she needed—through Manor College. With guidance from professors like Mary Sims and Doruntina Ukella-Rukiqi, she turned her pain into purpose, graduating this May with a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice and serving as Commencement Speaker. Now working as a paralegal, Vaca Lazo is determined to advocate for others facing domestic violence, becoming the strong support system she once needed herself.

READ THE STORY

 

Meet Our Graduates
More on Commencement 2025
More on Manor College