“I had Kamau when I was 17 years old. We did not have a lot of people that supported me having him so young. I was told that I would never graduate from high school, let alone college,” Thomas said. “I was told I was going to ruin his life. So, it really gives me a lot of strength that we are here together.”

Now 35, Thomas’ higher education experience is extra memorable as she graduated from GSU on the same weekend as her son, Kamau Gomes. Thomas jumped on her job’s tuition reimbursement program, majored in marketing and minored in hospitality at GSU.

“They only cover certain schools in the university system. So, it was either Georgia State or UGA. I had to make a choice, and I wanted to do in-person classes, so Georgia State was a natural choice for me. It’s just fate,” she said. “I am a marketing major and hospitality minor. My path is going to be more service marketing. I know one thing is for certain I want to be a good role model for him.”

Gomes graduated with his associate degree from DeKalb County Early College Academy and dual enrolled at Georgia State University. He plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in psychology and exercise in sports science at GSU.

“I don’t think there are words to capture the amount of pride and just humility and love I have for this experience. Honestly, if there was a lifetime of living this one moment, that would be enough,” Thomas said.

Although Gomes and his mother took no classes together, they received a scholarship. He was awarded the Gates scholarship with $1,000 toward tuition.

“This was so spontaneous,” Gomes said. “This really was a coincidence, but I am appreciative of it. I am grateful for it.”

Congratulations to them on this special moment!