Dr. Foday Kamara will never forget the day he landed in New York City from Liberia: Feb. 4, 1999. Then 15 years old, he went from second grade back home to ninth grade in the United States — and passed every class. 

“For me, it’s all about discipline,” says Dr. Kamara, who owns a commercial cleaning business. “It’s not how you start but how you finish.” 

That drive and determination led him to Wilmington University, where he recently graduated with a doctorate in Prevention Science. 

Human Rights Education 

“I believe that I became a better scholar and a better professional through this program,” Dr. Kamara says. “I think the skill sets and the knowledge I gained over the last three years will really help me change lives and help women around the globe.”  

Inspired by his wife and female relatives, he’s organizing a nonprofit to support women who’ve suffered human rights violations. 

“Dr. Kamara brings an international lens to prevention science and the power of personal experience with trauma,” says Dr. Debra Berke, director of WilmU’s Psychology programs and Center for Prevention Science. “His insights, both personal and professional, plus his passion for promoting well-being for individuals and communities, will advance the field and contribute to the greater good globally.” 

Dr. Kamara calls Dr. Berke “incredible” and says, “Without her support, I would probably give up on this journey.” 

Social Science Education 

A member of Pi Gamma Mu, an international honor society for social sciences, Dr. Kamara also earned an M.S. in Homeland Security from WilmU’s College of Social and Behavioral Sciences. He appreciates the University’s flexible scheduling, accredited academics and dedicated faculty. 

“They are some of the best educators that any university can have,” Dr. Kamara says. “It was the best decision for me, and I definitely recommend this program, this university to anyone. It’s a wonderful institution.”