May 21, 2025

By Louis Huler

Orcel Kounga, current director of admissions at the Drexel College of Medicine, Tower Health Campus, will address the graduate class of 2025 at the School of Education’s commencement ceremony. The longtime dragon, having received his bachelor’s degree from Drexel years ago, will receive his EdD in Educational Leadership and Management on June 11th, as he continues his pattern of excellence as both a student and teacher. As the day of commencement approaches, Kounga reflects on his path to get to this day and his hopes for his fellow graduates as they leave the classroom behind.

What does it mean for you to be able to address the class of 2025?

It’s an incredibly humbling experience, and I’ll be forever grateful for the opportunity. When I first arrived at Drexel as a wide-eyed freshman in 2012, I could have never imagined standing here today, delivering this address. I hope my words resonate with the graduating class, their families and guests, as well as our faculty, staff, and my colleagues.

How has Drexel prepared you for your future?

Drexel didn’t just prepare me—it transformed me. Through rigorous coursework, mentorship, and opportunities to lead and serve, Drexel equipped me with the tools to think critically, act ethically, and lead boldly. Whether it was navigating educational policy, building inclusive student programs, or challenging systemic inequities, Drexel gave me both the framework and the freedom to evolve as a scholar-practitioner.

What are some of the big lessons you learned, either about yourself or through the coursework, during your time at Drexel?

One major lesson: resilience is not just about surviving, but about thriving with purpose. I learned that leadership isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about asking the right questions and creating space for others. The coursework taught me how to connect theory to practice, and perhaps most importantly, I learned that we are not just students of education—we are stewards of change.

Which faculty and/or staff members helped you along your educational journey that you would like to recognize?

Dr. Betts, for sharpening my thinking, elevating my writing, and expanding my vision for professional development. Dr. Kiosoglous, who chaired my committee with wisdom, grace, and unrelenting support through every chapter of my dissertation. Dr. Hill and Dr. Grant, for always providing a framework that brought clarity to complexity—turning theory into action. Dr. Levine, who rekindled and deepened my passion for policy—always challenging me to see the broader implications of our work.

What most excites you about post grad life?

What excites me most is the opportunity to multiply impact. Whether it's shaping future medical professionals, crafting student experiences, or influencing policy—I’m energized by the chance to take what I’ve learned and use it to serve communities, uplift institutions, and pave the way for the next generation of changemakers.

Now that you’ve reached graduation, if you had to give a message to someone deciding whether or not to pursue higher education, what would you say?

Do it. Not just for the degree—but for your growth. Higher education is a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and empowerment. It’s hard, yes—but it's also profoundly rewarding. You won’t just learn content—you’ll learn who you are, what you stand for, and how you can change the world. And trust me—there is no substitute for that kind of transformation.