Graduate Spotlight: Elijah Jordan

Elijah Jordan '26

When Elijah Jordan first connected with Bowie State University, it was through the football recruiting process. He immediately felt a strong sense of belonging and purpose that compelled him to enroll, and even after shifting his focus away from athletics, his connection to Bowie State University remains strong. Jordan is now graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Health Services Administration and is actively pursuing physician assistant programs. He plans to eventually enlist in the United States Air Force.

Originally from New York City, Jordan stood out as a football player, and that initial visit to campus revealed something more than an athletic opportunity.

"The family atmosphere and camaraderie here, I couldn't deny it," he said. "I definitely saw myself excelling and doing great things here."

His decision to study health services administration was rooted in personal experience. Growing up in New York City, Jordan witnessed disparities in healthcare that shaped his desire to pursue meaningful change.

"People often say that Black men and women don't like going to hospitals and clinics. There's a lot of truth in that... I saw it growing up," he said. "I believe as a health services administrator, I will be able to fix the problems within the facilities and clinics internally."

When he arrived at Bowie State, Jordan described himself as shy, reserved and hesitant to speak publicly. Through his academic and extracurricular experiences, he developed confidence in communication and leadership.

"I used to be really scared and nervous to speak," he said. "But at Bowie State, I was fortunate enough to be put into positions where I had to speak up - I was basically thrown into a fire. As a health services administration major, you have to present a lot. That's something that has really helped me."

Impact of the Bowie State Experience

Jordan credits Bowie State for helping him grow both professionally and personally. He served as vice president of Alpha Chi Honor Society, where he helped organize professionalism workshops, provide free headshots and distribute scholarships to students in need.

He also gained hands-on experience as a federal policy research analyst with WE ACT for Environmental Justice in Harlem, New York, where he tracked environmental disparities in urban communities. These opportunities strengthened his leadership, research and analytical skills while deepening his commitment to equity in healthcare systems.

After graduation, Jordan plans to enlist in the United States Air Force, where he will build his career in health services administration while continuing to advocate for equitable treatment within healthcare systems.

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