The Josephs: Like Mother, Like Daughter

It is not unusual for parents and children to share an alma mater, but it is extraordinary when they share a graduation day. On May 19, 1984, Elsie Joseph and her daughter, Michele Joseph, both walked across The Catholic University of America’s graduation stage, Elsie receiving her Doctor of Arts in English and Michele earning her Bachelor of Science in biology. Their journey is one of perseverance, family, and a deep love of learning.

Elsie’s Journey to Catholic University

A lifelong Catholic from Trinidad and Tobago, Elsie was always an avid reader. Although she originally planned to study physical geography, she acquired a love for teaching and literature during her undergraduate years at Howard University. This led her to major in English and launch a long career in the classroom.

Years later, Elsie started the journey of pursuing her doctorate at Catholic University by taking one course a semester while working as a teacher, tutor, and real estate agent and taking care of her family. Her work ethic had a profound impact on Michele, who remembers the hours her mother spent studying at the library. Sometimes, Michele would even attend class with her. “I used to think she was a human dictionary,” she recalled.

“I was inspired by many, but my faith in God and encouragement from my husband helped me to achieve my life-long goal,” Elsie shared when recounting the 20-year pursuit of her doctorate and the support she had from her spouse, Kelvin. “I am one of 15 children, and the only one to achieve a doctorate degree. My desire for excellence motivated a generation!”

Michele Paved Her Own Path

After high school, Michele, who grew up in the DMV area, made the decision to stay in Washington, D.C. and attend Catholic University for her undergraduate degree in biology. “Catholic University gave me a great foundation, a good education, and friendships that I’ve kept for 50 years,” she shared.

A bright, passionate, and curious student, Michele wasted no time in getting involved. She was the junior princess for homecoming, the president of the Biology Club, and a member of what is now the Black Student Alliance.

The intersection of social justice and science intrigued Michele. She organized an event that explored the question, “how do we use science to solve issues, bring an end to poverty, or expand access to education?" This experience ultimately planted the seed for her to found the Student Global Ambassador Program (SGAP Leaders) organization in 2016. Under her leadership, the program supports underserved 13- to 18-year-olds and helps them gain skills through the lens of STEM, sustainability, and social justice.

Revisiting Graduation Day

“It was a happy coincidence,” Elsie shared when talking about graduating at the same time as her daughter.

“Seeing my mom graduate was powerful for me,” Michele recounted. After her own ceremony in front of the Basilica of the National Shrine, she raced to see her mother walk across the stage. When “Dr. Elsie Joseph” came over the loud speakers, Michele couldn’t help but cheer in support. “I thought, look at how she worked her entire life.”

“As a first generation Trinidad-American, I am honored to be an alumna of The Catholic University of America,” Elsie said. “As a Roman Catholic, I thank God for the opportunities and the grace to be able to see the growth and development of a University dear to my heart.”