In 2026, nine Misongi alumni completed their university studies at institutions in the United States, marking a new chapter in academic journeys shaped by higher education, academic excellence and engagement.
From computer science and psychology to physics, economics, biology and urban planning, Maxwell Kumbong, Kelly Eta, Iris Fokam, Glory Divine Yougang Tahon, Samuel Nkengla, Tameh Davis, Sarah Dané Taïwé, Marianne Ngo Bapa and Bernard Wongibe reflect the diversity of the Misongi Class of 2026.
For some, graduation marks the beginning of their first full-time professional experience. For others, their academic journey continues through further studies.
Nine Graduates, Nine Academic Journeys
At Macalester College, Iris Fokam Signe earned a Bachelor’s degree in Data Science. Beyond her academic work, she was actively involved in campus life, notably as Co-Manager of the African Music Ensemble. She also received a $10,000 Projects for Peace grant to develop her Music for Peace project in Cameroon.
At Columbia University, Kelly Eta earned a Master of Science in Urban Planning after previously completing a Bachelor of Arts in Geography at Macalester College. His journey allowed him to develop expertise in spatial data analysis and urban development, skills he now applies professionally in New York City.
Glory Divine Yougang Tahon graduated from Smith College with a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and Psychology. During her journey, she also developed Educate Young Girls, an organization dedicated to supporting girls’ education, reproductive health and greater independence in Cameroon.
Discover how Misongi supports students as they prepare for their journey through higher education.
From Science and Technology to Community Engagement
A graduate of Amherst College in Biology and Computer Science, Samuel Nkengla built an interdisciplinary academic journey combining life sciences and computing. He worked as a Research Intern at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and received a Projects for Peace grant for an initiative supporting internally displaced women in Cameroon.
At Vanderbilt University, Tameh Davis earned a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Applied Mathematics. After gaining experience in the technology sector, including a Software Engineering internship at Duolingo, he joined Bloomberg in New York City as a full-time Software Engineer.
Maxwell Kumbong graduated from Swarthmore College with a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and Economics. Throughout his journey, he developed his technical skills through communities including CodePath and ColorStack and completed an internship at Duolingo. Following graduation, he continued his professional journey with the company as a Software Engineer.
From Scientific Research to Further Studies
At Williams College, Sarah Dané Taïwé earned a Bachelor of Arts in Physics and Economics. Her university experience combined scientific research with campus leadership and music. Following graduation, she continued her academic journey by pursuing a PhD in Physics at Brandeis University.
Also graduating from Williams College, Bernard Wongibe earned a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science. During his studies, he gained experience in research and cybersecurity, including a Software Engineering internship at the Institute for Human and Machine Cognition and work in cybersecurity.
These journeys show that graduation is not simply an ending, but a transition toward new opportunities — from entering the professional world and pursuing further studies to conducting research and developing projects with meaningful impact.
A Class of 2026 Reflecting Misongi’s Values
Despite the diversity of their disciplines and universities, the nine graduates of the Misongi Class of 2026 share a common drive: making the most of the opportunities offered by higher education to develop their skills and gradually build their professional or academic futures.
Their journeys also reflect the values at the heart of Misongi: teamwork, integrity, excellence and service. From community engagement and research projects to entrepreneurship and early professional experiences, several of these alumni have used their skills to create an impact beyond their own academic journeys. These four values are also highlighted in Misongi’s 2026 Summer Newsletter.
With their graduation in 2026, Maxwell, Kelly, Iris, Glory, Samuel, Davis, Sarah, Marianne and Bernard are now beginning a new chapter in their journeys.
Discover the full Misongi Class of 2026 report
Explore the achievements, journeys, and next steps of our nine graduates in the complete report : Download the Full Report (PDF)
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