Graduate Spotlight: Jose-Angel Stephen-Herman

Name: Jose Angel Stephen-Herman, class of 2025
Major: Health and Exercise Science/Physical Education

Favorite SOU experience: Joining SOU Football as an assistant coach and getting the chance to watch a good friend, fellow coach, and UCAM coach go undefeated during their women’s basketball regular season. That was an unforgettable ride and a true example of the power of belief, unity, and leadership.

Plans after graduation: I plan to continue working with SOU Athletics while actively seeking the next opportunity to coach and contribute at a higher level. The goal is to grow both personally and professionally, and to always elevate those around me.

Three words You Associate With UCAM: Reliable, Supportive, Team

Greatest challenge during college and how you overcame it: My biggest challenge came after battling COVID and enduring an extensive hospital stay. It was one of the lowest and most uncertain points of my life. But through grit, faith, and relentless self-development, I found my way back — not just to who I was before, but into who I was meant to become. That experience shaped my mindset and solidified my purpose.

What you learned in UCAM that you’ll carry forward: UCAM gave me space to breathe, time to figure things out, and reminded me that I’m not alone in this. They treated me like I belonged from day one and never let me forget that I had something to offer. The support I received—from academic guidance to simply having a space where I felt understood—made a huge difference in both my personal and academic growth. UCAM also taught me how to build genuine support networks and foster a strong sense of team. Whether on the field, in the classroom, or in life, those tools will stay with me as I continue mentoring and coaching young athletes every day.

Advice for college students: Being at SOU means being part of something greater. It’s a place where community drives purpose, where we hold each other to a higher standard, and where growth is measured not just in wins, but in who we become together.