New Jersey Mom Delivers Baby in Car, Defends Dissertation Hours Later

Tamiah Brevard-Rodriguez juggled childbirth and academic duties, completing her PhD defense on the same day she gave birth.

Tamiah Brevard-Rodriguez gave birth to her son Enzo in a speeding car on the way to the hospital, then defended her doctoral dissertation hours later.
The Rutgers PhD student's dissertation focused on beauty standards for Black women in predominantly white educational institutions.
Despite the unexpected early delivery, Brevard-Rodriguez managed to present her research via Zoom from her hospital room.
Her graduation ceremony is scheduled for Mother's Day, adding a celebratory layer to her academic and personal milestones.
The dual achievement highlights her resilience and has inspired both her family and the wider academic community.