KENNESAW, Ga. | Apr 9, 2018

Brothers, separated for 20 years, pursue similar interests

Kieron Graham and Vincent Ghant may have passed each other dozens of times on campus over the past three years, but in late 2017, they discovered something remarkable.

The apparent strangers learned they are brothers, separated for 20 years. They also share more than DNA – both are juniors majoring in political science at Kennesaw State University.

With the help of AncestryDNA’s database, Graham, 20, who was adopted when he was 3 months old, was a strong match to Ghant, 29. Ghant, who was 9 years old at the time, vaguely remembers his baby brother given up for adoption. They have the same birth mother.

Using Twitter, Graham shared the discovery of his newfound sibling, both stunned to learn how close their paths have unknowingly crossed over the past few years. Their story hit social media with Buzzfeed, and Good Morning America featuring their unique KSU connection.

Kieron Graham and Vincent Ghant

Ghant’s road to Kennesaw State began in 2006. He had attended a local technical college for fire science, but an injury led him to rethink his major. He enjoyed politics and social movements, and came to Kennesaw State because “it was a better fit here.”

Graham decided on KSU at the end of his senior year of high school as a “last-minute decision.” An international business major to start, he has a strong interest in politics and plans to study law.

Although they have not shared a class together, their shared interest in politics spurred each to switch majors early on.

“Our Facebook feeds have similar posts about politics, and he comments in my defense,” said Graham, who plans to attend law school after graduation.  

Ghant, who is married with a 2-year-old daughter, wants to work in government relations. He added, “We have the same thought processes about affairs in the U.S.”    

The brothers also share a deep love for football – both are diehard Atlanta Falcons football fans, enjoy video games, especially Madden NFL, and now play on a flag football team together.

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– Tiffany Capuano

Photos by David Caselli; Video by Rob Witzel

A leader in innovative teaching and learning, Kennesaw State University offers undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degrees to its more than 47,000 students. Kennesaw State is a member of the University System of Georgia with 11 academic colleges. The university’s vibrant campus culture, diverse population, strong global ties and entrepreneurial spirit draw students from throughout the country and the world. Kennesaw State is a Carnegie-designated doctoral research institution (R2), placing it among an elite group of only 7 percent of U.S. colleges and universities with an R1 or R2 status. For more information, visit kennesaw.edu.