Marina Margret Bond is a senior at CCNY, double majoring in studio arts and psychology. They were born in the Bronx and raised by different generations in their family. As they conclude their coursework, Marina is seeking opportunities to apply what they learned in the classroom to mission-driven organizations breaking systemic barriers to access to education.

Jahiem Ray Carridice, a senior at CCNY majoring in economics with a minor in Black studies, aims to leverage his strong economic background for institutional advancement. He is dedicated to fostering growth, engagement, and philanthropy within the academic community. With a strategic mindset and excellent interpersonal skills, Jahiem actively seeks opportunities to enhance the college experience for students, faculty, and alumni. He enjoys playing sports, reading, and writing poetry in his free time.

Jordan Cheung is a senior majoring in economics with a minor in business administration, expecting to graduate this spring. He was born and raised in the Bronx and is a son of Chinese immigrants. Coming from a business-focused high school in the heart of Wall Street, Jordan is seeking avenues to blend finance skills with lasting social impact. He was excited to discover the educational advancement field as a perfect blend of his career interests.

Maria Ximena Diaz is senior-year psychology major. Born and raised in Bogotá, Colombia, María is a first-generation college student committed to providing equitable educational opportunities to immigrant New York communities. Maria is actively involved with CUNY and the New York City Department of Education, working with high school students, college students, and their families to help them achieve their educational goals. Her passion lies in empowering people by providing them with access to available resources, tools, and information that can facilitate their success. Maria firmly believes that education should be accessible to everyone and that, with the right guidance and support, students can reach their full potential and become the best version of themselves.

Camila Guerrero is a dynamic and passionate young woman excited to make significant contributions to the educational advancement field. Preparing to graduate with a major in psychology and minor in human rights, she has a strong desire to join projects focused on equity and inclusion. Camila was born in New York City, spent her childhood in Colombia, and brings an intersectional perspective to her work. Outside of her studies, Camila is a fashion enthusiast, a committed cyclist, and she finds joy in reading books.

Nafisa Hamim  is a senior at CCNY, majoring in psychology. She was raised by immigrant parents who instilled in her a strong work ethic, a curiosity mindset, and a deep passion for personal growth. Her dedication to continuous learning led her to explore the College Advancement Leaders Fellowship, and she has a genuine desire to understand and contribute to the landscape of educational development. The Fellowship is exactly what she has been looking for: providing a unique opportunity to bridge her social science background to leadership roles in organizations making an impact. In addition to her academic endeavors, Nafisa enjoys traveling and spending time with her family.

Miguel Johnson is a college graduate who majored in political science and minored in creative writing. From an early age, he noted the positive impact that higher education institutions could have on the lives of individuals and is currently exploring careers in College Advancement to be part of that mission. Miguel sees the relationship between a university’s financial success and the quality of the services it can deliver to its cherished students. He is particularly enthusiastic about alumni relations and communications because of his affinity for people and heartfelt messaging. He is also excited to enter a field that simultaneously offers opportunities to change himself and communities needing a quality and affordable education.

Linda X Li is a returning student preparing to graduate this spring with a degree in business administration and management with a minor in public policy. She envisions a future career that harmonizes her artistic and management skill sets for meaningful community impact. Linda appreciates the value of education as a transformative force and is eager to learn about career options to support higher education institutions. She looks forward to participating in the fellowship to learn advancement skills and expand her network of mission-driven organizations and people.

Amber Naa-lamle Smith is a Psychology major in her senior year. Born and raised in Harlem, she is the child of Ghanaian immigrants. Learning about the fellowship opened her mind to a new field, and she found the prospect of making a positive impact on the lives of college students by strengthening their educational infrastructure both exciting and purposeful. Amber hopes to use this opportunity to improve her communication and networking skills, broaden her horizons, and step into the world of higher education advancement.

Lhakpa Sherpa (she/her) is a senior at the City College of New York majoring in psychology. She is a highly motivated self-starter eager to gain insight into the educational advancement field. Her interest stems from a desire to join the leadership of organizations that foster positive growth while collectively shaping individuals and communities. As a minority, Lhakpa is passionate about implementing diversity and inclusion initiatives by creating an environment where individuals from all backgrounds feel valued and supported. In her free time, she enjoys volunteering as well as participating in community service clubs at school and around the city.