Student Spotlight

Service Learning

HHARRIS@bridgew.edu — Mon, 05 May 2025 13:46:44 +0000

Service Learning HHARRIS@bridgew.edu Mon, 05/05/2025 - 09:46

Junior follows legacy of first responders

May 6, 2025

Heather Harris Michonski

Caroline Levy, ’26, is continuing her family’s legacy of service. The 91��Ƭ��ý junior was recently appointed to serve as student police cadet within the university’s police department.

Her father, Thomas Levy, worked for the Bridgewater Fire Department for 36 years, ascending to chief in 2016, before retiring in 2020. But it was her mother, Lorraine Levy, a retired Massachusetts State Trooper, who encouraged her to think about a career in law enforcement. Initially, Caroline was resistant.

“At first I didn’t think I wanted to pursue it, I was going to go into nursing,” she said.

That all changed when the Raynham native was still in high school, and an opportunity arose to take a college-level criminal justice course. Her mother suggested she enroll.

“So I did, and it changed everything. It gave me a new perspective, and I thought, ‘I want to give this a try,’” she said.

Now confident in her decision, she knew exactly where she wanted to go to continue her education post high school.

“My sister went to Bridgewater and studied CJ. She raved about it…As I got older and realized how much BSU had to offer, that it was close to home and affordable, it made my decision easy,” Caroline said.

Her sister, Katherine Mathi liked Bridgewater so much, she returned to her alma mater where she currently teaches criminal justice classes.

“I’ve never gotten her as a professor, but that would be fun,” Caroline said.

While her mother encouraged her to pursue law enforcement and helped lead her sister to go to Bridgewater State, it was Caroline’s father who planted the seeds of being a student cadet.

“He came with me to admitted students’ day and (because he knew so many people as the former fire chief) was able to help me get out of my comfort zone,” Caroline said.

Together they happened upon the BSUPD table and met Captain Ryan Tepper and his K9 partner Zach. The meeting made an impression, and Tepper encouraged Caroline to reach out. Which is what she did this year when she saw the opportunity to apply for the student cadet position.

After going through the application and interview process, she was selected and officially appointed in February. Since then, she’s been learning all that the BSUPD does, from shadowing police officers and working dispatch, to attending court hearings and patrolling community events.

“Being exposed to all the different aspects has been really helpful. Since I’ve started it’s reminded me why I want to be a police officer, that this is what I want to do,” Caroline said.

Later this month, she will continue to gain applicable experience toward her goal when she travels to the Marine Corps Base in Quantico, Virginia, to attend Officer Candidate School.

When she arrives back on campus this fall, she will continue her student cadet duties with the BSUPD through her anticipated 2026 graduation date.

Once that BSU degree is in hand, she will have options, whether that’s to serve in the Marines as military police, or in law enforcement at the state or local level.

“Honestly though, I’d love to come back to Bridgewater and work for the BSUPD, the people that work there are genuinely amazing,” Caroline said. “Every time I step into the station, I am reminded why I’m choosing this path. Watching how the officers interact with the campus and people in the community, I want to act like them, to model them when I am in law enforcement.”

Do you have a BSU story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu

Every time I step into the station, I am reminded why I’m choosing this path. Watching how the officers interact with the campus and people in the community, I want to act like them, to model them when I am in law enforcement.

Caroline Levy, ’26

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Student Spotlight

First and Lasting Impressions

BBENSON@bridgew.edu — Wed, 09 Apr 2025 20:31:00 +0000

First and Lasting Impressions BBENSON@bridgew.edu Wed, 04/09/2025 - 16:31

Senior looks back fondly on her time on campus

April 10, 2025

Brian Benson, G'23

When Savannah Lavigne, ’25, first set foot on the Bridgewater State campus, she had a feeling it would become her home. Now preparing to graduate, Savannah confidently says that initial gut reaction proved correct.

“Bridgewater has had an immense impact on me,” the political science major and marketing minor said. “I’ve made so many incredible connections and lifelong friendships. I’ve been able to find out what I want to study. I’ve learned a lot about myself as a person and feel like I’ve matured a lot.”

Savannah grew up with her parents in Hong Kong, but knew she wanted an American college experience. While going to school thousands of miles away from home seemed scary at first, Savannah has family in Connecticut and thrived in the supportive community she found at BSU.

“I really admire how American schools value well-rounded students,” she said. “Developing soft and hard skills and developing as a person is so valuable. Bridgewater taught me a lot.”

Savannah most remembers all the opportunities she has had as a Bear. She studied abroad in England and brought Asian culture to campus by helping lead the Asian Student Union.

As an intern with the nonprofit Inclusive America, she helped advocate in Washington, D.C., for stronger anti-harassment and discrimination policies at the State Department. At BSU, Savannah discovered a passion for international relations that she hopes to pursue in graduate school and through a career as a diplomat or policy analyst.

In the classroom, Savannah stands out as a highly engaged student, said Dr. Chien Yu. Savannah is in his international marketing course, and the professor worked with her while advising the Asian Student Union.

“She actively participates in class and talks about her opinions on issues and current events,” said Yu, a professor of management and marketing. “Her points are sharp and great.”

Yu even nominated her to become a Green Room Scholar at WorldBoston, a nonprofit that aims to spark engagement around international affairs. Savannah helped run an event about the connections between science and diplomacy and contributed to the organization’s blog.

She appreciates the support of Yu, Dr. Sidita Kushi, an assistant professor of political science, and the many other faculty members who left indelible marks on her development as a student.

“I’ve had amazing professors,” Savannah said. “They have truly been academic and personal guideposts for me.”

She has also given back to BSU by helping students acclimate to campus as a resident assistant in Scott Hall and an orientation leader.

She encourages new BSU students to become involved and socialize. Savanah met as many people as she could during her first year, and those connections helped shape her undergraduate experience.

“Listen to your heart. That’s what I did” she said, adding: “I knew Bridgewater was where I wanted to be.”

Do you have a BSU story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu.

Bridgewater has had an immense impact on me. I’ve made so many incredible connections and lifelong friendships. I’ve been able to find out what I want to study. I’ve learned a lot about myself as a person and feel like I’ve matured a lot.

Savannah Lavigne, ’25

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Student Spotlight

Internships

BSU Works

From Recovery to Discovery

HHARRIS@bridgew.edu — Wed, 09 Apr 2025 15:45:42 +0000

From Recovery to Discovery HHARRIS@bridgew.edu Wed, 04/09/2025 - 11:45

BSU helps junior battle back from brain injury

April 15, 2025

Heather Harris Michonski

Upon opening her eyes, Marilyn Aziz, ’26, did not recognize the people in front of her claiming to be her parents, nor did she know the man who said he was her fiancé.

This was back in 2017, while living in her native California. Marilyn was driving to school when the crash occurred, resulting in a traumatic brain injury and significant memory loss.

“My life was forever changed,” Marilyn said. “I was like a baby again. I had to relearn what foods were called, I had verbal issues, I couldn’t speak correctly, and had short term memory loss.”

Eventually she began to remember her parents and fiancé but called off the engagement because she ultimately lost her feelings for him.

“It was so difficult emotionally and mentally,” Marilyn said.

Along with the brain injury, she also suffered a fractured left arm and hip, blurred vision, and persistent headaches.

At the time of her accident, she was studying to become a medical doctor but after the accident, her recovery made it difficult to continue. Because of her cognitive difficulties, it became clear that returning to a career in medicine was improbable.

For three years she focused on healing, underwent multiple surgeries, and fought her way back. Eventually, she even made it back to school. However, because of her brain injury, she struggled.

“The lights in the classroom were too bright, I had to push hard to tolerate the light and heavy noise. I couldn’t remember things. I couldn’t look at screens. People had to take notes for me. I was not confident enough to give presentations,” Marilyn said.

Despite the hardships, there was one bright spot. During this time, she fell in love with and married a man from Boston. She moved to Massachusetts to be with her husband, Wessam, and that’s when she discovered 91��Ƭ��ý. Soon, her life would take an inspiring turn.

“Moving to Massachusetts and enrolling at BSU marked the beginning of a new chapter,” Marilyn said. “From the moment I arrived at Bridgewater I was welcome by a supportive and caring community that played a pivotal role in my academic and personal growth.”

She met with two academic advisors, Drs Jim Leone and Philip Szlosek; both helped with navigating her unique circumstances.

“Rather than discouraging me, they took the time to understand my goals and worked with me to create an academic plan that aligned with my passion for healthcare,” she said.

Maybe it’s because she learned firsthand after her accident how impetrative physical therapy is, or maybe it’s because of her desire to help others, but after some soul searching and guidance from her advisors, Marilyn opted to study health science with a concentration in pre-physical therapy at BSU.

She began to blossom.

“Bridgewater is the ‘mother’ of schools. I’ve been embraced, loved, and supported in the ways I needed, the way you should be,” Marilyn said.

She is now on track to graduate in 2026 and has already been accepted into the Massachusetts General Hospital Institute of Health Professions where she will pursue a PhD in physical therapy.

“None of these accomplishments would have been possible without the guidance, support and encouragement I received from BSU,” Marilyn said. “The community here embraces students from all walks of life, showing me that age, background, or past challenges do not define one’s potential.”

To her fellow students struggling with their own challenges or doubts, she reminds them they are in good hands at Bridgewater and to never give up.

“I am living proof that with the right support and a determination to succeed, anything is possible,” Marilyn said. “BSU is a place that believes in you, no matter what obstacles you may face.”

Do you have a BSU story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu

Bridgewater is the ‘mother’ of schools. I’ve been embraced, loved, and supported in the ways I needed, the way you should be.

Marilyn Aziz, ’26

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Student Spotlight

Photo by Carly McMahon, '24, G'26

Special Calling

HHARRIS@bridgew.edu — Mon, 17 Mar 2025 14:42:32 +0000

Special Calling HHARRIS@bridgew.edu Mon, 03/17/2025 - 10:42

First-year student continues her journey toward a career helping others

March 18, 2025

Heather Harris Michonski

Several years ago, Fiona Truss, ’28, and a friend had lunch with a group of special education students. It was during that shared meal Fiona discovered what she wanted to do with her life.

She was in the fifth grade.

“I started volunteering, working in clubs that were involved with neurodivergent communities and my passion just grew from there,” Fiona said.

That passion led her to 91��Ƭ��ý, where the Foxboro native is currently enrolled in the BSU Honors program majoring in special education with a concentration in severe disabilities.

“I knew entering college I wanted to study special education and when looking at schools, Bridgewater stood out. The education program here is amazing, especially the special education program. There are so many resources,” Fiona said.

Her goal is to eventually work at the elementary school level as a special education teacher.

“That’s my favorite age. Younger students are just entering school for the first time and gaining levels of independence. It’s fun and exciting for me to see and work in that environment,” Fiona said.

As a BSU undergraduate, she has continued to volunteer her time with various disability programs in her hometown and was recently recognized by the Foxboro Commission on Disability which honored her with the Above and Beyond Individual Award for the work she’s done.

“I know it’s cliché, but it was incredibly humbling to receive this award. I don’t expect that type of recognition. The work I do is something I care about,” Fiona said. “I care about inclusivity…so it’s meaningful to know I am being recognized for that. It helps with my goal of awareness.”

Fiona also received a citation from the state and Sen. Paul Feeney (D-Foxboro) at the award ceremony.

Outside of her academics at Bridgewater, Fiona is also president of the school’s American Sign Language Club and involved with the non-competitive BSU Dance Company.

She is happy with her decision to continue her education at BSU, from the support she receives from professors to the overall climate.

“I’m so happy with my decision to go to Bridgewater, especially the special education classes,” Fiona said. “It’s cool to get to learn something I’m passionate about and helps me achieve my future goals.”

Do you have a BSU story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu

I knew entering college I wanted to study special education and when looking at schools, Bridgewater stood out. The education program here is amazing, especially the special education program. There are so many resources.

Fiona Truss, ’28

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Student Spotlight

Special Education

Photo by Carly McMahon, '24, G'26

San Francisco Escape

HHARRIS@bridgew.edu — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 15:23:28 +0000

San Francisco Escape HHARRIS@bridgew.edu Mon, 03/03/2025 - 10:23

Criminal justice majors present at national conference, visit Alcatraz

March 4, 2025

Heather Harris Michonski

When creating a bucket list, it’s fair to assume that most people wouldn’t include exploring a pitch-black prison cell. However, for 91��Ƭ��ý criminal justice majors Kyle Robbins, ’25; Rachel DiMonda, ’22, G’25; and Julia Swirbalus, ’20, G’26, it was high on their list.

Last year, the three BSU students traveled to San Francisco to take part in the American Society of Criminology’s (ASC) conference. While there, they signed up and took a nighttime tour of Alcatraz Island, the site of an abandoned federal prison.

“There are many notorious prisons in America, but I don’t think there is one as infamous as Alcatraz. It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” Julia said.

For Robbins, learning more about the prison and its history was eye opening. Particularly the last part of the tour when they were brought down into the belly of the prison, where inmates were kept in solitary confinement.

“We were only standing there in the pitch-black room for about 30 seconds, but to know people were in there for days, or weeks, that they had to experience that? I definitely gained another perspective on the prison system, even in that short period of time,” Kyle said.

During the trip, all three also presented at the ASC conference.

Rachel spoke about how art can be used as a healing tool within criminal justice, Kyle talked about youth, and the adversity that comes with exposure to social media, and Julia presented on institutional injustices, specifically the British military and suppression of the study regarding shellshock.

As for the conference itself, getting to meet experts in the field was inspiring.

“It was amazing to be around other criminologists. It was interesting to go and listen to other people present their research, go to panels, listen to different discussions,” Julia said. “You get to meet people that are in the field you are pursuing. It’s really cool to make those connections.”

Rachel said she was intimidated at first but soon found it to be a welcoming environment.

“Here I am, this little grad scholar, surrounded by people who have been in the field for years. But then you start to bounce ideas and gain input, and hear a lot of different perspectives,” she said. “It was a great way to network and talk to people in different fields.”

As an undergraduate, Kyle was even more nervous about what to expect but at the end of the event, he walked away feeling confident.

“Being able to get out there in the field, especially as an undergrad, to engage with others; I am grateful and appreciate the opportunity to present,” he said.

All three students were able to attend thanks to grants offered through BSU graduate and undergraduate programs.

These types of opportunities also help with exposure, Julia said, to show others that Bridgewater State offers quality programs and produces exceptional students who are doing solid work.

“We’re a public university and sometimes people discount us because of that,” she said. “I think it’s important for people to see what we are about. That we have amazing opportunities, wonderful professors, and mentors that guide us. I’m proud of that.”

Do you have a BSU story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu

We’re a public university and sometimes people discount us because of that. I think it’s important for people to see what we are about. That we have amazing opportunities, wonderful professors, and mentors that guide us. I’m proud of that.

Julia Swirbalus, ’20, G’26

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Student Spotlight

Criminal Justice

Educational Awakening

BBENSON@bridgew.edu — Wed, 05 Feb 2025 20:37:19 +0000

Educational Awakening BBENSON@bridgew.edu Wed, 02/05/2025 - 15:37

Busy student does not let narcolepsy slow her down

February 6, 2025

Brian Benson, G'23

When college students say they are exhausted, people might assume it’s from all that late-night studying. For Emma Pereira, ’28, feeling very tired is a symptom of a neurological disorder.

Emma has narcolepsy, which affects the brain's ability to regulate sleep-wake cycles and causes brief episodes of muscle weakness called cataplexy. While she worries people might perceive her as lazy, she’s found an understanding and supportive community of faculty, staff and peers at BSU.

“Bridgewater makes it easy to feel welcome,” said the first-year political science major from Middleboro. “I’ve changed so much as a person being here. … I’ve never felt alone, which is a lot of people’s fear.”

Narcolepsy causes people to go into a deep sleep such that it is harder to wake up. Paradoxically, the more they sleep, the more tired they become. They may also unwillingly fall asleep in public locations such as a classroom.

Emma knew something was wrong in high school when she often slept 13 hours a day yet was still exhausted. After doctor’s visits and a sleep study, Emma received a diagnosis during her senior year.

“It was like we finally got answers, but it also opened up a lot of questions,” she said.

That uncertainty included how Emma would adjust to college. But she realized she had nothing to fear at BSU after meeting with staff in Student Accessibility Services. They showed a genuine interest in her as a person and talked about the ways they could help her have a successful college experience.

“Before they even asked for paperwork or legal things, they asked me about myself and navigating life with narcolepsy and cataplexy,” she said. “They were so happy to help, which was refreshing.”

Emma lives on campus, which she said makes it easier than back in high school to get to class if she oversleeps. Having fewer classes each day also helps, and professors are very understanding and accommodating if, for example, she is late to a class.

At BSU, Emma has made many friends who she said are completely accepting of her. If she naps after class, her roommate even makes sure to wake her up for dinner. She is a member of the Honors Program, plays on an intramural volleyball team, and attends Caribbean Ancestry Student Association events – all while making the fall dean’s list.

“I’m really thankful I was given the opportunity to do my best here,” she said. “I feel supported.”

Emma, who received the Jack & Julie Narcolepsy Scholarship from the nonprofit Project Sleep, aims to become a professor. One day, she may even pay it forward by supporting other students who are diagnosed with narcolepsy.

“Absolutely, don’t be afraid your narcolepsy is going to get in the way of anything,” she said of her advice for others. “There’s so much we want to do.”

Do you have a BSU story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu.

Bridgewater makes it easy to feel welcome. I’ve changed so much as a person being here. … I’ve never felt alone, which is a lot of people’s fear.

Emma Pereira, ’28

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Student Spotlight

Student Accessibility Services

Photo by Charlie Peters, G'20

Music Calling

BBENSON@bridgew.edu — Tue, 31 Dec 2024 14:21:03 +0000

Music Calling BBENSON@bridgew.edu Tue, 12/31/2024 - 09:21

Career-changing student pursues job as music teacher

January 2, 2025

Brian Benson, G'23

Returning to college as a 46-year-old, Stratos Bonos, ’26, worried how he would be received on campus. As it turned out, Stratos had nothing to fear at Bridgewater State.

“I truly felt a genuine welcome from everyone I encountered,” said the music education major from Grafton. “It’s very rare to find this type of culture and environment at other schools. It’s genuine here.”

Stratos started taking college classes right after high school but put his degree on hold for financial reasons. He then became heavily involved in retail work, rising to district manager during a 23-year career at TJX Companies. But he missed a passion for music that flourished while he was in high school.

Seeking a career change, Stratos is back in the classroom studying to become a music teacher, ideally focusing on high school chorus or elementary music. He hopes to provide a space where students feel a sense of belonging just as he experienced in high school choral classes.

Stratos felt at home at BSU from his first time on campus. Transfer Services Director Jeff Sarahs, '10, G'12, and Dr. Sarah McQuarrie, chairperson of the Department of Music, were eager to meet him and helped him assimilate to Bridgewater.

When a severe car crash upended one semester, Stratos appreciated how accommodating his professors were about extending deadlines for assignments. It’s another example of the culture at Bridgewater that he finds so impressive.

In class, McQuarrie emphasizes the real-world applications of course concepts. Learning at BSU has a purpose beyond passing an exam, said Stratos, who even conducted a chorus during BSU's recent Holiday Extravaganza.

“She also shows a lot of patience, which is something as a teacher that I want to exhibit,” he said. “It’s about the journey and recognizing those small successes. She role models that every day.”

Stratos has a dynamic personality and is a strong critical thinker who is unafraid to ask questions, McQuarrie said.

“Stratos is very well liked and well respected among his peers,” she said. “He blends right in with the other students. He does not have any sort of preconception that he’s older or wiser. He’s there to learn.”

Outside of the classroom, Stratos serves as a tour guide, where he ensures prospective students feel the positive atmosphere he experienced.

“It’s been everything,” he said of coming to BSU. “It’s what has sustained me. It's what is setting me up for the next chapter of my life.”

Do you have a BSU story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu.

I truly felt a genuine welcome from everyone I encountered. It’s very rare to find this type of culture and environment at other schools. It’s genuine here.

Stratos Bonos, ’26

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Student Spotlight

Arts

Photos by Mackenzie Rubitschung, ’21, G’27, and Kendell French, ’25

Service First

BBENSON@bridgew.edu — Thu, 12 Sep 2024 12:52:48 +0000

Service First BBENSON@bridgew.edu Thu, 09/12/2024 - 08:52

Senior finds calling in helping others, serving with Trustees

September 12, 2024

Brian Benson, G'23

With a keen interest in the military, Emily Rose, ’25, was initially unsure if college was the right fit. But at Bridgewater State, Emily quickly found a calling: advocating for fellow students while preparing to enter the Army.

“I’ve developed my leadership skills in a way I never thought I’d be able to,” said Emily, a criminal justice major who is minoring in Portuguese. “I’ve really grown in my ability to care for people and learning what others go through so I can help. I think it has been so beneficial.”

Emily, who has served in the Student Government Association since their first year, and participates in ROTC, is the student representative on the Board of Trustees for this school year. They were elected by their peers to the post on BSU’s top board.

As a trustee, Emily looks forward to analyzing data, expanding opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds, and fostering the welcoming campus they have enjoyed throughout their time as a Bear.

“I really think it’s the students, their hard work and determination,” Emily said. “Everyone goes above and beyond. I don’t think I’ve ever experienced a time when someone didn’t open a door for me and let me pass through.”

The annual back-to-school barbecue for the campus symbolizes the camaraderie that exists, Emily said.

“91��Ƭ��ý is a place where everyone anywhere on campus would feel safe,” they said in highlighting widespread support for the LGBTQIA+ community. “I feel comfortable to be who I am.”

Emily’s leadership isn’t limited by campus boundaries. They are also the commander of an Army ROTC company that includes students from Bridgewater, Curry College and Stonehill College.

Emily aspires to follow their father into the military, where they will no doubt rely on the leadership skills earned at Bridgewater.

“I don’t think I would be the same person I am without student government and the support of everyone above me who mentored me,” said Emily, praising connections with peers, faculty and administrators. “It wouldn’t be the same if it wasn’t for everyone at BSU.”

Do you have a BSU story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu.

I don’t think I would be the same person I am without student government and the support of everyone above me who mentored me. It wouldn’t be the same if it wasn’t for everyone at BSU.

Emily Rose, ’25

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Student Spotlight

Board of Trustees

Photo by Charlie Peters, G'20

Learning to Serve

BBENSON@bridgew.edu — Tue, 20 Aug 2024 18:48:23 +0000

Learning to Serve BBENSON@bridgew.edu Tue, 08/20/2024 - 14:48

First-year student is a leader on Massachusetts' Youth Advisory Council

August 22, 2024

Brian Benson, G'23

Sofie De Coste has yet to take her first class as a BSU political science major, but the incoming freshman is already making a name for herself on Beacon Hill.

Sofie serves on Gov. Maura Healey’s Youth Advisory Council. She sees her Bridgewater State education as an opportunity to further expand her ability to make a difference in others’ lives.

“I’m most excited to start the journey to be a public servant,” said Sofie, who is eager to soak in the experience of her professors. “When it comes to political science, I can read every book in the world, but actual experience is something you can only get from individuals in the classroom.”

The Lakeville resident, who is also majoring in psychology, said she draws inspiration from her family. The daughter of a disabled Marine Corps veteran, she saw the costs of her father’s service continue to affect him as he aged. So, she is advocating for legislation to exempt fully disabled veterans from paying property taxes.

“Being aware of the situation, I thought I should be the one to take the steps and do something about it,” she said.

On the Youth Advisory Council, Sofie leads the youth violence committee, which is studying causes of violence and programs to help young people overcome those challenges.

She is also part of a squadron of the Civil Air Patrol, a national organization affiliated with the U.S. Air Force. Sofie specializes in ground searches for missing people and spent much of this summer training in Texas and Pennsylvania.

Sofie has also experienced obstacles to her success. After her family faced racial discrimination, she questioned how much she could do as a minority.

“I was always saying, ‘I’m going to go out and save the world,’” she said. “I faced all those injustices with my family and had to overcome that. There was definitely a period of time where I wasn’t so sure if I’d be able to.”

But she rediscovered her confidence and commitment to service through the Civil Air Patrol. Now Bridgewater stands out as another place where she can thrive.

“I wanted to stay close to home,” she said of choosing BSU. “I looked at the campus and the faculty were extremely supportive. What drew me here was the positive energy.”

Do you have a BSU story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu.

I looked at the campus and the faculty were extremely supportive. What drew me here was the positive energy.

Sofie De Coste, '28

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Student Spotlight

Photo by Mackenzie Rubitschung, '21

Ambitious Advocate

HHARRIS@bridgew.edu — Mon, 12 Aug 2024 13:41:33 +0000

Ambitious Advocate HHARRIS@bridgew.edu Mon, 08/12/2024 - 09:41

Senior selected as campus’ student-representative to Board of Higher Ed

August 13, 2024

Heather Harris Michonski

When Imani Barbour, ’25, first arrived at 91��Ƭ��ý she already had goals in place and an idea how to reach them. The ambitious freshman wanted to make a difference and opted to double major in social work and sociology.

“I entered college as an advocate,” said Imani, now a senior. “My majors are both heavily focused on the environment and about helping other people. I have dedicated my life in service of others.”

She jumped right into campus life, becoming president of BSU’s African American Society, a resident advisor, and eventual head resident assistant.

Her efforts working in resident life caught the attention of the department’s Director Justin McCauley, as well as Christina McCauley, executive director, Center for Student Engagement.

When President Frederick W. Clark Jr. enlisted the support of Student Life to nominate potential student-representatives to the state’s Board of Higher Education, Imani was one of the first who came to mind.

“We asked colleagues to provide suggestions on who they felt would be a good candidate and Imani was one of those considered,” Christina said.

Upon being nominated, Imani was quick to respond.

“I love doing anything that gets my voice heard on issues I see happening all around us,” she said. “Hearing that (people) thought I was a good candidate to represent state colleges and universities on a large scale felt empowering.”

Imani applied and went through the interview process and last semester learned that she was selected to serve as a student member on the Board of Higher Education.

“I was extremely nervous...but when they said, ‘Congratulations!’ I just smiled from ear to ear,” she said. “I kept saying thank you and that I look forward to beginning this project with them.”

Imani began her term July 1; it extends through the end of May, when the next student-representatives are selected.

As a student member, she looks forward to learning how the board does its work regarding the rules and regulations within higher education. She will serve in an advisory role on the board and attend its Student Advisory Council meetings.

“I look forward to letting people know I am here for them, and their education, and am ready to advocate for changes we feel would be beneficial to our success,” Imani said. “If I can make one person feel seen or understood, I know I did the job I came to do. This position provides an opportunity do that.”

Students can reach out to Imani with questions or concerns by emailing ibarbour@student.bridgew.edu.

Do you have a BSU story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu

I look forward to letting people know I am here for them, and their education, and am ready to advocate for changes we feel would be beneficial to our success.

Imani Barbour, ’25

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Student Spotlight