Affiliates

Yonu Akanji is majoring in psychology and biological sciences with a minor in public health. As an Alternative Spring Break (ASB) leader, she hopes to explore complex societal issues with fellow students and create a brave space where everyone feels empowered to share, reflect, and act. She also hopes to grow as a facilitator and leader, learning how to guide meaningful conversations while deepening her understanding of community-rooted change. On campus Yonu serves as a peer mentor for the Shriver Living Learning Community, a volunteer at Retriever Essentials and Choice College Night, and a research assistant for the Affect, Cognition, and Emotional Disorders (ACED) Lab. She also is the secretary for the Students of Applied Behavioral Analysis Society (SABAS) and the volunteer connections specialist for the Red Cross Club. Outside of school, Yonu enjoys crocheting, reading, journaling, and spending time with friends.

Yash Bhatt is a graduate student in the engineering management program. As an Alternative Spring Break (ASB) leader focused on housing equity and justice in Baltimore, Yash is deeply committed to exploring how access to safe, stable, and affordable housing shapes broadened outcomes such as education, health, and opportunity. His goal is to co-create a reflective, action-oriented space where ASB participants can investigate systemic barriers to housing equity, connect with local organizations, and reflect meaningfully on their role in building more just communities. Yash serves as vice president of EKTA, UMBC’s Indian graduate student organization, and has been actively involved in service programs such as the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) initiative, the Reach Together Tutoring Program (RTTP), and the Maryland NEW VENTURE entrepreneurship accelerator. In the summer of 2025, Yash interned as an AI product and project management intern at allBETS LLC, a sports-tech startup. He is also contributing to SphereHub, a student-led housing platform focused on simplifying roommate matching and off-campus housing for students. At SphereHub, he helps lead efforts in business modeling, customer discovery, and product-market fit. Before coming to UMBC, Yash earned his bachelor’s degree in computer engineering and gained experience in project management, consulting, and marketing roles. Outside of work and school, Yash is a passionate soccer fan and proudly supports FC Barcelona. He also enjoys staying active by playing badminton.

Ben Ferdman is a political science and philosophy double major. As an Alternative Spring Break (ASB) leader, they hope to investigate issues important to them in Baltimore and to help themselves and their group gain a better understanding of social issues and how city-level networks connect to stand up for marginalized groups. With the Center for Democracy and Civic Life, Ben has previously participated in STRiVE, ASB, Change Makers Dinners, and ConnectionCorps. Along with that, they are working as a Woolie for fall 2025 and are part of multiple UMBC clubs including chess, film, and astronomy. Outside of school, Ben enjoys reading, playing chess, and gaming.

Ciara Ruiz-Earle is a doctoral student in clinical psychology with a focus on forensic psychology, trauma, and policy. As an Alternative Spring Break (ASB) leader with the Center for Democracy and Civic Life, she brings together her passion for community engagement, legislative advocacy, and mental health equity. Her academic work centers around child victims in the legal system, and she is particularly interested in designing interventions to support children navigating courtroom experiences. Before coming to UMBC, Ciara earned her M.S. in Criminology and Criminal Justice and her B.S. in Psychology and Criminology from Arizona State University. She has held positions in the Arizona State House of Representatives, the California Governor’s Office, and the U.S. District Court, where she deepened her commitment to civic leadership and systems change. Ciara is excited to continue building community through her work with the Center and looks forward to helping lead an engaging and meaningful ASB experience.

Sedat Sefik is a Sondheim Public Affairs Scholar pursuing a double major in political science and financial economics. In his role as an Alternative Spring Break (ASB) leader centered on housing justice in Baltimore, he is passionate about examining the deep connection between access to affordable, secure housing and long-term outcomes in areas like education, public health, and economic opportunity. Alongside his dedicated co-leader, Sedat aims to guide participants through a meaningful, hands-on experience that encourages critical thinking about structural inequities, strengthens relationships with community-based organizations, and inspires active engagement in creating more equitable and inclusive systems. At UMBC, Sedat is a member of the Honors College. He also serves as the treasurer of both the Turkic Student Association and Blossom Together, the whip for the Humanities Caucus in the Maryland Student Legislature, the director of communications for the Sondheim Steering Committee, and an active member of the Economics Council. During his freshman year in 2024 and 2025, Sedat served as a first-year ambassador with UMBC’s Student Government Association, where he regularly attended Finance Board meetings and gained valuable insight into their operations. This experience inspired him to work toward becoming an SGA Finance Board representative in the future. During summer 2025, Sedat interned as a research intern at LB International Solutions LLC, an international relations and economics consulting firm serving a range of organizations across Washington, D.C. In this role, he attended various conferences and congressional hearings, wrote detailed reports, conducted global news research, and translated between English and Turkish. Sedat also interned as a finance and accounting intern at the Chesapeake Lighthouse Foundation, the largest charter school operator in Maryland, based in Laurel. His responsibilities included completing a four-week training program under experienced finance professionals, where he learned the foundational principles and practices of finance and accounting. Sedat was also a summer 2025 Albrecht College Fellow with the World Trade Center Institute, through which he had the opportunity to participate in various programs throughout Baltimore City that help develop global leadership skills. Prior to attending UMBC, Sedat earned his high school diploma from Urbana High School, where he was actively involved in several extracurricular activities. These included the National Honor Society, Ping Pong Club, Muslim Student Alliance, Necktie Club, and Model United Nations, where he proudly represented Turkey. Outside of his academic and professional pursuits, Sedat is a passionate football (soccer) fan, a daily news follower, and an enthusiastic traveler. His favorite countries to visit are Austria and Spain, and his favorite football clubs are Real Madrid and Manchester United.

Hira Khan is a Sondheim Scholar majoring in biology and minoring in emergency health. As a ConnectionCorps participant with the Center for Democracy and Civic Life, she is building skills in fostering community in the spaces around her. She hopes to help deepen her understanding of social norms and discover ways to empower people through dialogue while honoring their unique voices and experiences. At UMBC, Hira previously served as the co-director of civic engagement and government affairs in the Student Government Association (SGA) and currently serves as an SGA senator for the 2025–2026 academic year. Beyond her involvement in SGA, she serves as a Writing Center tutor, an Academic Peer Advocate (APA) and a research assistant in the Darter and Aquatics Research Team (DART) lab, and was previously an intern with the Kennedy Krieger Institute’s MCH-LEARN program and Active Minds. She is also involved with a number of clubs on campus, including as the Sponsorship Lead of hackUMBC and Ethics Chair for the Biology Council of Majors (BioCOM). Outside of school, Hira enjoys going on walks, drawing, and traveling.

Praise Korie is a psychology major with a minor in law and justice on the pre-law track. As a ConnectionCorps trainee with the Center for Democracy and Civic Life, she is excited to deepen her ability to foster meaningful dialogue, build inclusive spaces, and empower her peers to engage thoughtfully across difference. Praise hopes to use this opportunity to strengthen her skills in facilitating authentic conversations that address social and political issues while creating space for shared understanding, civic imagination, and collective empowerment. On campus, Praise brings a strong foundation in advocacy and student engagement. She serves as vice president of the Pre-Law Society, secretary of the African Student Association, and former director of civic engagement and government affairs for the Student Government Association, where she drafted and presented legislative testimony and planned community-centered civic programs. She also serves as a student advisor on the Black and Gold Student Advisory Board and has supported first-year student success as a teaching assistant for UNIV101. Praise is driven by a deep commitment to justice, which she has further explored through her summer internship with the University of Maryland, Baltimore’s Rebuild, Overcome, and Rise (ROAR) Center, as well as through intercultural study abroad experiences in Morocco and Spain focused on cross-cultural communication. Outside of school, she leads children’s programming and community service initiatives at her church, where she has served as a youth leader since 2019.

Gold Wems is majoring in information systems with an upper-level certificate in cybersecurity informatics and an Honors College certificate. As a ConnectionCorps trainee/facilitator, she hopes to use her skills in storytelling, community engagement, and accessible communication to create space for honest conversations and build more inclusive civic life experiences. At UMBC, Gold worked as a marketing and communications intern for the Division of Information Technology (DoIT), where she developed engagement strategies for myUMBC and conducted research on the intersection of technology and gender studies. She also served as a transfer representative with the Honors College and is active in organizations such as Hearts for the Homeless, National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), Gritty Kitties, and the Weightlifting Club. Beyond campus, Gold has worked with global brands such as Valentino, Garnier, Prada, and Vince Camuto as a content creator and ambassador, producing social media campaigns that blend beauty, fashion, and lifestyle with storytelling that connects with audiences of different ages and backgrounds. These experiences have allowed her to combine her passions for creative strategy, digital communication, and inclusive branding. Gold holds an associates degree in cybersecurity from the Community College of Baltimore County. Outside of school and work, she enjoys content creation, digital fashion (currently learning 3D styling), and singing. She is passionate about sustainability, creative tech, and using her platform to empower underrepresented voices.

Fatima Iqbal is pursuing a bachelor of arts in biological sciences with a focus in psychology and a minor in public health. Fatima is passionate about brain health, mental wellbeing, and fostering stronger, more connected communities. As a Real Talk Leader with the Center for Democracy and Civic Life, she is excited to help create spaces for honest, inclusive conversations where students feel heard and empowered. She hopes to continue growing as a facilitator and community leader through this experience. Fatima brings experience as an elementor at the Walden Circle Community Center through the Shriver Center at UMBC, where she supports youth programming and community outreach. In the upcoming fall semester, she will also be working with Catonsville Elementary School. Additionally, she has been working as a pharmacy technician for the past two years, which has strengthened her interest in healthcare and community wellbeing. She also participated in a CCBC study abroad program to the Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee, which deepened her appreciation for environmental education and cultural exchange. Outside of her academic and civic involvement, Fatima enjoys learning about the brain, its functions, challenges, and how to support mental health. In her free time, she journals, plays badminton, learns piano, travels, explores new cafés and libraries, and teaches math and science to neighborhood children and her siblings.

Davida Wiredu is a Humanities Scholar double majoring in political science and English with a French certificate. As a Real Talk leader for the 2025-2026 school year, she hopes to create meaningful connections for a diverse group of students through authentic and flexible conversations. She also hopes to help students dive deeper into themselves through encouraging and meaningful reflection. On campus, Davida is a member of the Honors College and is a staff member for Bartleby, UMBC’s creative arts journal. During her first year at UMBC, she participated in STRiVE 2025. In her free time, Davida enjoys listening to K-pop, playing instruments, and drawing.

Sebastian Zamora is a Humanities Scholar pursuing a double degree in economics and English as well as a certificate in accounting. As a Real Talk leader, he is committed to fostering an inclusive, reflective space where members of the UMBC community can build authentic relationships, engage in purposeful dialogue, and imagine bold, alternative futures. Through this role, he works closely with the Center for Democracy and Civic Life to shape and lead meaningful conversations that encourage personal growth and connection. Sebastian is also a writing tutor at the UMBC Writing Center, an accounting and tax associate at Giovetti & Giovetti Certified Public Accountants (CPAs), and a proud Knight of Columbus. He previously served as a STRiVE coach and ConnectionCorps facilitator with the Center for Democracy and Civic Life, helping students explore leadership and community engagement. In his free time, Sebastian enjoys skiing, race car driving, chess, and learning new languages.

Roza Zareidoodeji is a Grand Challenge Scholar majoring in biology on the pre-med track. Roza has strong interests in infectious diseases, neuroscience, and public health. She is passionate about using science and medicine to address health disparities and is driven by a commitment to improving patient outcomes through research and advocacy. Roza participated in the STRiVE leadership for public purpose program, where she explored values-based leadership and community-building. On campus, she serves as a night manager for AV Services in the Division of Information Technology. She also conducts research at the Institute of Human Virology at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. In her free time, she enjoys watching series, dancing, and learning new languages. Roza is fluent in Persian, English, and French, and has conversational skills in Turkish and Arabic. She is passionate about integrating her interests in science, service, and cross-cultural connection into a future career as a physician and researcher.

Ben Bazarsuren is majoring in mechanical engineering with minors in computer science and mathematics. He is a Meyerhoff Scholar, a Center for Women in Technology affiliate, and a member of both the Honors College and the Grand Challenge Scholars Program. His initial interest in the Center of Democracy and Civic Life led to his continued involvement in initiatives such as the Change Makers Dinners, the Election 2024 Working Group, Political Engagement Committee, and the STRiVE leadership for public purpose program. Now inspired by these experiences, Ben is committed to helping others meaningfully engage with STRiVE in his role as a coach, ensuring that every participant can develop a fundamental understanding of leadership and the importance of community engagement and civic life. He has since utilized what he has learned from these experiences in his involvement on campus as the vice president of external programming for the Student Events Board (seb), project lead for the Student Unmanned Aerial Systems (SUAS) Competition Team, outreach coordinator for the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA), and communications director for the Meyerhoff Student Council. Ben also conducts sustained research on bio-inspired design in Dr. Paris Von Lockette’s lab. Outside of school, he enjoys rock climbing, hiking, creating and altering clothes, art, and reading.

Cheska Burrola is a pre-medical student majoring in biological sciences. As a STRiVE coach, she wants to help foster a positive and flourishing space for everyone to build connections. She wishes to share what she learned as a STRiVE participant and empower everyone to share and listen to stories. Cheska is part of the Honors College and a proud member of the Ronald E. McNair Scholars Program. As a McNair Scholar, she helps the community access graduate and undergraduate resources and opportunities in research and higher education. She uplifts her community through her engagement in the program. Cheska is also a newly-elected senator for the Student Government Association, having been a first-year ambassador during her freshman year. In her role as senator, she aims to address food insecurity and student worker issues on campus by working with the community and developing solutions that benefit the most people. Her goal is to ensure students have what they need to succeed at UMBC. Additionally, Cheska is an active member of AnakBayan UMBC, a comprehensive grassroots youth organization fighting for the national liberation of the Philippines. As part of this organization, she educates, agitates, and empowers Filipino youth to speak out against corruption and other social issues that plague the country. Lastly, Cheska is a part of the Cleftomaniacs, a co-ed acapella group at UMBC. She loves sharing her passion for music and singing in this group. Outside of school, she loves to cook, bake, and cosplay.

Dr. Rae Chresfield is a higher education leader with over 15 years of experience in mental health, wellbeing, and student support. A first-generation college graduate, she began her academic journey at Coastal Carolina Community College and earned a B.S. in Behavioral Science from the University of Maryland University College, an M.A. in Mental Health and Wellness from NYU, and a Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision from SUNY Buffalo. Dr. Chresfield has held progressive leadership roles in higher education, including Director of Counseling Services, Associate Dean of Health and Wellness, and Assistant Professor. She currently serves as the inaugural Assistant Vice President for Health and Wellbeing at UMBC, where she leads strategic efforts to embed a holistic Culture of CARE across campus. Her work focuses on integrated service delivery and bridging the gap between mental health professionals and institutional leadership. Widely known as “Dr. Rae,” she is recognized for her compassionate approach and commitment to student-centered systems that support wellbeing, equity, and resilience.

Dr. Ciara R. Christian is co-director of UMBC’s Center for Social Justice Dialogue. Since 2014, Dr. Christian has been professionally engaged in diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice work. Dr. Christian discovered her passion for this work as a result of her experiences in the Peace Corps, where she both noticed and experienced gaps in cultural competency within the organization. This experience served as a catalyst for her return to higher education, allowing her to more deeply explore identity development, social inequality, and social change. Ultimately, this led her to intergroup dialogue as a vehicle for helping others to engage deeply about and across differences. Her practice is rooted in an ethic of radical, revolutionary love and a commitment to helping others see and center our shared humanity. Outside of work, Dr. Christian is a lover of culture, language, and travel. Additionally, she enjoys cooking, dancing, listening to podcasts, and sharing quality time with friends, family, and her Cockapoo doghter, Bellatrix. As a STRIVE coach, Dr. C hopes to build new, impactful experiences with students and colleagues.

Nate Cullen is a psychology major and American studies minor. As a STRiVE coach, he hopes to facilitate a safe space for students to be vulnerable and learn how they can use their strengths to lead meaningful change and growth within their communities. Nate is an alumnus of the Shriver LLC, a student leader for the Elementors program at Relay Elementary School, the captain and president of the Men’s Rugby Club, and a member of the Pre-Physical Therapy Society. Upon graduation from UMBC, Nate plans to pursue a doctorate in physical therapy. Off-campus, Nate loves building relationships with his patients at 4Oaks Physical Therapy in Catonsville. In his free time, he enjoys being outside, staying active, and cooking — especially for his friends and family.

Dr. James M. DeVita is a scholar and higher education leader with extensive experience in academic affairs, student success initiatives, and applied learning. He currently serves as Assistant Vice President for Academic Partnerships and High Impact Experiences at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC), where he oversees student success programs, career services, and civic engagement initiatives. Previously, Dr. DeVita was Director of High Impact Pathways at the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW), where he co-led initiatives such as the High Impact Practices (HIPs) Council and the Community-Based Learning & Scholarship unit. He also served as a Professor of Higher Education, leading graduate and certificate programs in educational leadership. His work in applied learning and student engagement has been featured in Journal of Applied Learning in Higher Education, Perspectives on Undergraduate Research & Mentoring (PURM), and Journal of Postsecondary Student Success. Dr. DeVita’s research focuses on student development, equity and inclusion, and the role of high-impact practices in fostering student engagement. He has examined topics such as community college undergraduate research, LGBTQ+ student experiences, and faculty mentorship, with publications in College Student Affairs Journal, Cultural Studies <=> Critical Methodologies, and Transformative Dialogues. He has also co-presented at conferences such as the International Society for the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (ISSOTL), American Association of Colleges & Universities (AAC&U) Annual Meeting and the American Educational Studies Association (AESA) conference, where he has shared research on experiential learning, faculty development, and social justice in education. Dr. DeVita has secured significant grant funding, including the SECU Public Fellows Internship Program, and has led study abroad experiences in Japan, Ireland, and Costa Rica. He holds a Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration from the University of Tennessee and graduate certifications in qualitative and quantitative research. His career reflects a commitment to fostering inclusive, experiential learning environments in higher education.

Keven Guruswamy is a biological sciences major with a minor in music. As a STRiVE 2026 coach, he hopes to help people understand that every student can grow as a changemaker when given space to reflect, connect, and act. Keven participated in the STRiVE leadership for public purpose program and a Change Makers Dinner in the 2025-2026 academic year. On campus, Keven is working with a team of students and The Mosaic Center on student-led initiatives that bring together people from diverse backgrounds to explore culture, identity, and global experiences. Additionally Keven is also involved with UMBC Hearts for Homeless, The Gathering Space, and the South Asian Students Association (SASA). Outside of school, Keven loves travel, videography, and trying new food.

Vannessa Morant is a Center for Women in Technology (CWIT) Scholar majoring in mechanical engineering with a minor in entrepreneurship. She participated in STRiVE during the winter of 2025 and is passionate about using technology to address social inequalities and develop inclusive spaces for marginalized communities. Through her involvement with the Center for Democracy and Civic Life, Vannessa hopes to grow as a leader and help others feel empowered in a space of belonging. She interns with UMBC’s Designing Participatory Futures Lab (DARE Lab), where she 3D prints assistive technologies for Maryland residents with disabilities. Vannessa also serves as a Grit Guide with the Office of Undergraduate Admissions, supporting prospective students. Outside of school and work, she enjoys hiking, staying active, traveling, and cooking.

Carly Shearer is a Center for Women in Technology Scholar majoring in computer science and minoring in gender, women’s, and sexuality studies. As a STRiVE 2026 coach, she hopes to empower participants, especially those who are introverts, to share their stories and develop scripts that they can use to pioneer change in their communities. Carly participated in the STRiVE leadership for purpose program and a Change Makers Dinner in the 2023 – 2024 academic year, was a site coordinator for STRiVE and a special projects intern in 2024-2025, and is the Center’s evaluation intern for 2025 – 2026. In addition to her involvement with the Center, Carly is an SI PASS leader for CHEM102, president of the Musical Theater Club, and student representative on the executive board for the Maryland College Learning Center Association. Outside of school, she enjoys weightlifting, live theater, and traveling.