Andrew Goodman Campus Teams
Our nationwide network of students and higher education administrators advocates for voting rights on campus through voter registration drives, voter education events, and GOTV activities.
Our nationwide network of students and higher education administrators advocates for voting rights on campus through voter registration drives, voter education events, and GOTV activities.
Monica Clarke is the Freshman Academy Service Learning Coordinator and an adjunct English faculty member at Alabama A&M Univeristy.
Sierra Boykin is a junior Food Science major from Atlanta, GA. She is involved in several organizations on campus, including Women of Worth, the NAACP, and the Gospel Choir, and she also serves on the executive board for Food Science. Sierra is passionate about service and committed to uplifting and supporting her campus community. Through her leadership and involvement, Sierra strives to make a positive impact on every space she is part of.
Paris Clack is from Snellville, Georgia. Paris is majoring in biology with the goal of becoming a pediatrician. Since her first year of college, Paris has been registering her community to vote, which resulted in her inclusion in the voter registration honor roll published in Forbes Magazine. Paris enjoys ice skating, spending time with her family, and watching anime in her free time.
LaNise Chilton is from Flint, Michigan. She graduated from Grand Blanc High School in 2024. LaNise is a track and field athlete at Alcorn State University, as well as serving as Miss ASU H.E.R.O.S on campus.
Carson LaTrell Posey is 19 years old and studying in hopes of attending med school. His ultimate goal is to be a cardiologist since heart problems are plentiful in his family and even in his peers.
Andrew Bloeser is an Assistant Professor of Political Science at Allegheny College in Meadville, PA. Before coming to Allegheny College, Andrew completed his B.A. at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point and his Ph.D. at the University of Illinois. His research and teaching interests lie primarily in political behavior, participation, and mobilization.
Katie Ritchie is a sophomore at Arizona State University, studying Public Policy and Economics. Passionate about public service, she has led initiatives that increase educational access at the Arizona Governor’s Office, as a Student Advisor to Arizona’s State Superintendent, and as an intern at the U.S. Department of Education. On campus, she serves as the Director of Government Affairs in Undergraduate Student Government and an Undergraduate Research Fellow. Katie looks forward to fostering a civically engaged student body at ASU as an Andrew Goodman Ambassador.
Cicily Wilson has been at Bard College for 10 years with much of that time spent in the world of Student Affairs and recently joining its Center for Civic Engagement. Prior to working at Bard, Cicily's career centered on nonprofit management with a focus on public relations, community development and fundraising for many organizations including the Elie Wiesel Foundation, Brooklyn Conservatory of Music, and Girl Scouts. She hopes to use her skills in communications as well as student development to enhance student’s civic engagement journey at Bard through impactful connections with community partners.
Erin Cannan joins the center staff after 15 years in the Division of Student Affairs at Bard. Erin arrived at Bard in 1995 as assistant dean of students/director of first-year students, responsible for orientation and student activities. She was promoted to dean of student affairs, responsible for the oversight of 12 departments within the Division of Student Affairs, and overseeing the work of the dean of campus life.
As deputy director of the center, Erin’s primary focus is on the development of local volunteer and internship opportunities. She facilitates local connections to school districts, government, and business while working to develop partnerships within the center network.
Erin earned her B.A. from State University of New York at Geneseo in 1992 and a master’s degree in student personnel services from Edinboro University.
Ella is a fourth year Political Studies major at Bard College. She is in her third year with Election@Bard, and is more committed now than ever before to upholding and expanding voter education, confidence, and protections, particularly for students.
Alison Handy Twang is the assistant director at the Center for Civic Engagement. In this role, she is broadly responsible for promoting, developing and expanding community engagement opportunities for students. Alison oversees a number of community engagement initiatives, including the Bridging the Digital Divide Project, campus political engagement efforts and CCE's partnership with Promise Zone Community Schools. Before joining CCE, she worked in the nonprofit sector, focusing on philanthropy and student and young adult civic engagement. She received her bachelor's degree in political science and master's degree in public administration from Binghamton University and is currently pursuing her PhD in community and public affairs. She serves as president of the board of directors for the YWCA of Binghamton/Broome County and as a member of the advisory committee for the Rural Health Service Corps/AmeriCorps program. She currently resides in Binghamton with her husband, Dylan, and their chocolate lab, Keene.
Adina is a junior at Binghamton University studying Philosophy, Politics, and Law with a minor in Digital and Data Studies. She is from Brooklyn, NY, and she aims to pursue a career in law. Adina is especially passionate about civic engagement, particularly getting younger people/students more involved in politics and public life. In her free time, she likes to hang out with her very cute pet bunny.
Teri Platt is a Community of Practice Fellow, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) for the ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge at Civic Nation.
Teri Platt, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor in the Department of Public Administration and the Director of the Isabella T. Jenkins Honors Program at Clark Atlanta University. She has over 15 years of higher education teaching experience in courses on American political institutions, public policy, urban politics and planning, and research methodology. Dr. Platt has a long-standing commitment to research and service in areas of civic engagement and community-based participatory research activities. She is currently a Faculty Affiliate with Data Science Initiative of the Atlanta University Center Consortium and the Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development at Clark Atlanta University where she is a social science researcher and lead of the Community Engagement and Dissemination Core. Through her work with the CCRTD, Dr. Platt has received funding to explore the relationship between civic engagement, self-efficacy, and prostate health through the National Institutes of Health.
Dr. Platt was a 2021-2022 Fellow with the National Center for Free Speech and Civic Engagement at the University of California, Irvine where she evaluated student voter engagement at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). She is also the Faculty Champion for the Andrew Goodman Foundation HBCU Cohort; a Co-Designer with the Ask Every Student Initiative of the Students Learn, Students Vote coalition; a member of the Executive Council of the Students Learn, Students Vote Coalition; participant in the HBCU Community of Practice for the ALL IN Democracy Challenge; and Faculty Champion for the Democracy Fellows of the Campus Vote Project.
An active member of scholarly associations, Dr. Platt has served on committees and participated in the annual meetings of the American Society for Public Administration, Conference for Minority Public Administrators, Southeastern Conference for Public Administration, National Conference of Black Political Scientists, Midwest Political Science Association, and American Political Science Association.
Dr. Platt resides in Atlanta with her family and is an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. She provides additional service to the community through her church and the Atlanta Public Schools.
As Associate Director of Community Service-Learning and Partnership Amy has dedicated herself to purposeful work that produces lasting impact. Amy's programs encompass student-centered programs such as the Public Service Scholars, to faculty engaged scholarship via action research in teaching and practice, to delivering collective empowerment initiatives for improved community health and wellbeing. Most recently she launched the Patient Care Advocacy Team (PCAT) program in collaboration with Cayuga Medical Center and Cornell Career Services to expose students interested in the field of medicine to a direct service partnership with Cayuga Medical Center for what Amy refers to as a process of instilling and building a "culture of care” into healthcare for future practitioners.
Stephan is a first-year student studying Industrial and Labor Relations at Cornell University. Stephan joined Cornell Votes to get people registered and ready for the 2024 general election, and is now ready to get more people engaged for upcoming elections in 2025 and beyond.
Naysa Sutherlin is a Junior attending Dillard University majoring in Political Science while also on the Pre-Law track, from Chicago, Illinois. In her free time she enjoys volunteering at food banks and around the community as part of the Sisters Keeping It Real Through Service organization, advocating for food equity as a member of Dillard's Slow Foods Club, and a voice for youth advocacy as a New Orleans Youth Advisory fellow. Following graduation, Naysa hopes to go on to attend law school, and have a career as an attorney and work within the local government of Chicago. She enjoys any work that allows her to strengthen her community and get the youth involved in civic engagement and exercising their political voices.
Roderick Morning-Trice is a class of 2027 Political Science Major at Dillard University. He hails from the great city and state of Birmingham, Alabama, and is anxious to solve some of the world’s problems, and excited to connect with you all! In his free time he enjoys socializing with friends, meeting new people, and diving deeper into his passions of music and social justice.
Alex Dennis is the Assistant Director for Curricular Programs in the Center for Leadership and Civic Engagement at East Carolina University. He currently oversees leadership and civic engagement programs with curricular components at ECU, including Citizen U (student version of a citizens academy), the Williams Leadership Award Program, democratic and voter engagement efforts on campus, and the planning of our four national days of service. Prior to his time working in student affairs, Alex worked as an academic advisor for the College of Arts and Sciences at ECU and prior to that he worked as a high school social studies teacher. He received his MS in Counselor Education from East Carolina University and his BS in Social Science Education from Appalachian State University.
Caramia Landis is from Greenville, North Carolina. She is a freshman at East Carolina University and is a Brinkley-Lane Scholar studying Community and Regional Planning. She enjoys reading, playing tennis, and listening to classic rock. Caramia is passionate about promoting diversity and inclusion and ending defacto segregation in our cities.
Bob Frigo is the Assistant Dean and Director of the Kernodle Center for Civic Life at Elon University.
Dr. Karen M. Kedrowski is Director of the Carrie Chapman Catt Center for Women and Politics and Professor of Political Science at Iowa State University. She is a graduate of the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities and the University of Oklahoma, Norman. Dr. Kedrowski’s research agenda focuses primarily on women and politics and civic engagement. Prior to coming to Iowa State, she spent 24 years at Winthrop University in Rock Hill, South Carolina, where she served in many roles, including Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. Most gratifyingly, she led the University’s civic and voter engagement efforts.
I was born into a very politically active family, so my whole life I knew politics were important. But, as a young person no one at holidays or in class would take my young mind seriously and so I choice to prove them wrong by getting out there into my school system, my community, and online to show I demand justice not just discuss it. Not only was I getting out into the political sphere to prove a point, but because I truly loved it, that's why I am so thrilled to be working with The Andrew Goodman Foundation so I can inspire young people to discover their passion for politics.
Brenna McGowan is from a small town outside of Pottsville, Pennsylvania, pursuing a Bachelor's of Finance degree from Kutztown University. She currently works for the Community Outreach Center at KU, which gives her the opportunity to be an Andrew Goodman Ambassador, while also being an at-large representative on Student Government Board. When she is not at Kutztown, you can find her spending time with friends and family at home, playing with and taking her dog on walks, or watching her favorite college sports teams, Penn State football and Duke basketball. Brenna is excited for this year and all that it has in store for her.
Terrance was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois. He is majoring in Business Management and has been an entrepreneur for the last 6 years. Terrance is pursuing a career in Student Affairs. He enjoy community, people, and the everyday joys of life.
Elise Thompson is the Student Government Association President at Langston University, where she leads with a strong focus on advocacy, civic engagement, and student success. She has represented Langston University at the Oklahoma State Capitol, worked on multiple political campaigns, and currently serves on the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education Student Advisory Board. Elise is passionate about leadership, public service, and creating opportunities that uplift and empower students at HBCUs. She is committed to leading with pride, purpose, and excellence.
Len Apcar holds the Wendell Gray Switzer Jr. Endowed Chair in Media Literacy, is a fellow at the Reilly Center for Media and Public Affairs and is a Professional-in-Residence. His teaching interests include how people can evaluate both media sources and information so they can fully participate in our representative democracy. He has been a Visiting Professor at the University of Hong Kong where he taught digital media courses.
In a nearly 40-year professional career at The New York Times and at the Wall Street Journal, he has been a reporter, Web editor, Washington editor and Asia editor. As editor of nytimes.com, the site won virtually every major online award for news, opinion and photography.
As chief Asia editor based in Hong Kong he helped create a 24-hour global newsroom for online and print. At the Journal he was a reporter in Detroit, Washington and Dallas.
He holds an M.S. from Columbia University’s Graduate School of Journalism and a B.A. in political science from Claremont McKenna College in California.
Angelina (Angie) Sandoval works as the Intern Associate at Marquette University's Center for Urban Research, Teaching, & Outreach (CURTO), where she coordinates programming and supports Undergraduate Interns. Additionally, Angie conducts research under the Education Preparedness Program, an academic support and career-building resource for incarcerated and recently released students through CURTO. Angie’s research interests investigate challenges in education policy and criminal justice using historical and qualitative approaches, emphasizing the expertise of those impacted by these systems and policies. Angie holds an MA in Political Science from Marquette University and a BA in Liberal Studies with a concentration in Social Work and a Minor in Sociology.
Benjamin Linzy works as the Program Coordinator for Humanities Without Walls (HWW) in support of the $1.3 Million HWW grant project at Marquette University jointly developed between the HWW Consortium based at the Humanities Research Institute at the
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and Marquette University. Additionally, Ben is the Budget Manager and Grants Specialist for the Education Preparedness Program, an academic support and career-building resource for incarcerated and recently released students through Marquette University's Center for Urban Research, Teaching, & Outreach (CURTO), in collaboration with partnering academic institutions and community organizations. As the Senior Researcher at CURTO, his research interests include international reactions to genocide, domestic right-wing terrorist movements, and transnational paramilitarism. Ben holds an MA in global history and an MS in criminal justice and is finishing his Ph.D. in History.
Marilena Gohmann is a senior at Marquette University, pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science & International Affairs with a minor in Sociology. Gohmann gained practical experience through her internship with Global Campaign for Education U.S., where she analyzed educational policies and crafted communication campaigns. Coupled with her on-campus leadership as President of the Un-Pac Marquette chapter as well as her role on the Student Conduct Board, Gohmann shows her strong commitment to civic engagement and upholding community standards. Gohmann is also certified by the US Institute of Diplomacy and Human Rights, specializing in human rights education and advocacy.
Kenny MacAskill is a sophomore majoring in Political Science at Marquette University. He is from the fringes of the city of Chicago and is really excited to join the Andrew Goodman Vote Everywhere program! Kenny is passionate about politics, animals, and the outdoors.
Alejandra Maya is the Civic Engagement Program Coordinator at Mesa Community College. Before coming to MCC, Alejandra completed her B.S at Barrett The Honors College at Arizona State University.
Benjamin is an Audio Production Technologies student with a passion for civics and politics. He has a background in voter registration and hopes to use it to encourage the other students in his community to vote. In his spare time, Benjamin plays piano and guitar, hikes, and collect records!
Priya Pershadsingh is a Miami native with a proud Indian heritage. Priya is an MDC alumna who graduated in 2017 with the intention to continue her studies in mass communication. However, in 2016, she attended an MDC-led Eco-Tourism and Sustainability trip to Huatulco, Mexico and her love for sustainability flourished. Priya transferred to the University of Florida (UF) and attained a bachelor's degree in Sustainability Studies. She continued with her education and received a master's degree at UF in Sustainable Development Practice (MDP) with a minor in Nonprofit Organizational Leadership, a specialization in Gender and Development and a certificate in Tropical Conservation and Development. Priya's dedication and passion to giving back to her community now continues through her work at MDC with iCED, where she is excited to join the effort to support students and faculty at Miami Dade College to become changemakers.
Josh Young has helped lead service-learning, civic engagement and community-campus partnerships with Miami Dade College since 1994. He has a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from the University of Virginia and master’s degrees in Social Work and Public Administration from Florida State University. He served two tours with the Peace Corps in Mali, West Africa and Paraguay, South America, and he ran summer community service programs for youth for four summers in the Dominican Republic with Visions International. Josh has been a national service-learning mentor with the American Association of Community Colleges and has extensive experience leading workshops for faculty, students, community partners, and administrators around the nation.
My name is Valerie Williams, and I am an Honors College student at Miami Dade College pursuing an Associate of Arts in Political Science. I serve as an Andrew Goodman Foundation Civic Engagement Ambassador, where I help lead initiatives that encourage student participation in democracy. I am also a member of the college’s debate team and serve in Student Government as part of the Service Committee. My goal is to combine my passions for civic engagement, communication, and policy to create spaces where young people feel empowered to make their voices heard.
Educational leader with extensive higher education and K-12 teaching and instructional coaching experience across diverse communities in the U.S. and abroad specializing in bilingual and bicultural education and student-centered pedagogy and student support services to increase access to education.
Kiki Mutis was born in Colombia and has lived in Miami since 1981. She is an MDC alumna, and later earned an MS in Environmental Science from FIU. Kiki served as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Bolivia where she focused on soil and natural resource conservation and youth development. She has been an active board member of The Colombia Project Global, a micro-loan organization, and traveled to Colombia to meet program administrators and visit micro-loan recipients to understand their concerns better. Kiki worked for Citizens for a Better South Florida where she helped organize urban forestry projects and hands-on afterschool science programs. She also worked at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden as the Community Outreach Coordinator, and with Pelican Harbor Seabird Station where she was the Operations and Volunteer Manager. She also has led professional development workshops for the Earth Ethics Institute at MDC for many years.
Zoe Erickson is majoring in English Literature with minors in Political Science and Spanish. She attends Miami University and is passionate about civic work. Zoe is from Dayton, OH, and enjoys working out, reading, and hanging out with her friends.
Ava Lawson is a second year student at Miami University studying Biology with Pre-Medical and Pre-Neuroscience co-majors and a Japanese minor. She is a part of her college’s civic engagement program as well as an active part of her community through a service fraternity and hospital volunteering, where she has accrued over 400 hours. Civic engagement means a lot to Ava, as she who grew up with a parent in the military and has three generations living in her family home. She hopes that, in conjunction with AGF, she will be able to help spread interest and engagement in our political system throughout her community and inspire the next generation of responsible and informed voters.
DeAsia Powell is a junior at Middle Tennessee State University majoring in Entertainment Journalism and minoring in Mass Communication. She is from Chattanooga, Tennessee and enjoys traveling, going to concerts, partaking in artistic activities and spending time with family and friends in her free time. Another fun fact about DeAsia is that she loves collecting magnets as souvenirs when traveling and she is interested in all things music and entertainment.
Marcus Rosario is a Social Justice Journalism major minoring in Social Justice. Marcus is an activist in civic engagement, specifically voter registration and voting, as part of the American Democracy Project. When it comes to why Marcus is interested in Social Justice, it is because of all the Anti-LGBTQIA legislation that has swept through America. As a gay person in America, these anti-LGBT laws affect him everyday and he wants to fight it.
Born and raised in New Jersey. Jordan is currently pursuing his degree in History and Political Science. Jordan is a Marine veteran who is the latest in a proud line of public servants and military veterans. He is also a supporter of wildlife conservation and is a member of the Merrill Creek Conservation and Sportsman Association in New Jersey.
Jyanne Guide is a sophomore Honors student at North Carolina A&T State University, majoring in Mass Communications with a minor in Political Science. She is passionate about advancing social justice and seeks to inform and empower communities through multimedia journalism, research, and civic engagement. Jyanne is dedicated to amplifying underrepresented voices by connecting politics, social justice, and everyday life.
Zayveon has been a Boy Scout for 10 years and counting. He is an Eagle Scout, did theater for 8 years, and has been up and down the East Coast doing different leadership and entrepreneurship programs. Zayveon has strong communication, public speaking, and leadership skills. One value that's important to Zayveon is living by a love ethic, which he defines as the will to extend one's self to grow themselves and the people around them.
Nykolai Blichar is a Pennsylvania native and a former Ambassador for the Andrew Goodman Foundation Vote Everywhere Program. Nykolai has a B.A. in Political Science and an M.Ed. in Student Affairs from Kutztown University. He is a passionate community activist and advocate for social justice and LGBTQIA+ rights. He is particularly interested in promoting civic engagement both on and off campus and centering conversations around democracy and participation in government at all levels. He is also no stranger to the electoral process having helped numerous political campaigns and has previously ran for PA State Representative in 2018 and 2020. Nykolai focuses on his passion for voting and civic participation to ensure students and community members are well informed about the decisions they make at the ballot box.
Preston Shupp is a legal studies major at Northampton Community College with a passion for politics. He has previous experience as a political canvasser and is always trying to get the people's voice heard. After getting his Associate's at Northampton, Preston plans on transferring to a 4-year school to gain a bachelor's and eventually go to law school.
Erin Mysogland is the Assistant Director of the Center for Community Action and Research and an Adjunct Assistant Professor of Peace and Justice Studies at Pace University. In both positions Erin works with Pace students to empower them to take action on justice issues they are passionate about. As Pace's Campus Champion, Erin and Pace's AGF Ambassadors work towards full-student voter participation through creative outreach strategies and institutionalization efforts like an on campus poll site. Erin has a Master's in International and World History from Columbia University and the London School of Economics where she studied strategies activists used in response to the policing of migrant children. Erin is passionate about youth voter engagement and movements for racial justice past and present, and is excited to participate in NCLTS to celebrate and learn from the transformative power of young people!
Originally from Ruskin, Florida, Emanique Williams is currently a sophomore at Pace University, double-majoring in Psychology and Marketing with a minor in Pre-Law. After graduation, she plans to pursue a career in Human Rights law. Emanique is deeply committed to advocating for marginalized communities and using legal tools to drive meaningful social change.
Emanuel Avila is the Associate Director of Judicial Affairs and Service Learning for Queens College, part of the City University of New York. In his role, he is responsible for monitoring the code of conduct, academic integrity policy, and any other matters related to conduct. He also serves as the Voter Registration Coordinator, crisis response administrator, and supports the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs. He has been the Campus Champion for Queens College's Vote Everywhere team since 2014.
Julia Rowan is a sophomore at Ramapo College of New Jersey studying political science and theater. On campus she is a peer mentor within the Leaders in Service program. She is also very active within the theatre program, acting in productions and working as a student aid in the scene shop. She is passionate about advocacy and civic engagement, and hopes to show students on her campus the importance of both.
Sarah is a Freshman Political Science major and Public Health minor and is excited to get involved on her college campus this semester. During high school, she served as a World Affairs Council member, participating in community-wide voter registration efforts. Additionally, she founded and presided over the Gender Equity Committee, a student-led board dedicated to education, advocacy, and outreach. Sarah served as Secretary of her high school's National Honors Society and Captain of the Varsity Women's Volleyball team. She believes that all young adults have an essential voice in our democracy and looks forward to encouraging others to use it through voting.
As Director of the John C. Culver Public Policy Center, Seth Andersen works with students interested in pursuing careers in politics and public service. The Center’s nonpartisan programs complement Simpson College’s Engaged Citizenship Curriculum by encouraging students to actively participate in our democracy and consider public service as their life’s work. Andersen fosters student development through the Culver Fellows program, which awards four-year scholarships to incoming Simpson College students who demonstrate a commitment to public service. He works with the Culver Fellows and Simpson College faculty and professional staff to educate the campus community and the broader public through the annual Culver Lecture, which brings prominent national figures to campus to meet with students and deliver a public lecture. The Culver Center also sponsors political debates, candidate visits, policy forums, and student trips to Washington, DC, state capitols, and presidential libraries.
Prior to joining the Culver Center, Andersen served as Executive Director of the American Judicature Society, an independent national organization dedicated to improving the administration of justice. He also served on the staff of the American Bar Association as Special Assistant to the President and Project Manager for the Standing Committee on Judicial Independence. He has written and spoken extensively on judicial independence, judicial selection, and the jury system. In addition to directing the Culver Center, Andersen develops financial and community support for arts, cultural, and music-related enterprises in Central Iowa. He created and produced Critical Mass, a weekly music critics’ program that aired on community radio station KFMG 98.9 FM in 2014-2015, and contributes his event planning and management experience to major concerts and festivals such as the 80/35 music festival, Hinterland music festival, Blue Ribbon Bacon Festival, and the Des Moines Social Club’s annual Food Truck Throwdown. Andersen holds a degree in history and American Studies from the University of Kansas.
Dr. Cynthia Neal Spence is an Associate Professor of Sociology at Spelman College and Director of the UNCF/Mellon Programs. Her teaching and research interests in the areas of sociology, criminology, law, and violence against women support the Law and Criminology concentration in the Department of Sociology and Anthropology. Dr. Spence has served in the capacities of Assistant Dean for Freshman Studies, Associate Academic Dean and Academic Dean at Spelman College. Her interest in issues of higher education access, service-learning, gender role socialization and violence against women frame her research, writing, community service involvement, and public speaking. Her publications include “A Woman’s College Perspective on the Education of Men” (2004) New Directors for Student Series and “The Spelman College Total Person Commits to Positive Social Change” (2006), Engaging Departments: Moving Faculty Cultures from Private to Public, Individual to Collective Force for the Common Good. Her most recent publication “Does Race Trump Gender? Black Women Negotiating their Spaces of Intersection in the 2008 Presidential Campaign” is included in the edited volume “Who Should Be First? Feminists Speak Out on the 2008 Presidential Campaign” (2010). As Director of the UNCF Mellon Programs, Dr. Spence creates, manages and oversees a suite of future faculty development and faculty career enhancement programs for UNCF (United Negro College Fund) students and faculty. The UNCF/Mellon Programs are housed at Spelman College and funded by the Andrew Mellon Foundation.
In her newest role, Dr. Spence serves as the Faculty Lead for the Spelman College Social Justice Fellows Program. Dr. Spence is committed to helping Spelman women fully actualize their commitment to “making a choice to change the world “through social justice advocacy. She has served as a consultant for the Ford Foundation Institutional Transformation Project, the University of Chicago Provost Initiative on Minority Affairs, the Agnes Scott College Center for Teaching and Learning and the Georgia Department of Corrections. She currently serves as Faculty Trustee on the Spelman College Board of Trustees and is the former chair of the Board of the non-profit agency Men Stopping Violence. She is a member of the Board of Directors of Georgia Women for Change and the Women’s Solidarity Society for the Center for Civil and Human Rights. Dr. Spence is a graduate of Spelman College where she earned her B.A. degree. She earned both the Masters and Ph.D. degrees from Rutgers University. She is married to Harold W. Spence and they are the proud parents of two daughters, Christie ’05 and Courtnee ’08.
Jordan Benjamin is a freshman political science major at Spelman College. She is originally from Columbia, South Carolina where she graduated from Spring Valley High School. Jordan is an active traveler, foodie and community servant, who believes deeply that to whom much is given, much is required.
Zoee Andrews is a Sophomore at Spelman College studying English with a minor in Public Health on the Pre-Law track. Throughout Spelman, she is involved in several organizations, such as The Morehouse Spelman Pre-Law Society, The Morehouse Spelman Undergraduate Law Review, Social Justice Program, B.L.I.S.S, ALD (Alpha Lambda Delta) and The Andrew Goodman Foundation. After her matriculation through Spelman College, she aspires to go to law school and become a Healthcare attorney and continue her dedication to justice extending justice to community projects, giving a platform to marginalized voices.
Lisa Torrey is a member of the faculty at St. Lawrence University, in the Department of Mathematics, Computer Science, and Statistics. Along with Ed Harcourt and Choong-Soo Lee, Lisa conducts the computer science program at St. Lawrence. Before arriving there, Lisa graduated from the University of Wisconsin in 2009 and of Dartmouth College in 2003.
Wendi Haugh is a cultural and linguistic anthropologist with a joint appointment in African Studies. She spent her junior year abroad in Kenya, and she has done research in northern Namibia on the ways that people construct a sense of national identity in songs, speeches, talk radio programs, celebrations, and conversations. She is currently launching a new research project on birding, bird guides, and bird-related ecotourism in eastern and southern Africa. She teaches Cultural Anthropology, Humans and Other Animals, Peoples and Cultures of Africa, and Environmental Conservation in Africa. She enjoys travel, bird watching, and hiking in her spare time.
In her professional duties at SBU, Ashley works directly with students to provide leadership and support for civic activities such as voter registration and education campaigns, coordinating elections-related activities at the University’s polling site with Suffolk County Board of Elections, and designing and strengthening opportunities to implement civic engagement outreach efforts through the department, school, and university-wide programming. Under her leadership, she and her team launched the “Democracy 101” program with the goal of educating students about the importance of civic engagement in their local and global communities. SBU’s redesign of orientation allowed her and her team to restructure voter registration on campus, registering an average of 2,000 students to vote each year. Through the Center for Civic Justice's Community Dialogue series, she engages students, staff, and faculty in important civic discourse on some of today's most pressing issues, fostering a safe environment for open discussion. Through her strategic planning efforts, SBU received a Highly Established Action Plan recognition and a spot on the list of Most Engaged Campuses for College Student Voting. Prior to joining SBU, Ashley started her career in government and politics, working for Nancy Goroff’s Congressional campaign, organizing for a local legislative race, and was a Legislative Aid for the Suffolk County Legislature.
Malak Makled is a third year at Stony Brook University studying Political Science and Psychology with a minor in Journalism on the pre-law track. She currently serves her campus community as one of the student coordinators at the Center for Civic Justice, where she works with the rest of the Center to educate students on the democratic process.
Nicholas Paul Palumbo is the Interim Director of Leadership and Service at the Center for Community. In this role, he is responsible for promoting, developing and expanding leadership and service opportunities for students. Nick oversees a number of leadership initiatives, including the Geneseo Opportunities for Leadership Development, Livingston Cares Service Trips, and the on-campus Voter Engagement Taskforce. Before joining the Center for Community, Nick has been serving the Geneseo community since 2016 as an adjunct faculty member in the department of psychology teaching courses in adolescent and child development, motivation psychology, and advance research methods. Prior to that, Nick was at the University of Rochester where he served as a project manager and adjunct professor in the department of counseling and human development. Nick earned a bachelor’s degree from SUNY Geneseo, a master’s from Syracuse University, and an advanced certificate in online teaching from the University of Rochester. He is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in human development from the University of Rochester. Nick enjoys spending time working with undergraduate students on research projects, reading, writing, and traveling to the Adirondacks. Nick also loves to cook and is always trying out new vegan recipes.
Nicole is a student at SUNY Geneseo pursuing a career in education with the goal of becoming a history teacher. She is passionate about history, social and civic issues, and creating a more equitable society.
Devyn is a sophomore political science major at SUNY Geneseo. She hopes to pursue a career in criminal law and hopefully become a human rights activist. She is active in both her universities greek life as well as mock trial team, and enjoys drawing and writing in her free time.
Nithisha Lawrence is an inquisitive Pre Nursing student with a passion for civic engagement and a curiosity in current events. She is a part of Pioneers Vote, a student organization in TWU that teaches young people how to register and go vote. Other issues that she cares about deeply are issues in healthcare like the nursing shortage and nurse burnout caused by being forced to take care of double the amount of patients that one nurse is supposed to do.
Janjay is an undergraduate student at Texas Woman's University, pursuing a degree in Biology with a Pre-Med focus. The daughter of African refugees, she aims to push her fellow students to fight for social justice issues about race, voting accessibility, and immigration. On campus, she is involved in the Honors Scholar Program, where she is a service committee member, working alongside other members to serve the needs of the on and off-campus community. Janjay is also a Pioneer Service Scholar, a volunteer organization at Texas Woman's, where she volunteers at the on-campus food pantry. After graduation, she plans to pursue a career as a Pharmacist.
Morgan Dewayne Stanley is the 93rd Student Government Association President at Tougaloo College, where he is pursuing a degree in Biology with a minor in Public Policy Administration. A passionate advocate for healthcare equity, he focuses on addressing disparities in cardiovascular health, rural access to care, and investment in HBCUs. He is also the author of Little Buds in Scrubs, a children’s book that promotes health literacy and representation in medicine.
Brayant Reyes is a Political Science and Psychology double major at Towson University with a strong passion for civic engagement and community advocacy. He is a US Army veteran who is heavily involved on campus. Brayant's work focuses on voter education, student leadership, and promoting diversity and inclusion. He aspires to attend law school and pursue a career in immigration law to continue serving and uplifting his community.
Emely is from a small town in Frederick, Maryland, and the proud daughter of two Latino Immigrants. Their values and work ethic have shaped Emely into the person that she is today. Emely's family is from El Salvador, but she has spent her entire life in the United States. She is excited to be apart of the Vote Everywhere program at Towson University!
Ella is from California and is now at Tufts majoring in political science and civic studies, with minors in history and Spanish. She was raised going to the polls with her parents for every election, which instilled an understanding of the importance of voting. Youth voter engagement is of special interest to her, and she is excited to be part of the Andrew Goodman network!
Seona Maskara is a junior at Tufts University, studying International Relations and Civic Studies, with a minor in Archaeology. Growing up in the highly contested and highly gerrymandered state of Wisconsin, Seona was raised knowing how important voting is, and how voting is a catalyst for change. They have previously worked with My School Votes and currents are a research assistant at CIRCLE, both of which have helped her grow her passion for youth civic engagement!
Lisa is a historian with a Ph.D. in African American Studies, and a professor at Tuskegee University.
Chasity Player is a junior Political Science major at the illustrious Tuskegee University. She is originally from Talladega, Alabama, and is passionate about civic engagement and uplifting Black communities through voter education and advocacy. Chasity is proud to represent The Andrew Goodman Foundation and continue doing what she loves: educating, activating, and empowering others to vote.
Taylor Nobles is from Huntsville, Alabama. She is a Political Science major at Tuskegee University, where she currently serves as the Second Vice President of the Tuskegee NAACP and is a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. Taylor is passionate about discussing health disparities, giving back to her community, and creating opportunities for underserved populations. Having also lived in Germany, Taylor brings a global perspective to her leadership, service, and academic journey.
Kahyah Shabazz is a third-year student at the University of Alabama. She is passionate about civic engagement, advocacy, and community empowerment. She is committed to increasing voter access and participation among students through education and outreach that make the democratic process more approachable. Drawing on her leadership experience and dedication to public service, Kahyah strives to create inclusive spaces where all voices can be heard and valued.
Daniel Lynn is a junior from Ridgeland, Mississippi attending the University of Alabama. He is studying chemistry, legal history, and German on the pre-med track. Daniel performs research with Dr. Gayan B. Wijeratne's inorganic chemistry research lab. Last year, he interned with Return My Vote, which focuses on restoring the voting rights of Alabamians with disqualifying felony convictions.
Emily Adcock is a sophomore at the University of Alabama from Madison, Mississippi. She is a University Fellow majoring in English and History with a Legal Concentration. Emily is a Teaching Assistant for the Philosophy Department, a Blackburn Institute Student, and an Honors College Ambassador. This year, she serves as a Content and Strategy Consultant for Crossroads Civic Engagement Center’s Civic Learning Lab at UA. She plans to pursue an MBA and eventually attend law school.
Dr. Sandra Bass currently serves as Executive Director & Associate Dean of the Public Service Center at UC Berkeley. Upon receiving her doctorate in political science, Dr. Bass was appointed as an assistant professor of Criminology and Political Science at the University of Maryland, College Park, where she integrated service learning into both her undergraduate and graduate courses. In 2002 Sandra joined the David and Lucile Packard Foundation, and in 2010 she was selected to lead the Foundation’s girl’s education, women’s leadership, and reproductive health program in Sub-Saharan Africa, and later was appointed the executive director of Teach With Africa, an organization focused on cross cultural learning for K-12 teachers in the US and South Africa. Sandra has published numerous articles and essays in academic journals and on various platforms, and has co-edited three volumes. She currently serves on the regional board of Multiplying Good (formerly known as the Jefferson Awards Foundation), the UC Berkeley Chancellor’s Community Partnership Fund, the Osher Center for Lifelong Learning Diversity and Equity Advisory Board, and Co-Chairs the Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs Civic Engagement Advisory Board. She has also served as a “Wise Head” reviewer for the MacArthur Foundation 100 and change competition, on the steering committee of the African Grantmakers Affinity Group, and is the former Board Chair of the Ella Baker Center for Human Rights in Oakland, among other appointments. She is also a nonviolence trainer and educator. Sandra holds a BA from San Jose State University, and an MA and PhD from UC Berkeley, all in political science.
Kyleigh Wallace is a senior at the University of California, Berkeley, where she is double majoring in Political Science and Media Studies. She currently serves as Programs Director for the ASUC Vote Coalition (VoteCo), where she develops and leads initiatives to increase student civic engagement. Kyleigh is committed to combating abstentionism by fostering a culture of active democratic participation among her peers. She is passionate about expanding access to the ballot box and empowering students to see their voices as essential to shaping and maintaining a more representative democracy.
Dzian Tran is a senior at UC Berkeley studying English and Public Policy. As Director of the Vote Coalition, she helps lead efforts to make voting more accessible and meaningful for students on campus. Dzian has been dedicated to civic engagement since high school, and she is driven by the belief that informed participation is essential to building stronger, more just communities.
Lesley Graybeal is the Director of Experiential and Community-Engaged Learning in the Division of Outreach and Community Engagement at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, Arkansas. She earned her BA and MA degrees in English and Ph.D. in Social Foundations of Education at the University of Georgia in Athens, Georgia and previously served as faculty member and Service-Learning Program Coordinator at Wake Technical Community College in Raleigh, North Carolina. In her role as Director of Service-Learning, Lesley’s work includes community partnership development and nonprofit support, faculty development in community-engaged pedagogy and scholarship, and coordination of co-curricular service and civic engagement opportunities for students.
Hannah Smithson is from Heber Springs Arkansas, attended Heber Springs High School, and now studies History and Spanish at the University of Central Arkansas on a Pre-Law track. She is excited to be an Andrew Goodman Ambassadors!
Abigail is a student at the University of Central Arkansas passionate about ensuring others know they are seen, are heard, and know they matter. As someone who has seen the dynamic shift from gaining a disability in this world, advocacy for people with disabilities has become Abigail's heartbeat. Abigail hopes to provide a new perspective to others that will expand their thinking beyond what was priorly held.
Myrna Hugo is a Program Coordinator for the Office of Civic and Community Engagement. In her role, Myrna works with students to foster one of the university’s core values of community engagement through community-based learning opportunities. She also coordinates with community partners to identify and support collaboration that builds a culture of civic engagement within their neighboring communities. Prior to joining the University of La Verne, Myrna was a member of the President’s Office administrative team at the University of Redlands.
Matthew Markey is a sophomore studying Political Science at the University of La Verne. He enjoys going to concerts, playing volleyball, and following politics. Matthew has always had a passion for voting and looks forward to helping more young people become engaged in the voting process!
Alarah Gillum is the Community Engagement Specialist for the Office of Student Involvement at the University of Louisville. A recent UofL alum, Alarah studied International Peace Studies and Latin American & Latino Studies before obtaining a master's in Social Work, dedicating herself to advocating for policy changes that foster greater inclusion of the immigrant and refugee community as a community social worker. In her current role, she continues to engage students of diverse backgrounds as well as UofL staff, partners, and community organisations, encouraging all to take an active role in creating a community where we all belong. Her goal is to uplift the next generation of community leaders who have hearts for service and the capacity to enact change.
Autumn Westmoreland is a sophomore Marketing Major from Louisville, Kentucky. She is involved on her campus through Gamma Phi Omega International Sorority, INC., Center for Free Enterprise reading group, & Student Organization for Alumni Relations.
Logan Poer from Mt. Sterling, Kentucky. Attends the University of Louisville as a sophomore Political Science and History Major. He is highly involved on campus, being Senator for Student Government, Treasurer of UofL Young Democrats, Marketing Director of Pre-Law Society, and a member of Phi Alpha Theta History Honors Society and Kappa Alpha Phi Pre-Law and Governance Fraternity. He wants to go to Law school after graduating. In his free time, he loves reading, taking walks, and playing video games.
As the Civic Engagement Manager, Elizabeth Netcher strives to get all students registered and voting! Elizabeth works with established organizations on campus like Turn Up, Turn Out (TUT), UMich Votes, and other worthwhile organizations that support civic engagement. By fostering relationships, both on and off-campus, building up our UMich Votes Coalition, and creating programming around voting and voting rights we can all help to build up the University of Michigan’s student voter turnout.
Britta Pingree is a junior at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, majoring in Biochemistry and French horn performance. She is an Andrew Goodman Ambassador as well as a Campus Liaison for the non-partisan voter turnout club on campus, Turn Up Turnout. Britta is very passionate about participating and contributing to our democracy by registering fellow students to vote and attending political events and panels across the state of Michigan. Outside of doing science and playing music, you can find her taking walks on campus and trying as many different coffee shops as she can!
Bavani Vijay is a first-year student at the University of Michigan studying Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology with a minor in Science, Technology, and Society. She plans to study the intersection of medicine and public policy and hopes to spend her future career working with patients in a medical setting while improving healthcare equity. She is beyond excited to join the Andrew Goodman Foundation as a Fellow and collaborate with like-minded students to create a more civically engaged campus at the University of Michigan.
Faustine Sun is the Academically Based Community Service (ABCS) Coordinator at the Netter Center for Community Partnerships at the University of Pennsylvania. A recent Penn alum, Faustine spent her undergraduate years encouraging students to become more involved in the Philadelphia community and has continued to do so in her new role as the liaison between Penn faculty, students, and community partners. Her main goal is to support and encourage students on their way to becoming more democratic, civically-minded citizens.
Ashley Kim is a sophomore majoring in Health & Societies with a concentration in Health Law and Policy on the Pre-Law track at the University of Pennsylvania. She is originally from Montana. At school she is involved with the Women's Center and participates in Mock Trial. She is passionate about the intersection between civic engagement, gender equity, healthcare, and voter education. In her free time she likes listening to music, reading, and playing tennis!
Angeline is the Campus Champion at the University of San Francisco and oversees the University's undergraduate public service programs and supports community-engaged learning across the institution. She has a diverse background in the public sector, specializing in immigration, economic, and community development issues for government agencies and non-profit organizations. Most recently she worked with UNICEF to design mentorship and education programs in Vietnam and at the Center for American Progress in Washington, D.C., managing social and economic policy analyses for communities of color. She holds a Master of Public Policy from the Goldman School of Public Policy at UC Berkeley and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and International Studies from Trinity University. Angie is a seasoned organizer and community development and policy strategist with over ten years of experience working on social justice, civic engagement, and equity issues. A native of Texas, she currently lives in San Francisco.
Laine is a senior at the University of San Francisco, majoring in Critical Diversity Studies with minors in Environmental Studies and Gender and Sexuality Studies. They have a great passion for social justice, political empowerment, and community engagement. Outside of USFVotes, they're involved with other campus clubs and organizations that dedicate their efforts to global causes and human rights. Their post-grad goal is to become a K-8 educator so they can help shape and understand future generations of leaders. Laine is very grateful for the opportunity to work with the Andrew Goodman Foundation and to shape long-term connections with like-minded peers.
Shaped by her hardworking family in and out of the San José community of her upbringing, Elena understands the value of showing up. Whether this act takes the form of collaborating to enhance the experiences of the Latine population on campus, or in ensuring her peers feel confident about all things voting, offering an informed and dependable presence is something Elena strives to uphold. Studying politics at the University of San Francisco (USF), she intends to go on to law school and build a career working in the immigration and labor realms of law. At USF, she is grateful for the opportunities to work with with USF Votes, serve on the executive board of the Latine Undergraduate Network of Activists (L.U.N.A), as well as stand as the current At-Large Latine Student Representative with the Associated Students of the University of San Francisco.
My name is Alex Sánchez, I am a sophomore at the University of South Carolina Upstate. As a Political Science Major, I am pursuing to be the Commissioner for Minority Affairs, I have always wanted to help people, especially those who fall under the category of being a minority, and help them prosper and live a better life within the US. With a Spanish Translation/Interpretation minor I would like to be involved in the Hispanic community and assist fellow Latinos who speak little to no English to translate anything that they do not understand and get the help they really need. My role in the community is big for me, I strive to be involved in as many organizations, programs, and any other opportunity possible at my University and outside to help and represent anyone who needs it.
Gregory Carranza-Lima is a Community Health major at USC Upstate, and his goal is to attend pharmacy school after he graduates. Gregory has been interested in politics and government since he was a kid. Politics has altered the course of his life and others' lives in many ways. Gregory feels he is in the perfect position to influence decision-making in the country for himself and the people he knows.
Ta’Quan Ford is a senior at the University of the District of Columbia majoring in digital media with a minor in journalism. He is passionate about social impact, civic engagement, and amplifying the voices of young people in his community. Over the years, Ta’Quan has participated in leadership roles and initiatives that encourage active participation in democracy. As an Andrew Goodman Ambassador, he aims to educate and empower fellow students to make informed decisions and take action in shaping their communities.
Abigail is a University of Utah student studying anthropology and Spanish with a minor in political science. She was born and raised in Salt Lake County, Utah, and has always had a passion for civic engagement and education. Abigail has three younger sisters and two dogs, named April and Teddy (short for Theodog); Teddy is a new wheelchair user, which has definitely been an adventure!
Violet is a second year political science student and member of the Honors College at the University of Utah. She is also pursuing a double minor in economics and environmental and sustainability studies. Currently, Violet is a constituent liaison intern with the Salt Lake City Council and hopes to attend law school after graduation. She decided to get involved with the Andrew Goodman Foundation because she is passionate about civic education and engagement.
Caroline Clark is from Saline, Michigan, just outside of Ann Arbor. Clark is a Sophomore at the University of Wisconsin - Madison studying Political Science and Legal Studies with a certificate in Criminal Justice. In her free time, does Club Gymnastics and loves to read.
Genevieve is an honors political science student at the University of Wisconsin - Madison who plans to go to law school after graduation. She is passionate about student voice and getting young people involved in government at all levels. Genevieve spearheaded voter information and engagement efforts on campus during the November 2024 general election, and she continues to work to increase voter engagement in local and student elections this spring.
Anna is a second-year student at UW Stevens Point studying history and political science who grew up in the Fox Valley area. At school she is an on-campus tutor, intern with the Pointers Vote Coalition, and am involved in Green Advocates. Anna has long held a passion for political involvement and hopes to one day work in government at the state or federal level.
My name is Zack Young. I'm a junior at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, studying Computer Information Systems. I'm originally from Leopolis, WI. I've worked in voting-related jobs for the previous two years.
Jacqueline Smith-Mason, Ph.D., joined The Honors College in 2004 and serves as the Associate Dean and Director of Undergraduate Research. She previously taught courses in criminal justice and political science in the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at VCU. In addition, she has also held various policy research positions in state government.
Her research and teaching interests include public policy affecting women, families and children, challenges facing the American criminal justice system, public sector management and issues related to honors education.
Dr. Smith-Mason received her Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration and M.S. in Criminal Justice from VCU, as well as her B.A. in Sociology from George Mason University.
Olivia is a current Sophomore at Virginia Commonwealth University double-majoring in Applied Psychology and Sociology. She is really excited to be an Andrew Goodman Ambassador in the Vote Everywhere program to act as an amplifier for youth voices. She is most passionate about policy and, as a Psychology major, the intersection of policy and mental health.
Jenna Kubiak is a graduate of the UNC Chapel Hill MPA program with a concentration in Public Policy. She also graduated Summa Cum Laude with a BA in Political Science from Appalachian State University and has worked with various nonprofits and political campaigns. Jenna got her start in the field by focusing on nonpartisan voter registration efforts during college, and she is excited to serve as the WCU Campus Champion for AGF.
Spencer Davis is a senior English major at Western Carolina University. He enjoys working with family history and knitting, and also gets involved with a lot of projects and initiatives. Spencer is a professional writing intern, writing fellow for professional and technical writing, and an academic skills consultant at the university. He loves his cats, Prescott and Mayhem.
Alioth Clewell (he/him) is studying Entertainment Design and Technology at Western Carolina's Belcher College of Fine and Performing Arts. He specializes in costume design and scenic painting. Alioth's time at The Community School of Davidson (a school he attended K-12) fostered his commitment to being an active part of his community.
The Andrew Goodman Foundation uses cookies to offer you the best experience online. By continuing to use our website, you agree to the use of cookies. If you would like to know more about cookies and how to manage them please view our Privacy Policy and our Terms and Conditions.
Close