2018 FELLOWS

Shelby Bietz is a communication studies major and a political science minor at Northern Arizona University. Shelby is super excited to be working with the Campus Election Engagement Project, because she believes that as US citizens it is our most basic duty to engage in our community, and voting is the easiest way to do so. Shelby worked on a nonpartisan political campaign in 2016 in Washoe County (Northern Nevada) that worked to raise sales tax to benefit the capital needs of the county schools. This introduced her to the world of politics and how important nonpartisan issues are and how much of an effect they can and should have.

Graham Earl Corp is based at Mesa Community College and is currently attending to become a Special Needs Teacher for Title-1 schools here in Mesa. Graham has a passion for public service and can’t wait to work together with his team in order to rally as many community members as he can to the polls this November to participate in our election. Remember, you matter, so go out and vote!

Maria Dawes is a public service and public policy major at Mesa Community College. Maria has been deeply involved in her community as a social welfare advocate for over 5 years, while raising a wonderful little girl to be a responsible, concerned and active citizen. The issues and organizations she has served, including PIRG Education Fund, AmeriCorps, and AZ Secretary of State Michele Reagan’s Millennial Advisory Board, are not just experiences, they are life. This makes it easy to be relentlessly passionate about her work.

Nicholas De Mott is a chemistry major at Mesa Community College. Nicholas is currently completing the final year of his associate’s degree and is looking forward to transferring to Arizona State University next year. Nicholas has a year’s worth of experience organizing campus events on behalf of the Center for Community and Civic Engagement at Mesa Community College and is very excited to use what he have learned to help CEEP organize events on campus and to encourage my fellow students to participate in our country’s democratic process.

Ashley Espinoza is an English and Japanese major at Mesa Community College. Ashley would love to teach English as a second language one day and is interested in social and political issues. As a brand new CEEP fellow, Ashley hopes to help other students understand how to engage in their communities and bring positive change on a local level.

Michael Newman is working toward a masters of public administration and has spent years in the private sector running small music businesses. Now, Michael is using his energy to improve my society through promoting engagement and public service.

Phillip Peterson is a political science major at Eastern Arizona College planning to graduate in 2024. Philip has a deep passion for politics and making sure his college peers make their voices heard. Phillip spends his time working on campaigns, studying elections, and one day hopes to run for office.

Sara Robinson-Camarena is a cybersecurity major. CEEP is important to her because she thinks it is necessary for people to vote so that their voice can be heard. Getting people involved and aware is one of the best ways to head towards where we want to be.

Elizabeth Ward is a justice studies and criminal justice major at Mesa Community College. Elizabeth works in The Center of Civic Engagement at MCC. She also volunteers for a few non-profits. Some of her interest on campus is making sure to stay involved in her community and school. Elizabeth is excited to be working with CEEP as an ambassador for her campus and looks forward to spreading the word to students of the importance of voting and getting their voices heard.

Sonia Abare is a political science and pre-law major at University of Central Florida. Sonia would like to go to law school after her undergraduate program and become a lawyer.

Deeva Agravat is an international studies major at the University of South Florida. After graduation, she plans on attending graduate school and furthering her studies in international relief, disaster management, and working for NGOs that assist humanitarian crisis. She has previously traveled to Kenya, India, Dubai, and England.

Zoe Alfonso is an interdisciplinary medical sciences major at Florida State University. After she receives her bachelor’s degree, Zoe plans to attend medical school to fulfill her aspirations of becoming a pediatrician or neonatal specialist because of her love for kids.  Aside from Zoe’s career goals, she loves interacting with people and participating in community service programs to better society.

Frances Asbury is a religion and political science major at Rollins College. She is a member of the Democracy Project on campus, which encourages student involvement in politics. She is also a Peer Mentor for incoming first-year students, President of the Philosophy and Religion Club, and a member of the Delta Zeta sorority. She’s studied abroad in Tunisia and loves to travel and plans to someday work as a United States Foreign Service Officer. After graduation, she hopes to pursue a double degree in law and political science.

Claudia Blandino is a chemistry major at Miami Dade College. She advocates for animal rights and environmentally sustainable living, as well as human rights and international policies. Claudia has participated in several academic and political conferences, such as the Global Citizenship Alliance in Salzburg, Austria, the Narrow Ridge Earth Literacy Program in Tennessee and the Galvanize Women Conference in Miami. Her long-term goal is to spread awareness of the state of the environment, inspire change, and improve the living conditions for men, women, and children around the world.

Mona Burrows is based at Barry University. Mona is an active member in organizations on her campus such as Campus Election Engagement Project. She pursues her passions through involvement in various organizations regarding voting within the younger population and social right activist groups. Once she graduates from Barry, she will attend law school. Her ultimate goal is to become a lawyer and a politician.

Christopher Collie is pursuing an associate’s in arts degree at St. Petersburg College hoping to major in African American History. He is also employed as a line chef at a very busy St. Petersburg Beach location. Being a CEEP Fellow will be his first formal civic engagement involvement and hopes that this exposure will inspire him to continue growing in the areas of civic and community engagement.

Rachel Daniel is a political science, Latin American studies and economics major at the University of Miami. She currently serves as a member of the University of Miami Supreme Court and the Miami International Relations Association. She is passionate about local politics, international affairs, and social issues. After graduation, she hopes to attend law school and work in the field of international trade.

Andres Delatorre is a psychology major at Florida International University. To him, the health of a given population is of the utmost importance and he plans on using his education to tackle many health care issues, ranging from costs to overall availability.

Cesar Flores is a political science major at Miami Dade College. Also, Cesar is an active member in organizations on his campus such as the Student Government Association and Campus Election Engagement Project. He pursues his passions through his involvement in various organizations regarding the rights of immigrants in the state of Florida. Once he graduates from Miami Dade College, he will attend Georgetown University. His ultimate goal is to become a civil rights attorney.

Yentbert “Yen” Fuenmayor is based at Miami-Dade Community College. Yen is an active member in organizations on her campus such as the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and the Campus Election Engagement Project. She pursues her passions through her involvement in various organizations regarding civic engagement and education. Once she graduates from MDC, she will attend FIU to attain her bachelor’s in political science. Her ultimate goal is to practice corporate law.

Victor Garnica is a business administration major at Miami Dade College. While serving in Japan, he provided humanitarian aid with Operation Tomodachi after the 2011 Tohoku earthquake, tsunami and radioactive disaster. He worked diligently with his team to distribute water and rations, decontaminate equipment, and evacuate families to safety. This experience helped him realize the impact a dedicated group could have on their community; he began searching for opportunities in South Florida to volunteer. Through his search, he became the President of Phi Theta Kappa and worked on service projects to increase student awareness and applications to scholarships and educate our community on the imminent dangers facing our oceans. The directly influenced both initiatives by removing over one and a half ton of trash from our beaches and significantly increasing student scholarship applications from 75 to 210 applications. He received the Gold Presidential Volunteer Service Award for his dedication to community service with these service projects and my contributions as a mentor to at risk and new students with MDC Scholars. He received a tremendous amount of support from MDC staff every step along the way, with their guidance he was fortunate enough to be a recipient of the Pearson Scholarship for Higher Education, Coca-Cola Military Leader of Promise, and All-Florida Academic Team.  His work is not done yet; he created a leadership club (LEAD) to enhance students skills and marketability in the competitive workforce, and he will help educate voters on the upcoming midterm elections as a CEEP Fellow.

Carlyn Haas is a biology and Spanish major at Eckerd College. She currently serves as the Vice President of Academic Affairs for the Student Government Association at Eckerd. She is also a Resident Advisor and Ford Apprentice Scholar. She hopes to teach English as a second language in South America after graduation, then attend medical school. Eventually, Carlyn would like to become a primary care physician and medical school faculty member.

Salena Hosaka is a political science major at Santa Fe College with plans to transfer to UF in the fall of 2019.

Collin Kane is a sociology, economics and political science major at the University of Florida. In high school, Collin was involved with the Florida YMCA Youth in Government program, Florida’s premier teen civic engagement, leadership, development, and service learning program. It was through Youth in Government as well as his greater high school experience at Oak Hall School that Collin became interested in civic advocacy and engaging with communities to promote civic education and participation. Collin looks forward to learning from his experience as a fellow – combining real-life experiences with his academic studies to glean a larger perspective on today’s socio-political state of affairs.

Hannah Klonowski is an international and global studies major and a diplomacy and French minor at the University of Central Florida. Though her degree focuses mainly on International Relations, Hannah’s passion is domestic politics. She believes that civic engagement is incredibly important, and she loves working with campaigns and the legislative process. Hannah is a former intern for Florida House Representative Carlos Guillermo Smith and former Social Media Director for a Seminole County School Board Campaign. Hannah currently works on campus with Volunteer UCF as a committee member with the Division of Civic Engagement, and she works to ensure that students are educated about and involved in the political process. Hannah is very excited to be working with the Campus Election Engagement Project and cannot wait to educate more students on her campus and make sure that everyone knows how important it is to vote.

Ashley Lacey is a public health major at Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University. Ashley also works as an OPS Interviewing Clerk for the Florida Department of Health tracking cases of salmonella all over the state of Florida. Ashley became interested in working as a CEEP Fellow while being involved as the Secretary of Graduate Affairs for the FAMU SGA Organization. Ashley wants to become more active on her college campus by helping others understand how, where, and when to vote; Ashley believes that each citizen should have the right to vote respectfully. 

Clayton Lott is a journalism major at Santa Fe College. Ultimately, Clayton would like to practice law in the North-Central Florida area. Clayton is a lover of all things history and government and is very eager to get to work serving the students of Santa Fe College in his fellowship capacity.

Arina Martemyanova is a political science major at the University of Florida. Arina became interested in politics in high school when she realized that the best actions we as individuals can take to uphold our democracy is to actively participate in civil society and to help other people do the same. In my spare time, Arina likes to work out and go hiking. After college, Arina hopes to go to graduate school to further her career opportunities.

Axianax Merone is a chemical engineering major at Miami Dade College North. As first in her family to go to college, Axianax strives to be a great example for her younger siblings. Axianax is also fully involved in her college as Director of Internal Affairs for her Student Government Association, and involved in IAMW (influential, ambitious, motivated women), and AUD (Art, Us and diversity). Axianax hopes to use these platforms as a way of bettering who she is as a leader and hopes to be the change that she wants to see in this world.

Madison Meyer is a political science major and a sociology and criminal justice minor at the University of North Florida. Upon graduating, she plans on attending law school to pursue a legal career in medical malpractice. Her passion for politics and voter engagement began at the ripe age of 10 when she visited Washington, D.C. for the first time and listened to oral arguments in the Supreme Court. Since then, she has devoted her time and energy to advocate against social injustices, promote voter registration, and educate others about government policies.

Jacob Milewsky is a political science major at St. Petersburg College – Clearwater Campus. During his time at SPC he’s attended several leadership trips to Tallahassee, one of which with former SPC President Dr. Law to meet the State Legislature, and another being an invitation-only conference hosted by Senator Bill Nelson. He has served as a Senator in Student Government and was elected as Political Action Director for BADEYA (SPC Clearwater Campus’ Black Student Union). Currently, he is an active and vocal member of  Student Government, BADEYA, and Student Veterans Association. Jacob’s interests and passions include his Catholic faith, service to others, government, politics, and U.S. history. His plan after graduating from FSU is to earn a Master’s in Public Policy and Administration from Indiana University. Jacob’s future aspiration and career goal is to serve in Congress either as a Representative or Senator.

Diego Moreno is a political science and international relations major at Miami Dade College. He is currently the Vice President of the Student Government Association and serves as member in Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. He is passionate about legislative awareness and social justice. After graduation he hopes to transfer to a prestigious university to study law.

Paul-Donavon Murray is an international relations major at Miami Dade College. He pursues his passions through his involvement in various organizations regarding community service, civic engagement and international affairs. He currently serves as Chapter Leader of GenUN and is a board member in the Rotaract Club of Miami. Once he graduates from the Honors College at Miami Dade College, he will attend the university that provides him the best opportunity to accomplish his academic and professional interests. His long-term goal is to pursue a career in the Foreign Service.

Zachary Myers is based at the University of Central Florida. Zachary was always raised with encouragement from his family, church, and school to always give back to the community. With that in mind, he joined his two passions together: civics and public service into the main driving force that fuels his involvement for just about anything he does. Now as a Fellow for the Campus Election Engagement Project, Director of Civic Engagement for Volunteer UCF, Campus Representative for the James Madison Institute, and Senator from the College of Community, Innovation, and Education, Zachary’s involvement is spread wide, but he does every single part with honesty and integrity. The Civic Engagement Division of VUCF is particularly notable, as it is an excellent way for students to understand the impact they have on their government and the extent to which government affects all people. It should be the priority of VUCF and all other agencies to foster a culture of stewardship and coordinated growth. Zachary is excited to facilitate the process by which students can volunteer and engage with government structures all the way from a County Board of Commissioners to the institution that is The United States Government. The more present UCF is in our community and process of government, the more students will feel empowered to become engaged citizens in the Democratic Process.

Nicolle Perez is a political science major at Florida State University. She hopes to one day continue her educational career and go on to law school. Nicolle has been politically engaged in campaigns and in legislative sessions. She believes everyone should be civically engaged locally and nationally. By joining the CEEP fellows, she believes she can make a difference on her local campus.

Elijah Pestana is an arts major at Miami Dade College. Elijah is currently a Production Intern for MDC TV and a Student Brand Ambassador for Amazon Prime, he is also an active member in organizations on his campus such as the Student Government Association at MDC West Campus, Beta Upsilon Gamma chapter of PTK, Dialogues for Democracy, and Campus Election Engagement Project. He pursues his passions through his involvements in various organizations regarding higher education, ending gun violence, and promoting social change through media literacy. Elijah aspires to become a Late-night talk show host; he will use his platform to share stories that not only entertain viewers, but educate them through engaging and informative content.

Joicy Proano is a political science major and a communications studies minor at the University of Florida. As director of research for Chomp the Vote and a cabinet member for the Hispanic Student Association Office of Political Affairs, Joicy is highly interested in expanding the level of civic engagement on campus. After working on political campaigns for local candidates over the summer her passion for politics grew and hopes to be able to work in that area after graduation. Joicy also hopes to use all her experiences throughout and after law school in order to establish a well profound law career.

Leann Rabbani is a political science and international affairs major at Florida State University. She plans on going to law school to further expand her education. With CEEP she hopes to spread the message of voter education and use the tools acquired to later help her in her field.

Gelybeth Rodriguez is a political science major at Miami Dade College. Gelybeth has always been very involved in the community and meeting people. People are very interesting. During high school, she was in the International Baccalaureate program in North Miami Senior High School. Humbly, she graduated top ten in her class and really got involved in the North Miami Community though special programs she’s coordinated and been a part of. Gelybeth wants to lead people for a positive cause and is going to own a future business.

Jamie Schulman is a political science major and a criminology and psychology minor at Florida State University. After, Jamie plans to attend New York School of Law to fulfill her aspirations of becoming a criminal defense lawyer. Jamie is very passionate about community service work and loves working with and interacting with other people to make the world a better place.

Nisha Thanawala is a political science major at the University of South Florida – Tampa Campus. She is currently involved in many organizations on campus such as Phi Alpha Delta and Student Government. In her spare time she volunteers for the Aga Khan Foundation by raising money to alleviate poverty. She aspires to go to law school to get her juris doctorate and masters degree in public policy in the fall of 2019 and to work in public policy firms in the future.

Rashida Wilkinson is a health science major at Seminole State College (SSC) – Sanford/Lake Mary Campus. She has served as Student Services Chair of Student Government Association and has initiated an independent Black Student Union on her campus. Rashida enjoys discovering outdoor activities ranging from gardening to hiking. Her life goal is to return to the Caribbean and become a social activist for health and education while practicing dermatology and promoting holistic well-being.

Andrea Wright is a marine science and geological sciences major at the University of Miami. After graduation, she hopes to pursue a Ph.D. in marine geology. Outside of classes, she is a member of the Model United Nations Team, Omicron Delta Kappa National Leadership Honors Society, and the Sigma Gamma Epsilon National Earth Sciences Honor Society. She is passionate about civic engagement and politics and is excited to be working with the Campus Election Engagement Project.

Taylor Young is a public relations major at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University. Taylor is heavily involved on the campus of rattlers, is the Chairwoman of the 48th Student Senate Student Relations Committee, a First-Year Experience Peer Leader, and a member of Phi Sigma Theta National Honor Society.

Herby Zephir recently earned his Associates of Arts Degree in Environmental Science from Miami Dade College (MDC). He’s the former Vice President of the Student Government Association at MDC Homestead Campus. Herby is an alumni of many organizations at Miami Dade College such as the TRIO SSS program, Beta Mu Iota’s Black Male Initiative project and the Dream Team. Herby will attend the University of Florida in Spring 2019. His ultimate goal is to become a professional conservationist as well as modernizing urban farming within inner cities of the United States. Also, he aspires to launch a start-up therapeutic garden and vegan cafe business.

Caroline Burnette is a public relations major and a marketing minor at Georgia Southern University. Caroline is an active participant in the Miss America Organization where her love of current events and politics grew. Caroline served as Miss International City 2016 and competed in the 2016 Miss Georgia Pageant. Caroline is an active volunteer for the Alzheimer’s Association, Children’s Miracle Network, and an advocate for Mental Health Awareness. Previously, Caroline served as Vice President of Committees and Discipline chair for her sorority, Phi Mu. Caroline is a member of GS Miracle and PRSSA on campus. In her free time, Caroline is a huge Disney fan and has been to Walt Disney 39 times! She also loves cheering on the Eagles on game days, spending time with family and friends, and traveling.

Deshawn Raheem Jamison is a political science major at Kennesaw State University. He is currently studying for the LSAT and looking at law schools. He has a dedicated record of service in uniform, the Army Reserves, and now as a Cadet in ROTC, and outside in his leading of fundraising, and philanthropic efforts in pursuit of justice. He cares feverishly about jurisprudence, the destruction of “good ole boy” politics, due diligence and equal application of justice under the law. He understands the history of sacrifice that those before him had to endure in their pursuit of this right, and he has every intention to make sure that people are as motivated, mobile and active as he is.

Kevin Joachin is a 21-year-old senior at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College (ABAC) in Georgia studying History and Political Science. He currently serves as a senator for the School of Liberal Arts and Sciences and as a writer for The Stallion. He is a member of the Georgia Latino Alliance for Human Rights and Mijente. Once he graduates from ABAC, he plans to further his studies in graduate school and with social rights organizations. His immediate goal after college is to reconnect with Guatemala and its ancestral past. He enjoys reading about Mexican, Central American and indigenous history,  especially about their relationship with the U.S. during the last century. He spends most summers working in agriculture among campesino people, where he reconnects to a cultural foundation and understanding of migrants in this country. His ultimate goal is to learn an indigenous language from his father’s home in Guatemala and provide youth for generations with the cultural tools to speak out against injustice.

Alex Morley is an accounting and business information systems major at Mercer University. He is very passionate about serving his university and community and holds multiple leadership positions at Mercer. Alex currently serves as a resident assistant, vice president of Phi Eta Sigma National Honor Society, vice president of finance for Delta Sigma Pi Professional Business Fraternity, treasurer for Traffick Jam to help drive out sex trafficking, lead editor for the business school’s newsletter The Bear Market, and a manager for both the football and women’s basketball programs. He also serves on the Residence Hall Association (RHA) Programming Committee and the Sexual Assault, Hazing, and Alcohol Prevention Education (SHAPE) Committee to help students have a very safe and enjoyable time throughout college. He is a peer tutor and supplemental instruction leader for multiple business subjects. Alex cares that every student uses his or her voice to make a difference and also bring it to voting because voting allows every person’s voice to be heard.

Cody Oglesby is an accounting major and a forensic accounting minor at Dalton State College. Once he graduates from Dalton State, he plans to pursue a Master of Accounting degree at Kennesaw State. He is currently serving a 4-year appointment to the Gordon County Board of Elections & Voter Registration. He is passionate about getting more people involved in the democratic process and hopes one day to run for office himself.

Grace Stafford is an international affairs major at Kennesaw State University. She is a member of the Kennesaw State Model United Nations Team and served as an assistant chair for the 2018 Kennesaw State High School Model United Nations conference. Grace is passionate about campus election engagement because our government was designed to serve the people and voting tells the government what the people want.

Kierra Thompson is an English and public relations major at Georgia State University. She is an experienced student with a demonstrated history of working in the non-profit organization management industry. Kierra has worked for organizations that include the YMCA of Metro Atlanta, Atlanta Habitat for Humanity, and United Way of Greater Atlanta. During her time at these notable non-profit organizations, Kierra has implemented new strategies to help them bridge the gaps in local impoverished communities. Instead of being led by her career goals, Kierra is led by her passion and commitment to uplifting her community.

Asia White is an English and international business major and a Spanish minor at Valdosta State University. She currently serves as the president in her sorority, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. She is a member of numerous organizations on campus, some of those include: Enactus, National Society of Leadership and Success and Her Campus. Once Asia graduates, she will continue her education at Emerson University where she will pursue a masters in publishing. Her ultimate goal is to open her own publishing company in Atlanta, Ga.

Caden Owens is a political science major (pre-law) at McKendree University. Caden’s interest in voting started to sprout during and after the 2012 presidential election. Since then he has been involved in many different groups such as mock trial in high school, McK Debate team, Model UN group. Caden was also a student-athlete for about 10 years until this year when he decided to throw his time into debate, model UN, and fellowships like the CEEP’s. Caden is also currently involved in the All-In-Democracy Challenge Committee on his campus. Along with that, he is part of Residence Life which allows him direct interaction with his peers on a day to day basis. Caden is excited to grow through each and every one of these activities.

Jonathan George is a graduate student enrolled at Ball State University in the Master of Public Administration program. His favorite areas of study are Urban Planning, Elections, and American Labor. When he graduates, Jonathan hopes to find a job in Indiana working for local government. Some fun facts about him, his favorite sport is Futball, favorite drink is Horchata, and his favorite movie is whatever he saw last being Marvel’s Infinity War.

Sheila Gregory is a political science, French and public service major at the University of Notre Dame. On campus, Sheila is actively involved in several political groups such as College Democrats, NDVotes, and BridgeND. She also spends her weekends knocking on doors or making phone calls for local campaigns. Her interest in politics started early when her mom took her to an Obama rally in 2007 and ever since she has been hooked. She lives in Overland Park, Kansas with her mother and brother.

Brant Johnson is a mechanical engineering major at Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis. He plans on working in engineering and 3D modeling while pursuing his Master’s in Non-profit Management. His goal is to found a non-profit dedicated to bringing sustainable energy and farming techniques to communities in South America. Brant is also a member of Be The Match On Campus, an organization dedicated to increasing the number of registered bone marrow donors. As a donor himself, Brant uses this platform to speak about his experiences and fight the stigma that bone marrow donation is an invasive and painful process. In his spare time, he also volunteers with Circle K International at IUPUI, a branch of Kiwanis, and takes part in engineering projects.

Alexandra Nickerson is a communications and political science major at the University of Indianapolis. Ally is passionate about voter engagement on her campus and believes that college students are uniquely positioned to make change in the upcoming 2018 election. She also sits on the executive board for UIndy College Democrats, and works as a resident assistant in a freshman dormitory on campus.

Holly Armstrong is a political science major at the University of Michigan – Flint. She is interested in CEEP and campus engagement because this is one of the most important elections in our lifetime and we need young people to start participating in elections. When we can vote we are voicing our opinions where we want to see change.

Joshua Cianek is a history and political science major at Saginaw Valley State University. He has served as Treasurer for SVSU College Democrats; Vice President for SVSU Law Club and SVSU History Club; as a member of the SVSU Moot Court team; as a member of the SVSU Model United Nations team; and as a representative for Student Association. Joshua works as a tutor at the SVSU Writing Center and a Student Employee in the Political Science Department. Joshua is currently a part of SVSU’s Pre-Law program with hopes to attend Law School beginning in Fall 2020.

Pamela Mercado Garcia is an international affairs major and a Spanish minor at Eastern Michigan University. She currently works for Engage at EMU as the Assistant Program Coordinator for Community Engagement. Her civic engagement in Campus Life consists of her participation in a variety of clubs and organizations. She has participated with Model UN, has been the Vice President of the Latinx Student Association for two terms, and is the Vice President of Chapter Operations at Sigma Lambda Gamma National Sorority, Inc. She is passionate about voters education and civic engagement because she is interested in making a difference in the civil life of her community.

Elizabeth Hinckley is a Spanish major at the University of Michigan. Her time at Michigan has been one of exploration, discovery, growth, and passion. As a member of the Lloyd Hall Scholars Program, team member on the Women’s Club Water Polo team, participant in the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program, member of Psi Chi Honors Fraternity, social psychology research assistant, current principal investigator of her own research in psychology, yoga instructor, and now member of the non-partisan organization Turn Up Turnout, she has taken on many different roles in a variety of communities at the University of Michigan. Her academic and social passions are wide-spread but run deep- especially in terms of people, communication, and understanding. This theme rings true in Elizabeth’s personal life as well, as she is constantly looking for ways to challenge and improve herself, expand her worldview, and make real relationships with others.

Jane Johnston is a multimedia journalism and women, gender and sexuality studies major at Grand Valley State University. Her high school government class instilled both an appreciation and fascination with local and national politics, which has only deepened throughout her college career. One day, she hopes to use the skills she learns in both her academic studies and her personal exploration of politics to write about gender issues for a national publication.

Tanasia Morton is in the Higher Education Student Affairs Master’s program at Eastern Michigan University. Born and raised in the inner city of Cleveland, Ohio, she developed a passion for politics and social justice. Tanasia received her Bachelor’s of Science in Political Science at Eastern Michigan University. She aspires one day to serve on the campaign of the first woman president!

Talyce Murray is a comparative cultures and politics major with a focus on Latin America at Michigan State University.  She is a member of MSU’s residential college, James Madison College. Talyce’s passion for politics and advocacy work stems from her learning about the realities of human trafficking. Over the years, this passion has continued on to her becoming Vice-President of International Justice Mission-Grand Valley, an international NGO focused on protecting human rights, specializing in human trafficking and police abuse. After graduation, Talyce plans to take a few years off from school to travel through South America and work with the populations she studies in school. She eventually plans to attend law school and work towards a career as a United States Foreign Service Officer.

Jacob Sugarman is a philosophy, politics and economics major at the University of Michigan. He is a passionate advocate for social and political change through public policy and electoral politics. Working with the Roosevelt Institute, a student-run nonpartisan think tank, he has written and advocated for policies aimed at increasing democratic access for young people and marginalized groups. At the same time, he has committed countless hours working as a volunteer with political campaigns and ballot initiative movements, working to get students registered to vote and engaged with the electoral process. Jacob is also a musician and multi-instrumentalist, playing Bassoon, Saxophone, and Clarinet, while also performing as the lead singer in an Ann Arbor based rock band.

Eric-John Szczepaniak is a secondary education and social studies major at Grand Valley State University. Here, he is actively involved in Student Senate, most recently serving in a cabinet position. At 19 years old, he is the youngest elected official in the State of Michigan after having been elected in November of 2016 to a six year seat on the Kenowa Hills Public Schools Board of Education, the local district that he graduated from in 2016. While in high school he served for two years as a Walker Youth Commissioner where he learned about the role of local government. He is also an active member of the Walker Chamber of Commerce, the Grand Rapids Symphony Friends, the Michigan Center for Civic Education, and he is the umpire director for two local Little Leagues.

Samantha Uptmor is a political science major at the University of Michigan – Flint. Samantha is extremely passionate about civic engagement and thinks it is extremely important to advocate for! Samantha is a Senator on the Universities Student Government and her senatorial caucus is focused on non-partisan voter education and registration. Samantha is excited to be given the opportunity to work with the Campus Election Engagement Project this fall and is looking forward to seeing the impact we can make in the Flint community!

Zaynab Abdi is based at St. Catherine University. She is from Yemen. Zaynab fled the war in Yemen and made it safely to the U.S. before three years and a half. She is also one of the Green Card Youth Voices of Minneapolis book author. Zaynab also works with immigrants and refugees youth ambassador. She has spoken on behalf of the United Nations and is a Malala Fund youth Advocate for girls’ education. She knows the struggles she faces as a refugee who came to the States knowing little to no English, but she won’t let that get in her way. She is a strong leader with a strong voice and wants to use it to better the world and give as many people as she can a better life. Zaynab is also a soccer player. She started a soccer team at St. Catherine’s for minorities to empower them to play soccer and to increase their confidence in them. She also the Civic Engagement Collective Work appointed a person at St. Catherine.  She wants to make sure students are using their voting rights to make the great discussion for themselves to and to be active in the community.

Brittney Cockett-Ritchie is an environmental sciences, policy and management major at Minneapolis College. Brittney is the Student Senate Director of Health & Sustainability and President of the Three-Legged Frog Environmental Club. Her goals as a CEEP fellow are to make new connections, learn more about Minnesota elections and candidates, and gain experience in policy, planning, law and society.

Ben Ellgen is a political science, public administration and history major at Winona State University. He currently serves as the Treasurer of the Student Senate and works as a teaching assistant in the Geoscience Department. After graduation, Ben is looking to further his education in law or public administration and establish a career in public service. He is eager to engage students in the political process and support the voting rights of his peers.

Andy Hansen is based at Inver Hills Community College. He served one tour of duty in Afghanistan’s Khost district with the 101st, where he was awarded the Combat Medic Badge. Today, he is the president of the Inver Hills Community College’s VALOR student veteran’s organization and pursuing a degree in biology. It is Andy’s goal for the 2018 election CEEP program is to educate students on the importance of city, county, and state elections so that their voice has more of an impact.

Max Hurst is a political science major and a business law minor at University of Minnesota — Twin Cities. He currently serves as the Director of Government & Legislative Affairs for the Minnesota Student Association (MSA), the undergraduate student government at the U, as well as the President of Delta Kappa Epsilon International Fraternity’s UMN Chapter. After he graduates in December, he plans to work in government or government affairs for a few years before pursuing a law degree.

Sofía Leyva is a justice and peace studies major and a nonprofit management minor at the University of St. Thomas. Sofía is a co-facilitator for UST’s Feminist Community and Vice President of the Queer-Straight Alliance. Through her internship at Headwaters Foundation for Justice, Sofía has gained a greater sense of philanthropy and the importance community-led grantmaking. Sofía believes she has a responsibility to use the privilege she holds to fight current systems of oppression and amplify the voices of those traditionally silenced.

Janet Nguyen is a political science and sociology major at Augsburg University. They are interested in working more with human rights and public policy, but have found themselves becoming more interested and involved in issues revolving around the Asian American diaspora in the United States, as well as issues revolved around People of Color. They are particularly interested in working with Students of Color to increase voter engagement and political participation.

Ray Sookchain is an international business major at Inver Hills Community College. Ray is the Legislative Director of Student Senate.  He is pursuing international business and plans on transferring to Iowa State University next fall. Ray joined CEEP to gain experience connecting with various people and informing them about the current voting season in Minnesota. His goal is to ultimately make a drastic increase in voting on his campus.

Andrew Trenne is a political science major at the University of Minnesota State Mankato. He currently serves as the President of the Residence Hall Association on his campus. Andrew Spends most of his time working, studying, and traveling. After graduation he wants to attend law school.

Mushtaq Ahmad Wahidy is a biology major at Metropolitan State University. Mushtaq loves the world of study, innovations, socializing and interested in cross-culture knowledge. He always spends his extra time reading, talking to people around him and doing volunteer work. Mushtaq is also a social activist and has established youth association in his community to help street labor and work on empowering women back in Afghanistan.

Paul-Donavon Murray is a history and English major at the University of Southern Mississippi. He is currently a secretary for many different clubs and is good with paperwork. He participates in political clubs and cares for his university and the surrounding city. Once he graduates from USM, he has plans to be a high school teacher in the area and hopes to teach students the importance of history/politics and caring about their community.

Ella Lawson is an Arabic, international studies and classics major at the University of Mississippi. Originally from Dearborn, Michigan, she became passionate about voting rights because of her time with the non-profit, non-partisan organization Mississippi Votes. She currently works as a Community Assistant for the housing department of the University of Mississippi. On weeknights, she hosts the show “Playing Favorites” on Rebel Radio. Her most valuable time is spent volunteering through the Community of Sant’Egidio and Mighty Milers. She is also a member of Alpha Delta Pi and serves as Junior Panhellenic Delegate. In the future, she hopes to work in broadcast journalism.

T. Malik Ross is a business administration major and a pre-law minor at Mississippi State University. He specializes in Marketing and Public Relations, serving as the Marketing/ PR Coordinator for the Maroon Volunteer Center on campus. Ross promotes events utilizing social media marketing, as well as traditional print. Ross refined his marketing and public relations abilities through prior positions such as Director of Homecoming and Pageants for the MSU Student Association, Press Intern for House Committee on Homeland Security, and Marketing Intern for BattleBells. Above all, Ross demonstrates an insatiable desire to gain knowledge, experience, and wisdom in areas of politics, public relations, and marketing.

Aura Aguilar is a social work major at the Brown School at Washington University. After five years of doing digital marketing for sustainable food brands, she found her passion in community organizing and working to understand the barriers underrepresented communities face and address them by giving them a voice. She looks forward to working alongside CEEP and the Center for Social Development at the Brown School to increase voter access and engagement.

Lauren Cavignano is a health management and political science major at Saint Louis University. She worked as a field and finance fellow on a Congressional campaign in NH01, interned for a state party chapter, and still serves as New Hampshire’s 2018 Youth Governor. She has also interned for U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen and was a 2018 summer associate for the U.S. Senate Sergeant at Arms. Lauren served as a U.S. Senate Page in high school. She attended the Senate Page School in Washington, D.C. where she began her formal study of U.S. policy and legislation. Lauren is a member of pre-law organization Amicus Curiae, the SLU Economics Club, and Una: The Feminist Voice at SLU. She volunteers at a St. Louis public health organization and became passionate about urban community outreach and public health after spending a summer organizing educational opportunities in Jaipur, India.

Sherene Covert is an arts major at Metropolitan Community College. Raised in Kansas City, she loves music, arts, and unique eats. Sherene plans on joining and exploring food scenes around the globe after graduation to broaden her knowledge and pallet. Though she loves the thrill of traveling, Sherene finds the simplest way to explore is not through the airport, but the kitchen.

Aminata Diallo is an international relations major at the University of Missouri. During her college career, Aminata was an active member of the Webster Speech and Forensics League where she practiced and honed her public speaking skills. She was awarded 2nd place at the 2018 Midwest Model European Union Conference as best speaker in the Commission and has routinely appeared on the dean’s list at UMSL. Aminata wants to use her passion for learning to cultivate the skills she will need to help develop her community and help as many people as possible.

Chase Dobler is a socio-political communication major at Missouri State University. Chase’s background is unique in the sense that he is  a non-traditional student. He was recruited to play ice hockey for Missouri State University back in 2013. He attended his freshman year and then left to play professional hockey overseas in Switzerland for the next two years. He then returned to Missouri State in 2016 to complete his degree. Not only is Chase a student-athlete, but he is also on an academic scholarship with the university debate team. He is also a member of the Honors College. Throughout his time at Missouri State University, Chase became the President of the Peer-Leader Association, Vice-President of the MSU Ice Hockey Player Board, and a SOAR leader. Chase has always done his best to break the athletic stereotype that has followed him throughout his journey in life. Becoming a CEEP Fellow is just another break out of that mold.

CJ Donegan is a sports business management major at Maryville University. She is the active president of Speaking Politics at Maryville (S.P.A.M.) that aims at engaging the campus community to openly and safely discuss political views to promote a better democracy. Along with S.P.A.M., she also is on the Maryville varsity golf team, Rawlings Sports Business Management executive council, student government, and is president of the student-athlete advisory committee. Following graduation, she plans on attending law school and continues to promote civic engagement throughout her life.

Kathleen “Katie” Fields is a business administration and management major at Webster University. She loves her school and is thankful for the international presence on campus, as she has friends from around the globe. Thus far, her favorite memory of college was being selected to attend a leadership summit at Webster’s campus in Vienna, Austria in 2017. She is committed to disability rights, a passion she discovered while interning with the Starkloff Disability Institute, a non-profit in St. Louis dedicated to making the world a more accessible place. She just served as the Volunteer Coordinator for FestAbility, the first festival in St. Louis to celebrate disabilities. She is a Student Career Advisor at Webster’s Career Planning & Development Center, a Student Ambassador representing the Office of the President, and a WebsterLEADS participant. She looks forward to growing more as a global citizen and doing what she can to serve her community.

Andrew Goewert is a political science major and a peace studies and leadership and public service minor at the University of Missouri. Andrew represented students from the College of Arts and Science in Mizzou’s undergraduate student government senate for two years. Last spring, he was chosen to be the Campus President for the Associated Students of the University of Missouri (ASUM), a student-funded, and student-run lobbying organization which advocates on behalf of students in the Missouri State Capitol. After graduating in May, Andrew plans to attain his Masters in Public Administration or his law degree.

Mike King is a business major at Metropolitan Community College. He started his own small business as a DJ and hopes to continue learning in order to grow his company. Mike also has had the opportunity to be the face of MCC, proudly sporting the new Mascot costume to build community across campus.

Tylor Miller is a secondary education major at St. Charles Community College. Tylor has an older brother and sister, and two nephews who currently live with his family and are the joy of his life. Tylor plans to attend Lindenwood University to study Secondary Education and go on to teach high school. He is a United States Army Veteran and was stationed at Fort Knox, Kentucky. Tylor is looking forward to this semester and for the opportunity to get college-bound and college-age Americans interested in voting!

Jennifer Mossgraber is a political science and public law major at the University of Missouri-St. Louis (UMS). A drive and desire to become more civically engaged helped inform her decision to return to school to study political science and public law. Jen serves as the president of UMSL’s Political Science Academy, a student organization that fosters civil discourse on campus by hosting debates, discussion panels, and an annual lunch with legislators. Jen also serves as the Assistant Legislative Director of the Associated Students of the University of Missouri (ASUM), a student-run lobbying organization which advocates on behalf of Missouri’s public university students. Jen plans to graduate from UMSL this spring and is currently applying to law schools. When not on campus, in the capitol, or working for a campaign, Jen can likely be found making a mess in her kitchen.

Audrey Nelson is a psychology and political science major and a Spanish minor at the University of Missouri-Kansas City. Audrey’s family emphasized the importance of participating in politics from a young age and that has directly influenced her life as an adult through her passion for government. After she graduates, Audrey hopes to go to law school or pursue a graduate degree in public administration. Through either path Audrey hopes to make a positive impact in her community. She is passionate about civic engagement and is eager to make a difference on her campus.

Telayah Arshanti Richards is based at Harris-Stowe State University. During her years in college, she was involved in Royal Court where she served as Miss Freshman. She also served as a residential assistant where she received the Outstanding Residential Assistant Award. Miss Richards also served as a general member of the campus activity board. She currently is a peer mentor and serves as the President of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), she has held this role for the past three years. While President, her NAACP chapter has won Organization of the Year twice in a row as well as Cultural Events of the Year. Telayah is also the Community Service Director of a non-profit called Divine Daughters whose mission is mentoring broken girls from the ages five to twenty-five. She’s a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., where she serves as the Educational Enrichment Chair. Telayah also serves as the 14th Miss Harris-Stowe State University.

Janelle Saunders is an accounting major and a cybersecurity minor at Maryville University. She will be pursuing a Master’s degree in Business Data Analytics after graduation. Janelle loves being involved on campus and is involved with Student Government, the Accounting Association, Speaking Politics at Maryville, and Residential Housing Association.

Kaylee Sharp is a political science major at Missouri Western State University. Kaylee plans to attend law school. Throughout her undergraduate studies, Kaylee has been involved in numerous extracurricular, volunteer, and work activities. She served as a student senator, vice president of Legal Studies Association, and a resident assistant, while also maintaining her devotion to academic research. Kaylee has completed independent research on superfund sites, studying environmental racism is Missouri, and the impact of Amicus Curiae briefs in lobbying tactics of the ACLU. Her latest project was focused on teaching CLE English at Taunggyi University in Myanmar as an intern for the NGO, BABSEACLE.

Elizabeth B. Sites is a political science and communication studies major at the University of Missouri-Kansas City. Her university experience has been one which led to the affirmation of different passions including research, travel, and working with others. She serves as the Vice President of Membership Education for her sorority, Alpha Sigma Alpha; Vice President of Administration for the College Panhellenic Council; Advisory Board member for American Public Square; the student liaison between the College of Arts and Sciences and the students in the political science department; and is a member of Omicron Delta Kappa, Pi Sigma Alpha, and the Mercury Association. Elizabeth spent the summer working in Lisbon, Portugal doing research on environmental sustainability for Galp. While fulfilling academic duties, she also works for the World Trade Center- Kansas City as an International Research Assistant.

Carrie Spanton is based at MCCKC Penn Valley. Carrie strives to be a good role model for her son in high school. Carrie considers the decision to change careers life-changing and has become immersed in student activities. She worked on campus as a Peer Mentor, Si Leader, and assistant to the Director of Student Life and Leadership. Carrie is honored to have earned student of the month and President the Phi Theta Kappa chapter at Penn Valley, where she helps create projects that will improve the Penn Valley student experience. Carrie has a commitment to community service and spends her spare time helping refugees resettle in KC, community garden projects, North Kansas City Hospice, and Penn Valley’s food pantry. Carrie’s academic goal is to pursue a doctorate and continue to work in academia. Her passions include research, reading, travel, wellness, family, and her two dogs.

Sidney Steele is a convergence journalism and political science major at the University of Missouri-Columbia. She is a part of Kappa Delta sorority, ASUM – The Associated Students of the University of Missouri, and Mizzou Alternative Breaks. Sidney is currently working on a political documentary with the political science and documentary journalism departments at MU. She enjoys NPR podcasts, traveling and cooking in her free time. Sidney hopes to someday do political reporting for NPR.

Jennifer Sutterer is a political science and philosophy major and a Spanish and service learning minor at the University of Missouri-Columbia. She interned with Senator Caleb Rowden of the Missouri General Assembly and with U.S. Senator Roy Blunt and Congresswoman Ann Wagner in Washington D.C. On campus, Jennifer holds a variety of leadership positions, such as serving as the Director of Financial Obligations for the Delta Delta Delta sorority and an academic senator for the Missouri Students Association. She is also involved in a myriad of other organizations including MU College Republicans, the Kinder Institute, and the Chancellor’s Standing Committee for Student Conduct. Following graduation, Jennifer plans on attending law school with an ultimate goal of working in criminal law and politics.

Valeria Becerra Camargo is a social work major and a Spanish, human development and family studies minor at the University of Nevada. She is currently a graduate teaching assistant at UNR, and interning with Assemblywomen Teresa Benitez-Thompson. Her previous work includes policy making, child advocacy, and community organizing. Valeria’s passion is working on macro issues that include race, immigration, and youth. Her future goals are to be able to touch all levels of social work, while advocating for and empowering those who are often overlooked.

Lex Coulter is based at Truckee Meadows Community College. Lex’s upbringing inspired them to travel and discover new landscapes and cultures, which led them to Asia. During Lex’s travels in Asia, they developed an interest in other governments as well as involvement within the politics locally and in their school. In Spring 2018, Lex was selected as a Senator at Truckee Meadows Community College. In their free time, Lex collects rocks, enjoys reading about the different governing parties in China throughout history, and taking walks outside.

LaShanda McGowan is a social work major at the University of Nevada, Reno. LaShanda was born and raised in Alaska and taught for the Anchorage School District (ASD), the most diverse school district in the nation. As an educator and advocate for social justice, LaShanda believes in the power of the vote and empowering people to take advantage of this right. LaShanda looks forward to the good work that will be done in this arena.

Allison Stersic is a social work major at the University of Nevada-Reno. She is passionate about working in macro social work where she can advocate for vulnerable populations and fight for social justice. She believes that campus organizing is not only important in cultivating the habit of voting, but necessary for educating and empowering people to be democratically engaged throughout their lives.

Magdiel Lara Torreza is a business major at Truckee Meadows Community College. She is excited to participate in the CEEP Fellows Program because she wants to influence more people to participate in our democracy. Magdiel is passionate about helping people become informed voters and choose candidates from real information rather than surface understanding. When we are informed and understand each other, we can make a real social change.

Hieu Van Le is a political science and computer science major at the University of Las Vegas Nevada. The reason why he wants to do campus organizing is to unite students who care about our government, our education, and  OUR voting. Being in his College Student Government got him more involved with campus life and sparked his light into Social Justice and Equality for all. He is hoping to get everyone registered and passionate to vote, no matter what party they are affiliated with. Remember, “It’s not WHO you vote for, It’s WHY you vote!”.

Kevin Wong is a political science major at the University of Nevada Las Vegas (UNLV), non-traditional student, civil rights advocate, and formerly convicted felon. Wong transferred to UNLV from Middlesex County College, following his discharge by the State Parole Board of New Jersey. Wong is currently serving as the Advocacy Coordinator for the UNLVolunteers community service organization on campus, in addition to interning for the Campaign Legal Center wherein he is organizing to restore the rights of those whom have been systematically marginalized by felon disenfranchisement laws—particularly concerning voting. After Wong graduates, he intends to attend law school. He aspires to practice criminal defense.

Amanda D’Aniello is a political science and creative writing major at Dickinson State University. She also serves as secretary for her campus League of Political Scientists. After graduation, she intends to pursue a career in law.

Nicholas Waddell is a politics and communications major at the University of Mary. Nicholas serves as the President Pro Tempore in the student government. Nicholas also serves as a resident assistant, a job he started his first semester of freshman year. He is also President of Marauders on Politics, the on-campus politics group. Besides politics, Nick loves traveling and camping. He has visited over 30 national parks and would love to visit every single national park. Nick’s other interests include photography, film, reading, and fashion. Nick is excited for the opportunity to engage his fellow students in the election process this year through CEEP.

Liza Askey is a political science major at Youngstown State University. Liza enjoys being involved politically and within her community and is extremely happy to be a CEEP fellow this semester.

Jackets Engaged: Political Engagement Team is a non-partisan group of student leaders working together to increase Baldwin Wallice University students’ engagement in elections & politics, and understanding of how they affect them and our community.  Members of the 2018-19 team are: Alex Milosevic, General Member: Junior, Political Science major; Allyson Crays, PR & Social Media Coordinator: Junior, Public Health and Political Science major; Angelique McGuire, Education Coordinator: Senior, Sociology major; Evan Ellacott, General Member: Sophomore, Broadcasting & Communications major; Peter George, Voter Registration Coordinator: Senior, Sport Management major; Ryan Simmons, Community Engagement Coordinator: Junior, Political Science & Public and Non-Profit Management major

In addition to voter registration, voter education and get out the vote activities, Jackets Engaged is working on engaging BW communities members is civil conversation across difference.

Ladan Barnes is a public health education major at Otterbein University. Laden plans to go to medical school after graduating. Although Laden has a passion for prevention and treatment science, she also has an immense passion for civic engagement. Laden committed to this passion by leading a group on her college campus called Raise Your Voice. Raise Your Voice is developed through our Center for Community and Engagement office at Otterbein. Our objective is to increase overall civic engagement in Otterbein’s community. We now intend to extend this mission with CEEP and I am excited for all the good things coming our way!

Luke Beckwith is an electronic media major and an IT minor at the University of Cincinnati. He has volunteered in local Cincinnati politics for the AMOS Project which petitioned to get Issue 1 on the Ohio Ballot in the midterm election, Nov. 6th! He hopes to work as a sound mixer and editor after he graduates UC.

BGSU Votes is a student-led non-partisan initiative out of Bowling Green State University’s Center for Community and Civic Engagement. BGSU Votes was started in 2012, and has grown in both size and impact in recent years with the help of student volunteers, on and off-campus partnerships, and national level organizations such as CEEP and the Andrew Goodman Foundation. BGSU Votes is focused on creating a positive political climate for BGSU students through voter registration, voter education, get out the vote initiatives, removing barriers to voting, and civic learning.

Joey Derrico is a political science major and a public policy minor at The Ohio State University. He is very passionate about civic engagement and the democratic process. Along with his position on CEEP, Joey is an ambassador with OSU Votes, a nonpartisan voter registration and education group. In addition to civic engagement, he is passionate about education policy and reform. Joey is involved with a group called Adopt-A-School where he acts as a second hand in a nearby, struggling middle school. After college, Joey hopes to become a Teach for America corp member and eventually attend law school to become an attorney. Outside of school, Joey enjoys playing golf, basketball, and going out with friends.

Tyger Devore is a political science major at Columbus State Community College. She plans on transferring to The Ohio State University to complete her degree and eventually continue her education to obtain a Master’s Degree in Communications. Growing up with parents who were very politically active allowed her to have the chance to campaign for President Obama’s 2008 and 2012 presidential campaigns and also Hillary Clinton’s 2016 presidential campaign. This is her first semester as a CEEP fellow and she is excited to have the opportunity to get her peers involved in democracy! She hopes to be a campaign manager herself one day and be able to continue to advocate for movements she’s passionate about.

Juliet Essien is an environmental safety and health management major at the University of Findlay. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Forestry and Environmental Management from Michael Okpara University in Nigeria. She currently serves as a member of the Findlay African Student Association (FASA). Juliet plans on building a career as a Safety Professional. She strives to always be the best she can be and her ultimate goal is to give back positively to society.

Halen Gifford is a communication major at The College of Wooster. She is a member of her College’s student governing body, Campus Council, where she works as the Service and Civic Engagement Representative and Budget committee chair. Halen is from Louisville, Kentucky area and is a graduate of Community Montessori School. Halen serves on the executive board for the College of Wooster Democrats as the Treasurer and the Director of Outreach. She also works in the digital collections office in her campus’ library. Halen is passionate about local politics and voting rights.

Aubrie Hargenrader is a biology major at Youngstown State University. Aubrie was so interested in serving as a CEEP Fellow because she had a very influential AP US History and AP Government teacher in high school. He promoted civic engagement and emphasized the importance of every vote. He explained to us that many times the people in history who were not voting were the people that needed to be heard most. Aubrie hopes to explain this to others and promotes a more active student voting population and therefore a better-rounded democracy.

Deanna Henry is a political science major and a peace studies and public policy minor at The Ohio State University. Motivated by a desire to learn and help others, Deanna is active in several organizations on campus including Politics, Society, and Law Scholars, College Democrats, and OSU Votes. With plans to work in Washington, D.C. upon graduation, Deanna is excited to be part of the Campus Election Engagement Project to increase civic engagement in her community.

Mitch Isler is a political science and economics major at the University of Cincinnati. Outside of classes, Mitch volunteers with a local animal shelter and is a member of the University Honors Program and the Vice President of Membership for UC’s chapter of the Alpha Phi Omega National Service Fraternity.  He has worked as an intern for a state executive agency, a public relations company, and a political campaign management firm. Mitch has received a grant to write his senior thesis on the factors that influence political participation among young people.  Through this research and the CEEP fellowship, he hopes to improve democratic processes and motivate the people around him.

Maranda Jory-Geiger is a political science and ballet performance major at the University of Cincinnati. She is an advocate of democratic principles, including peace, equality, civil rights, and voter education and mobilization; and her goal is to bridge cultural divides through diplomacy, education, and dance. She was an intern at the Nuclear Age Peace Foundation, a nonpartisan organization focused on education, advocacy, and empowerment to create a just and peaceful world free of nuclear weapons. She was also awarded a full scholarship to go to Moscow, Russia as part of the National Security Language Initiative for Youth (NSLI-Y) program funded by the United States State Department, where she was immersed in Russian language and culture and danced at Russia’s Bolshoi Ballet Academy. This experience, combined with her studies at the University of Cincinnati, helped her understand how sharing art and culture can allow people to empathize with each other and connect in a way that drives humanitarian and peaceable causes and overcome political differences. After graduation, she hopes to continue pursuing cultural diplomacy through dance.

Azalea Laverde is a political science and international relations major at the University of Cincinnati. Azalea spends her time outside of the classroom assisting a state senate campaign, as well as contributing to Cincinnati’s thriving art community. She plans to pursue a career helping vulnerable international communities.

Maya Majikas is based at Ohio State University. Her family was very politically active when she was growing up, so her interest in politics developed at a young age. At Ohio State, she is currently the Speakers Chair of the Honors Collegium, a Glenn College Student Ambassador, an Office Assistant at Raney House, the co chair of the Marketing Committee for OSU Votes, and a member of College Democrats. In her two years at Ohio State, she was selected to attend both Propel Ohio, a leadership program that promotes civic engagement and transforms undergraduate students into Ohio’s civic leaders, as well as NEW Leadership, a weeklong bipartisan program that addresses the underrepresentation of women in politics by teaching them how to become effective political leaders. Due to my passion for women’s rights and voter rights, she would like to attend law school after graduation and eventually become a civil rights lawyer and policymaker. Her dream job would be working at a non-profit organization such as the ACLU. In her spare time, she like to play sports, read, and watch documentaries.

Shanyce Matthews is a psychology major and a victim studies and criminology minor at Mount St. Joseph University. It is very important to Shanyce that we change the public school system climate as well as our political climate. She is looking forward to making a sustainable change to campus culture and working with people from all backgrounds.

Kimberly McNeil is a women’s, gender and sexuality studies and communications major at Owens Community College. Kimberly is the mother of a bipolar child and the legal guardian of her three grandsons, two of whom have ADHD. She has spoken before the Michigan Children’s Ombudsman regarding family rights and ethical reporting and investigative standards for Child Protective Services.  Ms. McNeil is passionate about many issues including mental health, equal rights, family rights, and healthcare. Her goal is to become an advocate for cultural diversity and to leave the world a little better than she found it. Ms. McNeil strongly believes even small actions by an individual can bring about large-scale change.

Jessica Mendoza is a psychology major at Columbus State Community College. As a woman and minority, Jessica encourages the youth to voice their own opinions through voting as a CEEP fellow.

Jada Miller is an engineering major and an environmental studies minor at Cleveland State University. The reason Jada joined the CEEP fellowship is because she wants to see her generation actually get out there and vote. There are many issues that we want solutions for but we don’t go out and vote.

Tabby Reyes is a philosophy, politics and economics major at Denison University. In 2016, she helped organize a city-wide “Student Ambassador Competition” to increase voter registration and civic engagement. She believes civic participation is necessary to push society forward. With a lot of passionate students working together, she’s hopeful we’ll see a stark increase in voter turnout.

Taylor Ronnebaum is a political science major at Wright State University. Taylor hopes to attend Vanderbilt Law School after graduation. Themself and the other CEEP fellows want to foster an environment where students are politically empowered and believe that their voice matters. Helping people take an active role in our political system is not just important to Taylor, but to our society as a whole.

Christen Swayer is an emergency management/homeland security major at the University of Akron. She has been named to the Dean’s List during her academic career, as well as the President’s List for the last two semesters. Christen is on the executive board of the UA chapter of the International Association of Emergency Managers. She is currently completing her internship in the safety department at J Rayl Transport. Christen enjoys local politics, traveling, and hopes to complete a Walt Disney World marathon.

Brandon Willinger  is a political science major at Bowling Green State University. He comes from a very politics-focused family. He marched in his first political march in 2004, when he was just 8 years old. When he was 12, he started to show interest in politics in the wake of the 2008 election. He started to learn about policy, systems of government and started following campaigns. After the 2008 election, he knew he wanted to spend his life working in politics. When he got to college, he found a passion for campaigning. He has volunteered or worked on three separate campaigns in the past three years, spending countless hours on voter engagement. He hopes to make a career focusing on voter engagement and education after graduation.

Shana Zelenka is a political science major at The College of Wooster. She is the co-president of the political science club, a writing consultant for the Writing Center, and a peer mentor. Over the last two years, she has had the opportunity to attend the week-long policy seminar PLEN Women in Policy, the NEW Leadership conference at Ohio State, and the Kenyon Legal Scholars Seminar. Through passionate advocation and a desire to effect change, she hopes to help students learn more about voter efficacy and inspire them to register and vote in every election they can.

Katherine Heidecke is a social entrepreneurship and writing major at Belmont University. She is a founding member of the Thistle Farmers Club, a campus organization that works to support Thistle Farms, a company that empowers women who are survivors of trafficking, prostitution, and addiction. Katherine also values being an active member of her campus ministry U-Kirk Nashville and the Alpha Sigma Tau sorority. Over the years, she has held many positions, including Vice President of Operations for her sorority, interned for U.S. Senator Dick Durbin of Illinois, and interned for AL Media, a political advertising agency. After graduation, she plans to continue pursuing her passions through a career in social justice and politics.

Nicholas Kositzke is a junior at UW-Stevens Point studying education with a specialization in secondary social sciences. He’s been interested in civic engagement for years and got very involved during this school year with student government and non-profit groups around the state. He can’t wait to start working with CEEP and learning more about civic engagement!

Sydney Lee is a 21-year-old junior at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM). She is majoring in psychology with a minor in women and gender studies.  Sydney is a founder of a UWM Campus Organization called Organizing for Change. She is also a member of the Women’s Advocacy Committee and is Caucus Diversity Chair for the College Democrats of Wisconsin. Sydney’s ultimate goal is to become a lawyer and to start a mentorship program for young minority girls to help them reach their full potential.

Sage Lefebvre is a philosophy major and a biology, chemistry and sociology minor at University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. Sage serves as UWSP Student Government Association’s Health Services Student Director and is involved in organizations on campus such as the Alliance of Multicultural and Diversity Organizations (AMDO) and Reformation and Improvement of Society and Environment (RISE). Sage also manages the on-campus food pantry at UWSP. She is passionate about making sure students are aware of resources available and to make sure no one goes without necessities. Sage hopes to continue her education by going on to Medical School and one day working for Doctors Without Borders.