Natalia Benitez Levina is a Cuban-born professional pianist currently residing in Nyack, New York. A classically trained concert pianist and accompanist, she graduated from the Music Conservatory of Matanzas “EPA” in 2021. While in Cuba, she developed a passion for TV and film production, which led her to study Media Communications at Rockland Community College.
Natalia joined the Sam Draper Honors Program and served as the Honors Student Assistant. She was actively involved on campus, participating in the SUNY ASAP program as well as serving as one of the Vice President of both the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society’s Alpha Phi Sigma Chapter and the Honors Newsletter. She participated in numerous events and competitions, including the Pioneers of Change contest, where her poem about Celia Cruz earned third place.
“Natalia is a rare blend of artistic talent and academic excellence,” said Meghan P. Nolan, MFA, MA, PhD, Associate Professor of English, Chair of the Sam Draper Honors Program at SUNY Rockland Community College.
“Her dedication to both music and media is inspiring, and she brought that same passion and creativity to every project she touched on campus. Whether performing on stage, writing for the Honors Newsletter, or exploring new forms of storytelling, Natalia consistently impressed us with her vision, leadership, and drive. I’m excited to see how she continues to merge her talents at Pace and beyond.”
