Arthur O. Eve Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) Student Ambassadors mentor their fellow students, create a student EOP support network of EOP students across the SUNY system, advise the Chancellor on strengthening the program, and help inspire more students to seek opportunities through EOP. Meet the current ambassadors below.
Learn about this history of the EOP Student Ambassador Program.
Raised in Corona, Queens, Frankie Joaquin Reyes is a junior at SUNY Purchase College majoring in Theatre and Performance with a minor in film and video production. Coming from a home who struggled financially, Frankie understands the feeling of not knowing how to get into college, or access resources that could benefit him in his career. Thanks to the EOP program, Frankie now has the opportunity to shape his future. Without the help of his EOP counselors, staff, and friends, he wouldn’t be in the position he is in today. Learning with peers and guiding those around him to reach their fullest potential.
As a returning EOP ambassador, Frankie wishes to continue his objective of uplifting and empowering young scholars who have ambitions of pursuing higher learning. One way he has done this is by mentoring upcoming freshmen during the EOP summer program for two consecutive years at Purchase. Frankie will continue to share information on how students can go beyond their circumstances and achieve their goals through the power of education.
Abraham Olatunde is a sophomore at Binghamton University, pursuing a major in Management Information Systems. As a proud EOP student, he is committed to leadership, mentorship, and academic success.
At Binghamton, Abraham serves as an EOP Ambassador, representing students across SUNY and advocating for opportunities that strengthen student achievement. He also serves as a Faculty Senate EOP Student Representative, where he works with faculty and administrators to ensure that underrepresented student voices are heard. During the summer, Abraham worked as a Study Hall Facilitator for the EOP bridge program, where he supported over 170 incoming students in building strong study habits and adjusting to the demands of college life.
Beyond his EOP roles, Abraham is also active in JUMP Nation, a mentorship program that empowers at-risk youth through guidance, encouragement, and community support. His goal is to combine his interests in technology and business to create innovative solutions while continuing to inspire and support students through the EOP network.
Joshua Nathaniel Goodwin is a senior at Binghamton University, majoring in Philosophy, Politics, and Law. He is a transfer student and a recipient of the 2023 Norman R. McConney Jr. Award for EOP Student Excellence, which is presented by SUNY annually. Joshua is not only focused on his academics but also has a passion for making people smile. He is known for his kindness and his desire to assist others. This drive to help and uplift others is evident in his involvement in programs that advocate for students.
Before transferring to Binghamton University, Joshua had a remarkable track record of involvement and leadership. He served as the president of the student government, held the position of Chief Editor of the school newspaper, and was a member of the Cross-Country and basketball team at SUNY Corning Community College. These experiences highlight his commitment to both student leadership and extracurricular activities. Joshua is a dedicated and accomplished student who is passionate about advocating for others and making a positive impact on his campus and community.
David graduated Nassau Community College (NCC) with a degree in Liberal Arts in May of 2025. He is continuing his studies in Psychology as junior at Stony Brook University. Coming from Queens to Long Island, David took advantage of every opportunity that the EOP program gave him by making his name known around campus. David competed in the national junior college championship for track and field, hosted his own radio show, is an All-American football athlete, and a recipient of the EOP outstanding academic achievement award.
David wasn't always a student leader, athlete, or representative. David's journey from NCC to Stony Brook has been marked with a profound belief in higher education. Even though David now resides in Stony Brook he still holds being the second EOP ambassador from NCC with high regard. He sees himself in many students are unsure of college or need guidance on the right school of program for them. David wants to make sure that everyone can see this golden opportunity and use it to pursue their dreams through higher education.
Osiel Iglesias-Faez was born in Cuba and moved to Brooklyn, NY at the age of 9 years old. He wasn’t sure college was for him as he grew up, but volunteering at the New York Presbyterian Hospital inspired him to become a physician and start the path of medicine. However, college requires money, which his family was not able to afford, that’s where EOP came in. Providing financial support from day one and allowing him to continue his path with little worries of financial burden. He’s currently studying Biological Sciences on the pre-medical track at Cornell University.
His goal as an EOP Ambassador is to increase the visibility of the program so other people from similar backgrounds can have the opportunity to fulfill their dreams despite not starting out with the best resources.
Arianna Sinclair is a freshman nursing student at SUNY Sullivan Community College. After taking a year off to get her life on track, she began college at 18 and went on to complete two years at SUNY Sullivan before entering the nursing program. During her time there, she was elected as the Student Government Association President in her second semester, where she worked to strengthen student engagement and build a stronger sense of community across campus. Her passion for helping others grew while working at The Center for Discovery, where she cared for children on the autism spectrum. That experience inspired her to pursue a career in nursing and deepened her dedication to service and compassion.
Originally from Jamaica, Arianna understands the challenges that come with overcoming adversity and limited opportunity. The Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) played a crucial role in supporting her through difficult times, providing both guidance and community. As an EOP Ambassador, she is committed to giving back to the program that has given her so much, helping other students find the same support and sense of belonging that shaped her own journey. Through her ambassadorship, Arianna hopes to inspire others to embrace their potential and remind them that with the right support, success is always possible.
Elijah Adams comes from the Bronx, NY and currently attends Alfred State College. Elijah became an EOP Ambassador for the purpose of putting himself in a role where he can change and impact people’s lives for the better. He’s also participated as an EOP mentor for the same purpose. He plans to one day be an influential speaker who pours wisdom and knowledge into the minds of others so that they can go out and be the best versions of themselves. Elijah’s main fight is against poverty. A quote from him that he likes is, “All labor produces profit, but mere talk only leads to penury.”
Brian Amaya is a junior at SUNY Old Westbury. He is from Long Island, NY. He majors in Accounting with a concentration in Forensic Accounting. As someone who did not apply himself in high school and changed the rhetoric of his life, Brian completely understands the value of hard work, challenging capabilities, and redefining self-improvement. The EOP program provided the best opportunity to restructure his career development and personal growth. Brian is a presidential ambassador for his college, an EOP tutor, a volunteer firefighter and EMT, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner, and currently a prospective intern at EY.
Brian’s main objective as an EOP ambassador is to help students realize their potential and how EOP can aid in maximizing their potential. If it were not for the EOP program, Brian could have never imagined the position he is currently in. He will continue to uphold the values of EOP and create an opportunity for students to learn about the amazing program and have it be the cornerstone of their development.
Afsana Jim is a junior at Stony Brook University, majoring in Health Sciences on the Pre Med track. A proud member of the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP), she has been actively involved in supporting EOP students through mentorship, academic coaching, and leadership. As a former Success Coach, Teaching Assistant, and Tutor within EOP, she guided students through their academic transitions, hosted one on one meetings, and helped create a positive and inclusive learning environment. Her experience as the Public Relations Officer for the EOP Student Association (EOPSA) also allowed her to lead outreach campaigns, coordinate events, and build stronger connections within the student community.
Currently, Afsana serves as the President of the Muslim Student Association (MSA), where she leads a dedicated team in organizing faith based, cultural, and community service initiatives that bring students together. Alongside her campus leadership, she works as a Phlebotomist and Front Desk Receptionist at P&P Pediatrics, where she provides patient care in a professional healthcare setting, and as a Research Assistant in the Smiley Lab for Ecology and Evolution. Afsana aspires to become a physician who not only provides compassionate care but also advocates for accessibility and equity in healthcare. She is excited to represent Stony Brook University as a SUNY EOP Ambassador, continuing to uphold the values of service, mentorship, and opportunity that have shaped her own academic journey.
Born and raised in the Bronx, Cesar Firmat is currently a Computer Information Systems major with a minor in Spanish at SUNY Fredonia. Before college, Cesar faced academic challenges throughout his schooling and often doubted his potential for higher education. His path changed when the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) recognized his potential and provided the resources, support, and summer program he needed to succeed in college.
Since then, Cesar has flourished academically, earning a place on the Dean's List every semester with a 3.7 GPA. As a returning EOP Ambassador, Cesar is passionate about giving others the same opportunity he was offered and is committed to showing that academic success is possible with the right support and determination.
Originally from Long Island, Jenny is currently majoring in Communication Design at the Fashion Institute of Technology, where she has also built a solid background in Advertising and Marketing. She is a full-time student, a member of Chi Alpha Epsilon and has also served as a Peer Mentor during the EOP Summer Program.
EOP has been an uplifting constant throughout her college journey. One that has helped her find her footing and community at FIT.
As an ambassador, she hopes to contribute to the program that has guided her, by supporting new students from similar backgrounds, and encouraging them to make the best of their time during their own journeys. She believes that every field benefits from people of all backgrounds and cultures, and that students deserve the support and access to pursue what truly inspires them. Her motivation heavily lies in advocating for an educational system that empowers others to do just that.
Haljazir Headley is a Brooklyn, New York native and a student at the University at Albany, SUNY, where he is majoring in Political Science with a minor in Communication Studies. He is a transfer student from SUNY Plattsburgh, where he built a strong foundation in leadership, advocacy, and student engagement.
Haljazir currently serves as the New York State NAACP Youth & College Division Advocacy & Policy Chairman and as Secretary of the Educational Opportunity Program Student Association (EOPSA) at the University at Albany. Through these roles, he advances policy initiatives, supports student advocacy efforts, and works to strengthen engagement across campuses.
During his time at SUNY Plattsburgh, Haljazir served as President of the Educational Opportunity Program Student Association (EOPSA), President of the NAACP College Chapter, and a Lead Peer Mentor for the EOP Living Learning Community (RISE). He also served as a Summer Academy Resident Assistant for EOP and was actively involved with Club Caribbean, contributing to student development and community building.
As an EOP Ambassador, Haljazir is committed to amplifying the transformative impact of the Educational Opportunity Program. Having progressed from a 70.77 GPA in high school to maintaining a 3.0 GPA in college, he is dedicated to inspiring students to recognize their potential, embrace opportunity, and pursue excellence.
Marisol Gardner-Montanez, originally from Addison, NY, is currently attending Corning Community College majoring in Humanities and Social Science. Marisol became an EOP ambassador to make an impact on other people’s lives and spread the importance of the EOP program. EOP has given her a chance to do things she didn’t think she was capable of such as attending college and having a huge support system in her EOP family. EOP has not only pushed her out of her comfort zone, but also exposed her to many opportunities that she would like to share with others. As a product of the foster care system, Marisol is hoping to become an advocate for foster youth building a community through opportunities like the EOP program.
Julie Blanco is the SUNY EOP ambassador for Buffalo State University. She was born in Guatemala but raised in the Bronx, New York. Growing up between two cultures has really shaped who she has become, and has taught her the value of hard work, resilience, and community.
Julie joined the EOP Ambassadors because she believes in representing and uplifting others who share similar experiences. She wants to help make a stronger name for her fellow colleagues and show every student that they have a bright future ahead of them if they put their heart and dedication into what they do.
Chriss-Ann Pryce is a proud Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) scholar and graduate of Dutchess Community College, where she earned her Associate of Science degree and held multiple leadership roles as a Resident Assistant, Peer Navigator, Mentor, and Social Media Director. Throughout her time at Dutchess, Chriss-Ann demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication to student success as an RA and Student Leader. She is now continuing her education at the University at Albany, majoring in Human Biology on the Pre-Nursing/Pre-Med track.
Her commitment to leadership and service has been recognized with the Norman R. McConney Jr. Award for EOP Student Excellence and Resilience and a nomination for the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence. Chriss-Ann’s passion for healthcare and equity was strengthened through the SUNY Chancellor’s Pre-Medical Opportunity Program at SUNY Downstate, where she shadowed physicians, observed surgeries, and researched health disparities. She also gained hands-on experience in public service while working with New York State Senator Rob Rolison.
As a SUNY EOP Student Ambassador, Chriss-Ann continues to advocate for educational access and equity across New York State, using her platform to uplift EOP student voices, promote perseverance, and highlight the transformative power of EOP on academic and personal growth.
Catherine Frempong is a senior at the University at Albany, majoring in Human Development with a concentration in Special Education and Literacy. A proud transfer student from SUNY Broome, Catherine served as an EOP Student Leader during the summer program, where she mentored incoming students and helped foster a welcoming and supportive learning community.
At UAlbany, she continues her commitment to leadership and student support through her roles as a Student Leader, Mental Health Leader, and Academic Resource Mentor within the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP). In these positions, she assists students in developing academic confidence, prioritizing wellness, and navigating the challenges of college life.
Catherine is also a certified Assistant Teacher and works as a Behavior Technician, providing individualized support to children with autism. Her dedication to education and inclusivity drives her goal of pursuing a master’s degree and teaching certification in Special Education and Literacy, where she hopes to continue advocating for equitable access to learning and empowering diverse students to reach their fullest potential.
Andrea Marie Sánchez is a junior at the University at Buffalo, majoring in Psychology with a minor in Spanish on the Pre-Physician Assistant track. She is a driven and resilient student with a strong interest in healthcare and a commitment to serving diverse communities. Andrea is a member of the University at Buffalo Pre-Physician Assistant Society (UBPPAS), where she regularly participates in workshops, networking events, and volunteer opportunities that prepare students for careers in medicine. She has gained valuable insight into the PA profession and continues to strengthen her dedication to patient-centered care.
She also is an active member of the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) Ambassador Club, working alongside peers and academic advisors to organize events that foster a stronger sense of community within EOP at UB. Outside of campus, Andrea remains closely connected to her hometown through her involvement with the local town recreation department, where she supports youth programming and community events. At UB, she continues to build her professional network by taking part in a variety of events and initiatives offered by the EOP office, including leadership workshops and career development seminars.
With the continued support of her academic advisor, Travis Eisele, and the dedicated EOP staff at UB, Andrea is committed to growing not only as a student but as a leader within her community. She aims to be a positive role model for her peers in the EOP program and to serve as a bridge for first-generation college students, immigrant families, and underrepresented communities. Through her academic journey, Andrea hopes to inspire others to pursue their goals with confidence and purpose.
Ninoshca Irizarry serves as the EOP Ambassador for SUNY Brockport. She is a senior double majoring in Criminal Justice and Psychology and a double minor in Forensic Science and Legal studies. She is very dedicated to her education which is why she is also a part of EOP’s Chi Alpha Epsilon honor society. For Ninoshca, EOP has always felt more than just a program and more like a second family. She often describes EOP as the trunk of a tree that provides the foundation and support students need to grow academically, professionally, and personally. Ninoshca believes that education should not feel out of reach or far away for any student and for her EOP does just that. As an EOP ambassador she hopes to inspire students, parents, counselors and any one who listens to realize that EOP is an amazing and welcoming community to be a part of; and with the right support, every student can thrive.
Juan Rojas is a junior at SUNY Maritime college pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering while also pursuing his third assistant engineer certification to work aboard commercial vessels post-graduation. He was born in Bogota, Colombia and immigrated to the United States when he was seven to Queens, NY. He graduated from Aviation Technical School acquiring an Airframe and Powerplan certification allowing him the opportunity to work on a commercial aircraft.
During his time at Maritime, he has become an EOP mentor during EOP summer orientation and throughout the academic year. He ensures all EOP students are adjusting well during their transition from high school to college. Juan is grateful for all the opportunities the EOP program has provided him in his academic journey, and plans to give back to the program as an EOP Ambassador.
Aniga “Jay” Werner is attending Corning Community College (CCC) studying a dual degree in Business Administration and Financial Accounting Management. Born in Elmira, NY, and raised in Corning, NY, he struggled academically leading up to graduating high school. During this time, he had the dream of becoming an entrepreneur but did not think it was possible. Schooling was difficult and he didn’t see himself excelling in college. It took time, life experiences, different jobs, and a lot of personal reflection to find his drive and passion in giving his dream a chance.
As an adult learner in the Educational Opportunity Program at CCC, he has gained insight to being a full-time student while maintaining full-time work and life’s responsibilities. During his freshman year, he became the student government’s student trustee, a peer mentor, and a math tutor, furthering his advocacy for students, aiding them through personal challenges, and connecting them to academic and local resources. Jay is a strong advocate for growth, intrigued by philosophy and financial systems, and has a desire to genuinely make people smile. Through his academic career, he intends to enhance his understanding of his interests and use his natural personality to encourage people’s everyday lives.