EOP Student Ambassadors

University at Albany | Communications

Kadaouye "KD" Soumare was born and raised in Brooklyn. She is currently a sophomore at the University at Albany with a major in Communications and a Minor in Women's Studies. Her parents are from Mali in West Africa. "My parents and family are a big part of who I am today. They push me to be a better person and a good student, to work hard and achieve success." Kadaouye is looking forward to starting a career in education and hopefully becoming a principal one day. She currently works in the EOP office at the University at Albany. "I love going to work to help my EOP peers and counselors around the office. I consider myself to be an extrovert and like being able to converse with people. I am beyond grateful for the opportunities that EOP has presented to me. EOP is always here to help no matter what, whether it's financially, personally or academically. I will always stand by the phrase ‘PROUD TO BE, EOP'."

Alfred State College | Agricultural Entrepreneurship

Ashley Clemente hails from Manhattan. She currently attends Alfred State College where she is majoring in Agricultural Entrepreneurship. Her interest in EOP is to help nurture it to grow and positively progress to help many future generations of students to attend college. Ashley considers this program as her family and being a part of that process is really all that she hopes to accomplish.

Binghamton University | Political Science/Pre Law

Galileo Savage, a senior majoring in political science at Binghamton University and a Harlem native, has been actively engaged in promoting diversity, equity, and community support throughout his college journey. Despite starting his college experience during the pandemic, Galileo has shown remarkable leadership.

As the President of the Binghamton University chapter of the NAACP, and the Pi Beta chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated, Galileo is dedicated to fostering unity and equity and academic achievement among his peers, and has made a commitment to the development of brotherhood through service. He co-founded the New Student of Color Mentorship Initiative, which creates a supportive community for underrepresented students on campus.

Galileo has also served as the President of the Hinman College Council and a member of the Student Conduct Hearing Board, contributing to campus life and the disciplinary process. His dedication to helping others and advocating for underrepresented groups is evident throughout his college journey.

Binghamton University | Political Science

Joshua Nathaniel Goodwin is a junior 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 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.

University at Buffalo | Business Administration

Lamine Kone began his academic journey at the University at Buffalo in the summer of 2021. As an EOP student, he attended the 2021 EOP Virtual Summer Bridge Program. During his first year, Lamine applied for the position of Counselor Assistant for the 2022 EOP Summer Bridge Program. He was hired and did an exemplary job. Lamine demonstrated initiative and maturity beyond that of most college students. Lamine showed adaptability when challenged by the academic transition to the university as a first generation college student. He quickly learned and academically excelled his second year.

Lamine is highly involved on campus. He currently serves as a resident hall assistant, peer mentor and marketing assistant for the Startup and Innovation CoLab powered by Blackstone LaunchPad at UB. In those roles, he draws on his personal experience to guide other underrepresented first generation students through the college process and promote and inclusive environment. We are pleased to have Lamine as the EOP Student Ambassador for the upcoming academic year. He will be an excellent representative.

Lamine’s goal is to obtain a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. He hopes to work in human resources and continue to help and develop individuals.

Bufalo State University | Graphic Design

Bushra Rahman is a dedicated and passionate individual whose journey in the world of academia and mentorship has been nothing short of inspiring. Born with an innate artistic flair and a strong sense of purpose, Bushra's life has revolved around her pursuit of knowledge and her unwavering commitment to helping others.

Bushra took on the role of an EOP first-year freshman mentor for the 2023-2024 academic year. She has also been selected as an EOP Ambassador, and in this role, she plans to inspire other students in SUNY. This role was a testament to her commitment to guiding and supporting her peers through their college experiences. She relished the opportunity to help students navigate the challenges of their first year and beyond, providing them with the wisdom and guidance she had acquired during her own academic journey.

Bushra's dedication to EOP is reciprocated by her heartfelt gratitude. She acknowledges the program for the countless opportunities it has bestowed upon her. Through EOP, she found a platform to make a difference, to inspire, and to evolve into a better person.

SUNY Canton | Electrical Engineering Technology

Anikko Serrano of the Bronx came to SUNY Canton in 2020 during the height of COVID restrictions. The Electrical Engineering Technology major said he struggled with his studies during his first year in relative isolation before realizing all the resources available to assist him with his college career. He said everyone on campus was there to help him in an overall support network. He has since become the Student Government President, a Resident Assistant, a Jump Start Mentor, and an Academic Recovery Mentor. He has won Leaders of Tomorrow and Excellence in Student Life awards from the Dean of Students and Vice President for Student Affairs. He has become an integral part of the support network from which he has benefited and helps other students recognize their strengths and talents. After graduation, Anikko plans to become a Residence Director while earning his master’s degree.

Cornell University | Industrial and Labor Relations

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SUNY Delhi | Construction Mgmt Building & Design

Donovan Church from Albany, NY, is a junior in the construction management program at SUNY Delhi. He works as a Resident Assistant and is also involved with the Associated General Constructors club and the Men of Distinction program on campus. He appreciates the encouragement and support EOP has given him. As an EOP Ambassador, Donovan hopes to leave a mark and inspire others to take advantage of the opportunities around them. Donovan's future aspiration is to work for a commercial construction company as a project manager while enjoying sports and fitness in his spare time.

Empire State University | Community and Human Services

Stephanie Weinman is a sophomore at Empire State University majoring in Community and Human Services. A Rochester native and mother of two grown sons, she decided to go back to school after 30 years in the summer of 2022. At the age of 48, she finally decided what she wanted to be “when she grew up” -- a perinatal therapist, doula, and women’s health care advocate. She plans to bring her lifelong experience as an advocate for different causes into her studies as well as her EOP ambassadorship.

"Being an EOP student has given me connections with students, mentors, and teachers that I never thought I would gain. I feel I am a part of an incredible community that supports everyone, no matter who you are or what your story may be, because we all have our story -- and that is important."

Farmingdale State College | Electrical Engineering Technology

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FIT | Advertising and Marketing Communications

Aryon Holley is a dedicated full-time student at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) on a quest to turn her passion for Advertising and Marketing Communications, with a minor in Psychology, into a career. Hailing from the vibrant Bronx, Aryon has not only embraced her commute to FIT but also discovered her love for public speaking and connecting with people along the way.

Aryon's journey at FIT has been marked by a profound belief in the power of education. As the first EOP (Educational Opportunity Program) ambassador at FIT, Aryon is on a mission to inspire others to see college as a beacon of opportunity. She firmly believes that no matter where you come from, EOP can be your bridge to higher education. Aryon is driven by the idea that if college isn't the path you envision, there are still countless ways to find your place in the world.

But Aryon's advocacy goes beyond her own journey. She is committed to fostering inclusivity across all SUNY EOP programs and making a positive impact in every community she touches. With her unwavering dedication, Aryon Holley is not just pursuing her dreams at FIT; she's also lighting the way for others to find their own paths to success.

Monroe Community College | Criminal Justice

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SUNY New Paltz | Psychology

Zoey Salmon is a student at SUNY New Paltz who is working toward a major in Psychology with a minor in Sociology. She loves to hang out with friends and find new hobbies to try. At SUNY New Paltz, Zoey is an ALLI and has worked the past two years during the Summer Bridge Program welcoming the incoming first-year class as well as serving as Vice President of Caribbean Student Association. After Zoey graduates, she wants to take some time to travel to new places, with a goal of eventually returning to school to get a masters degree in counseling and become a future school counselor.

Onondaga Community College | Liberal Arts

Chaiya came to Onondaga Community College from Syracuse’s Nottingham High School and has immersed herself in the campus community. She is the Student Trustee on the College’s Board of Trustees, an RA in the Residence Hall, a member of Onondaga’s first group of Meg O’Connell Social Justice Scholars, an EOP Ambassador who goes into local high schools to speak with students about opportunities on campus, and is a Student Ambassador who give campus tours to prospective students and their families. She’s done all of it while maintaining a 3.8 grade point average in the Communication Studies degree program, earning her membership in the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.

SUNY Oswego | Biology/Psychology

Naw Ka Paw Paw is a SUNY Oswego senior biology major with a minor in communications. Through EOP, she previously attended SUNY’s 2022 Premedical Opportunity Program that supports a dream that could lead to establishing clinics in her homeland of Myanmar. “I would like to go back to my country and open up clinics in small towns to help the children who are in need,” Paw said. "Without EOP, I wouldn’t have the opportunities that I have now." Oswego’s EOP has provided other opportunities including serving as a summer EOP Peer Leader, Chi Alpha Epsilon honor society and the United University Professions Opportunity Day.

SUNY Plattsburgh | Business Administration

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SUNY Purchase College | Liberal Studies

Ruth Garcia-Batiz is a senior at Purchase College where she is majoring in Liberal Studies and minoring in Film/ Video Production. Ruth loves spending time with family and friends as well as trips to Starbucks. "To me, EOP represents family, community, and understanding. The greatest friendships and connection I made through this campus is through my EOP/MAP community and will always be appreciative of that. EOP provided the opportunity to flourish and grow academically, socially, and most importantly, personally. Whether it was through the resources they provided or simply talking with my Advisor about ideas I had, EOP gave me the support I needed to succeed."

SUNY Potsdam | Criminal Justice Studies

Arianny is a second-year student, majoring in Criminal Justice Studies and doubling minoring in Forensic Studies and Biology. From the moment Arianny stepped foot onto SUNY Potsdam’s campus, she has taken on various leadership opportunities by working for the Registrar’s office, serving on the e-board for the Black Student Alliance (BSA), serving as an EOP Summer Program Assistant, serving on student panels, and assisting the EOP office in connecting with prospective high school students to complete their college application.

Arianny is a Dominican Republic native and had immigrated to the United State at the age of 6. Arianny was able to adjust to her new environment at the time by the company of her friends who had immigrated as well. Some of the challenges Arianny had faced in her early years was learning to speak a different language and adjusting to the colder climate. As Arianny continued with her education, she was able to participate in the ESL program, which is a program to help develop techniques, methodology and special curriculum designed to search students, English language skills. Eventually, Arianny was able to excel from the program and later grew the ambition to go away to college, which ended up being, SUNY Potsdam.

Schenectady Community College | Human Services

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SUNY Polytechnic Institute | Psychology

Raj Bala Chaudhary is a senior majoring in Psychology and minoring in Criminal Justice as well as Community and Behavioral Health. While at SUNY Poly, Raj Bala has been greatly involved in her campus community and the EOP program. She has held many positions on campus such as Director of DEI for SUNY Poly Student Government, a Residential Advisor, an EOP Ambassador, an EOP Peer Mentor, an EOP Senior Program Specialist, and an EOP Study Hall Proctor since her sophomore year at SUNY Poly. She is currently conducting undergraduate research while being a part of the Psychology and Sociology Club, BLASU, and the Volleyball Club. Raj will graduate in May 2024 and pursue a PhD in Clinical Child Psychology.

Stony Brook University | Technology Systems Management

Hannah Ramirez, from Queens, New York, is currently pursuing her undergraduate degree at Stony Brook University. Her academic focus lies in Technology Systems Management, where she has chosen to specialize in Computer Science. Hannah has played active roles in the EOP community, serving as a Success Coach and Resident Assistant for the 2023 EOP Summer Academy. Her enthusiasm for effecting positive change within her community and providing support to both EOP and non-EOP individuals is evident. Hannah deeply values the chance to champion the cause of EOP and its students.