Scholars List

Kasey Buckley

Kasey was born a creative and fierce child. Gregarious and hungry for life and impossible when it came to sitting still, much less focusing on the teacher or schoolwork. Therapy and medication went a long way with this, but in 1994, Kasey’s family suffered a loss when their home burned down, and she took heed of the power of medicine and outside substances to treat her insides. Kasey’s family moved every year after the fire. Her father, David Buckley, was the first to graduate college in his family and start his own business. Not long after the fire, her father grew ill with a brain disease and after a decade of deterioration, Early-onset Alzheimer’s took his life. Throughout her adolescence, Kasey turned to drugs and alcohol to cope. Had it not been for her mother’s long-suffering and insistence, Kasey would not have graduated from high school. Kasey would continue her struggle with drugs and alcohol until she moved to New York at 35 years old, got sober, and reunited with her long-since love for writing and the human condition. Kasey is working to release a short story collection, as well as developing scripts for television and film. She has a goal of becoming an adjunct creative writing professor, as well as providing literacy mentorship to those who need it. Grown or not.

“I wish to offer a bit of the oxygen that was given to me in times when I couldn’t breathe.” – Kasey Buckley

Donna Calloway

Demonstrating perseverance and determination, Donna overcame adverse circumstances to pursue her education. Through her psychology major and minor in environmental sustainability, Donna’s career plan is to work on understanding how human decision-making impacts the environment to reduce pollution and climate change.

“My main goal is to remain happy, healthy, and a good role model.” – Donna Calloway

Eileen Dominick

Growing up, Eileen witnessed substance abuse and domestic violence at home. When she was 17, she left home, obtained her GED, started working, and unfortunately wound up in an abusive relationship. Eileen became a single mother at 19 after escaping the abusive relationship. Social workers assisted Eileen in finding a place for herself and her daughter to live in NYCHA. A few years after her second child was born, Eileen began taking college classes. Sadly, completing an associate degree was hampered by a
required math class, placing the pursuit of her degree on hold for several years. In 2021, Eileen decided to enroll in a class that would assist in passing the math course and obtaining an Associate Degree in Science, majoring in mental health and human service. This topic is very close to Eileen’s heart as her younger daughter struggles with her mental health. Eileen’s desired educational path includes finishing both a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in social work.

“I want to contribute towards making mental health services available for people overall and raise awareness and continue to work on diminishing the stigma of mental health.” – Eileen Dominick

Loida Gomez

As a child, Loida’s mother was an alcoholic who physically abused her. Loida had also been the victim of sexual abuse by an older cousin at the age of 6. At age 13, Loida ran away from home, exposing her to more abusive situations. Loida got pregnant at 16 and was forced into a group home when Children’s Services discovered she was underage with a baby and living with a man who sold drugs. During this time, Loida was able to get her GED. Today, Loida plans to graduate with an associate degree in 2024 and obtain a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education in 2026. Loida’s dream is to be an elementary school teacher, a goal she can accomplish after completing her degrees. As a single mother, Loida hopes to be a positive example for her four children, proving that hard work and determination can result in great things.

“Despite all the hardships of my life, I have been able to survive and succeed.” – Loida Gomez

Sable Harbison

In this transformative journey of life, Sable has woven a narrative of resilience and

transformation. She navigated through challenges, losing her mother at a young age to

cancer and breaking free from a tumultuous marriage. She embraced healing through

learning to see things differently, shifting her perception from fear to love. Through the

trials of single motherhood, facing homelessness as a student, Sable anchored herself in

a pathway of peace and happiness. She not only navigated adversity but has also thrived

as a Film and Theatre Student at Columbia University and a Broadcast Associate for CBS.

As a filmmaker, writer, and actress Sable looks to joyously weave diverse stories, echoing

the miraculous potential of choosing a path illuminated by compassion and resilience.

Stories resonate with the shared human experience, reminding us of the power within

us all. Good things come to all things is sure.

“I look forward to shining light on others within our community so they too can be the

creators of their story.” – Sable Harbison

Yashira Hernandez

Yashira was born in New York but grew up in both New York and Puerto Rico. During her time in Puerto Rico, she was able to complete an associate degree. In 2008, she chose to come back to New York and a year later, started working as a Case Manager Tech at Community Healthcare Network. This was an inspiring job and provided Yashira the opportunity to make a difference in the community. In 2011, she decided to pursue a BA in Nursing from Lehman College after receiving support from supervisors. However, in 2012, while experiencing complications from her pregnancy, Yashira had to withdraw from school. Working full-time and taking care of her son further delayed her return to college. Despite her obstacles, Yashira was able to move forward with her career goals with continued support from supervisors, Yashira to returned to school in 2021. During this time, Yashira chose to major in Social Work to incorporate her work experience and allow for a flexible schedule to spend time with her family.

“I also want to demonstrate to myself that if I set my mind on something regardless of how hard it is, with hard work and dedication, I will achieve it.” – Yashira Hernandez

Loreslee Hernandez

As a child, Loreslee was raised in the Bronx by her single mother. At the age of 22, Loreslee left an abusive relationship, and moved with her two young daughters from Florida to New York to begin a new life. Loreslee was able to obtain her GED and begin college courses. As a single mother, Loreslee wants to teach her two daughters that hard work can help you achieve your dreams. To make positive changes in the world, Loreslee has taken part in activities through her college and her daughters’ school which included helping with afterschool activities for her daughters and beautification projects creating murals to cover up graffiti. These activities are important to Loreslee, who grew up in an environment that was not focused on improving residents’ quality of life. Her hope is to lead by example and show her daughters how they can “do better”. Today, Loreslee’s goal is to have a career as a Registered Nurse.

“I want to break the chains and change the cliché cycle of the typical minority falling under the ‘Statistic’ category.” – Loreslee Hernandez

Zin Wynn Htet

Zin immigrated to the U.S. from Myanmar in 2016. She worked at Barclay Center and Shogun Fine Dining, two opportunities allowing her to build her customer service skills. She also began taking classes at the Borough of Manhattan Community College. During this time, she worked as an assistant teacher in a Pre-K class which exposed her to the importance of community support and leadership management. After Zin obtained an associate degree, she started working for OTG at LaGuardia Airport and began classes at Baruch College. Unfortunately, that job ended during Covid due to layoffs. Taking college courses became difficult
because of these unexpected circumstances, and she was forced to temporarily stop. Zin currently works at the Manhattan District Attorney’s office as a Discovery Specialist (Community Associate). It is her career goal to get her bachelor’s degree and work in the financial/government sector as a Lead Financial Analyst.

“I enjoy leading and serving and interacting with parents/ guardians, students, staff in the community.” – Zin Wynn Htet

Windy Johnson

Windy grew up seeing her single mom work several jobs to support the family, which unfortunately took her mother’s attention away from Windy’s education. In her sophomore year of high school, she dropped out and began working to help her family pay bills and provide food. During her 20s, Windy worked at a doctor’s office which helped expand her career perspective. While at that job, Windy decided to obtain her GED, encouraged by her boss who saw her potential. After getting her GED, she was able to enroll in courses at a community college. As she balanced her studies, work, and helping her oldest daughter with college applications, Windy was forced to temporarily withdraw from school. Through her educational journey, Windy hopes to convey the importance of college and the value of hard work to her daughters. Windy enjoys helping people and working with the next generation of passionate healthcare providers. Having resumed her education, her goal is to continue working in healthcare and help improve others’ quality of life. Windy would also like to be involved with programs that could improve patients’ experiences in the medical field.

“There is not a single day that goes by that I do not think about how grateful I am to be in my current position and helping to mentor the next generation of dedicated healthcare workers.” – Windy Johnson

Miriam Kahssay

Growing up, Miriam loved learning and reading. She got good grades and there was the expectation that she would one day attend an Ivy League school. However, her household faced financial insecurities that many immigrant families often face. She moved away from home by the age of 18 and set her sights on furthering her education. Miriam became a first-generation college student, obtaining an associate degree in Paralegal Studies. Miriam next embarked on her bachelor’s degree. Unfortunately, her studies were cut short twice over the years due to domestic violence and job cuts during Covid. After giving her life to Christ, she received the strength to leave the toxic relationship she was in and chose to rebuild her life. Seeking refuge in shelters, she found steady employment and enrolled in school again. Today, Miriam’s career plan is to obtain her CPA license and pursue a master’s degree in Nonprofit Management. It is important to Miriam to be a part of something that helps others. During her time in shelters, she advocated on behalf of other women who could not speak up for themselves. Being able to provide that assistance was a rewarding experience for Miriam. Empowering women and children is of vital importance to her, and it would bring her joy to provide women with the tools for financial security.

“I refuse to let my past shame me anymore, and I hope to set others free with my story.” – Miriam Kahssay

Lilian Kebudi

Lilian was born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and immigrated to the U.S. at age 21. She has always been enthusiastic about the arts sector. While working in Brazil, Lilian was an art teacher at an elementary school that served low-income children. This experience later inspired her to pursue a different career path. After coming to the U.S., Lilian obtained her AS degree from San Diego Mesa College in Fashion Design. Upon graduation in 2001, Lilian moved to New York and worked as a graphic designer in the fashion industry. Although it provided stability, it did not offer the kind of purpose she envisioned. In 2018, Lilian enrolled in Baruch College, intending to work in Public Service. Unfortunately, due to Covid, work and daily life were turned upside down. Lilian lost her job in March 2020 and was forced to stop taking classes for one semester due to family obligations. However, this major social adjustment allowed Lilian to rediscover her passion for painting and focus on her new career path. She now sells her paintings and works as a Family Worker for the Special Education department at the Art and Design High School. This allows her to interact with families who, like herself, have a child with an Individualized Education Program.

“My goal is to keep making a difference in people’s lives and supporting others.” – Lilian Kebudi

Kember Lattimer

Kember has been passionate about music and art since childhood. She grew up in a

remote area, but still found ways to seek out and connect with the arts. Shortly after

high school Kember experienced a traumatic event and grappled with moving forward

from the incident. As a way of dealing with the trauma, a female mentor encouraged her

to start being creative again. This advice led Kember to seek out a college education.

Before finishing school, she accepted an opera apprenticeship. Her singing eventually

segued into a job in the design field. Working around design sparked an interest in

returning to school and finishing her degree in fashion design. Kember is excited about

working as a designer and contributing to the field through optimism and sustainable

circular design principles.

“I am more resolute and focused on what I would like to accomplish and more aware

of what I have already achieved.” – Kember Lattimer

Yuyan Lin

Growing up in China, Yuyan had always dreamt of going to college; however, less emphasis was put on the necessity of girls and women getting an education. Later in life, Yuyan realized that getting an education would become a way to leave an abusive husband while creating a sense of independence. On her educational journey, Yuyan learned English to help her older son with his homework and now is able to lead by example for her two sons, demonstrating the importance of studying hard and doing well in school. She is proud to be the first person in her family to attend college. Yuyan’s dream job is to one day be a manager at a restaurant.

“I am fully aware of the value and importance of higher education, and I cherish the opportunity that I can go to college to pursue higher education.” – Yuyan Lin

Elzbieta Malyszko

As a child, Elzbieta’s maternal grandmother and mother emphasized the importance of education. Growing up, she had an interest in non-profits. In high school she worked with a foundation specifically focused on helping at-risk children and youth. While attending college in Warsaw, she had an opportunity to visit New York. Rather than returning home, Elzbieta decided to build upon a relationship with a man she met while in the U.S. Unfortunately, he was abusive, forcing Elzbieta to live in a domestic violence shelter with her daughter after escaping that relationship. During that time, she attended a financial education workshop which touched on the importance of having savings, which led to Elzbieta putting money into a savings account and paying bills on time, even if she had to go without luxuries. Elzbieta is currently taking classes at Baruch College to obtain a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. After obtaining her, her hope is to study Organizational Psychology, which focuses on establishing a work-life balance. Elzbieta would like to share her experiences with others by working in HR for a non-profit and starting her own consulting firm.

“In a man’s world, support from other women is incredibly vital.” – Elzbieta Malyszko

Ananda Metelina

During her childhood, Ananda lived in Russia shortly after the collapse of the USSR. Her parents subsequently lost their jobs and sense of security. In 1996, Ananda’s family became Hare Krishna, making them stand apart from the Orthodox Christian Russian society they lived in. Ananda would later come to the realization that she was a lesbian, adding to her sense of otherness. After being diagnosed with PTSD and clinical depression in 2011, the prospect of going back to school seemed impossible. At the age of 35, she decided to go back to school and create some stability in her life. She became interested in studying textiles and making changes to improve fashion production practices. In 2015, she was granted political asylum in the U.S. due to the persecution of her religious beliefs being persecuted in Russia. On December 31, 2022, Ananda received her Associate of Applied Science degree.

“It hurt me deeply to realize how our planet Earth is being exploited and harmed.” – Ananda Metelina

Francesca Poole

From a young age Francesca had an interest in learning. Her mother’s words “you are never too old to learn” have stayed with her throughout life’s ups and downs. One such circumstance was becoming a teen mother giving birth and graduating high school in the same year, while working part time at a fast food restaurant. Francesca decided to become independent and began her journey going into the NY shelter system with her child to get assistance with obtaining housing. Shortly after Francesca obtained her first apartment in the Bronx she enrolled in classes at Hostos Community College. For years following, Francesca experienced various forms of dysfunctional relationship maltreatment. That environment negatively impacted her confidence and caused her to fail classes. When she enrolled in courses again, Francesca had reclaimed her life. She received an Associate of Arts degree after retaking and passing the classes she had previously failed. Francesca’s goal is to work with children as a youth counselor, as she believes that providing the needed care and understanding to children can help lead to a more positive future.

“My motivation is my steadfast belief that children/youth are and will always be the future.” – Francesca Poole

Brittany Ramos

Brittany is a first-generation college student, and aspires to graduate from Baruch College with a Bachelor of Science in Business Management & Sustainability. Brittany’s motivation stems from a desire to contribute to protecting the planet for future generations. Despite facing challenges, including early responsibilities due to being raised by a single mom, and a pause in her educational journey, Brittany persevered. After moving to New York City at 25, she fell into a deep depression. Working through her depression, Brittany now openly shares her story to inspire and help others. Engaging in classes brings her joy, reinforcing the belief that she can achieve anything she sets her mind to.

“I am a constant in my journey, instead of letting my life pass me by because I didn’t feel deserving.” – Brittany Ramos

Lucero Saavedra Huerta

Lucero immigrated to the U.S. from Mexico as a teenager. Her struggle to learn English helped create an interest in teaching and fostered her dream to attend college. Lucero became a teen mom but remained motivated to graduate high school. Although Lucero’s hope of going to college was put on hold, she knew it would one day become a reality. Through the ups and downs, she was able to obtain her associate degree while single handedly raising her 2 children. She is currently tackling her next goal- becoming a teacher. Her wish is to inspire the next generation to pursue their interests and never give up.

“I always see myself as a dreamer, pursuing my dreams, and trying to do my best for myself and my kids.” – Lucero Saavedra Huerta

Verdell Sims

In her youth, Verdell was left feeling isolated and without a community after her family members were incarcerated, but after experiencing domestic violence firsthand, she was also sentenced to prison. Those experiences sparked an interest in the challenges that many face of reentering society after being incarcerated. Some of her incarcerated family members had been wrongfully convicted and others needed mental health treatment. For Verdell, these situations highlighted the deficit in the current treatment
of those in the prison population. Verdell now works at Rikers Island providing essential services including mental health treatment, continuing education, and finding housing for individuals reentering society. Obtaining a degree in Forensic Psychology/Mental Health Counseling will build on her knowledge of assisting individuals experiencing behavioral struggles and the additional challenges they face after being incarcerated. Her goal is to receive a master’s degree through the Mental Health Counseling Program at John Jay.

“It is because of my children that I push every day to go to school to finish my education.” – Verdell Sims

Sandra Smith

Despite growing up in an environment shaped by generational trauma, Sandra graduated high school with honors but found herself in an abusive marriage shortly after. Eight years in, she started a business of creating bespoke bags. Empowered by her success and supported by her friends and loved ones, Sandra filed for an order of protection and left the relationship with her three young children in tow. Five years later, recognizing the power of education in shaping a new future, she began attending Queensborough Community College while building her socially conscious business. Through this venture, Sandra shares her story while achieving her mission to “empower survivors one bag at a time”.

“Every new – yet, woefully familiar – story of a woman’s life turned upside down as a result of domestic violence is a reminder to me that there is [still] important work to be done.” – Sandra Smith