Throughout the first summer of the Covid-19 pandemic in the United States—in addition to the racial justice movement and economic downturn—the MAPS project had conversations with dozens of students about the changes in their higher education experiences, particularly those that showed new or exacerbated inequities in the system.
Again and again, the team heard that students didn’t feel understood by their institutions or involved enough in decision-making spaces. Sorenson Impact convened the first Student Coalition on Higher Education in response to this common experience of students, bringing together a group of postsecondary students from across the nation. Throughout its first year, the Student Coalition met with industry professionals, led conversations with fellow students, conducted research, and more, all with the aim of driving student-equity-centricity in the future of higher education.
As the Student Coalition continues into its second year, the group will build upon the key work already begun, focusing on centering and empowering students in the story of higher education by understanding student experiences, amplifying student voices, and leveraging student expertise.
meet the members
STUDENT MANAGERS
Austin Hendrickson
He/Him
I currently work as a Student Associate on the Policy Innovation team at Sorenson Impact, specifically doing research and coordination with the MAPS project on charting the equitable, student-centric future of higher education. In the future, I hope to continue working to tackle some of our society’s most significant and pressing social problems, particularly with a focus on dismantling intersecting systems of oppression that underlie these issues. I’m especially passionate about LGBTQ+, environmental, mental health, and educational justice. I’m excited to work with the Coalition to bring student perspectives directly to higher education decision-makers and I consider myself lucky for the opportunity to do this with such fantastic colleagues at Sorenson and in the Coalition.
I currently work as a Student Associate on the Policy Innovation team at Sorenson Impact, specifically doing research and coordination with the MAPS project on charting the equitable, student-centric future of higher education. In the future, I hope to continue working to tackle some of our society’s most significant and pressing social problems, particularly with a focus on dismantling intersecting systems of oppression that underlie these issues. I’m especially passionate about LGBTQ+, environmental, mental health, and educational justice. I’m excited to work with the Coalition to bring student perspectives directly to higher education decision-makers and I consider myself lucky for the opportunity to do this with such fantastic colleagues at Sorenson and in the Coalition.
JP Flores
He/Him
I was introduced to the Sorenson Impact Center as a student facilitator for the MAPS project. Although I am a research scientist by trade, I am passionate about fostering and advocating for equitable and just learning environments for marginalized communities, especially in higher education. Because of my experiences as a first-generation college student and as a student of color, I gravitated towards Sorenson and have been incredibly fortunate and grateful to be brought on to the data science team and the Student Coalition. The student perspective is vital as institutions in higher education are acknowledging that compositional diversity is not enough. Student voices are needed for FULL inclusion, and I’m excited to collaborate with such motivated and passionate individuals.
I was introduced to the Sorenson Impact Center as a student facilitator for the MAPS project. Although I am a research scientist by trade, I am passionate about fostering and advocating for equitable and just learning environments for marginalized communities, especially in higher education. Because of my experiences as a first-generation college student and as a student of color, I gravitated towards Sorenson and have been incredibly fortunate and grateful to be brought on to the data science team and the Student Coalition. The student perspective is vital as institutions in higher education are acknowledging that compositional diversity is not enough. Student voices are needed for FULL inclusion, and I’m excited to collaborate with such motivated and passionate individuals.
Clara Randall
She/Her
I began working at Sorenson Impact Center as a student policy fellow during the COVID-19 pandemic. As someone interested in data and data justice, I have been fortunate to work on several data gathering projects including analyzing state government responses to COVID-19. My work on the MAPS project has been particularly meaningful, as I've gathered data relating to higher education institution responses to budget cuts and declining enrollment. I just entered my senior year at the University of Utah, and I'm excited to help with the Coalition because there is so much value in hearing student voices relating to the changing landscape of higher education.
I began working at Sorenson Impact Center as a student policy fellow during the COVID-19 pandemic. As someone interested in data and data justice, I have been fortunate to work on several data gathering projects including analyzing state government responses to COVID-19. My work on the MAPS project has been particularly meaningful, as I've gathered data relating to higher education institution responses to budget cuts and declining enrollment. I just entered my senior year at the University of Utah, and I'm excited to help with the Coalition because there is so much value in hearing student voices relating to the changing landscape of higher education.
Tramaine Jones
He/Him
My name is Tramaine Jones, and I currently work as a Student Associate for the Student Coalition. I was born and raised in Indianapolis, Indiana. In 2013, I earned my Bachelor of Science in recreation and sports management with a minor in coaching at Indiana State University. I moved to Ohio and earned my Master of Arts in Education with a concentration in sports coaching in 2015. I am working on my Ph.D. in Educational Leadership & Policy. During the last decade, my life has been built around working with students. This journey started during my undergraduate years as a peer mentor and continued to my graduate school years as a graduate mentor and now as a Ph.D. student. In the future, I hope to continue to work on higher education's most pressing issues revolved around student success and to dismantle institutionalized racism and to move towards an anti-racist culture. I am most passionate about working with folks who support access to higher education for underrepresented and first-gen students. I am excited to work with the Coalition to develop strategies to improve higher education in general.
My name is Tramaine Jones, and I currently work as a Student Associate for the Student Coalition. I was born and raised in Indianapolis, Indiana. In 2013, I earned my Bachelor of Science in recreation and sports management with a minor in coaching at Indiana State University. I moved to Ohio and earned my Master of Arts in Education with a concentration in sports coaching in 2015. I am working on my Ph.D. in Educational Leadership & Policy. During the last decade, my life has been built around working with students. This journey started during my undergraduate years as a peer mentor and continued to my graduate school years as a graduate mentor and now as a Ph.D. student. In the future, I hope to continue to work on higher education's most pressing issues revolved around student success and to dismantle institutionalized racism and to move towards an anti-racist culture. I am most passionate about working with folks who support access to higher education for underrepresented and first-gen students. I am excited to work with the Coalition to develop strategies to improve higher education in general.
COALITION MEMBERS
Aajah Harris
She/Her
I am a second year graduate student, studying criminal justice at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. During my undergraduate studies, I served as Student Government President. During my term, my colleagues and I advocated for many, if not all HBCUs (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) across the nation. After graduation, I plan to attend law school, and focus primarily on juvenile justice law. In this student coalition I hope to shed light on the issues that HBCUs face and possible suggestions that could be implemented.
I am a second year graduate student, studying criminal justice at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. During my undergraduate studies, I served as Student Government President. During my term, my colleagues and I advocated for many, if not all HBCUs (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) across the nation. After graduation, I plan to attend law school, and focus primarily on juvenile justice law. In this student coalition I hope to shed light on the issues that HBCUs face and possible suggestions that could be implemented.
Alex Johnson
He/Him
I am currently a senior at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, where I am pursuing a B.A. in Communication and Media Studies with minors in Political Science and Community Action and Social Change (CASC). I started this minor my junior year of college, which is housed in our School of Social Work, and have been fascinated by different forms activism can take, not only as a college student, but through all stages of life. Post-graduation, I am planning to return to school to pursue a joint MSW/MPP. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community and a student of significantly less financial means than a majority of my peers in college, I'm passionate about opening avenues of opportunity for those who come after me. I believe that we have an immense amount of knowledge to learn from those who came before us, especially activists, and that we can use this knowledge to build a more equitable future.
I am currently a senior at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, where I am pursuing a B.A. in Communication and Media Studies with minors in Political Science and Community Action and Social Change (CASC). I started this minor my junior year of college, which is housed in our School of Social Work, and have been fascinated by different forms activism can take, not only as a college student, but through all stages of life. Post-graduation, I am planning to return to school to pursue a joint MSW/MPP. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community and a student of significantly less financial means than a majority of my peers in college, I'm passionate about opening avenues of opportunity for those who come after me. I believe that we have an immense amount of knowledge to learn from those who came before us, especially activists, and that we can use this knowledge to build a more equitable future.
Alex Rodriguez
He/Him
I am a first-generation, non-traditional university student. I am also a former Student Government Association President for El Paso Community College. I also previously served as a Texas Junior College Student Government Association Executive Board Member filling in the Host School Position. During my time in Student Government, I helped create a dance fundraiser for the local children's hospital where we fundraised over 8,000 dollars. I also helped make El Paso Community College become a smoke-free and tobacco-free campus after being an issue for students for more than seven years. My work in the Student Government Association also got recognized by the Texas House of Representatives with House Resolution 1228 and is the only SGA to be recognized by the state legislature.
During the COVID pandemic time, I like to perform DJ sets online through social media and help provide resources and support towards other inspiring entertainers and students seeking assistance in higher education. One day I plan to continue my career and establish an agency in the future.
I am a first-generation, non-traditional university student. I am also a former Student Government Association President for El Paso Community College. I also previously served as a Texas Junior College Student Government Association Executive Board Member filling in the Host School Position. During my time in Student Government, I helped create a dance fundraiser for the local children's hospital where we fundraised over 8,000 dollars. I also helped make El Paso Community College become a smoke-free and tobacco-free campus after being an issue for students for more than seven years. My work in the Student Government Association also got recognized by the Texas House of Representatives with House Resolution 1228 and is the only SGA to be recognized by the state legislature.
During the COVID pandemic time, I like to perform DJ sets online through social media and help provide resources and support towards other inspiring entertainers and students seeking assistance in higher education. One day I plan to continue my career and establish an agency in the future.
Carolyn Dennis
She/Her
I am a non-traditional and first-generation student, returning to school after more years than I care to identify. I have worked in public administration for many years, and have seen firsthand how well-crafted, equitable policies can improve people’s lives. I am seeking my degree in Political Science, with an emphasis in public policy, to improve my abilities in public administration and become a better public servant. It is for this reason that I am excited to join the Sorenson Impact Center’s Student Coalition on Higher Education. As a full-time student, full-time employee, and a full-time mother, I can personally attest to how daunting the pathway to higher education can be for many potential students. Adding my voice and experiences to the Coalition will hopefully make the pathway for others more straightforward and more accessible.
I am a non-traditional and first-generation student, returning to school after more years than I care to identify. I have worked in public administration for many years, and have seen firsthand how well-crafted, equitable policies can improve people’s lives. I am seeking my degree in Political Science, with an emphasis in public policy, to improve my abilities in public administration and become a better public servant. It is for this reason that I am excited to join the Sorenson Impact Center’s Student Coalition on Higher Education. As a full-time student, full-time employee, and a full-time mother, I can personally attest to how daunting the pathway to higher education can be for many potential students. Adding my voice and experiences to the Coalition will hopefully make the pathway for others more straightforward and more accessible.
Jordana Maciel
She/Her
I feel very fortunate and excited to be a part of this project that values and promotes students’ voices and inputs in changing higher education. I believe in the “togetherness of all peoples”, and this project promotes that needed togetherness. Everyone should have the opportunity to make their voice heard, and the the best way to galvanize the changes we want in society is through unity and solidarity.
I feel very fortunate and excited to be a part of this project that values and promotes students’ voices and inputs in changing higher education. I believe in the “togetherness of all peoples”, and this project promotes that needed togetherness. Everyone should have the opportunity to make their voice heard, and the the best way to galvanize the changes we want in society is through unity and solidarity.
Julianne Liu
She/Her
With community as a driving force in my life, I enjoy creating opportunities for people to find a sense of belonging and to meaningfully connect with one another across boundaries of privilege, culture, and those politically-imposed. In these endeavors, I am especially passionate about ensuring that all narratives, especially those historically underrepresented, are heard and valued. While it will certainly take work, I am confident that, together, we can craft and promote a new image of leadership as we establish more just, equitable societies. As I approach graduation in Spring 2021, I plan to pursue a career rooted in community, education, and advocacy, particularly interested in public outreach centered around environmental education and science communication. My experiences in peer mentorship, community engagement, and interdisciplinary programs have empowered me beyond the traditional walls of the classroom, and I strive to provide ways for others to similarly strengthen their voices and embark on lifelong journeys of scholarship, leadership, and active citizenship.
With community as a driving force in my life, I enjoy creating opportunities for people to find a sense of belonging and to meaningfully connect with one another across boundaries of privilege, culture, and those politically-imposed. In these endeavors, I am especially passionate about ensuring that all narratives, especially those historically underrepresented, are heard and valued. While it will certainly take work, I am confident that, together, we can craft and promote a new image of leadership as we establish more just, equitable societies. As I approach graduation in Spring 2021, I plan to pursue a career rooted in community, education, and advocacy, particularly interested in public outreach centered around environmental education and science communication. My experiences in peer mentorship, community engagement, and interdisciplinary programs have empowered me beyond the traditional walls of the classroom, and I strive to provide ways for others to similarly strengthen their voices and embark on lifelong journeys of scholarship, leadership, and active citizenship.
Karlyn Bradley
He/They
I am Black, Fat, Queer, Femme, Senior Double Majoring in Political Science and Gender and Women's Studies At the University of Arizona and use He/Him They/Them pronouns. I am a scholar, theorist, community organizer, artist and educator. I have been able to use and expand their knowledge of Intersectional Feminist Theory to create programming that educates and empowers folks around topics of Race, Gender, Sexual Orientation and Power Dynamics. After graduating from UArizona I hope to obtain a Graduate Level Degree in Gender and Women's Studies and Law and continue doing community organizing work to create a just a liberatory world for Black Folks.
I am Black, Fat, Queer, Femme, Senior Double Majoring in Political Science and Gender and Women's Studies At the University of Arizona and use He/Him They/Them pronouns. I am a scholar, theorist, community organizer, artist and educator. I have been able to use and expand their knowledge of Intersectional Feminist Theory to create programming that educates and empowers folks around topics of Race, Gender, Sexual Orientation and Power Dynamics. After graduating from UArizona I hope to obtain a Graduate Level Degree in Gender and Women's Studies and Law and continue doing community organizing work to create a just a liberatory world for Black Folks.
Kurien Thomas
He/Him
I am passionate about building entrepreneurial communities to influence public policy and using innovation to expand access to healthcare. In prior years, I co-founded a company called Pick-Me-Up that focused on delivering mental health toolkits to schools. Now, I am a part of startup teams working to improve teletherapy and community wellness education. I am also interning at the U.S. Small Business Administration's Office of Innovation and Technology working to build a more inclusive and diverse entrepreneurial ecosystem. Aside from these experiences, I love sharing stories about changemakers, wellness, and collective action on my podcast, SeroTunein.
I am passionate about building entrepreneurial communities to influence public policy and using innovation to expand access to healthcare. In prior years, I co-founded a company called Pick-Me-Up that focused on delivering mental health toolkits to schools. Now, I am a part of startup teams working to improve teletherapy and community wellness education. I am also interning at the U.S. Small Business Administration's Office of Innovation and Technology working to build a more inclusive and diverse entrepreneurial ecosystem. Aside from these experiences, I love sharing stories about changemakers, wellness, and collective action on my podcast, SeroTunein.
Michaela Zeno
She/Her
My name is Michaela Zeno, a Junior Journalism and Media Studies major from New Orleans, La. I am a member of Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society, where I reign as Miss ALD, a President’s Award, Dean’s List and Honors List recipient for 2 years, Frederick Douglass Summer Scholar, Bennett College Social Media Ambassador, Bennett College Cheer Team, UNCF Spokesperson Finalist and I was on the Sophomore Class E-Board (Publicist) last year. I participated in the Reshaping Higher Education during the summer and I had the best experience knowing my comments may make a difference. I look forward to making a difference in the lives of current and future students.
My name is Michaela Zeno, a Junior Journalism and Media Studies major from New Orleans, La. I am a member of Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society, where I reign as Miss ALD, a President’s Award, Dean’s List and Honors List recipient for 2 years, Frederick Douglass Summer Scholar, Bennett College Social Media Ambassador, Bennett College Cheer Team, UNCF Spokesperson Finalist and I was on the Sophomore Class E-Board (Publicist) last year. I participated in the Reshaping Higher Education during the summer and I had the best experience knowing my comments may make a difference. I look forward to making a difference in the lives of current and future students.
Taylor Kamhong
She/Her
My name is Taylor and I am a fourth-year student at the University of Virginia studying Economics, Environmental Science and Social Entrepreneurship. My degree interests stem from my desire to learn more about how we can utilize business as a tool for social and environmental change. I enjoy employing creative and collaborative problem-solving techniques to generate and implement human-centered strategies that drive real impact. As a Student Coalition Member, I want to help build enduring communication channels between students and decision-makers to foster honest conversations that cultivate equitable and well-aligned solutions.
My name is Taylor and I am a fourth-year student at the University of Virginia studying Economics, Environmental Science and Social Entrepreneurship. My degree interests stem from my desire to learn more about how we can utilize business as a tool for social and environmental change. I enjoy employing creative and collaborative problem-solving techniques to generate and implement human-centered strategies that drive real impact. As a Student Coalition Member, I want to help build enduring communication channels between students and decision-makers to foster honest conversations that cultivate equitable and well-aligned solutions.
what we do
Storytelling
diving into the stories of individual students throughout the first full year of education-in-a-pandemic, students from the Student Coalition developed a deep understanding of how several students have navigated the experience.
Guidebook
investigating some of the most successful programs across the nation at supporting students with equity in mind, students from the Student Coalition developed guidance for institutions to become more student-equity-centric.
Student op-eds
drawing from their own experiences and conversations with fellow students, members of the Student Coalition have written several opinion pieces on a variety of topics in higher education.
recruitment
We’ll soon be recruiting new members to join the Student Coalition for the 2021-22 academic year. Keep an eye out for more information on the roles of Coalition members for the coming year and the process to apply; fill out the quick form below if you'd like us to keep you up to date on the application!
contact us
To get in touch with us regarding the Coalition’s work, application process, or other topics, please connect with Austin Hendrickson.