University’s JEDI Ambassadors Excel as Dedicated Leaders and Changemakers

The University’s Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI) student ambassadors program offers undergraduate and graduate students exciting opportunities to grow as leaders while serving as a resource for their fellow Chargers. Students representing each of the University’s academic colleges and schools develop programming and initiatives that promote diversity, equity, inclusion, access, and belonging in the Charger community.

Developed in 2020 by Alvin Tran, Sc.D., MPH, an assistant professor of public health, the program has brought together students, faculty, and staff and created new connections, programs, and initiatives.

Below, several of this year’s JEDI ambassadors reflect on their goals and experiences in the program.

Krupa Ann Mathew ’24 MPH

Reflecting on my role as a JEDI (Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion) ambassador for the School of Health Sciences and international students, I am filled with a deep sense of purpose and passion. This journey, which began in September 2023, has been incredibly rewarding and transformative. My love for people, especially those in need, has been the driving force behind my advocacy for justice and fairness. I strive to support and make others feel a sense of belonging and acceptance, no matter their circumstances.

Being a JEDI ambassador has given me a voice to empower and encourage my peers. The responsibility entrusted to me has fueled my desire to bring about positive change in our university, ensuring that student voices are not just heard but also valued and respected. I have always found joy in helping students, whether it's finding solutions to their problems or simply lending an ear to listen to their concerns. Making a difference in their lives and making them feel supported and understood has been my utmost priority.

Through collaboration with the Career Development Center, especially with the wonderful Jessica Sztaimberg, we have been able to establish spaces such as Gather and Grow. These spaces provide individuals with opportunities to form new connections, feel a sense of belonging, and enhance their skills. In addition, we have undertaken several initiatives to foster a supportive and inclusive environment at our university.

These efforts include a mentorship program in collaboration with the School of Health Sciences, led by the School of Health Sciences associate dean and my mentor Dr. Yanice Mendez-Fernandez. Our goal is to ensure that everyone feels valued, empowered, and included. As part of our collaboration with the Student Integrated Mentorship Program, we organized events to help students improve their academic writing skills, create vision boards, and deliver inclusive presentations.

Dr. Mendez's passion for diversity, equity, inclusion, access, and belonging (DEIAB) initiatives was invaluable in guiding these efforts. Additionally, we partnered with the Women in Business Club for the Career Readiness Series, which helped me improve my professional skills, mannerisms, and etiquette. Through these initiatives, I have learned that with the right support, anything is achievable.

Diversity is not just about being different; it is about embracing those differences and making them work together harmoniously. Our goal is to heal and bring people together. I've learned that standing up for what's right, speaking up when others are silent, and respecting differences are essential for creating a university community in which everyone feels loved, included, and valued.

Being a JEDI is not just a role – it's a reflection of who I am. It's about making a difference, one student at a time. I am grateful for this opportunity to serve the University of New Haven community.

As I continue this journey, making a positive impact and ensuring that everyone feels valued and respected, I am filled with hope and determination, knowing that, together, we can help build a brighter, more equitable future for everyone in our community.

Fali Dillys Honutse ’25 M.S.

As the JEDI Ambassador representing the Tagliatela College of Engineering (TCoE), I am continually inspired by the potential for transformative change within our community. My role, grounded in my experiences as an African woman, has been both a personal and professional quest toward fostering an environment in which every member of our community feels valued and heard.

My academic pursuits in statistics, actuarial science, and data science have equipped me with a unique perspective on the complexities of justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion, allowing me to approach JEDI issues with a data-driven mindset. This has been instrumental in identifying patterns and insights that guide our initiatives toward fostering an inclusive campus environment.

I have the honor of serving on the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Advisory Board for the Tagliatela College of Engineering. My work involves various initiatives, such as enhancing the engineering curriculum, addressing sexual harassment, and advocating for students. Currently, I'm leading a series on the JEDI Instagram page to inform students about their rights regarding sexual harassment and available campus resources.

Additionally, I'm organizing EmpowerdED workshops to educate international students on their rights regarding sexual harassment. I'm also undertaking a project to promote professionalism among students in both classroom and group settings. Through my role, I initiate dialogues and educational programs to cultivate empathy among students, faculty, and staff, addressing intersectionality and diverse experiences.

As a JEDI Ambassador, I have witnessed the strength of our community when we come together to address systemic issues, advocate for change, and celebrate our diversity. It's a role that has not only allowed me to contribute to our community's growth but has also been a profound source of personal growth and fulfillment.

Looking ahead, I am committed to continuing this vital work, guided by the principles of justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion. It's a path that offers both challenges and opportunities, but, most importantly, it's a journey toward building a more inclusive and equitable future for all members of the University of New Haven community.

Aarushi Bali ’25 MBA

I am the JEDI (Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion) ambassador for the Pompea College of Business. My journey with the “Becoming a JEDI” program has been nothing short of transformative. It has introduced me to a diverse group of students and faculty, allowing me to become more engaged with the campus community.

Through my work with fellow students and the deans, I have gained valuable knowledge on the importance of diversity and inclusivity in the workplace. This newfound knowledge has not only fueled my passion for educating others, but it has also encouraged me to take action and make a positive impact on the University's culture.

Sharing my experiences with others has helped me build meaningful relationships and connections with those around me. I am proud to say that my journey as a JEDI has helped me become a more confident and open individual.

Moving forward, I hope to continue my work as a JEDI and to collaborate with campus clubs, such as the Entrepreneurship Club and Women in Business Club. My goal is to create a more inclusive and equitable environment for all students in the Pompea College of Business.

Ciara Wildes ’24, ’25 M.S.

This is my third year as a JEDI ambassador representing the Henry C. Lee College of Criminal Justice and Forensic Sciences, pushing for DEIAB initiatives within the HCLC as well as social class equity and resource accessibility at the University.

My biggest goal is to represent, collaborate with, and advocate for the students, staff, and faculty of the University. While the University has made great strides in DEIAB, our community still has work to do. Our University community faces challenges with classism and ableism, both institutionally and interpersonally. As a poor and disabled student, I aim to continue to combat such issues. Additionally, I strive to continue DEIAB work with other marginalized communities and identities on campus.

As a part of my JEDI work over these past few years, one of my biggest projects has been getting free menstrual hygiene products in various men's, women's, and gender-neutral bathrooms around campus. For more information, see here: Period Poverty and University Action. This semester, I have been working with individuals across the campus community to host an HCLC Diversity Career Panel Event and a Narcan Training Event.

Furthermore, I hope to implement a Poverty Studies Minor at the University before I graduate next semester.

Nox Garner ’26

When I joined the JEDI program in the Fall of 2022 as a first-year student, I was so excited to make a difference on campus, and that excitement has carried over all the way to today, approaching my junior year. As I continue this journey with the JEDI program, I'm reminded of the power of collective action in creating meaningful change.

This year has been hectic for everyone. I am still extremely proud of the positive changes being made on campus, and I am ready to initiate more. I’m excited to host a human trafficking awareness event on campus, and so grateful for Prof. Sarbjeet Kaur for her guidance in creating this event.

Next semester, I’m hoping to work on a consent workshop with the Milford Rape Crisis Center (MRCC), and I am hoping to approach Dr. David Schroeder more about initiatives within the Lee College and increasing initiatives for our students.

I look forward to continuing to work with the other JEDI, faculty, and staff to foster inclusivity and equity. Together, we can make the change we want to see.

Krupa Ann Mathew ’24 MPH is a candidate in the University’s Master of Public Health program. Fali Dillys Honutse ’25 M.S. is a candidate in the University’s M.S. data science program. Aarushi Bali ’25 MBA is a candidate in the University’s MBA program. Ciara Wildes ’24, ’25 M.S. is a candidate in the University’s graduate program in national security. Nox Garner ’26 is a forensic science major.