Meet University Life

Travis Vidic (he/him) is the Director of Events and Operations for University Life. He comes from Columbia University's Office of Religious Life, where he worked as both a student and staff member. He is an alum of Columbia’s School of General Studies, and a recent graduate from the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences where he received an MA. There, he wrote his thesis under Dr. Farah Griffin on the ontology of riot, through Gwendolyn Brooks’ poem “Riot,” and scholars Sylvia Wynter, Antonio Gramsci, and Stuart Hall. He is currently studying performance, Black, and interdisciplinary studies with Fred Moten at NYU. Travis is also passionate about music (live), volunteering with Columbia's Justice in Education Program, and biking down the Hudson when the sun’s got things looking pink.

Terrance Somesla-McCornell (he/him) is the Assistant Director of Strategic Initiatives in University Life. He brings several years of experience across student engagement, residential life, conflict resolution, and DEI-centered programming, having previously served as the Coordinator of Student Engagement & Club Life at Drew University. Terrance has a passion for building community and creating experiences that help students feel seen, connected, and excited to be part of campus life. He’s especially energized by opportunities to collaborate across departments, support student leaders, and bring new traditions and programs to life.

Terrance also has extensive experience in Residential Life, having worked as a Hall Manager and professional on-call staff member. In these roles, he supported student well-being, responded to campus emergencies, and helped cultivate inclusive living environments. His graduate work further shaped his approach: Terrance earned his M.Ed., where he focused on conflict resolution models, restorative practices, and helping students navigate challenging moments with clarity and empowerment. His background in DEI work continues to guide his commitment to creating spaces where all students feel welcomed and valued.

Outside of work, Terrance enjoys traveling to new countries, taking weekend trips with friends, and exploring different neighborhoods across New York and New Jersey. He’s big on balance, splitting his time between the gym, social adventures, and peaceful nights at home with a good anime or video game. He also loves planning events with friends, discovering new restaurants, and creating memorable moments wherever he goes.
 

Tamika Peaker is the Executive Assistant for the Executive Vice President of University Life and Wellbeing. She serves as a central resource by managing complex calendars, scheduling meetings, and ensures the smooth flow of communication among various offices across the University. Tamika provides leadership and the management of initiatives relative to University Life and Wellbeing. Prior to her role, she worked in Student Financial Services as the Departmental Administrator and has an extensive level of experience working in Higher Education over the years.

Tamika holds a B.A. in Sociology from The City College of New York and is a Certified Notary Public commissioned in New York State. In her spare time, Tamika loves roller skating on quads, is a dissectologist aka jigsaw puzzle enthusiast, and loves spending time with family and friends.

Stephany Andrade is the Graduate Assistant for Education and Training at University Life. Stephany completed her undergraduate degree in English Literature at the University of Pittsburgh and is currently pursuing a Master’s of Art degree at Teachers College in Sociology and Education with a concentration in public policy. As a resident assistant throughout her undergraduate degree, Stephany found interest in student advocacy and the cultural curriculum with hopes of continuing her education after completing the Master’s program at Teachers College.

Stephanie Busch is the Associate Director for Engagement and Education at University Life. She holds a B.A. in American Sign Language and an M.S. in Educational Administration in Student Affairs with a specialization in Academic and Career Advising from the University of Rochester. Before joining University Life, she worked at Columbia University School of Nursing, supporting student life, admissions, and student services. Before Columbia, she worked at The School of the New York Times as a Student Life and Communications Specialist. She is currently working towards an M.S. degree in Negotiation and Conflict Resolution from Columbia University's School of Professional Studies. 

Stephanie hails from Long Island and loves the autumn season and her dogs. Her favorite spot on campus is Revson Plaza, home of the moving statue. 

Sadie Firstencel serves as the Administrative Coordinator on the University Life Communications team and has spent over 8 years working in higher education. Prior to joining the team at Columbia, she worked in student affairs at the University at Albany, SUNY supporting the student experience through student engagement, event management, and strategic communications. Sadie has worked on large-scale orientation and welcome programming, campus-wide student events, and involvement initiatives designed to enhance student belonging and success. Her leadership includes managing marketing and communications strategies reaching large student audiences. Through her work, she strives to create vibrant spaces and provide mentorship to students to help them thrive personally, academically, and socially.

Sadie holds an M.S. in Educational Policy & Leadership from the University at Albany, SUNY, and a B.A. in Political Science and Italian from the University of Oregon.

In her downtime, Sadie loves traveling, skiing, going to the ballet at Lincoln Center, and spending time with dogs.

Rana Khan (she/her) is the Assistant Vice President of Strategic Student Initiatives for University Life. Rana has a bachelor’s degree from Rutgers University in Psychology and Communications and she is a first-generation immigrant.

Prior to joining Columbia University, Rana was at the NYC Department of Education for over 17 years in various operational roles and supported the planning and implementation of several strategic initiatives, including all COVID crisis planning and response, for all 1,800+ NYC public schools.

Rana is a big nature and animal advocate. In her downtime, she loves to read, travel, and experience life with her friends. Rana is passionate about education and feels it is the real way to institute change in the world.

Prithak René Chowdhury is the Director of Engagement and Education for University Life. Prithak is a first generation immigrant and has a Bachelor’s Degree from Stonehill College and a Master’s in Education with a concentration in Higher Education and Student Affairs Administration from the University of Vermont.

Prior to joining Columbia, Prithak led training & development at St. John’s University where he supported employee learning and engagement. He has also served in a variety of student facing and administrative roles in Georgia State University within Residence Life and Housing where he led strategic initiatives and programming around leadership development, civic engagement, and equity and inclusion for over 5000 residential students. Prithak is an equity conscious and human centered educator and strategist who strongly believes in the role of education and the college experience in helping build a better world.

Prithak was born and raised in Agartala, India before he moved to the United States for his undergraduate studies. He has called many a new city his home  - from Boston, to Burlington, to Atlanta, and now New York. Prithak is a traveler, creative, and bookworm by heart, and in his free time when he is not flipping pages, you might find him either behind a camera, exploring the city with his two dogs, hiking, taking in art, or listening to vintage Bollywood music. 

Niko Crawford is the Assistant Director for Education and Training at University Life. Niko holds a B.F.A. in Theatre with a concentration in Leadership, Directing, and Playwriting from NYU and an M.A. in Politics and Education from Teachers College. 

Before his time at Columbia, Niko worked in various theatre venues, created theatrical opportunities for marginalized artists, and had some of his work featured in local film festivals. Niko found his roots in higher education in ResLife at NYU where he created programs dedicated to fostering community among students of color. Niko has been with Columbia University for over 7 years in various roles dedicated to supporting student well-being, uplifting programs for inclusion & belonging, and providing spaces for community-building.

Niko is from the Bay Area in California and has since found home in Brooklyn. He is an avid RnB lover, food and travel aficionado, reality TV binger, and dog parent.

Nicole Milette (she/they) is a Project Coordinator for Student Life at University Life. Nicole is a graduate of Montclair State University, where they earned an MA in Higher Education. Nicole also earned a BA from the Hartt School of Music at the University of Hartford, where they studied Music Management and Classical Voice. Nicole is currently pursuing an additional master's at Teachers College in Arts Administration. Before joining University Life, Nicole worked with CC/SEAS undergraduates as a first-year Residence Hall Director for Furnald Hall. She has also worked in residential life at Fordham University and the Stevens Institute of Technology.  

Nicole is originally from Western Massachusetts. Nicole is involved in several NYC-based music ensembles, most notably the New York Choral Society. In their free time, Nicole enjoys crocheting, strumming the mountain dulcimer, finding good vegetarian food, and seeing the latest horror movies in theaters.

Nicolas Duran (he/him) is the Assistant Director of Events for University Life. He has worked previously as a staff member of Columbia’s Religious Life team and Residential Life team. He is an alum of Columbia College, where he studied Music. In addition to his role at University Life, he is the vocal quartet Tenor at the Church of St. Edward the Martyr where he serves on the Vestry, and he organizes the Open Mic at the Mobilization for Change Garden on Tuesday nights. Apart from his official roles, he loves to read, play piano, tend his garden plot, CitiBike, dance, and write poetry. He is studying poetry at Columbia's School of the Arts.

Dr. Melanie Bernitz is the Executive Vice President for University Life and Wellbeing. She joined Columbia Health in 2016 and served as Associate Vice President and Medical Director through early 2021. Previously she served as the Executive Director of the Student Health Service at Columbia University Medical Center. Prior to that position, Dr. Bernitz was a resident, chief resident, and faculty member in Columbia’s Center for Family and Community Medicine. Growing up in the United Kingdom, she received both her bachelor’s degree in psychology and a degree in medicine at University College London. She then received her master’s degree in public health at Columbia University.

Dr. Bernitz's professional experience includes teaching and training of medical students and residents as well as inpatient and outpatient primary care. She is an associate professor of clinical medicine in the Center of Family and Community Medicine and remains committed to ensuring that college students have direct access to high-quality, timely medical care.

Education:

• MPH, Columbia University
• MD, University College London
• BSc, University College London

Certifications and Licensure:

• Certified by the American Board of Family Medicine
• Licensed to practice medicine in the State of New York

Professional Experience:

• Associate Vice President and Medical Director, Columbia Health
• Executive Director, Student Health Service, Columbia University Medical Center
• Primary care physician, Student Health Service, Columbia University Medical Center
• Preceptor, Foundations of Clinical Medicine course, Columbia University College of Physicians & Surgeons

Select Publications:

• Shelton, R., Goodwin, K., McNeil, M., Bernitz, M., Alexander, S., Parrish, C., Brotzman, L. Lee, M., Li, W., Makam, S., Ganek, N., Foskett, D., Warren, C., & Metsch, L. (2023). Application of The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research to inform understanding of barriers and facilitators to the implementation of opioid and naloxone training on college campuses. Implementation Science Communications.
• Bernitz, M., McNeil, M., & Casani, J. (2021). Campus Management of Infectious Disease Outbreaks, in J. Vaughn & A. Viera (eds.), Principles and Practice of College Health. Springer.
• Narrative Medicine in Education and Practice. Behavioral Medicine: A Guide for Clinical Practice, Fourth Edition, edited by Drs. Mitchell D. Feldman and John F. Christensen. Burr Ridge, IL: McGraw-Hill.

Awards and Honors:

• Commendation for Excellence in Teaching Medical Students - Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons
• Productivity Awards – New York Presbyterian Hospital Department of Medicine

Memberships:

• American College Health Association
• American Academy of Family Physicians

Lori Paulson (she/her) is the Director of Communications for University Life, leading the Communications team and communications strategy for University Life. 

Originally from Seattle, she began at Columbia's School of General Studies in 2018, where she worked as a communications assistant and graduated with a BA in psychology. Before joining Columbia, she worked in various retail and hospitality positions by day and as a music photographer by night. She is now pursuing an MA in Cognitive Science in Education at Teachers College, focusing on how people learn and interventions to prevent learners of all kinds from falling off track. 

Outside of work, Lori enjoys acting, looking out for new cats to meet on walks, and continuously exploring NYC.

Langley Leverett is the Editorial & Content Strategist for University Life, where she focuses on owned media to amplify and connect student experiences. Born and raised in Texas, she holds a bachelor’s degree in English and Mass Communications from Ouachita Baptist University and moved to New York City after graduating. Outside of her professional life, Langley loves to read historical fiction, journal, and spends most of her free time outdoors at the parks, or eating Polish food with her family.

Kenneth N. Ebie is the Interim Executive Director of Community Impact (CI), where he leads the University’s efforts to advance the public good and instill the importance of life-long service through quality community service programs for Columbia students, staff, and faculty. In this role, Ken oversees organizational and program development, fundraising strategy, fiscal operations, service delivery, and budget management and serves as a campus liaison with local community partners, including elected officials, government agencies, community-based organizations, and funders.

A sought after thought leader on issues of municipal economic development, public-private partnerships, and urban innovation, Ken brings over 15 years of experience in law, government, politics, and public affairs to CI, including leadership of various innovative economic development and social impact initiatives in New York City government.

Ken holds a B.A. from Harvard College, a J.D. from Yale Law School, and was a Fulbright Scholar to Cameroon, where he was also a semi professional basketball player. 

In his spare time, he loves to coach youth soccer, play basketball, and take in live performance.

Jesse Rentz is the Executive Assistant in the Office of Rules Administration. In this role, Jesse supports the University's implementation of the Rules of University Conduct by assisting with administrative operations, case management, and coordination across the office’s activities and initiatives.

Jesse previously served as Concentration Coordinator for the Urban and Social Policy program at Columbia’s School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA), where she supported students and faculty, coordinated events, and managed program communications. She brings experience leading initiatives that promote open dialogue and community engagement in academic settings, along with a strong commitment to upholding the values of free expression, inclusion, and mutual respect. Jesse also served as a University Delegate during the 2024-2025 academic year, providing on-the-ground support during campus events and demonstrations.

Jesse earned her Master’s in Higher Education Administration and Bachelor’s in Consumer Science from the University of Alabama, where she also worked at the Civic Engagement Center and LGBTQ+ Resource Center.

Outside of work, Jesse enjoys reading nonfiction, encouraging friends and colleagues to visit her home state of Alaska, and practicing medieval longsword techniques with her Historical European Martial Arts club.

Jesper Norgaard is the Assistant Director of Facilities, IT, and Operations in University Life.

Jennifer Haastrup (she/her) is the Senior Program Manager for Strategic Student Engagement. Prior to joining University Life, Jennifer worked at Fordham University School of Law where she served as the Program Manager, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for the three years. In that role she led anti-racism workshops for faculty, students and staff, managed pipeline programs, produced student-facing events and advised student organizations. Jennifer is also a licensed social worker in the state of New York. In her role at University Life, Jennifer oversees the Graduate Initiative for Inclusion & Engagement and the Social Justice Mini Grant program.

Islah "Izzie" Tauheed (she/her) is the Senior Finance Administrator for University Life and a courageous advocate for teachers, students, and their families. Islah is inspired by this Audre Lorde quote: 'When I dare to be powerful, to use my strength in the service of my vision, then it becomes less and less important whether I am afraid.' She strives to show up authentically in every space she occupies and creates an environment where those around her can do the same.  

Islah previously served as a school administrator in at the NYC Department of Education, where she led daily operations, managed staff, and built systems to support academic success. With over 18 years in education, she brings deep experience in organizational leadership, program coordination, and student-centered engagement. Teaching elementary school remains her favorite role, inspired by the joy and curiosity of young children.

She holds MAs in Deaf Education and Literacy and an Ed.M in Educational Leadership all from Teachers College, Columbia University, and a BA from Rutgers University in her hometown of Newark, NJ. 

Outside of work, she enjoys cooking, being in nature globally, and energetically embracing her favorite title— Auntie.

Iqra Amin is the Program Administrator for Education and Training in University Life. Before joining the team, Iqra worked in both educational and international development settings, including teaching social studies in New York City and contributing to initiatives at UNICEF and refugee advocacy organizations. She brings additional experience in curriculum design, student engagement, and strategic communications across multicultural contexts.

Iqra recently earned an MA in International Educational Development from Teachers College, Columbia University, with a concentration in youth development. A native New Yorker, she enjoys discovering new coffee spots, hiking, and traveling to historical sites. Having worked with students across age groups, Iqra looks forward to continuing her work in higher education as she grows in her journey with University Life.

Rev. Dr. Ian Rottenberg directs Columbia’s Earl Hall Center for Religious Life. Dean Rottenberg has academic degrees in philosophy and theology from Haverford College, Yale University, and Fordham University. As a leader of faith communities, he is passionate about increasing multi-faith dialogue, promoting mutual understanding, and working to meet the diverse religious needs of our university community. 

He loves appreciating Columbia’s collection of outdoor sculptures and frequenting the many great coffee shops on and around campus.

Heather Lee is the Associate Director of Events & Sales at St. Paul’s Chapel and Earl Hall, where she expertly coordinates weddings and memorials, creating memorable experiences for families and loved ones. 

With a strong background in events in New York City and beyond, Heather previously contributed her skills at Columbia Event Management, where she organized a variety of social and departmental events all over the Columbia Campus. Heather is passionate about bringing people together and cherishes the opportunity to help others celebrate life's most significant moments.

Hannah is originally from Mahopac, New York and now lives in Westchester County. She graduated from Fordham University as a first-generation college student and immediately began working for their Honors Program in 2022. She went on to receive her master's degree in strategic communication while working full-time as the program's administrator, where she oversaw student advising, academic planning, and admissions, while also managing the program's student engagement and event planning initiatives. Outside of work, Hannah tutors high school students in English and standardized testing. She loves to travel, cook, puzzle, and read.

Greg Nelson is a Program Manager for Student Advising, working closely with our Interschool Governing Board (IGB) clubs and bringing with him a deep commitment to student care, inclusion, and community building.

Greg previously served in student support roles at Columbia’s School of Professional Studies and the Center for Student Success and Intervention, and as a CARES Responder at Barnard College. He also brings public health experience from NYC Health & Hospitals, where he focused on health equity and outreach. A proud Harlem native and Lehman College alumnus, Greg is passionate about mental health, wellness, equity, and student empowerment. Outside of work, he enjoys cycling through the city and being a proud and present father. His personal mantra—“Keep learning, keep growing, and always live my truth”—reflects the energy and perspective he brings to our team.

Ethan Chiampas (he/him) joins University Life as the Associate Director for Delegate Management. In this role, Ethan supports the University’s implementation of the Rules of University Conduct by overseeing the University Delegate program, leading training and outreach efforts, and serving as a key partner in the planning and response to campus events and demonstrations.

Ethan previously served as Program Coordinator at The Workplace Center within the Columbia School of Social Work (CSSW), where he supported initiatives focused on economic justice and youth development. He brings experience in mental health care and educational settings, along with a strong commitment to student-centered work within complex institutional environments.

Ethan earned his Master of Social Work from CSSW, concentrating in Leadership, Management, and Entrepreneurship for Social Justice. He also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Classical Double Bass Performance from the Eastman School of Music.

Outside of work, Ethan enjoys exploring Central Park with his dog, playing upright bass, and planning his next backcountry hiking trip.

Diana Dumitru is the Director of Strategic Initiatives in Student Affairs for University Life. She has over 19 years of experience in higher education and project management, with expertise in student and faculty affairs, financial management, program and event coordination, and strategic initiatives. She has spent the past decade at Columbia University in the Provost’s Office and at CUIMC, following earlier roles at Pace University in student affairs and in the private sector as a project manager. At Columbia, Diana has supported programs for students from high school through the postdoctoral level, managed faculty initiatives, and coordinated mentoring, professional development, and recognition programs that strengthen faculty and student success.

Beyond her professional work, Diana has been active in her Sunnyside, Queens community as a PTA co-president, chair for Participatory Budgeting, education committee, and volunteer with local nonprofits. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Letters and Arts from Lucian Blaga University in Sibiu, Romania and a master’s in Public Administration from Pace University, where she graduated with honors. In her free time, she enjoys family time, long walks on the beach, being in nature, and practicing yoga.

David Beltran (he/him) is the Associate Director of Communications and Marketing for University Life. He has a BA in Journalism from Brooklyn College and has spent the past few years in the non-profit and public education world where he loved sharing the stories of students and staff alike on social media. 

David was born and raised in Queens and is a big New York sports fan. You can often find him at Yankee Stadium or Citi Field catching a baseball game, but he's also looking forward to exploring his new home at Columbia University. 

Darren Thomas serves as the Program Manager for Advising for Student Affairs and is committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for students, faculty, and staff. With experience in mental health, counseling, case management, and graduate advising, Darren brings a wealth of expertise to support student success and well-being.

Darren’s professional background includes serving as a Case Manager at Columbia’s Center for Student Success and Intervention, where he helped students navigate both academic and personal challenges. Additionally, Darren has held case management and professional development roles at various universities, medical schools, and K-12 across New York, providing students with the guidance and support needed to thrive.

Darren holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University at Albany, a Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling from the College of New Rochelle, and a Master of Science in Cybersecurity from Maryville University. This diverse academic foundation equips Darren with a unique blend of skills to address the complexities of today’s academic environment.

His passion for mental health and student success drives his dedication to promoting personal and academic growth while ensuring students have access to the necessary resources.

Outside of work, Darren enjoys exercising, visiting historical landmarks, and coaching recreational sports, which allows him to connect with others in positive and engaging ways.

Christie Marquez (she/her) works as a Project Coordinator for Student Life at University Life. Christie studied English and Neuroscience at the University of Texas at Austin (hook 'em!) and then went on to pursue an M.A. in Anthropology and Education at Teachers College. Before working with University Life, Christie worked as a Residence Hall Director at the School of Visual Arts and as a Community Assistant at Teachers College. 

Christie loves traveling, singing, teaching her dog new tricks, discovering cafes with latte art, and exploring NYC through long walks (she's done a tip-to-tip walk of Manhattan several times!).

Charles N. Todd is Vice President for University Life, overseeing Strategic Student Engagement, Religious Life, Community Impact, and the Center for Student Success and Intervention. In this role, he works across Columbia's schools and divisions to advance student success, strengthen community, and support University Life's mission and vision, collaborating closely with students, faculty, and administrators university-wide.

Charles comes to Columbia from the College of the Holy Cross, where he served as Associate Vice President for Student Development and Dean of Students. His portfolio there spanned residential and community life, health and wellness, accessibility services, student integrity and case management, and parent and family engagement. He led institutional efforts in crisis management and behavioral intervention and worked to advance a culture of free expression and constructive campus dialogue. Prior to Holy Cross, Charles spent more than a decade at the University of Chicago, where he held a range of student affairs leadership roles, including Deputy Dean of Students and Chief of Staff in the undergraduate College and Dean of Students at the Law School. He holds a Ph.D. in Philosophy from the University of Chicago and an M.A. in Philosophy from Tufts University.

Raised in the United States and abroad, Charles brings a lifelong curiosity about the world to his work and life in New York City. Outside the office, he can be found hiking, kayaking, and exploring the city's food scene, and he never misses an opportunity to catch a performance at one of the world's great opera houses.

Angela Garcia is currently the Administration and Operations Manager at University Life. Angela has been at Columbia University since 2015 and her previous roles include Assistant Director of Operations in the Office of the Vice Provost for Faculty Advancement and Executive Assistant to the Executive Vice President for University Life and Senior Vice Provost for Faculty Advancement. 

Angela is seasoned in administrative and operational work in higher education, including providing high-level executive support, managing complex projects, and supporting various University initiatives.

Prior to Columbia, Angela worked at Herbert H. Lehman College in the City University of New York (CUNY) for seven years, where she also obtained a B.A. in Psychology. Her work at Lehman involved extensive office management and coordination of grant-funded student initiatives, including direct supervision of a program designed to support the transition and retention of transfer students at the college. She was also a writing tutor for both undergraduate and graduate students for several years while at Lehman.

In her free time, Angela enjoys walking/hiking, working out, spending time with her family and being anywhere near water, especially the beach! Her favorite spot around Morningside campus is Riverside Park.

Andrea Witting serves as University Life's Finance Manager. Andrea was born and raised in Queens, NYC. They have a diverse professional background, having worked as a Teaching Assistant in NYC Public Schools, a Paralegal, and most recently, as an Administrative Coordinator for Undergraduate Student Life at Columbia College and Columbia Engineering.

Passionate about the arts, she studied Illustration at the School of Visual Arts and enjoys exploring museum galleries and attending live music events. Outside of work, you’ll find them at a NY Mets game or reading folklore and mythology.

Anat Mano joins Columbia University, as Administrative Manager in University Life, following a career in administrative support within the entertainment industry, where she championed emerging voices, provided advanced executive support, and shepherded over 30 film and TV projects across studios, production companies, and sets. She is passionate about fostering communities that empower people to use their unique backgrounds and interests as superpowers, and looks forward to helping students do the same. Anat holds a BA in Theater Studies from Wellesley College, and although she grew up in New Jersey, she is a globe-trekker at heart. You can often find her sampling or cooking new cuisines, dreaming up tiny homes, or learning facts at trivia. 

Alexa Oord (they/them) is the Associate Director of Administration & Special Projects in University Life. They previously worked as the Administrative Assistant for Undergraduate Student Life in Columbia College and Columbia Engineering. Alexa holds a B.A. in Philosophy from Harvard University and an M.A. in Gender/Cultural Studies from Simmons University. They spend their free time listening to science-fiction audiobooks while working on their latest crochet, embroidery, or sewing project. 

Akua is an international student from Ghana currently in the Master's of Business Analytics program at Columbia University. She earned her Bachelor’s degree from Drexel University in Philadelphia, where she was involved in event planning with student organizations and engaging with the local community. As part of the Student Life team, she is excited to help students feel at home at Columbia by organizing engaging activities, supporting logistics to ensure events are successful, or simply offering a warm greeting and helpful answers to questions.

Outside of school and work, she loves reading, trying new restaurants, and exploring the walking trails NYC has to offer. She also volunteers with Teach English CU, where she helps teach English to individuals who speak it as a second language.

Abigail Robinson is the Project Coordinator for Strategic Student Engagement, specializing in event management and community outreach. With over five years of experience in public service, nonprofits, education, and the arts, she is committed to delivering inclusive and engaging programs.

Abigail has coordinated a variety of events in partnership with organizations such as Adobe, Bard College, and the Seattle Art Museum. In these roles she has managed all aspects of event planning from complex logistics and accessibility requirements to volunteer coordination and audience outreach. She has also worked in youth mentorship and technical recruiting, consistently infusing creativity, equity, and attention to detail into every project.

An avid reader, Abigail finds creative renewal in New York’s DIA: Chelsea, one of her favorite city sanctuaries.