Telling Our Stories
Voices of Action celebrates the diversity of students, staff, and faculty at Bard College and across Bard's international partnerships and the greater Open Society University Network. We hope this community-centered project sparks conversation and highlights how we are connected by common interests, especially around civic and community engagement. Voices of Action showcases two platforms: Being(s) at Bard on Instagram (@beingsatbard) and the What Is Your Why? podcast series.
We would love to hear your story!
To be interviewed or to nominate a friend for either Being(s) at Bard or What Is Your Why?, please reach out to [email protected].
Being(s) at Bard
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Sharing the stories, opinions, and interests of Bard Community members in collaboration with the Bard Center for Civic Engagement and the Open Society University Network's Civic Engagement Initiative. Complete the Google form to suggest a profile.
Being(s) at Bard uses visual storytelling to share personal experiences around culture, history, values, interests, and civic/community engagement of campus community members. These interviews aim to give readers an opportunity to learn from others while also shaping, strengthening, and challenging their own opinions and values. Each post contains a narrative and two accompanying photographs; a portrait of the subject and an image of their living space. To create authentic content, the interviews are conversation based rather than a firm question and answer session.
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Mia Krzic“In my journey of self-discovery, I have dabbled in various interests, from sports like tennis and basketball to the calm of yoga classes. Whether I’m active or introspective, I find peace in both. But what really
Mia Krzic
“In my journey of self-discovery, I have dabbled in various interests, from sports like tennis and basketball to the calm of yoga classes. Whether I’m active or introspective, I find peace in both. But what really
excites me is the idea of working at the United Nations, where I hope to make a real difference in global affairs.”
“I am Mia Krzic and I am from Belgrade, Serbia. Growing up in the lively energy of the capital, I have always been curious and eager to learn. High school was tough, especially with COVID-19, so I took a leap and spent my senior year in Connecticut on an exchange program. That is where I fell in love with global studies.”
“With my advisor’s assistance, I found out about Bard during my college application process when I applied and got accepted with a scholarship. Currently a sophomore, I navigate the realms of economics and global studies at Bard College, embracing the breadth and potential these disciplines offer. My academic path has been full of surprises. I have been guided by great advisors and a curiosity to learn about different things while learning the importance of diligence and foresight. Each academic endeavor has shaped my understanding of the world and my aspirations for the future. While I have not settled on a specific career path yet, I’m attracted to roles that contribute to positive change and societal well-being. I have oscillated between various career aspirations, from envisioning myself as Lady Gaga’s hairdresser to contemplating a path in architecture, biology, or medicine. Each twist and turn has contributed to the tapestry of my identity, shaping my worldview and guiding my future endeavors.”
“Beyond academia, I cherish moments spent with my friends, immersing myself in music, movies, and the cozy comfort of my room. But when I’m in the library, I’m focused and driven to do my best. As I manage to figure out my future in life, I offer all a simple but important tip that my roommate shared with me: don’t forget to drink water, and eat your fruits and veggies.”
Mia Krzic (‘26) - Belgrade, Serbia
Article and Photo by Sameem Sarabi -
Elle Young“Coming out as a transwoman wasn't something I always knew, I guess it's something I realized going through puberty because it really transforms your body.
Elle Young
“Coming out as a transwoman wasn't something I always knew, I guess it's something I realized going through puberty because it really transforms your body.
When I was home, I was on a bunch of waiting lists for trans health care, but coming here to Bard has actually allowed me to receive more transgender care than I probably could have otherwise. Now, through Bard, they've accepted me into one of the best trans healthcare programs back home. I was on waiting lists forever, but being here and meeting with Yakira, the director of Health Services, has allowed me to undergo the process of becoming who I am. It's a violent process, taking hormones and building your body the way you want it, but for me it’s essential to who I am. Bard Health Services has really helped me through the process.”
“I wasn't even out in high school and a lot of people are trans here, so it's been really nice to find a community. Bard is a great place to find community. I believe there is an issue with trans misogyny everywhere, and I have experienced some trans misogyny at Bard, but luckily my experience finding friends here has allowed me to transition safely.”
“I'll probably major in electronic music, environmental science, or biology. I always loved music, even as a kid. I’ve been in a choir since I was a kid, starting in church and now I'm in Chamber SIngers, but in my teens is when I started discovering what music meant to me. There's this girl from my town and seeing her live really showed me that I can make my own music however I want to. It's also nice to listen to my own music and listen to other people's music and learn from them, to think about how they see the world through their music and connect through that. I think one of the biggest powers of music is that you can tell stories and you can teach people about your world. You learn from the musicians that you like, you treat them like your friends, you think “oh, this is my friend who has been through what I've been through” and you let them show you how to deal with it. That's one of the main things I want to accomplish in my music.”
Elle Young ‘27 - Arlington, Massachusetts
Article: Javy Polanco
Photo: Sameem Sarabi -
Shadin Nassar“I am the Civic Engagement Coordinator at Al Quds Bard College in Palestine, where I was once a student myself. After majoring in International law and Human Rights, I started my own project
Shadin Nassar
“I am the Civic Engagement Coordinator at Al Quds Bard College in Palestine, where I was once a student myself. After majoring in International law and Human Rights, I started my own project
with the aim of introducing Creative Writing as a tool to the Palestinian community, encouraging the use of artistic advocacy. My aim was to capture the Palestinian struggle for justice, and I wanted to ensure that Palestinian women, children, and other minorities have a place at the table, as I strongly believe that everyone can be the author of their own story. I received the guidance and support needed from OSUN, and became part of a network that wanted to hear my story and help amplify the voices of youth all around the world.”
“Al Quds Bard is a small College; we have about 200 students, who come from different backgrounds within Palestine, but all share the common aspiration towards making a change. As the future of Palestine, they are keen to get their hands on every opportunity available - go on exchanges, meet other students from the OSUN network and build long-lasting friendships and connections. We have a small but strong Civic Engagement entity on campus, and around 45 student leaders working toward making a solid change in the Society. We equip them with the needed resources, and inspire them to branch out, and take the mission and vision of Al Quds Bard to their local communities. For example, a project that has been going on for two years, designs workshops for students across highschools in Palestine, informing them about the environmental issues as a result of the occupation, as well as global topics such as climate change. The project was able to organize several advocacy and awareness-raising campaigns, focused on recycling and reducing waste. As another example, there was a student passionate about music who started a project designed to bring music education to marginalized areas. There are projects that focus on issues from gender equity to art therapy - We do not limit students, and encourage them to find their own passion.”
Shadin Nassar, Al Quds Bard, Interview taken in April 2023
Article: Robin Kaiküll (‘26)
Photo: Sameem Sarabi (‘24) -
Celeste Lucci“I was born in Munich, Germany, and also call the Silicon Valley area in California home. I'm currently studying sociology and architecture at Bard. I spent a year and a half at Bard College, Berlin,
Celeste Lucci
“I was born in Munich, Germany, and also call the Silicon Valley area in California home. I'm currently studying sociology and architecture at Bard. I spent a year and a half at Bard College, Berlin,
starting with the Beginning Berlin program in 2019.” “I lived in Vienna after that for another year and a half, and even had a semester at the Central European University there. Now I'm at Bard. The campus is really beautiful, and the teachers are genuinely nice, easy to talk to and very understanding. The courses are interesting, especially the mix of sociology and architecture.”
“As for my hobbies, I'm into reading, drawing, and photography. One of the things I like to concentrate on are windows. I think of them in terms of the saying, ‘eyes are the windows to the soul’. Windows are like eyes into someone's life. I find it fascinating how people decide to decorate them, what they reveal, or choose to keep private. Something else that could count as a hobby of mine is coffee. I think it’s also helpful for my ADHD, and it’s an excuse to spend time with friends.”
“Future plans? Well, one path I'm looking into is in urban design or architecture, aiming to create spaces that people feel cared for and making it sustainable. There's a class I'm taking about urbanization and climate change that has deepened my thought in this area. I am interested in doing a master's with Erasmus, combining different masters between universities and being immersed in new places and cultures.
I will be transferring to Bard College Berlin, where I'll be majoring in Humanities, The Arts, and Social Thought with a concentration in Arts and Aesthetics. I believe BCB is more open to interdisciplinary approaches, which suits my desire to blend my interests in a more theoretical and philosophical sense. Being in a cosmopolitan environment also gives me more inspiration and motivation, something I haven’t been able to achieve here.”
“I see myself creating comfortable environments for people, embracing diversity, and exploring new perspectives and maybe sipping a lot more coffee along the way.”
Celeste Lucci “26 - Munich, Germany
Article & Photo - Sameem Sarabi “25 (@sameem.sarabi) -
Aissatou Barry“At the age of 12, my life took a major turn when I immigrated to USA. I did not speak English and stepped directly into high school, facing the challenge of learning a new language.”
Aissatou Barry
“At the age of 12, my life took a major turn when I immigrated to USA. I did not speak English and stepped directly into high school, facing the challenge of learning a new language.”
“I was born and raised in Guinea, West Africa, where my childhood was filled with the warmth of family. The transition wasn't easy. I had high expectations but the differences made it hard to find my place. Yet, overcoming these hurdles became my strength and the barriers didn't hold me back. I engaged in management of sports teams, served as the vice president in my senior year and programs like Deloitte and Open Door became my support, guiding me through the college process.”
“I juggle multiple roles at Bard - club head for Afropulse and Muslim Students Org, Peer Counsellor, and team lead for Event Staff. I work as a liaison at Kappa House, mentoring freshmen, and working with the Equity and Inclusion Program for POSSE students became my way of giving back. It's hectic, but as a sophomore, I take pride in my achievements.”
“I'm still really tight with the people I bonded with during orientation, and even through this experience, I've made friends with upperclassmen. It's nice because they often know stuff you might not. Being part of clubs helps everyone socialize, and I'm pretty good at that.”
“As I major in architecture, I find both positives and challenges. While the architecture program at Bard is relatively new, it offers valuable resources for students but the limited number of classes poses a challenge.”
“As I look back on my journey from Guinea to Bard, I realize that the difficulties I faced didn't define me; they shaped me. My life philosophy revolves around living each day as if it were the last, to make the most of every moment. Family is my primary motivation, especially my mom and siblings who rely on me as the oldest and the one furthest away from home. Despite the distance from Guinea, I remain connected to my roots, visiting my family in France every summer.”
Aissatou Barry ‘26 - Bronx, NYC
Article- Ariha Shahed ‘26 (@ariiiiiiiiiiha)
Photo - Sameem Sarabi ‘25 (@sameem.sarabi) -
Rachel Harris“Both of my parents were born and raised in Guyana. Even though I was born here, I entirely identify as Guyanese. It doesn't make any sense to call myself American
Rachel Harris
“Both of my parents were born and raised in Guyana. Even though I was born here, I entirely identify as Guyanese. It doesn't make any sense to call myself American
because I was never raised with any American traditions. My father is Afro-Caribbean and my mom is Indo-Caribbean, so I grew up more with Indian traditions, being that most of my family is Hindu. Being Caribbean black, specifically being West Indian black, and being American black are very different things. There was never a big emphasis on being proud of being black, especially since in Guyana colorism is a huge issue, I had to navigate two different countries with two different perceptions of black”
“Being queer was a different field for me, I didn't realize I was queer until middle school. It wasn't really comfortable to feel out, but Bard gave me the space too. I went to Bard High School Early College Manhattan and from there looking at colleges wasn't much of an issue because Bard was kind of always there. I knew how it functioned, I knew how it ran, I knew its values. It's very free, very open. It's so much easier to learn when you're comfortable being where you are. I don't feel lost here. I feel like I'm an active part of the community, like I'm always being checked up on even though my hand is not being held. I feel like there's always a resource. I feel appreciated here so far, especially in STEM settings. I feel like it's very easy to get lost in a college, but I don't get lost here.”
“I'm a bio major, pre-med. I want to be either a general surgeon or do reconstructive surgery in trauma units, so after this is med school. I started off when I was four, wanting to be a vet, and then I realized that I didn't want to deal with sick animals, but I can deal with sick people. I think it's cool and I have no issues with blood. I also feel like having a black, queer, and Caribbean doctor would make more people of color feel safer receiving healthcare”
Rachel Harris ‘26 - Queens, New York
Article: Javy Polanco ‘27 (@javypolanco )
Photo: Sameem Sarabi ‘24 (@sameem.sarabi )
What Is Your Why?
Why do civic engagement leaders get involved in the work they do? What keeps them going in the face of challenges? In this series, What Is Your Why?, the Bard College Center for Civic Engagement highlights campus and local changemakers.
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Ariha Shahed ’26Ariha Shahed is a second-year student from Dhaka, Bangladesh. Last year, she secured $10,000 funding through the Davis Projects for Peace to implement a successful initiative in Bangladesh, providing social protection and relief to floating populations in major urban railways.
Ariha Shahed ’26
Ariha Shahed is a second-year student from Dhaka, Bangladesh. Last year, she secured $10,000 funding through the Davis Projects for Peace to implement a successful initiative in Bangladesh, providing social protection and relief to floating populations in major urban railways.
Ariha is currently serving as the Vice President of the International Student Organization, CDO-Chair of the Economics Club, and an OSUN Leadership Fellow while working for the Beings@Bard initiative at the CCE Office. Ariha, a proud alum of the Davis UWC Scholars Program, graduated from one of the United World Colleges (UWC). Ariha's interests extend to Human Rights, Advocacy, and International Relations, reflecting her dedication to making a positive impact on global issues. -
Serra Sonmez ’25 and Grace Molinaro ’24 have a passion for helping othersSerra Sonmez ’25 raises funds for Turkey and Syria as part of her role as a programming fellow for the Office of the Dean of Inclusive Excellence. Bard Conservatory student Grace Molinaro ’24 has helped organize benefit concerts for earthquake relief in Turkey and Syria and for the Afghan-student-led Arezo project for working children and women in Afghanistan.
Serra Sonmez ’25 and Grace Molinaro ’24 have a passion for helping others
Serra Sonmez ’25 raises funds for Turkey and Syria as part of her role as a programming fellow for the Office of the Dean of Inclusive Excellence. Bard Conservatory student Grace Molinaro ’24 has helped organize benefit concerts for earthquake relief in Turkey and Syria and for the Afghan-student-led Arezo project for working children and women in Afghanistan.
Serra Sonmez ’25 is a rising junior, intending to major in biology and computer science. She currently serves as a programming fellow for the Office of the Dean of Inclusive Excellence, where her work fundraising for Turkey and Syria is housed. Grace Molinaro ’24 just finished her fourth year in the five-year Bard Conservatory dual-degree program, majoring in Cello Performance and Middle Eastern Studies (with Arabic). As part of her civic engagement at Bard, she has helped organize two benefit concerts, one for the Afghan-student-led Arezo project for working children and women in Afghanistan, and one for earthquake relief in Turkey and Syria. -
Rob Todd on the Power of Science EducationRob Todd, Assistant Director of Citizen Science, is a microbiologist, avid proponent of science outreach, and a visiting Assistant Professor of Biology at Bard College. He talks with Vice President of Civic Engagement Erin Cannan about the importance of sharing with young people how understanding science can really impact their lives.
Rob Todd on the Power of Science Education
Rob Todd, Assistant Director of Citizen Science, is a microbiologist, avid proponent of science outreach, and a visiting Assistant Professor of Biology at Bard College. He talks with Vice President of Civic Engagement Erin Cannan about the importance of sharing with young people how understanding science can really impact their lives.
Rob Todd, Assistant Director of Citizen Science, is a microbiologist, avid proponent of science outreach, and a visiting Assistant Professor of Biology at Bard College. He talks with Vice President of Civic Engagement Erin Cannan about the importance of sharing with young people how understanding science can really impact their lives.
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Tyler Figueroa ’26 talks about his desire to connect with peopleTyler Figueroa '26 is a prospective literature and written arts major. Originally from the Poughkeepsie area, Tyler is an alum of the Hudson Valley Bard High School Early College program. He currently serves as a STEM Outreach Fellow with the Center for Civic Engagement, working with the Tivoli Free Library. In his free time, Tyler is a member of the Bard Warr;ors and plays club volleyball.
Tyler Figueroa ’26 talks about his desire to connect with people
Tyler Figueroa '26 is a prospective literature and written arts major. Originally from the Poughkeepsie area, Tyler is an alum of the Hudson Valley Bard High School Early College program. He currently serves as a STEM Outreach Fellow with the Center for Civic Engagement, working with the Tivoli Free Library. In his free time, Tyler is a member of the Bard Warr;ors and plays club volleyball.
Tyler Figueroa '26 is a prospective literature and written arts major. Originally from the Poughkeepsie area, Tyler is an alum of the Hudson Valley Bard High School Early College program. He currently serves as a STEM Outreach Fellow with the Center for Civic Engagement, working with the Tivoli Free Library. In his free time, Tyler is a member of the Bard Warr;ors and plays club volleyball. -
Emily Joachim ’24 On Trying To Make The World A Better PlaceEmily Joachim ’24 is a human rights and anthropology major. Originally from New York City, Emily currently serves as the Lead Programming Intern with the Office of Equity and Inclusion and the Club Co-head of the Scale Project (a student-led organization that focuses on bridging the opportunity gap for lower income and first gen students). In her free time, Emily likes to paint, dance, and write.
Emily Joachim ’24 On Trying To Make The World A Better Place
Emily Joachim ’24 is a human rights and anthropology major. Originally from New York City, Emily currently serves as the Lead Programming Intern with the Office of Equity and Inclusion and the Club Co-head of the Scale Project (a student-led organization that focuses on bridging the opportunity gap for lower income and first gen students). In her free time, Emily likes to paint, dance, and write.
Emily Joachim '24 is a human rights and anthropology major. Originally from New York City, Emily currently serves as the Lead Programming Intern with the Office of Equity and Inclusion and the Club Co-head of the Scale Project (a student-led organization that focuses on bridging the opportunity gap for lower income and first gen students). In her free time, Emily likes to paint, dance, and write. -
Shadin Nassar Talks about Civic Engagement at Al-Quds BardShadin Nassar talks with Vice President of Civic Engagement Erin Cannan about her role as civic engagement coordinator at Al-Quds Bard College and her personal civic engagement work. An alumna of the Get Engaged Student Leadership Conference and Global Fellows Program, Nassar started a creative writing initiative as a student herself in 2017 in Palestinian high schools.
Shadin Nassar Talks about Civic Engagement at Al-Quds Bard
Shadin Nassar talks with Vice President of Civic Engagement Erin Cannan about her role as civic engagement coordinator at Al-Quds Bard College and her personal civic engagement work. An alumna of the Get Engaged Student Leadership Conference and Global Fellows Program, Nassar started a creative writing initiative as a student herself in 2017 in Palestinian high schools.
Written Voices now operates under the name Upraised Voices, working with schools, marginalized areas, refugees, women, and other groups throughout Palestinian society to help them express themselves and own their own stories through creative writing and debate. “Seeing that what I am doing is affecting other people and improving their lives for the better, that keeps me going,” she says. In her current role, she inspires students to look for something they are passionate about that can help bring about positive changes in the Palestinian community and the global community. She encourages them to take advantage of existing opportunities, including cross-campus exchanges, to sustain their work. -
Anna Likhanova ’25 on Her Sense of Justice and How to Give BackAnna Likhanova ’25 talks with Vice President of Civic Engagement Erin Cannan about her role as head of Bard's Amnesty International Club, organizing events like panel discussions with guest speakers from the UN on immigration, letter writing campaigns to advocate on behalf of people who have been jailed without justice, and banned books trivia night.
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Sydney Oshuna-Williams ’24 Talks about Showing Up for Others—and For YourselfSydney Oshuna-Williams ’24 talks with Vice President of Civic Engagement Erin Cannan about her civic engagement at Bard, facilitating spaces for people to share their experiences, creating her own foundation, and how she has to show up for herself in order to show up for others.
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Laurie Husted Talks about Sustainability Work on Campus and OffIn this episode, Chief Sustainability Officer Laurie Husted talks with VP of Civic Engagement Erin Cannan about her roles at Bard and in the Town of Red Hook. Learn more about the Bard Office of Sustainability and how you can get involved by visiting bos.bard.edu.