About Us

We are a U.S. based non-profit organization on a mission to transform the lives of children in Haiti and the Carribean.

OUR MISSION

At Itiah Angels for Learning®, our goal is to transform children’s lives by providing educational tools to impoverished communities in order to foster learning. Our operations are designed to obtain educational materials and provide them to schools and students in underserved communities to help aid student’s well-being and encourage educational growth so they can reach their fullest potential.

 
 
 

OUR VISION

Itiah Angels for Learning® aspires to work towards eliminating extreme poverty and hardship – one student at a time, one school at a time, and one community at a time. By helping students to learn, we aim to elevate entire populations and create social progress.

OUR INSPIRATION

“Leave your country and everything you hold dear, go and do good!”
– Anne-Marie Javouhey

These words became the foundation of Anne-Marie Javouhey’s life. Born in 1779 in Bourgogne, France, she joined a convent at the age of 19 and began her life’s mission of fighting for the poor. She saw the problems of her time and vowed to make a difference by advocating against slavery and being determined to educate youth in the most vulnerable parts of the world. She lived to see all her hard work blossom on every continent.

She founded the missionary congregation Sisters of St. Joseph of Cluny and dedicated her life to advancing her mission throughout the Caribbean and nations of Africa until her death at the age of 72. In 1864, three Javoueh sisters of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Cluny congregation left their country and family behind. Sister Louise Wight, born in Trinidad, was one of the sisters who boarded a ship headed to a beautiful mountainous island referred to by many as “My darling Haiti” and affectionately labeled “The Pearl of the Antilles”.

Meet The Team

Board Members

Founder

Marie Thadal, MBA
Vice President

Giorgio Dell’Acqua, PhD
Treasurer

Pierre Joseph, MBA
Fundraising Chair

Robert Baraczek
General Secretary

Magnolia McGlothen-Brown

Founder

Marie Thadal, MBA

Marie Thadal is an accomplished executive in the Cosmetic industry. She has held many different positions in the industry of international influence and recognition. She chaired the New York Chapter of the Society of Cosmetic Chemists, a multi million-dollar organization and the largest chapter of the Society of Cosmetic Chemists association.

 

She has always viewed education and opportunities in learning as the stairway to the stars. While Thadal was born in Haiti, at an early age she emigrated to the U.S. and became the first in her family to go to college and earn a Bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry. She went on to pursue advanced studies and completed a Master’s degree in Cosmetic Science followed by an Executive MBA. She’s had a rather extraordinary history of overcoming obstacles as she works towards reaching her fullest potential. That story is chronicled in a soon-to-be published book documenting her remarkable journey.

 

She dreams of ensuring educational opportunities for students where learning is stifled by the lack of resources. She truly believes that every child, if given the right balance of assistance, support and encouragement can truly prosper in the same way that she did. But unfortunately, in many countries school is not compulsory. In others, the system of education is not geared towards providing the perfect mix of resources, support and encouragement – especially for girls.

Thadal is fully cognizant of what propelled her to a life that not only moved her out of poverty but into a life where she’s been able to serve as a resource to her community. She knows what a helping hand can do to put a person on their feet and moving in the right direction. She is convinced that children need exposure to education early and consistently. She dares to imagine a whole set of experiences that would give children belief in themselves so that they can be successful as a result of ITIAH Angels For Learning organization.

Vice President

Giorgio Dell’Acqua, PhD

Giorgio Dell’Acqua, PhD, is a cosmetic scientist and a consultant for the personal care industry. He has helped bring more than 200 successful active ingredients and finished products to market and has authored more than 60 publications in medicine and cosmetic  science. From last 10 years he has been writing and lecturing on natural cosmetic ingredients, sustainable supply chain, and helped sourcing, developing and bringing to market many natural ingredients.

He is passionate about green economy and social justice. In recent years he has published and lectured about sustainable development, social progress, micro finance, social and financial inclusion. He is an award winning speaker on natural ingredients and a regular columnist on sustainability and cosmetic science. He is also the chair of the Scientific Committee for the New York Society of Cosmetic Chemists and its scientific blogger.

Treasurer

Pierre Joseph, MBA

Pierre Joseph grew up in Haiti and moved to the USA as a young man in the 90’s. Knowing that education is the path to opportunities, he earned a BS degree in Chemistry from Rutgers University and an MBA from Philadelphia (now Jefferson) University.

He is a continuous learner and has held positions as a Chemist at various leading companies such as Hartz Mountain, Kimberly-Clark, Summers Laboratories and Shiseido. He enjoys listening to music, playing his guitar, reading and cooking. He lives in NJ with his beautiful wife and their two children.

Fundraising Chair

Robert Baraczek

Robert Baraczek is a Scientist and business owner in the Pharmaceutical and Medical industries specializing in skin and hair disorders. Robert enjoys spending time with his family, and is passionate about giving back and making a difference. He is especially interested in helping children in the most vulnerable parts of the world and undeserved communities. Robert travels to various countries and understands the difficulties students face in poverty stricken environments. For this reason, he is committed to helping and supporting the initiatives of Itiah Angels For Learning.

General Secretary

Magnolia McGlothen-Brown

Magnolia McGlothen-Brown recently retired from the Trenton Board of Education in Trenton, NJ as a classroom special education teacher with thirty –two years of teaching experience and seven years prior in Mississippi as a speech pathologist and vocational instructor.  She holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Speech Pathology, a Master of Science Degree in Special Education from Jackson State University in Jackson, MS, a Master of Science Degree in Education Administration from Grand Canyon University in AZ, and various educational certificates.

Helping to shape the lives of young people and extending knowledge and love to the field of education are two of her life-long dreams. Along her educational journey, Magnolia has been honored to engage and challenge her students beyond the classroom academics to actively developing their entrepreneur skills, civic and justice responsibilities, and traveling experiences. Some of her most memorable experiences include developing a vocational arts curriculum for her special education class, facilitating and chaperoning her Student Council students to Jamaica, Bahama, Cancun Mexico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, participating in mock trial competitions, working with local and state government officials, standing on the floor of the United Nations, and volunteering to serve those who are less fortunate than them.

She is married to Reverend Alexander Brown, a former teacher and Principal of the Trenton Public School District. Serving God and others is what brings her the most joy.

Committee Members

Outreach Specialist

Jonathan Basta
Webmaster

Khadija Franklin
IT

Derek Appiah-Kumi
Technology Coordinator

Dimitri Thadal
Outreach Director

Douglas Thornley
Beauty Project Coordinator

Melanie Mitchell
Research Manager

Jennifer ShuPing Chen
Medical Specialist

Florise Altino-Pierre, MSN, RN, NEA-BC
Newsletter Coordinator

Paige Cornell
Robotics Youth Program Coordinator

Jolia Thadal

Karnik Aswani

Outreach Specialist

Jonathan Basta

Jonathan was born and raised in Naples, Italy, and spent most of his childhood summer holidays in the Dominican Republic. When he finally moved to the United States, he discovered his passion for economics and helping individuals obtain and sustain financial security. When given the opportunity to attend Temple University’s Fox School of Business, he majored in Business Administration with a focus in Economics, and later developed a skillset for Financial Planning.

Today, Jonathan works as a Financial Advisor for Edward Jones and is actively involved in his family’s travel business, his church, and his community. He is forever grateful for all of the opportunities and support he has received over the years, and wants to give back by helping bring quality resources and education to every child in need.

Outside of work, Jonathan enjoys spending time with his family, playing soccer and travelling. He is married to the love of his life, Hannah, who works as a Pediatric Occupational Therapist and together, they are puppy-parents to their Jack Russel Bichon, Brandi.

Webmaster

Khadija Franklin

Khadija Franklin is a chemist and a full-stack web developer living in the NYC area. She is a curious and driven leader. Her ability to quickly master new concepts and produce under strict time, budget, and quality constraints has made her a team leader who is eager to tackle new challenges. She is also a perpetual student who is relentlessly learning through various resources and individual projects. She is passionate about cosmetic chemistry, learning, sharing that knowledge with others and creating purposeful tools.

IT

Derek Appiah-Kumi

Derek Appiah-Kumi has more than 3 years of direct technology advisory experience ranging from individuals to small business owners. He has two years of experience working with nonprofits within the inner City of Trenton where he was put in charge of devising and implementing technology solutions for the organization, as well as the on boarding and training of staff. He specializes in web development but is no stranger to working in a more traditional technical support role.

Derek brings his experience to ITIAH Angels For Learning to ensure that the technology solutions implemented for the organization is in proper alignment with its mission. Technology optimizes the way we work in every capacity. Sourcing the right system can bring added value to each volunteer’s defined role. This can boost efficiency as they work to execute the task of enriching the lives of children and make a difference where help is needed.

Technology Coordinator

Dimitri Thadal

Dimitri Thadal is a sales and marketing professional in the Greater New York area. He is currently the Director of Sales at Upfluence Inc, an influencer marketing software company, and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics from Rutgers University.

He is extremely passionate about serving his community and the youth. He’s volunteered numerous times to Elijah’s Promise Soup Kitchen in New Brunswick, NJ, and is also currently a Big Brother for Big Brother Big Sister of America. He hopes to learn but also contribute with his experience to help ITIAH Angels for learning.

Outreach Director

Douglas Thornley

Doug Thornley is a proven executive that has spent his entire career focused on the Raw Material Marketplace for the Personal Care Industry. After graduating with a Degree in Chemistry from the University of Delaware in 1975, Doug started as a Synthesis Chemist with Mona Industries located in Paterson, NJ. Soon afterwards in September 1976, Doug joined his father to expand and grow The Thornley Company, a regional distributor of Specialty Ingredients to the Personal Care Marketplace, as well as a variety of Industrial Applications, located in Wilmington, DE. Over the years, Doug has represented many of the leading manufacturers in the marketplace, focused on surfactants, emulsifiers, biocides, emollients, waxes, silicone specialties, active principals, natural ingredients and pearlescent pigments. 

Doug represented The Mearl Corporation, and then Engelhard promoting Color Effect Pigments for 30 years, before their purchase by BASF in 2006. After BASF announced some changes in their marketing and distribution efforts in 2007, Doug partnered with industry executives to launch Impact Colors, a primary supplier of Color Effect Pigments to the Personal Care marketplace on a Worldwide basis.

 

In 2012, Doug sold the Thornley Company to Van Horn Metz, a national distributor of specialty ingredients to many industries, including Personal Care, where Doug continued to support the marketplace.

 

In January 2016, Impact Colors merged with Sandream to form Sandream Impact LLC. Doug retired at the end of 2017 and has since enjoyed traveling on worldwide adventures and embracing a growing family with the addition of two beautiful grandchildren!

 

I am looking forward to helping Itiah Angels for Learning serve the Children of Haiti!

Beauty Project Coordinator

Melanie Mitchell

Gourmet Body Pastries Skincare creator and founder, Melanie Mitchell celebrates skin no matter the hue or shade. Gourmet Body Pastries Skincare is a product line created to moisturize and exfoliate all skin types. This hand-crafted body care maintenance system is a delicious reminder of how sweet it is to love the skin we’re in.

There are two things that she is most passionate about, her skincare line becoming a household name and positively impacting the lives of others through ministry. Her love for Public Relations has helped paved the way to helping individuals live their best lives from the inside out and skincare is one of the tools she uses to help convey the message.

In 2017, Melanie began traveling abroad teaching women in impoverished areas how to make skincare. Her travels have taken her to Montrouis, Haiti and Portobelo, Colon, Panama. Melanie incorporates ingredients from the countries she has traveled to in her skincare products. Her ultimate goal is to inspire women throughout the world to become entrepreneurs in hopes of them being able to sustain their homes and communities.

Research Manager

Jennifer ShuPing Chen

Shu Ping (Jennifer) Chen is a cosmetic chemist for the personal care industrh. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from University of Waterloo in Ontario, Canada, and her M.S. in Pharmaceutics with a Specialization in Cosmetic Science from Long Island University, Brooklyn, NY. She is an enthusiast for color cosmetics and skincare and is actively pursuing a career in the personal care industry to fulfil her fascination with the endless possibilities of scientific experimentation. She believes in the power of cosmetics to enhance exterior beauty, as well as imbue a sense of personal well being. She wants her career to not only fulfill her own personal sense of accomplishment but would also like to help others to do the same. 

ITIAH Angels for Learning embodies the work of giving back that Jennifer strives to be a part of. As a child of Asian Canadian immigrants, she understands the value of education, and the doors that it can open. Jennifer believes that every individual deserves a quality education, and that through collective effort we can remove obstacles that impoverished children face on their way to learning and succeeding.

Medical Specialist

Florise Altino-Pierre, MSN, RN, NEA-BC

Florise Altino-Pierre is a nurse leader with over 30 years of experience in the healthcare field. She holds a master’s degree in Clinical Management, and she is certified in Nurse Executive Advanced in Leadership.  She empowers the people around her to be the best that they can be and to be change agents. Her passion for lifelong learning comes from her father who instilled and motivated her to pursue nursing. She continuously strives for excellence all the while giving opportunities for learning to improve and enhance her professional skills. She served as an Adjunct professor at the Chamberlain College of Nursing. 

Florise lives with her husband, John and her three children in Somerset County.   She enjoys entertaining, listening to music as well as going on medical mission trips to her homeland Haiti. She believes in giving back to the community. Her goal is to share God’s word, love, and grace to others so that they may feel God’s presence and in doing so, will enrich their lives and strengthen their faith.  

Newsletter Coordinator

Paige Cornell

Paige Cornell is joining ITIAH Angels for Learning as a volunteer newsletter coordinator and writer. An alumna of Rider University with a Bachelor’s degree in digital media, she has worked with various nonprofits to help spread their mission through writing, social media, photography and video production. She started her work with nonprofits in 2018 by writing for the Liberty Humane Society in Jersey City. Paige looks forward to being able to expand her writing and digital media skills with ITIAH Angels for Learning.

Robotics Youth Program Coordinator

Jolia Thadal

Jolia is a senior at the Rochester Institute of Technology pursuing a B.S. degree in Media Arts & Technology. She is completing her major along with a minor in Sociology/Anthropology with a concentration in Advertising/PR. She has gained much experience from her previous work and internships at L’Oréal USA, CBS and a local Legislative Assembly office.

As a volunteer, she hopes to share her expertise in projects related to cross media production, content management and data analysis. It is her sincere desire to align her knowledge in cultures to create a positive experience for the people ITIAH Angels For Learning was founded to serve. In High School, Jolia was a member of the FIRST Robotics Team FRC 2590 “Nemesis” which was her first exposure of how technology education can uplift communities.

Jolia is excited to coordinate the Itiah Angels Robotics Youth Program. She joined forces with her former robotics team to spread its mission which is to inspire greater levels of respect and honor for science and technology. In this capacity, she exposes children in remote village of the world to STEM and encourages them to become science and technology leaders.

Karnik Aswani

Karnik Aswani is a master’s student at Eastern University pursuing a degree in
data science. He is a curious, creative, and persistent individual that loves to take
on challenges to advance his career in the business and technology field. His skills
are in economics, data science, mathematics, science, and engineering which
made him a well-rounded person. He has experience in various analytical
techniques in the data science field and other related fields. His career goal is to
become a data scientist and open his own data science company in the future.

Consultants & Advisors

Public Relations Specialist

Brenda Whiteman
Legal Advisor

Alan Lyons
Video & Graphic

Araje L’bert
STEM Specialist/Photographer

Lee Whiteman

Public Relations Specialist

Brenda Whiteman

Brenda Whiteman is a writer and editor with more than 30 years’ experience in the publications/communictions field. She particularly enjoys writing feature stories due to their human-interest angles. Brenda served previously as a member of the internal communications team in the Research & Development division at Educational Testing Service (ETS) and in public relations roles at Rider University, the Credit Union Affiliates of New Jersey, Syracuse University and as a marketing associate at Mercer County Community College. She is always excited to publicize the outstanding work of ITIAH.

Brenda earned a BA in English from SUNY Stony Brook and an MA in Print Journalism from Columbia University. She is an associate member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI).

Legal Advisor

Alan Lyons

President and a founding member of Aid Africa’s Children, Alan D. Lyons is a Chicago lawyer who has practiced law in many fields and works predominantly in international law and trade relations. He also practices law in New York and California. He is Corporate Counsel for numerous international and local companies.

His work has led him to various parts of the world including China, Nigeria, Holland, The Phillipines, France, Greece, Brazil, and Papua New Guinea.  He has done significant charitable legal work for national and international nonprofits and foundations

Video & Graphic

Araje L’bert

Araje L’Bert is the Co-Founder of Championship Martial Arts Plainsboro and the CEO of Ninja Marketing Pro. Araje enjoys running his marketing company which focuses on local and national businesses to help them grow their presence online. Whether he is creating high converting websites, providing SEO and social media marketing, it brings him much satisfaction knowing that his work directly impacts his customers success. His team was excited to work with ITIAH Angels For Learning to design the organization’s introductory video.

 

 

STEM Specialist/Photographer

Lee Whiteman

Lee Whiteman is an Engineer and Project Manager with over 30 years of experience. He obtained his BE in Mechanical Engineering and an MS in Mechanical Engineering. He has served in Engineering and Project Management roles for numerous companies and published multiple papers on Electronics Manufacturing, Lead-Free Soldering, and Project Management in commercial and aerospace environments.  Lee would like to demonstrate how minority and women students can be successful in the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) field

Meet Our Graduated High School Fellows – 2022

Social Media Marketer

Ava Daniels
Social media

Maitri Shah
Outreach Assistant

Swetha Ramachandran

Social Media Marketer

Ava Daniels

Ava Daniels is currently a freshman at The University of California, Berkeley, and is pursuing a degree in Materials Engineering. She loves playing soccer, creating art, and being involved in various school clubs. Ava works on the social media team for ITIAH, designing content for various social media platforms to market ITIAH’s fundraising events and spread awareness about their cause.

Social media

Maitri Shah

Maitri is currently a junior at Robbinsville High School. She is involved in numerous extracurricular activities from school including the Girls Who Code Club, Multicultural Club, Gender Equality Club, and FIRST Robotics Team FRC 2590. Previously, she has worked with several climate organizations and other nonprofits such as Homefront. Maitri loves helping kids in her community and is very excited to help kids internationally through Itiah Angels. Maitri works on the social media team and is very excited to use her previous experience to help the organization succeed and spread their mission.

Outreach Assistant

Swetha Ramachandran

Swetha is a junior at Robbinsville High School in Robbinsville, NJ. She is actively involved in various extracurricular activities associated with her school, including the UNICEF Club and the FIRST Robotics Team FRC 2590 “Nemesis.” 

Through her high school Robotics Team, Swetha has worked with several non-profit organizations to empower women and children in the field of STEM. She has collaborated on initiatives spearheaded by organizations such as the Center for Panamanian Women and ITIAH Angels For Learning. Swetha has found her passion of helping others through these experiences. She hopes to continue inspiring international communities by volunteering for ITIAH Angels for Learning. 

Swetha is the Finance Lead of FRC 2590 “Nemesis.” Additionally, she serves on the Executive Board of her school’s UNICEF Chapter, where she has led fundraisers to support UNICEF’s humanitarian efforts to save young lives. As a member of the Outreach Team specializing in Finance, she strives to make efficient use of her skills to spread the mission of the organization. 

Meet Our High School Fellows

Fall 2022

Niha Appavoo

Sanjana Subramanian
Grant Researcher

Arnav Barkataki

Niha Appavoo

Niharikha Appavoo is currently a senior at Robbinsville High School. She is actively involved in
many extracurricular activities including FRC 2590 “Nemesis”, the Young Investors Club, and
SHINE Charity. She is the finance lead for Nemesis and has been involved in robotics for the
past five years. She is the founder of Young Investors club in Robbinsville through which she
mentors high school students in investment. Additionally, she is the president of SHINE Charity,
a youth fueled organization focused on women empowerment that is currently advocating for
menstrual hygiene and health awareness and fighting pad poverty. Niha enjoys helping and
educating children in her community as well as all around the world. She is excited to use her
knowledge and experience to help support Itiah Angles’ cause.

Sanjana Subramanian

Sanjana is a rising senior at Robbinsville High School in Robbinsville, NJ. She is involved in several clubs and activities in school including Future Medical Leaders of America where she serves on the Executive Board, Math National Honor Society, FIRST Robotics Team FRC 2590 ‘Nemesis’ and more. On her FIRST Robotics team, Sanjana specializes in the logistics team and serves as the Logistics Lead.  She also loves to create art in her free time using many different mediums including oil paints and gouache paints. Sanjana also enjoys doing calligraphy and hand lettering and loves to Bullet journal. 

 

She has volunteered at several organizations around town including ‘Be Kind’ and ‘One Project’ where she is currently a student scholar executing a project which intermingles her passions.

 

Sanjana is passionate about mathematics and hopes to pursue a career that consists of her love for statistics/analysis, and data sciences. At ITIAH Angels, Sanjana hopes to use her analytical skills to analyze data from different sources and identify trends. Sanjana is really excited to use her skills from past experiences to further succeed and spread the mission of ITIAH Angels for Learning.

Grant Researcher

Arnav Barkataki

Arnav Barkataki is a freshman in the Medical Sciences Magnet Program at Freehold High School. He is a member of the Students for Community Health Club, the HOSA club, and the Science League Club at his high school. He provides presentations and videos for middle-school children to learn about health and wellness through his high school Students for Community Health Club. He also volunteered with organizations such as the Alzheimer’s Association and Homeland Hospice. Arnav is passionate about science and enjoys making a difference. Through his work as a researcher at ITIAH, he is able to pursue these interests further. It not only allows him to contribute towards a worthwhile cause, but it also allows him to obtain scientific research skills that will help develop problem-solving and critical thinking abilities.

Meet Our College Fellows

Spring 2023

Aalliyah Cheong

Nalini D’Souza

Aalliyah Cheong

Aalliyah Cheong (AJ) is an international student from Trinidad and Tobago. AJ is majoring in Political Science with a minor in economics (Honors) at St.Francis College. AJ is involved in the Pre-Law Society and the Model United Nations Club. AJ aspires to become an attorney and a politician.

Nalini D’Souza

Nalini D’Souza is a student at Fordham University. She is majoring in Biological Sciences and dreams of becoming a physician assistant one day. Being new to the New York area, she is eager to begin volunteering and impacting her community.

Summer/Fall 2022

Anella Minasian

Claire Merkler

Shivi Dhawan

Abdullah Kaphi

Anella Minasian

Anella Minasian is a student at Fordham University class of 2024 in New York, New York, majoring in political science on the pre-law track. She is involved with various extracurriculars at her college, such as the Environmental Club, Pre-Law Society, and Model United Nations. She is an advocate for promoting sustainability and educating others on climate change who hopes to work for the United Nations in the future. By being part of this team, she hopes to learn from others and use her experience in social media coordinating to help spread the word about ITIAH Angels

Claire Merkler

Hi, my name is Claire Merkler and I am a Senior at The College of New Jersey and will be graduating in May 2023. My major is Graphic Design with a minor in Marketing. In my free time, I enjoy going on hikes and listening to music. After learning about the ITIAH Angels, I joined to further my knowledge as a professional and gain experience using my design skills for nonprofits. Making a difference in people’s lives, even in a small way, is an important aspect that I am excited to be a part of and to support the organization’s cause.

Shivi Dhawan

Hi, my name is Shivi Dhawan and I’m a student at Rutgers University class of 2025. The major I am pursuing is Economics and Marketing on a pre-law track. Having a passion for human rights and women’s empowerment, I was attracted to the mission of ITIAH Angels for Learning. As part of this organization, I will be able to contribute to the well-being of communities in need. In my free time, I enjoy reading, watching movies, spending time with family and friends and listening to music.

 

Abdullah Kaphi

My name is Abdullah Kaphi. I am a freshman at the Gabelli school of business at Fordham university. My major is finance. I work in budgets (clerical) at the office of residential life at Fordham University. I’m also a part-time TD Ameritrade trader in equities. I aspire to be an investment banker in mergers and acquisitions.

Spring 2022

Chidinma Chigozie-Nwosu

Zahra Fallah

Katherine “Kat” Dinh

Serina Bernado

Unaisah Quazi

Chidinma Chigozie-Nwosu

I am a sophomore at Rutgers Business School majoring in Finance. I joined ITIAH Angels because I want to run my own non-profit catered to under-resourced youth which would include creating an academic learning center. I resonate with ITIAH Angels’ mission and I am excited to be a part of a movement that has the potential to be great in the future.

Zahra Fallah

I am a third-year student at Rutgers University, majoring in Animal Science with a minor in Political Science. I aspire to attend Law School post-graduation as I am very passionate about human rights, animal rights, and women empowerment in the eyes of the law. I wish to give back to the communities in need of help and that’s why I’m grateful for having the chance to make a difference through ITIAH Angels for Learning. I enjoy cooking and playing video games in my free time!

Katherine “Kat” Dinh

Katherine “Kat” Dinh is a junior at Rutgers University, pursuing a degree in Biological Sciences (BA) and a minor in Health and Society. She is also a BA/MD candidate in the Honors College and Robert Wood Johnson Medical School 4+4 Program in Global Health, which has given her flexibility to explore her interests in education, art, and policy. As a founding member of the on-campus breast cancer organization RU Sister2Sister, Kat aims to support medically underserved communities and plans to continue working toward health equity in her future career as a physician. Aside from her passion in healthcare, Kat interned with the Federal Aviation Administration’s NAS Storyboard team to explore her interest in graphic design while strengthening her communication and data analysis skills. In her free time, she enjoys music production, creative writing, and digital art

Serina Bernado

Serina is a junior at Rutgers School of Nursing. As someone who is passionate about health equity and women’s empowerment, the ITIAH Angels for Learning mission strongly resonated with her. Serina hopes to pursue a career in public or community health. In her free time, she likes to crochet and read.

Unaisah Quazi

Unaisah is a student at Rutgers University-New Brunswick and Douglass Residential College, majoring in Information Technology and Informatics. She spends most of her time reading stories, doing arts and crafts, and exploring different interests every day. She’s also very passionate about women empowerment, international education, global affairs, etc., and hopes to help ITIAH in helping children in Haiti get access to educational opportunities, health resources, and more.

Summer/Fall 2021

Yara Hanafi

Ramya Ramabhadran

Angel Nguyen

Vishnupriya Ramesh

Niti Patel

Yara Hanafi

Yara Hanafi is an upcoming junior at Rutgers University studying computer engineering. She is a  volunteer with ITIAH angles and plans to work with the IT department as she’s passionate about  pursuing work in technological fields after college. She’s a fast learner and curious to learn new  things. By being part of the ITIAH angels team she hopes to give back and help others as well as learn new skills and experience. Outside of college she enjoys spending time with her family,  pursuing hobbies and developing her skills.

Ramya Ramabhadran

Her bio is below and her photo is attached to this email.  Hi, I am Ramya Ramabhadran, and I am a second-year Electrical and Computer Engineering major at Rutgers School of Engineering, NJ. I joined ITIAH Angels for learning because I want to give back to the community by volunteering and gain experience by working in groups with people from different backgrounds. In my free time, I read a lot and sing.

Angel Nguyen

My name is Angel, and I am an upcoming senior at Rutgers University majoring in public health. I plan on getting my master’s in public health after I graduate. Ideally, I would like to work at a nonprofit or a healthcare organization after obtaining my master’s in public health. I always had a passion for volunteering and helping people, and I aspire to make a difference in someone else’s life through working with ITIAH Angels. In my free time, I like to kayak, play with my dog and watch movies.

Vishnupriya Ramesh

Vishnupriya is a sophomore at Rutgers University majoring in Electrical and Computer Engineering. She is also a part of the Douglass Residential College. By joining ITIAH Angels for Learning, she hopes to further her knowledge in working in a professional environment. Furthermore, she values the effect of education and its importance in the world. She hopes to help ITIAH grow. In her free time, she likes to teach kids, cook, and read.

Niti Patel

Niti is a third-year Finance and Business Analytics and Information Technology (BAIT) major at Rutgers Business School and Douglass Residential College. As part of ITIAH Angels, she hopes to impact others’ lives and develop her skills as a finance and outreach fellow. On-campus, she participates in Phi Beta Lambda as a member of the Community Service Committee, and in her free time, she likes to read, sing, and spend time with her friends and family. 

Spring 2021

Elizabeth Yu

Julia Katz

Melisa Gutierrez

Uchenna Agbu

Laynerys Martinez Custodio

Kristina Patel

Zoya Pandher

Emma Bell-Black

Emily Lowe

Adhvika Saravanan

Elizabeth Yu

I am currently a sophomore at Rutgers University, where I intend to major in Accounting. Helping others is my ultimate passion in life–I enjoy tutoring and partaking in other community service efforts. During my free time, I love to create digital art and play piano. I hope to help ITIAH Angels For Learning grow to be able to support more children on the path to academic success!

Julia Katz

My name is Julia and I am a first year student at Rutgers University. I am a proud member of Douglass Residential College and I am planning to get a degree in social work! I love to volunteer with nonprofits like this one and I have a passion for helping people in need. I joined ITIAH Angels in order to further my knowledge as a professional while also making a difference in people’s lives- even in a small way!

Melisa Gutierrez

Melisa is a senior at Rutgers University – New Brunswick, graduating May 2021 with a major in Information Technology & Informatics and a minor in Human Resources Management. She is focusing on User Interface and User Experience Design (UI/UX Design) as her ideal career path. Melisa has worked on several product design competitions as well as conducted social media marketing for International Bird Rescue. With her design capabilities and brand strategy we look forward to seeing what she can do here!

Uchenna Agbu

Uchenna Agbu is a first-year student at Rutgers University. She is also a student at Douglass Residential College intending to major in Theater Arts and double minor in Creative Writing and Human Resource Management. Her interest in volunteering for a nonprofit began with her contributions to DoSomething.org’s recent campaigns to motivate young people’s interest in civic engagement. She hopes to be able to continue to find new, innovative ways to encourage change and reach out to people in need. Her hobbies include singing, writing, and painting.

Laynerys Martinez Custodio

Hello! My name is Laynerys, but I go by Lay! I am a third year psychology student at Rutgers University. I am passionate about many things- including mental health advocacy, music, animal care, and volunteering in order to do what I can to make the world a better place.

Kristina Patel

I am a first-year student at Rutgers University in New Brunswick, NJ. I am planning on being a Biology major and am pursuing medicine. As a pre-med, I joined ITIAH Angels for Learning because I hope to bring health education to children and lead them to healthy lives. Also, as a first-generation student, I know the importance of education and hope to emphasize that with this organization. In my free time, I love to cook and bake! I am excited to use my skills and knowledge to work towards a mission I am passionate about.

Zoya Pandher

Zoya is a sophomore at Rutgers University in New Brunswick, NJ majoring in Marketing and minoring in French. She enjoys spending time in the kitchen and finding ways to impact her community in even the smallest way. Zoya believes strongly in the power of education and hopes to help ITIAH Angels for Learning keep growing to make the world a better place!

Emma Bell-Black

Hi my name is Emma Bell-Black and I am a sophomore at Rowan University. I study Music Industry with minors in Spanish and Entrepreneurship. I was inspired to join ITIAH after hearing about the program from Uchenna Agbu. In high school I used to tutor at a non-profit school in Camden, New Jersey called Urban Promise. I wanted to continue to find non profit opportunities that interest me.

Emily Lowe

Emily Lowe is a sophomore at Rowan University double majoring in Human Resource Management and Marketing with a minor in Women’s and Gender Studies and a concentration in the Honors program. She has been passionate about volunteering since she was a child and is always looking for new opportunities to help others. She joined ITIAH Angels for Learning to continue fostering her love for volunteerism and to support this organization’s wonderful cause.

Adhvika Saravanan

Adhvika Saravanan is a senior in high school. She has always been very passionate about the healthcare field which is why she loves to volunteer with various organizations to utilize her time in a meaningful way to help others in any way she can. She hopes to pursue a Biology degree in college with a pre-med track on the way to medical school! She loved the IAFL from the moment she heard about it and was very interested in joining after learning the difference in the world we make in the world that she wanted to be a part of. She hopes to gain more experience about the service field as well as improve her skills during her time with our organization by learning more than ever before and continuing to build upon her previous assets in volunteering to view the real impact she is able to make on the world.

Fall 2020

Grishma Adenkar

Julianna Walsh

Nisha Khan

Mia Boccher

Miaofan Chen

Grishma Adenkar

I am a senior at Rutgers University pursuing a major in Business Analytics & Information Technology, along with a minor in Astronomy. Through my involvement with the national service fraternity Alpha Phi Omega as well as Rutgers Enactus, I have worked with several non-profit organizations in the past and have learned the importance of volunteer work and driving change in local communities. I have a passion for data visualization and UX Design, and am excited to use my skills on a team with a mission I believe in.

Julianna Walsh

Julianna Walsh is a sophomore majoring in social work at Rutgers University. She lives in East Brunswick and enjoys art, poetry, embroidery, and visiting art museums.

Nisha Khan

Nisha is in her fourth year at Rutgers University in New Brunswick, NJ. She is currently buried in books as she studies Psychology, Information Technology, and Education. Nisha hopes to apply her knowledge in the Human-Computer Interaction field as she pursues Software Engineering and the UX field. She joined ITIAH Angels for Learning because she believes education is an incredibly powerful tool and she knows that ITIAH is making the world a better place by empowering girls at a crucial time in their lives!

Mia Boccher

Mia is a junior at Rutgers University. Mia studies Political Science, Journalism, and Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies. She is being certified in Women’s Leadership through Rutgers. Mia enjoys movies, vegan food, and a good book. She looks forward to writing stories for an organization she believes in.

Miaofan Chen

I am currently a sophomore majoring in psychology and cognitive science at Rutgers University. Joining ITIAH Angels was a beautiful surprise. I feel honor being involved with this organization. I hope many people will support the students to have a fantastic future.

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