Award Recognition
Innovation and Enhancement
Micaela is being recognized for her contributions to Freedom and Citizenship, a non-profit that helps low-income and first-generation students become active citizens and earn admission to college. Micaela began as a student volunteer, in which she helped two students secure their top college choices.
In 2021, Micaela became FandC’s first Publicity and Digital Presence Liaison, in which she orchestrated a year-long press campaign. Micaela pitched, coordinated, and ensured the execution of multiple articles in reputable publications. She also organized a multi-layered press partnership with Columbia’s Public Relations Team, which featured alumni interviews, a University Life blog post, and social media posts on official Columbia accounts. In addition, Micaela conducted a sweeping research campaign focused on alumni success, which contributed to earning a $300,000 grant for the organization.
Micaela is eternally grateful for her Freedom and Citizenship experience. She is dedicating this award to the fight for education equity.
Micaela would like to thank Professor Jessica Lee for being an incredible mentor and leader, who took a chance on a passionate college kid. She also thanks Professor Montás and Professor Lehecka for pushing her to explore the education equity space and question the norm. Lastly, Micaela would like to thank her parents, brother, partner, and the rest of her loved ones for the unending support to pursue her dreams and spread some sparkle.