Catherine Adams

University of Exeter Summer Institute on Global Sustainability

Catherine Adams grew up in both Denver, Colorado and Westerville, Ohio. Catherine is currently a rising junior at the Ohio State University, where she is majoring in Social and Environmental Geography and minoring in GIS and Creative Writing. In her free time, she loves to draw and write poetry. Catherine is passionate about environmental justice, climatology, political economy, and social movements. Catherine has worked as a climate justice organizer on the national, state, and local level for the past four years. As an organizer, she is particularly interested in the ways in which art and writing can be used to build mass movements for climate justice.

Catherine is excited to explore the science behind climate solutions at the University of Exeter and apply her new knowledge to advocacy work back at home. While in England, she is looking forward to building community with people from around the world in order to address the climate crisis. At the Summer Institute, she is also looking forward to exploring the rich history of industrial development in the United Kingdom.

Nonso Akunwafor

University of Bristol Summer Institute on Arts, Activism, and Social Justice

Nonso Akunwafor is a rising sophomore at Virginia Commonwealth University majoring in Urban Studies with a Spanish minor. At VCU, Nonso is a member of the Honors College, a professional development organization, a book club, and the Global Buddies Program, which partners VCU students and international students on campus to build cross-cultural friendships. Participating in that program has helped Nonso gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of other cultures.

Having lived in Richmond, Virginia all of his life, Nonso is excited to explore a new culture and immerse himself in Bristol life. Because of his Nigerian background, Nonso has always taken interest in learning about African history and social movements. For that reason, Nonso is excited to participate in the University of Bristol’s institute, not only to learn new and interesting things but also to apply his newly acquired skills and experiences towards leadership and community service. Upon his return from Bristol, Nonso hopes to encourage more people, especially men of color, to study abroad. In his free time, Nonso likes to read, spend time outdoors, and go to the gym.

Vishnu Alavala

Scotland Summer Institute on Technology, Innovation and Creativity: University of Strathclyde and the Glasgow School of Art

Vishnupriya Alavala was born and raised in South Riding, Virginia and is currently a rising sophomore at Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond. Vishnu is an aspiring surgeon in the Guaranteed Admission Program for Medicine Class of 2026 and is pursuing a Biology major and Chemistry minor.

Vishnu is passionate about addressing global healthcare inequities by treating diverse patients and implementing accessible technologies in underserved communities. As an avid researcher, Vishnu hopes to discover more about the body’s response to stressors and advance medical technologies. Vishnu hopes to synergistically combine technology, art, humanities, and design alongside individuals at the University of Strathclyde and Glasgow School of Art.

Through her experiences serving in tutoring and community organizations, Vishnu prioritizes strengthening communication across people of different races, income levels, and demographics. Vishnu is excited to apply the skills learned from this Summer Institute to inspire reform in her home communities.

In addition to academic enrichment, Vishnu is excited to develop her cultural competence and engage with a global community of interdisciplinary scholars. Having never visited the UK, Vishnu is excited build relationships while exploring the food, culture, and history of Scotland.

Joseph Ambrosino

University of Bristol Summer Institute on Black Humanities

Joseph Ambrosino is a 2nd-year student at the University of South Florida (USF) studying Political Science and History with a minor in Psychology. Joseph has a strong interest in the connections between African American history and mental health. Through this, he has created USF’s first Black Wellness Club; a student organization dedicated to bridging psychological concepts and research to the black experience in America.

As a recipient of the Summer for Undergraduates Program at the Florida State University College of Law and as a member of the USF Mock Trial and Debate Teams, he has competed at a high level of oral debate. Using these skills, Joseph has the background to examine how marginalized communities and traditional ideas of justice and injustice are remediable.

Joseph also serves as the Social Outreach Chair for Stonecatchers; a student organization focused on building more empathetic leadership in all walks of life. Outside of academia, Joseph practices the piano for his church, skateboards with his brother back home in Lakeland, FL and sings for the Judy Genshaft Honors College Choir as a bass.

Sarah Belcher

Scotland Summer Institute on Technology, Innovation and Creativity: University of Strathclyde and the Glasgow School of Art

Sarah Belcher is from Pikeville, Kentucky, and a rising junior at the University of Louisville where she is majoring in Public Health with a track in Professional Health Studies. She is in the university’s Guaranteed Entrance into Medical School Program and a Grawemeyer Scholar focused on undergraduate research.

Interested in the intersection of cardiology and poverty, Sarah hopes to work as a physician, scientist, and public health professional. She is excited to learn more of how others are using creativity and innovation in their scientific endeavors at the Glasgow School of Art and the University of Strathclyde, Glasgow.

Growing up in Central Appalachia, Sarah found a love for the culture and natural beauty of the region while also seeing the effects of health disparities related to high rates of low-income. Sarah has worked in policy to improve her region as well as similar areas that are underserved. She hopes to learn more about how Scotland addresses similar issues and use these ideas to inform her own work in the future.

While taking part in these enriching academic experiences, Sarah is excited to be part of a diverse cohort and learn from them while traveling abroad for the first time.

Arionna Bell

University of Bristol Summer Institute on Arts, Activism, and Social Justice

Arionna Bell was born in Oklahoma, but grew up in Lexington, South Carolina. She is currently a rising sophomore at Johns Hopkins University, majoring in Molecular & Cellular Biology on the Pre-Med Track.

As a future Neonatal Surgeon, Arionna’s mission is to eradicate the health and societal effects of systematic racism on people of color. She believes that studying history and sociology are imperative complements to her major. While Arionna’s heart is in the medical field, she recognizes a need for fundamental change in American society, as well as the American healthcare system.

She looks forward to taking advantage of this summer program to identify the academic, societal, and health differences between the United States and the United Kingdom. Having never traveled abroad, Arionna is excited to collaborate with student leaders from diverse backgrounds, explore the culture and history of Bristol, and hopes that this is the first of several international opportunities.

Chapal Bhavsar

University of Exeter Summer Institute on Global Sustainability

Chapal Bhavsar is from Danbury, Connecticut and is currently a rising sophomore at the University of Connecticut majoring in Finance. Chapal is a member of the University Senate and a writer for the Undergraduate Political Review alongside other involvement on campus. Chapal is interested in the studies of development of sustainable long term infrastructure especially regarding developing nations and economies. Chapal hopes to further explore this intersection of how investment in public works projects can improve quality of life and economic growth for nations in need at the University of Exeter.

Chapal is a proud alumnus of Danbury High School where he has led grant writing initiatives to help improve outdated and failing infrastructure. Chapal is excited to apply skills and knowledge from the Summer Institute to better serve his community and help others advocate for change as well.

In addition to the academic experiences at the institute, Chapal is excited to meet and work with individuals from diverse backgrounds and create life-long connections through this program. Chapal also looks forward to exploring the culture and history of Exeter.

Tobey Condon

Aberystwyth University Summer Institute on Identity and Nationhood

Tobey Condon was born and raised in Albany, New York, and has just completed his freshman year at Wabash College in Crawfordsville, Indiana. At Wabash, he is planning on majoring in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE) and minoring in Classics. Aside from his studies, Tobey plays the Euphonium in the college's Pep Band and works in the college archives, where he is able to pursue his love of history and literature.

Tobey views the Summer Institute as a great way to hone the valuable skills of leadership, cooperation, and communication, which he believes are vital to finding effective and collaborative solutions to the problems that plague our modern world. Given that this is his first time abroad, Tobey is excited to spend time with his peers in Aberystwyth and learn more about the environment, history, and culture of Wales, and looks forward to embracing the wide range of opportunities that the program has to offer.

Brett Cooper

Queen's University Belfast Summer Institute

Brett Cooper was born and raised in Chattanooga, Tennessee and is currently a rising sophomore at Centre College in Danville, Kentucky. Brett is double majoring in Business and International Studies and is a Brown Fellows Scholar.

Through his academic interests and in his professional career, Brett desires to lead through the business field while maintaining an international scope and looks forward to exploring what business practices look like in Northern Ireland while at Queen’s University. Brett is also passionate about involvement in public service.

As the chair of his college’s Student Government Association Finance Committee, Brett has applied his academic interests to his college community and desires to use his professional career to serve each community he becomes a part of. Brett is excited to bring back the skills learned through the Summer Institute to better serve his local community. In addition to the academic experiences at the Summer Institute, Brett is excited to explore the city of Belfast and Northern Ireland as a whole. He is looking forward to interacting with a diverse set of colleagues and making new connections in his travels.

Téa Cushman

University of Bristol Summer Institute on Arts, Activism, and Social Justice

Téa Cushman was born and raised in small towns throughout Nebraska. She is currently a rising junior at Nebraska Wesleyan University and is majoring in Criminology and Political Science with a focus on juvenile Justice.

As a history minor, Tèa is excited to explore the intricate history of Bristol. Téa looks forward to gaining a deeper understanding of how the arts have influenced past movements with the intention of using that knowledge to improve the Criminal Justice System. Téa is also passionate about advocating for the needs and well-being of all children. Through her various experiences working with students, Téa’s desire to ensure every child has a safe, quality education has increased. Téa is looking forward to applying the skills and knowledge learned from this Summer Institute to become a better advocate for children and their education.

In addition to the academic experiences at the Summer Institute, Téa is excited to learn from and form connections with the fellow students and community partners coming from diverse backgrounds. Téa looks forward to seeing the vibrant art culture and community in Bristol.

Mireille Cypher

Scotland Summer Institute on Technology, Innovation and Creativity: University of Strathclyde and the Glasgow School of Art

Mireille Cypher, a passionate advocate for health and education, hails from Marietta, GA. As a Kinesiology major specializing in Health and Fitness, she possesses a fervent desire to empower individuals to assume control of their well-being.

Her ultimate aspiration is to serve as an internationally-based Physician Assistant, particularly in regions grappling with high maternal mortality rates, where she aims to provide support and education to both women and healthcare professionals.

Mireille's ardor for technology and its potential to enhance and safeguard lives is unwavering. She endeavors to inspire and contribute to healthcare reform. With a commitment to healthcare and education, Mireille strives to make a lasting impact by empowering individuals, fostering reform, and promoting holistic well-being globally.

She is excited to be challenged academically and hear new perspectives through the Summer Institute. Mireille is eager to meet both new students and Glaswegians. She possesses Scottish heritage, which has kindled an eager anticipation to experience Scotland for the first time. She is particularly captivated by the country's architectural wonders and enchanting countryside.

Neal Daniel

Scotland Summer Institute on Technology, Innovation and Creativity: University of Strathclyde and the Glasgow School of Art

Neal Daniel is from Douglasville, Georgia, which is about 30 minutes away from Atlanta. He is a rising sophomore at the University of Miami studying Innovation, Technology, and Design, a major at the intersection of entrepreneurship, engineering, and innovation.

At the Glasgow School of Art and the University of Strathclyde, Neal hopes to learn how Glasgow has evolved in recent years and compare it to the evolution of Miami because both cities are looking to become hubs of innovation.

Neal is passionate about mentoring as both a mentor and mentee at his university, as he believes there is always something to learn from others, regardless of age or background. He hopes to bring his appreciation for others' experiences as well as his own to Scotland to facilitate mutual understanding.

Additionally, Neal is an ardent football fan and would love to enjoy the unparalleled atmosphere of a European match. Considering the Blythswood House sits in the middle of the two largest clubs in Scotland, he hopes his dream will become a reality during his stay.

Abi Dumm

Scotland Summer Institute on Technology, Innovation and Creativity: University of Strathclyde and the Glasgow School of Art

Abi Dumm is a second year student at The Ohio State University. She is a part of the Eminence Fellowship, a full ride scholarship. She is majoring in health sciences on the pre-occupational therapy track and is pursuing 3 minors in disability studies, American Sign Language, and assistive technology.

Abi is very passionate about working with the disabled community. Through observing her younger brother who had a disability, she saw the effects that assistive technology could have on people’s lives. As a result she co-founded an organization called The Main Menu Project, which partners with local restaurants to create accessible menus using screen reading technology. She also works with a nonprofit called GoBabyGo to adapt toy cars into powered mobility vehicles for young children.

Abi is excited to see the intersection of technology and creativity through this institute, especially within the realm of universal design. She wants to bring back the skills gained from this experience to make her own community more accessible. On top of these academic pursuits, Abi is excited to meet and talk with both her fellow cohort members, as well as individuals at the universities. She loves tea parties, watercolor painting, and trying new foods.

Dagma Getnet

University of Bristol Summer Institute on Arts, Activism, and Social Justice

Dagmawit Getnet was born in Nairobi, Kenya, but at a young age, she moved to the United States, settling in Cincinnati, Ohio, where she spent her formative years. Currently a rising junior at The Ohio State University, Dagmawit is pursuing a major in International Relations and Diplomacy, with a minor in Spanish. Dagmawit’s insatiable curiosity for new cultures, languages, and customs, coupled with a strong commitment to social justice, has led her to discover the perfect intersection between literature, arts, and social justice at the University of Bristol’s Summer Institute.

Dagmawit's passion for international human rights is particularly directed towards improving access to resources in refugee communities. With a deep desire to make a difference, she actively engages with organizations that aid refugees in the United States, with aspirations to expand her efforts globally, especially in refugee camps and other communities in dire need. In addition to the enriching educational and cultural experiences she hopes to gain from her upcoming Summer program, Dagmawit looks forward to cultivating lifelong relationships with mentors and friends from diverse backgrounds, further fueling her personal and professional growth.

Chloe Goode

Queen's University Belfast Summer Institute

Chloe Goode was born and raised in Richmond, Virginia and is currently a rising sophomore at the University of Richmond; Chloe is planning to complete a double major in American Studies and Sociology with a minor in Africana Studies.

She is passionate about civic engagement and is heavily involved in her community. Chloe works alongside several community organizations surrounding mental health and educational equity. She is particularly interested in promoting access to educational opportunities for students from marginalized backgrounds, so she has started a group-mentoring program to encourage post-secondary success. Upon return from the UK, she is excited to share the Summer Institute as a potential opportunity for these students.

Chloe will be the first in her immediate family to travel outside the United States. She is excited to spend this summer learning about the rich history and culture of Northern Ireland. Chloe is looking forward to embarking on this academic and cultural endeavor while engaging with a diverse cohort of peers as well as experienced academics.

Victoria Grigsby

Aberystwyth University Summer Institute on Identity and Nationhood

Victoria Grigsby, born and raised in Fayetteville, Tennessee, is a rising sophomore at Middle Tennessee State University in Murfreesboro. Victoria is majoring in political science with a focus on international relations.  As a German minor, Victoria is passionate about exploring other cultures to further understand international politics. Having never traveled outside the country, she is looking forward to experiencing a new culture and connecting with those at Aberystwyth in addition to her study of Welsh nationhood and identity at Aberystwyth University. 

Victoria’s second minor in economics has inspired her to learn more about the Welsh perspective of economic and social change so she can better understand the diverse economic situations in the city of Murfreesboro and abroad.

Having a special interest in civic engagement after registering voters for the 2022 US midterm elections with the ADP, a nonpartisan university organization, Victoria is looking forward to the opportunity of witnessing the Welsh assembly in action at Cardiff. She hopes to use her knowledge of Welsh politics to increase civic engagement in middle Tennessee.

Melia Henrichsen

Scotland Summer Institute on Technology, Innovation and Creativity: University of Strathclyde and the Glasgow School of Art

Melia Henrichsen is a 2022-awarded Boettcher Scholar and sophomore at Colorado State University in Fort Collins, Colorado. Melia is majoring in Computer Science alongside minors in Interdisciplinary Leadership Studies and Mathematics.

As an Asian-American adoptee in a transracial family, Melia advocates for inclusion and equity in her leadership positions. Melia practices inclusive leadership on the Council Of Student Leaders for the Vice President For Student Affairs, Honors Student Association, and Asian Pacific American Cultural Center. Melia is passionate about hearing people's diverse stories and perspectives and advocates for those who are often silenced. She loves connecting with people through active listening.

Melia has an unquenchable thirst for learning and is a proud nerd. She is passionate about STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math), drawing, photography, baking, video games, and spending time with loved ones. With the support of her family and friends, Melia has the confidence to pursue her interests and follow her dreams.

Melia is honored to be selected for the Fulbright Summer Institute in Scotland. She is eager to explore Glasgow, experience Scottish culture, and collaborate with fellow Fulbright participants and the people of Scotland. Melia aims to build lifelong connections that span continents.

Rocco Hicks

Queen's University Belfast Summer Institute

Rocco Hicks was raised in Prattsville Arkansas, and is currently a rising sophomore at Arkansas State University. Rocco is majoring in political science with a focus on pre-law.

As a member of the Student Government Association and the Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity, Rocco is interested in making an impact on and off campus. Rocco looks forward to furthering his understanding of politics and history at the Queen's University in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Rocco is also passionate about fighting for drug reform and education. Through his various courses taken, and real-world experience of what drug abuse can do to a community as a whole, he strives to make everyone educated on a topic so many don’t want to talk about.

Rocco is excited to apply the skills and experiences he will learn from this Summer Institute to better serve his community, college, and country when he decides to pursue a career in public service.

In addition to the academic experiences from the Summer Institute, Rocco cannot wait to meet so many brilliant minds and to really immerse himself in new cultures, beliefs, and ideas that he has never experienced before. Having never traveled abroad in his life, Rocco Hicks looks forward to exploring the culture, history, and city of Belfast.

Christopher Jolivette

University of Bristol Summer Institute on Arts, Activism, and Social Justice

Christopher Jolivette was born in Birmingham, Alabama and is a rising sophomore at Mississippi State University. Christopher is majoring in Psychology and English with a minor in French.

Christopher’s interests do not stop there; however, he is also a member of MSU’s Jazz Ensemble, serves as Drum Major for the Famous Maroon Band, and is a member of the Shackouls Honors College. As a Presidential Scholar, Christopher also represents some of MSU’s highest achieving students.

Christopher has a deep passion for social justice, active participation in government, and a deep interest in the ways in which different cultures can express themselves through music and the arts. In studying how jazz culture across the world, Christopher hopes to gain a deeper understanding of how distinct group aspects permeate the mainstream.

With these traits in mind, Christopher is interested in combining his love of music and artistry with activism. In doing so, he looks to find ways in which self-expression can be utilized by historically disenfranchised groups. Christopher is excited to study these different ideas in his time at the University of Bristol.

Connor Kaufmann

Scotland Summer Institute on Technology, Innovation and Creativity: University of Strathclyde and the Glasgow School of Art

Connor Kaufmann is a freshman at the University of Notre Dame, majoring in History within the Glynn Family Honors Program. He was born and raised in El Paso, Texas. Growing up in El Paso ignited many of the passions that he continues to fight and advocate for today, especially that of immigration rights.

He strives to apply all of the skills and lessons that he has learned through his experiences working at various migrant shelters, coupled with the knowledge he will acquire during his Summer Institute, to better serve his home community. On campus, Connor is part of the Student Coalition for Immigration Advocacy and the Student Policy Network. Connor is also a member of the Latino Studies Scholars Program, the Transformational Leaders Program, and will be a tutor at the University Writing Center.

Connor has many hobbies including fencing, which he has been doing for over a decade, writing poetry, playing occasional video games, and petting his pet cats named Tat and Peanut. After his undergraduate education, he plans to attend law school to study to become an immigration attorney.

Alexis Keeney

Queen's University Belfast Summer Institute

Alexis Keeney was born in Killeen Texas and raised in Athens, Georgia. She is currently a rising sophomore at Georgia College and State University and is majoring in Sociology with a minor in Public Health with a Leadership Certificate. Alexis loves service and will be vice president of her chapter of the National Service Sorority Gamma Sigma Sigma. She loves interacting with people and is so excited to meet the people of Belfast through her travels.

Alexis also is very passionate about the education system and volunteers at one of the local primary schools near her college. She works every week with students in the first and kindergarten grades to work on their reading skills.

Alexis is excited to share everything she learns while traveling with both her students and sorority members. While Alexis loves school, she is also excited to meet and work with individuals from various backgrounds. Both of Alexis’s parents have disabilities so inclusivity is one of her core values.

Alexis is so grateful for the opportunity to learn about Belfasts history and culture while she is studying. She is hopeful that it will open her eyes to new views and perspectives.

Benson Le

Scotland Summer Institute on Technology, Innovation and Creativity: University of Strathclyde and the Glasgow School of Art

Benson Le is from Starkville, Mississippi, and is currently a rising Sophomore at the University of Mississippi. Benson is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with a minor in Mathematics. Benson is passionate about serving others and community service, so he became heavily involved with the organizations and community surrounding the University of Mississippi.

Benson is an ambassador for the School of Engineering and the Sally McDonnell Barksdale Honors College. Benson also serves as a committee member for the Student Activities Association, a member of the Pride of the South Marching Band, and an MPal for the MPower extended orientation program.

With a passion for photography and assisting underprivileged groups, Benson serves as the Director of Multimedia for RebelTHON, a twelve-hour dance marathon benefitting the only Children’s Hospital in Mississippi. Benson hopes to learn many new things from the Summer Institute, including the process of tech industry projects, communication skills in the workplace, and a broader perspective of different cultures. Going on his first international trip, Benson is excited to explore the culture and history of Glasgow.

Nisha Lerdsuwanrut

University of Exeter Summer Institute on Global Sustainability

Nisha Lerdsuwanrut is a rising 3rd year undergraduate student studying Health Promotion and Disease Prevention with a Natural Sciences Minor on a pre-medical track at the University of Southern California, Keck School of Medicine.

Nisha is passionate about environmental health justice and biotechnological research. As a research fellow at the USC Environmental Health Centers and Children’s Hospital, Los Angeles CIBORG Lab, Nisha enjoys exploring not only the groundbreaking technologies shaping the medical industry but also the sociocultural determinants that affect well-being and increasing accessibility to health education and treatment for marginalized communities.

At the University of Exeter, Nisha looks forward to diving deeper into the international efforts to fight climate change and meeting other scholars working in the field. Nisha also loves the arts, particularly dance, and trying new cuisines, and is excited to learn more about UK culture through those lenses. 

Joniel Lewis

Aberystwyth University Summer Institute on Identity and Nationhood

Joniel Lewis, a sophomore at Johns Hopkins University, was born in West Palm Beach, Florida, and raised in Kennesaw, Georgia. She is pursuing a double major in Molecular Cellular Biology and Public Health on the Pre-Med Track, aiming to become a physician with Doctors Without Borders. Her ultimate goal is to establish a pro bono clinic to advance global and medical health.

Joniel is eager to explore the political and economic structure of Wales and participate in a service-learning project at Aberystwyth University to understand its impact on their nation’s identity. She is deeply passionate about the link between healthcare accessibility and financial constraints, having witnessed individuals' health decline due to inadequate resources. Through her involvement in clubs and organizations, Joniel aims to utilize her skills to establish an environment where prioritizing health takes precedence over financial limitations.

Alongside academic pursuits, she is thrilled about engaging with a diverse group of friends in a different environment at the Summer Institute.

Jasbeth Medrano

University of Bristol Summer Institute on Arts, Activism, and Social Justice

Jasbeth Medrano is a rising sophomore at the University of Texas at San Antonio. Jasbeth is majoring in Political Science with a minor in Criminal Justice.

Jasbeth has a keen interest in the multidisciplinary nature of migration. Growing up in such a diverse country and neighborhood, she wants to continue to learn about the experiences of migrants in other countries, particularly in the United Kingdom.

Jasbeth is also a Mariachi vocalist and Folklorico dancer at her university. Her involvement in the performing and visual arts have allowed her to explore a new level of activism that Bristol excels at. She looks forward to learning more about how the arts can develop conversation around social issues. Jasbeth understands the importance of working together to find solutions and is excited to be collaborating with other change-makers in this program.

Meredith Perkins

Aberystwyth University Summer Institute on Identity and Nationhood

Meredith Perkins is a rising junior and Presidential Fellow at Miami University studying Diplomacy & Global Politics and English: Creative Writing with minors in History and French.  Born and raised in Independence, Kentucky, Meredith is excited to represent the Bluegrass state in her first trip to the UK.

When she isn’t playing her guitar, working at her local minor league baseball park, or giving Miami campus tours, Meredith is probably writing. As senior editor of the Miami Political Review, an outspoken opinion and food columnist, an award-winning creative nonfiction and fiction writer, and an undergraduate writing consultant at her university library, Meredith loves using writing as a creative outlet, a vessel for political commentary, and an educational tool.

After assistant-teaching a high school summer program on America’s political foundations and researching Russian identity politics, Meredith looks forward to making cross-cultural comparisons at the Identity and Nationhood in Wales Summer Institute. Through this once-in-a-lifetime experience, Meredith hopes to deep-dive into Welsh history, pick up a few phrases in Welsh, explore the Welsh National Library, and learn lessons to implement into her community service at home.

Gregory Perryman

University of Bristol Summer Institute on Arts, Activism, and Social Justice

Gregory Perryman was born in raised in Cleveland, Ohio and is currently a rising second year at University of Virginia. He’s double majoring in Global Sustainability and Politics. His primary academic interest is in understanding how the development of racial capitalism contributes to environmental injustice. 

At UVA he is a staff writer for the Virginia Black Review, the universities only student run African American publication. Additionally, he can often be found giving history tours discussing student activism and memorialization at UVA as a member of the University Guide Service. He looks forward to understanding how writers, artist, and activist have confronted hierarchy and inequality in the built environment of Bristol. 

This past fall he won the UVA entrepreneurship cups social entrepreneurship concept competition for pitching his own climate tech business. He is also a part of an interdisciplinary research group called the Environmental Justice Repair Lab. He is excited to learn skills at the Summer Institute that help him define his future Climate Justice advocacy. 

In his free time he enjoys filmmaking and video production. Having never travelled abroad before Gregory looks forward to immersing himself in the historical, social, and cultural landscape of Bristol. 

Jayden Ramos

Aberystwyth University Summer Institute on Identity and Nationhood

Jayden Ramos was raised in Wallkill, New York and is a rising sophomore at Syracuse University. Currently, Jayden is majoring in Economics with a dual major in Applied Data Analytics.

Jayden is looking forward to learning about the social and economic change at Aberystwyth University this summer as a way to deepen his knowledge about Wales. Back at his home university, Jayden often engages in community service activities and is looking forward to learning from the Aber Food Surplus organization during his time in Aberystwyth.

Lastly, Jayden is very excited to meet as well as work with other students during this program.

Additionally, he is especially ecstatic to be abroad in Wales as he has never traveled outside of the United States before.

Peyton Rodgers

Scotland Summer Institute on Technology, Innovation and Creativity: University of Strathclyde and the Glasgow School of Art

Peyton Rodgers was born and raised in Marietta, GA and is currently a rising sophomore at Georgia College & State Univerisity. Peyton is majoring in Business Management and plans to declare a minor in Public Health in hopes of getting her master’s degree in Healthcare Administration. 

Peyton is interested in combining her love of business with public health in order to become a Hospital Administrator. Peyton looks forward to further exploring technology's intersection with medicine at the Glasgow School of Art and the University of Strathclyde so that she can effectively serve her team and patients and provide them with the best experience possible. 

Peyton is also passionate about the costs of healthcare in the United States. After her mother had life-saving brain surgery a few years ago that caused her family great financial hardship, she has been interested in finding sustainable solutions to lower health insurance costs for United States citizens. Peyton is excited to interact with Scottish citizens to learn more about the healthcare system in place in the United Kingdom.

In addition to the academic experiences at the Summer Institutes, Peyton is excited to meet and work with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Having never traveled abroad before, Peyton looks forward to exploring the culture and history of Scotland.

Nicholas Rugbart

University of Bristol Summer Institute on Black Humanities

Nicholas Rugbart was born and raised in Northern Virginia and currently lives in Phoenix, Arizona. He is a rising junior at Elon University in Elon, North Carolina. He is majoring in International Global Studies (IGS) with an Asia concentration, along with double minors in Asian studies and Political Science. Nicholas is also a member of the Elon College Fellows program.

This undergraduate academic and professional program entails a two-year independently designed research project to explore topics in the arts and sciences. The interdisciplinary structure of his major allows him to take a wide range of classes within the social sciences and apply them to his faculty-mentored undergraduate research. He plans on using his Mandarin-Chinese skills, as well as political and historical knowledge of China, to research the dynamic depictions of international organizations in Chinese films.

Nicholas is also passionate about promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion, especially on his predominantly white campus. His role as co-Vice President of Elon’s Black Student Union aims to enrich student life culturally, intellectually, and socially. Even though he has never been outside of the country, Nicholas is thrilled to learn about Black Humanities at the University of Bristol and gain additional historical and literary knowledge to support the holistic value of IGS and to make connections to his regional concentration.

Caedon Spencer

Aberystwyth University Summer Institute on Identity and Nationhood

Cade Spencer, originally from Austin, Texas, is currently a rising junior at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. Cade plans to major in English.

As an aspiring English literature educator and/or professor, Cade holds a passion to critically engage with stories that explore social justice, queer faith and love, and disability justice. Through the in-depth study of this important literature, Cade believes incredible contributions to social change can be made. Cade is excited to study the power and beauty of literature as part of his time at Aberystwyth University. 

As a lifelong advocate for himself, his peers, and his community at-large, Cade also cares deeply to support movements in educational equity. Specifically, Cade is passionate to fight for reform in and increased support for learning disability policy within the public education system. As a student with dyslexia and dysgraphia himself, Cade desires to bring attention to the need for increased learning disability support and the many intersectional lenses that the movement requires. Cade is excited to intentionally seek out global insights on disability and queer justice in his time at the institute to implement in his own advocacy efforts back on campus and beyond. 

Alongside the professional and academic experiences of this Summer Institute, Cade eagerly awaits the incredible opportunities to form new friendships, explore the beautiful Aberystwyth, and read exciting literature in the National Library of Wales. Having never traveled abroad before, Cade excitedly awaits this great adventure and looks forward to an amazing summer in Aberystwyth.

Delia Schmidt

University of Exeter Summer Institute on Global Sustainability

Delia Schmidt was born and raised in Litchfield Park, Arizona. She is currently a rising sophomore at the University of Montana and is majoring in Environmental Science and Sustainability with a focus in policy, and Political Science with a focus in international relations. She hopes to pursue the intersection of these two fields through a career in global environmental policy.

Also a climate change studies minor, Delia looks forward to exploring environmental challenges and sustainable solutions through a global lens at the University of Exeter. She hopes to bring her policy perspective and experience working with environmental advocacy during Montana’s legislative session to bring a new dimension to the conversation surrounding sustainability. Delia is excited to collaborate with an international cohort at Exeter and bring some of their diverse perspectives on the issue of climate change back to implement in her own community of Missoula, Montana.

In addition to her studies, Delia looks forward to exploring the gorgeous English countryside and visiting some of the historic architecture, as well as getting some hiking in along the coast.

Sophia Stewart

Aberystwyth University Summer Institute on Identity and Nationhood

Sophia Stewart, from Laurel, Mississippi, is a rising sophomore pursuing a Classics major while on a Pre-med track. Sophia is striving to achieve medical equity in the American South. She aspires to reduce the inequities faced in her community brought about by a lack of internet access.

Sophia is also pursuing a minor in screenwriting and is eager to listen to the unique perspectives of the Aberystwyth University Theatre Film and Television Studies. Sophia has spent the first half of her summer in Washington DC as a congressional aide. She is excited to apply her understanding of American politics during her visit to the Welsh assembly in Cardiff.

Sophia is an avid Red Cross volunteer giving presentations to schoolchildren about meth lab home fire prevention in her community. In Wales, she is enthusiastic to volunteer with AberFood and become acquainted with the community of Aberystwyth. Sophia believes there is no substitute for visiting a community in person and experiencing firsthand the unique culture that Wales offers.

Brannan Tisdale

University of Exeter Summer Institute on Global Sustainability

Brannan Tisdale, of Saraland, Alabama, is a rising junior at Mississippi State University. He is majoring in Geosciences with concentrations in Geography and Geographic Information Systems.

At the Summer Institute in Exeter, Brannan hopes to gain insight into sustainable practices in the United Kingdom to better serve his present and future communities. He is also looking forward to his first time abroad, where he is eager to absorb British culture, learn new skills, and work with a diverse cohort. Brannan is passionate about urban design and its intersections with environmental sustainability and cultural geography. Recognizing the built environment as a root cause of inequality in the United States South, he is motivated to design and build the communities of tomorrow in the region he calls home. After his time at Mississippi State, Brannan hopes to pursue graduate education in public policy and urban planning and work in the public sector.

Outside the classroom, Brannan serves as the Executive Director of Policy for Mississippi State’s Student Association and as a student worker for the Shackouls Honors College, among other affiliations. In his free time, he enjoys playing basketball and Ultimate, listening to music, and spending time with friends and family.

Sophia Travis

Aberystwyth University Summer Institute on Identity and Nationhood

Sophia Travis was born in Sioux City, Iowa, and raised in Meadville, Pennsylvania. She is currently a rising junior at Wellesley College double majoring in History with an early America concentration and American Studies with a religion concentration.

Sophia plans to become a civil rights lawyer and also wants to pursue a Ph.D. in legal history. She is passionate about exploring legal interpretations with the goal of protecting civil rights, particularly for those who do not hold as much political and social power.

Through her studies at Aberystwyth University, Sophia is looking to better understand the political and legal identity of a nation within a larger sovereign body. Understanding how Wales negotiates its power and Welsh citizens’ perspectives on the state’s political structure will inform Sophia’s studies of parallel political issues in the United States.

Sophia is excited to meet and learn from people within different concentration areas. Never having left the United States before, she is also excited about the opportunity to explore the history, culture, and landscape of Wales.

Jennifer Turner

University of Bristol Summer Institute on Black Humanities

Jennifer Turner is from South Florida and is currently a rising Sophomore at the Massachusetts College of Art and Design. Jennifer is majoring in Painting with a focus in Art History. As a painter, Jennifer is also interested in combining her love for the arts with activism.

She looks forward to further exploring the intersection that the artistic world brings in relation to her community with the Black Humanities program at the University of Bristol.

Jennifer is self-driven and enjoys being in a supportive, focused environment with like-minded individuals. She is excited to apply the skills and knowledge learned from this Summer Institute to better serve her home communities and make contributions to her own academic life and in preparation for her future career. Turner believes that as one of the world’s leading historical capitals for the arts and innovation, Bristol, UK will open up many doors of knowledge and understanding, but also with enrichment towards her artistry as an individual.

Kassandra Vasquez

Scotland Summer Institute on Technology, Innovation and Creativity: University of Strathclyde and the Glasgow School of Art

Kassandra Vasquez was born and raised in El Paso, Texas, and will be starting the upcoming school year as a sophomore at New Mexico State University. Kassandra is a double major in Studio Art and Marketing and is a Computer Science minor. Kassandra took an interest in studying these fields to fully understand the importance of art and design in the future of business and technological transformation.

Kassandra is determined to end discrimination and segregation against minorities in the creative industry and provide opportunities for young individuals to expand their expertise in creative development in developing companies.

Kassandra is more than ready to embrace the knowledge she will obtain from the Summer Institute and cannot wait to develop positive ideas fostered by this experience to help her community.

This opportunity excites Kassandra because not only will this experience enrich her education but will allow her to meet diverse like-minded individuals all while learning more about the technology, innovation, and creativity of Scotland.

Annie Whaley

Queen's University Belfast Summer Institute

Annie Whaley was raised in Louisville, Kentucky, and is currently a rising junior at Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green. Annie is majoring in International Affairs with a focus on refugee resettlement and gender inequality spanning the globe.

As a Public Relations double major, Annie is also interested in combining her love of communication and language with conflict resolution to merge cultural barriers. Annie looks forward to further exploring the intersection of interpersonal bonding and peacebuilding at Queen’s University Belfast.

Annie is also passionate about fighting for human rights and international cooperation. Through her various experiences working with refugee community organizations, Annie’s interest in helping youth from underrepresented backgrounds feel supported and celebrated has grown. Annie is thrilled to apply the experiences and knowledge learned from this Summer Institute to better serve and understand her home communities.

In addition to the academic discussions at the Summer Institute, Annie is excited to meet and build friendships with individuals from around the country. Having never left the US, Annie looks forward to absorbing the rich culture and setting of Belfast.

Katie Wilson

University of Exeter Summer Institute on Global Sustainability

Katie Wilson, who is currently attending Smith College, is a driven individual with a passion for computer science and sustainability with a commitment to making a difference in the world. She is an avid knitter, baker, and writer, spending her free time exploring her creative side through fiction and playwriting.

As a participant of the Fulbright University of Exeter Summer Institute, Katie is excited to explore the themes of sustainability and civic responsibility for the future of the UK as well as of our planet as a whole. Through Katie’s experiences in various organizations and initiatives, she has developed a passion for using computer science and technology to find innovative solutions to global warming and promote sustainability.

In addition, Katie is dedicated to advocating for marginalized communities that are disproportionately affected by environmental degradation and climate change. Katie is excited to further develop her skills and knowledge in computer science and environmental advocacy, and to use these tools to make a positive impact in her home communities and beyond.

Katie is also eager to meet and work with individuals from diverse backgrounds and explore the culture and history of the United Kingdom together.