Meet Our CHDCM Student Ambassadors

Isabella Barbarino of Staten Island, New York, is a Senior undergraduate majoring in Journalism and minoring in Theater. Barbarino wanted to pursue journalism to help tell the important stories people should be listening to. When it came time to choose a school, she saw how connected and well-respected the journalism program at Seton Hall within the College of Human Development, Culture, and Media was, and knew she had found her home. After Graduation, Barbarino dreams of working in broadcast news as an anchor in New York or as a new director. Outside of the classroom, Barbarino is a very involved student. She is a student in the Buccino Leadership Institute, a student worker in the BLI office, and now the Chief Admissions Officer for the program. She is a proud RISE Gen-1 scholar, being the first in her family to achieve a degree! Barbarino is a student leader across campus, serving as a Resident Assistant for The Complex, Director of Engagement for Women in Leadership, Social Media Producer for SHU TV, a former CHAMP mentee and a member of the Lambda Pi Eta Honor Society.

Paul Belasic of Park Ridge, New Jersey, is a Junior undergraduate double-majoring in Secondary Education and History. Belasic’s high school history teachers ignited his passion for learning about history and engaging in discussions on the subject. They also served as coaches who encouraged him to give his best in sports. These experiences inspired Belasic to pay it forward by becoming an educator himself. Belasic has a variety of career aspirations, including becoming a university professor, a lawyer and a politician. Aside from his studies, Belasic has a leadership role with the New Jersey Student Education Association as the Event Coordinator and Public Relations Chair. Additionally, Belasic is involved in other campus organizations including Active Minds, Campus Ministry, DOVE, Pre-Law Organization, Slavic Club, University Blood Initiative, Center for Vocation and Servant Leadership where he is serves as a  Servant Leader Scholar. Moreover, Belasic holds a working role on-campus with PC Support Services in Asset Management. Aside from his University activities, Belasic is an Eagle Scout, active in his church and is a part of the Knights of Columbus in Council 4486.

Julianna Caliri of Staten Island, New York, is a Junior undergraduate majoring in Visual and Sound Media, with a concentration in TV Production. In addition, Caliri is minoring in Public Relations. Caliri’s love for live television and music sparked her interest in pursuing the Visual and Sound Media program. After graduation, Caliri’s career goal is to work in live TV or in the music industry, specifically for rock and metal. Aside from her studies, Caliri holds a leadership position as the associate director of programming with Seton Hall University Television. Additionally, Caliri is the head photographer for the Setonian. As per student organizations, Caliri is a CHAMP mentee and is also a member of WSOU.

Niamh Campbell of both England and Arizona, is a Junior undergraduate majoring in Visual and Sound Media, with a concentration in Sports Media. Campbell is additionally minoring in Italian Studies. Campbell is a lifelong athlete and passionate sports enthusiast who spends most of her free time watching and discussing sports. When it came time to choose a major, she knew she wanted to pursue a career in the sports industry. As a result, studying sports media was the best fit choice for her. After graduation, Campbell aspires to become a sports broadcaster and presenter on television. Whether in the United States or Europe, she aims to host talk shows and feature programs to highlight national and international sports and athletes. In addition to her studies, Campbell is a member of multiple student organizations. She is the Captain of the Seton Hall Women’s Tennis team while also serving as the manager of the team’s Instagram account. Campbell is a part of the Senior Production team and an On-Air Talent for Pirate Sports Network where she works to provide Pirate Nation with quality broadcasts for on-campus, home games. Campbell has worked behind the scenes of productions as well as in the front of the camera, hosting pre- and post-game interviews, presenting feature stories for various sports, sideline reporting and commentating. Moreover, Campbell was part of the CHDCM Honors and Alumni Mentor Program (CHAMP) for Spring 2025 where she was paired with a Seton Hall alumnus in her desired industry to gain insights and guidance for her future career path. Aside from her academics, Campbell enjoys cooking, watching movies and hanging out with friends.

Noemi Cerqueira of Newark, New Jersey, is a Junior undergraduate double-majoring in Secondary Education and Mathematics. Cerqueira’s interest in pursuing her program began with the impactful teachers she has had throughout her educational career. Cerqueira has aspired to be a teacher since childhood, but it was her seventh-grade teachers who truly inspired her to pursue a career in education. They encouraged her to become an even better teacher than they were and to embody the kind of educator she always wished to have. This motivation drove her to dedicate herself to the field of education and strive to be the best teacher possible for her future students. Cerqueira chose mathematics as her concentration because she has always found the subject fascinating and it has remained her favorite throughout her academic journey. Cerqueira strives to be a math teacher who not only helps students grasp mathematical concepts but also fosters a love for learning and builds their confidence in the subject. Her career goals include becoming a certified math teacher for grades 7-12, with a particular focus on working with high school students. Looking ahead, she hopes to pursue a master’s degree in educational studies, with the potential to one day take on a leadership role within a school. Cerqueira holds the leadership role as a Commuter Ambassador here at the University and is also a member of EOPSO and NJSEA. 

Maia Coyle of Lawrenceville, New Jersey, is a Junior undergraduate majoring in Communications with a minor in Sports Media. Communications stood out to Coyle due to her longtime passion for storytelling and making an impact on others though words and actions. Coyle views storytelling as an integral part of the human experience, which she felt strongly tied to throughout her academic career. Growing up, Coyle had a love for both storytelling and sports, so when choosing her focus, she decided to combine her interests, pursuing Communications and Sports Media. In the future, Coyle aspires to work in the sports field in media management or corporate communications. Aside from her studies, Coyle is a member of the Seton Hall University Blood Initiative and CHAMP.

Lianna Cruz of Parsippany, New Jersey, is a Junior undergraduate majoring in Visual and Sound Media with a concentration in Film Production. In addition, Cruz is minoring in Journalism. Cruz’s interests in film and journalism were sparked by a deeply held belief in the importance of publicly broadcasted educational programming. Cruz strongly believes that everyone, especially children, has the right to stay informed with accurate, quality television. Upon graduation, Cruz aspires to work in children’s educational television as a writer, hoping to work with PBS, her dream company. In addition to screenwriting, Cruz enjoys studying cinematography and photo and video editing, which she hopes to pursue professionally as well. Aside from her studies, Cruz holds two leadership positions here at the University, including her role as the Producer for Seton Hall Television and Assistant Photography Editor for The Setonian. Additionally, Cruz hold an on-campus job with the Office of the Registrar.

Veronica Dryl of Bridgewater, New Jersey, is a Sophomore undergraduate pursuing the Elementary and Special Education program while also majoring in English. From a young age, Dryl always knew that she wanted t be a teacher, especially during her playtime. Her experience as a camp counselor additionally confirmed her desire to pursue teaching. Dryl enjoys helping children learn while also watching them grow and become more independent. Dryl’s future career goal is to become an elementary school teacher, ideally teaching 4th or 5th grade. Dryl desires to create a classroom where students feel supported, encouraged, and excited to learn. Additionally, Dryl plans to take on leadership opportunities within her school, such as mentoring new teachers or helping design the curriculum. Dryl holds leadership positions here at the university, including her position as a Senator for the class of 2028 in Seton Hall’s Government Association. Dryl is also a member of Blew Crew, in which she helps lead campus tours for prospective students. Moreover, Dryl is a member of Alpha Omicron Pi, DAASH, and the Honors Program. 

Benny M. Duran of Orange, New Jersey, is a third year undergraduate double-majoring in Secondary Education and History. Duran is also in the midst of determining a minor in Political Science. Duran’s deep love for history and his desire to become a teacher ignited his interest in the field of education. He aspires to inspire and guide students as a High School History Teacher, with a long-term goal of possibly becoming a college professor or a supervisor of Social Studies at a school district. At Seton Hall University, Duran is an active member of Kappa Delta Pi, an honor society for educators. He also holds a work-study position at Campus Ministry, contributing to the University community. Moreover, Benny is a Dominican-American student who is proud of his parents, who immigrated to the United States over 20 years ago to give him and his younger brother better opportunities for their future. 

Jake Forcellati of Ho-Ho-Kus, New Jersey, is a Sophomore undergraduate who is double-majoring in Secondary Education and History. Growing up, Forcellati’s passion for history grew from his interest in watching the History Channel. Additionally, Forcellati had a positive experience with his history teachers, demonstrating their passion for the subject, which further inspired him to pursue the career as a History teacher. Forcellati’s goal after graduation is to become a high school history teacher, as well as a soccer coach. Additionally, Forcellati has interest in football, so becoming a special teams coordinator on the football team is something he would love to pursue as well. Aside from his studies, Forcellati currently works for Camp Acorn, a non-profit, social enrichment program that is dedicated to individuals with developmental disabilities. With this, Forcellati leads a group of campers through various activities and guides volunteers who work with the campers as well. Regarding the University, Forcellati is interested in becoming more involved and is still exploring the different organizations that are offered here on campus.

Christine Franco of Pompton Lakes, New Jersey, is a Sophomore undergraduate in the Visual and Sound Media program with a concentration in TV Production. Franco became most interested in her program when she was a student at PCTI, a technical school where she majored in Audio Visual Production. During these years, Franco thrived in this program when they covered studio television as part of the curriculum. Franco was greatly inspired by her teacher, Ms. Lazarski. Moreover, Franco is one of nine siblings, and leadership came naturally to her, leading to her passion in directing a studio. Franco aspires to work in news and continue to pursue studio television work. Franco’s dream field is to work for National Geographic, working on nature documentaries. Aside from her studies, Franco holds a leadership position as the Social Media Producer with Seton Hall Television. Franco additionally holds a role as a newscaster for WSOU and is a member of RISE.

Lauren Gandy of Stratford, New Jersey, is a Sophomore undergraduate double-majoring in Secondary Education and Mathematics. After having many great teachers throughout her academic career, Gandy wants to follow in their footsteps, giving back to her community. Upon graduation, Gandy plans to pursue a Master’s degree and become a high school math teacher. Aside from her studies, Gandy is a member of Alpha Omicron Pi and Seton Hall Cheerleading.

Diana Gervasi of Staten Island, New York, is a Junior year undergraduate in the 4+1 Elementary and Special Education program with a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis. Gervasi is also pursuing an additional major in Social and Behavioral Sciences. Gervasi has had several impactful teachers throughout her life who have not only guided her academic journey but also shaped her into the person she is today. Their kindness, dedication and belief in her potential have inspired her to pursue a career where she can make a similar impact on the youth. Additionally, having a brother with Autism Spectrum Disorder has profoundly influenced her perspective. Witnessing the transformative role that her brother’s teachers and ABA therapists have played in his development has been truly inspiring, motivating her to pay it forward. Gervasi’s primary goal is to become an elementary school teacher, dedicated to creating a safe, inclusive and engaging classroom environment where students feel valued and motivated to learn. While her main focus is teaching, she is also interested in incorporating ABA principles into her work to support students with behavioral and developmental challenges. Outside of Seton Hall University, Gervasi works as a private tutor for elementary school students across all subjects. In this role, she not only guides students academically but also helps them build confidence and develop problem-solving skills. Additionally, Gervasi is a member of Kappa Delta Pi, the International Honor Society in Education, here at the University.

Ava Hewitt of East Rutherford, New Jersey, is a Sophomore undergraduate pursuing a dual-degree in Elementary and Special Education/Speech-Language Pathology. Hewitt’s passion for teaching, along with her experience with impactful educators, is what motivated her to pursue this program. Following graduation, Hewitt looks forward to starting a career as a Speech-Language Pathologist, ideally in an elementary school setting, and continuing to make a meaningful and positive impact on students.

Jillian Hunczak of Wayne, New Jersey, is a Sophomore undergraduate pursuing a dual-degree in Elementary and Special Education/Speech-Language Pathology. Hunczak has always desired to work with children, and having a career in Speech provides her with endless opportunities to work with youth in all different settings. She finds that pursuing a career where she can make a difference in lives is extremely rewarding. Post graduation, Hunczak plans to be a Speech Language Pathologist in an elementary school setting. Aside from her studies, Hunzczak holds a leadership position as the Vice President of Community Relations for Alpha Omicron Pi.

Julia Kaluzna of Trenton, New Jersey, is a Sophomore undergraduate double-majoring in Secondary Education and History. Kaluzna is additionally minoring in religion. Growing up in an immigrant household, Kaluzna was inspired by her parents’ experiences and family history, as well as her Catholic upbringing. These events sparked Kaluzna’s passion for history, religion, and teaching. Kalzuna aspires to become a high school history teacher at a Catholic institution after graduation. She later would like to pursue a career as a professor of history or religious studies with the opportunity to publish her own research. Additionally, Kaluzna hopes to teach English abroad, establish her own language school, and remain active in her church through youth ministry and missionary work. Aside from her studies, Kaluzna holds a leadership position in Discipleship, and is also a member of the Campus Ministry.

Jasmine Loo of Harrison, New Jersey, is a Junior undergraduate double-majoring in Elementary and Special Education and Art, Design, and Interactive Media with a concentration in Fine and Digital Arts. In addition, Loo is in the 4+1 Elementary and Special Education program with a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis. Becoming a teacher has always been Loo's childhood dream. However, what truly pushed her to pursue education in college was witnessing her brother’s experience with virtual learning during the pandemic. Despite the challenges, she saw how her brother’s teacher went out of her way to create a nurturing environment and develop creative solutions to ensure students like her brother received the accommodations they needed to succeed. Loo hopes to be a source of support in young students’ lives. Loo’s time during her field placements has ignited her excitement to work in a classroom of her own after graduation. After graduation, Loo plans to become a fourth grade teacher. Regarding her involvement on campus, Loo is a R.I.S.E. Scholar.

Cameran Lowery of New Jersey, is a Junior undergraduate double-majoring in Elementary and Special Education and Art and Design, with a concentration in Fine and Digital Arts. Lowery developed a deep love for watching young learners grow, drawn from the joy and pride she feels when their faces light up when they understand something new. Working with children allows her to blend her passion for teaching and creativity, which aligns perfectly with her dual majors in Elementary and Special Education and Fine and Digital Arts. These fields offer Lowery the opportunity to make a meaningful impact by nurturing young minds and encouraging self-expression through both education and art. Her career goals include becoming an elementary teacher, where she can inspire and support young learners every day. In addition to teaching, Lowery dreams of owning a dance studio, combining her love for education and the arts to create a space where children can express themselves creatively. By pursuing both teaching and the arts, Lowery hopes to positively impact children’s lives academically, artistically and emotionally. Lowery’s involvement here at the University includes her position as a CHDCM Student Ambassador.

Amya McKnight of Harlem in New York City, is a Junior undergraduate majoring in Visual and Sound Media with a concentration in Film Production. Since she was younger, McKnight was always a creative person who crafted and invented things from sculpting to painting. In 2020, McKnight had a lot of time on her hands, in which she ended up creating her own television show and film treatment, which she is currently writing a book for. This event is what truly sparked McKnight’s passion for film, wanting to pursue it as a career. McKnight has a deep appreciation for plot, story-telling, and film, which allowed her to analyze her favorite movies and TV shows. Additionally, McKnight’s love for Disney and Pixar films influenced her to minor in animation, learning how animation films are made and the process behind it. However, McKnight holds a stronger passion for narrative television shows and movies, which is why her overall goal is to become a screenwriter, director, and producer with her own production company. McKnight desires to pitch the TV show she wrote during 2020 and have it be aired on major networks including HBO Max, Netflix, and HULU. Aside from her studies, McKnight is a member of University organizations including Theatre Council, DOVE, and CHAMP. Additionally, McKnight is in the midst of creating her own organization on campus that focuses on screenwriting and titling it “Creative Connection”. McKnight wants her and her fellow peers who love story-telling to collaborate and create remarkable stories.

Angelina Melendi of Hackettstown, New Jersey, is a Sophomore undergraduate double-majoring in Secondary Education and History with a minor in Economics. Melendi always dreamed of making an impact on at least one person’s life, whether she was President or a nun. In 2022, she fell in love with teaching after running a science class for a Vacation Bible School at her Church. Melendi proceeded to volunteer as a Catechist for 4 years. Melendi took every opportunity available to ensure that this was her path in life. Each moment she encountered confirmed her decision. A year later, Melendi found Seton Hall University and immediately felt a strong connection. Melendi worked as a Docent at her local Historical Society for 3 years, as a substitute teacher, and as a web and graphic designer. Additionally, Melendi is a Campus Ministry Work-Study student and is also a part of several organizations, including R.I.S.E., TRIO, JAULI, Helen & Ruth Warrin, and Legacy Scholar. These organizations provide Melendi with many resources and connections. Moreover, their constant guidance and support have been essential to Melendi’s success thus far, as well as the ongoing support from her parents and siblings. Going forward, Melendi is excited to move closer to her dream of being a teacher and plans to take each day at a time.

Alexis Nutile of Linwood, New Jersey, is a Sophomore undergraduate double majoring in Elementary and Special Education/Speech-Language Pathology and Social and Behavioral Sciences. Nutile’s experience in working with students with disabilities at her high school sparked her interest in pursuing her programs. More specifically, her experience when working with a student who was nonverbal is what influenced her passion to help others find their voice. Nutile’s career goal is to be a Speech Language Pathologist. Aside from her studies, Nutile is a member of Habitat for Humanity here at the University.

Kyleigh Ann Parker of Riverside, New Jersey, is a Sophomore undergraduate double majoring in Secondary Education and Theatre. Parker has always been a performer and enjoyed assisting her teachers in her secondary school years. She grew up desiring to become a teacher but was unsure about the subject she wanted to teach. When her Theatre director recognized her potential and let her co-direct a musical, her two passions for theatre and teaching came together. This ignited her desire to pursue a career in teaching theatre to high school and middle school students. Now at Seton Hall, Parker is a member of the Theatre council and looks forward to exploring the other organizations she can join. Additionally, Parker looks forward to giving back and helping others make decisions about their next steps in life.

Destiny Preston of Peekskill, New York, is a Sophomore undergraduate double majoring in Elementary Education and Special Education with Applied Behavior Analysis and English. Preston is also on the path to earn her K-12 Certification, graduating in 2029 with her Master’s. Preston’s interest in pursuing her studies was sparked by her involvement with the Today’s Students Tomorrow’s Teachers (TSTT) program. Throughout the program, Preston helped the younger students with homework after school, and after providing her assistance, the children were extremely grateful, informing her about the positive impact she made on them. This opportunity strengthened her passion in working with children. Preston’s career goal for the future is to teach English outside of the United States. Aside from her studies, Preston takes on the leadership position as the secretary of K-Pop Club. She is also a member of K@SHU and TSTT.

Kennedy Roskopp of Warren, Michigan, is a Sophomore undergraduate double-majoring in Elementary and Special Education and Social and Behavioral Science. Education has always been a passion of Roskopp’s, in which she was inspired by her mom, watching her teach and care for her students. Being exposed to to her mother’s career growing up helped Roskopp develop a deep commitment to help the younger generation grow and succeed. After graduation, Roskopp plans to become an elementary school teacher who inspires and encourages students to become the best version of themselves. Aside from her studies, Roskopp holds a leadership position with the Buccino Leadership Institute. Roskopp is additionally a member of the University’s cross country team and Student Athlete Advisory Council.

Gianna Sanchez of Belleville, New Jersey, is a Junior undergraduate in the dual-degree program for Elementary and Special Education/Speech-Language Pathology. Sanchez is additionally pursuing a degree in Environmental Studies. Sanchez was introduced to this profession about nine years ago when her youngest sister began receiving speech therapy at home due to her Down Syndrome. Witnessing her sister's growth and how the therapists empowered her to find her voice and communicate with others sparked Sanchez's desire to do the same for others. Upon graduation, Sanchez aims to become a speech therapist for children with disabilities. Currently, Sanchez is involved in the student organization Best Buddies at the University.

Gabriella Santiago of Pittstown, New Jersey, is a Junior undergraduate majoring in Communications. Santiago’s interest in studying communication was sparked by her realization in how powerful it is to shape connections, influence perception, and drive collaboration. Santiago has always been drawn to how messages can completely change the way people comprehend a situation, whether it be in a press release, an interview, or even a team huddle. Santiago believes that strong communication can make a real impact, especially since it defines teamwork, branding, and fan engagement, particularly in the sports industry. Santiago aspires to work in corporate or strategic communications for a major sports corporation such as ESPN or the NBA. Santiago looks forward to being a part of the storytelling and strategy making process that shapes how organizations connect with fans, build their brand, and handle challenges both on and off the court. Aside from her studies, Santiago holds leadership roles including her position as the Vice President for the Seton Hall Chapter with Best Buddies International, a Volunteer Leader for DOVE, and an Orientation Leader. Additionally, Santiago is a member of the Student Alumni Association and is a writer for the CHDCM Dean’s Newsletter.

Madeline Sterns of Hamilton, New Jersey, is a Sophomore undergraduate double-majoring in Elementary and Special Education and Social and Behavioral Sciences. Sterns has always desired to become a teacher during her childhood. She was influenced by many of her elementary school teachers, in which she strives to be similar to them in creating a safe space for all of her students. Sterns wants to make a positive impact on young children, creating an environment where they can unapologetically be themselves. Additionally, Sterns wants to be a role model, shaping the next generation of students. Sterns has a passion for learning and an aspiration to help others grow. After working with a second grade class and watching her students succeed, Sterns confirmed that teaching was her true calling. After graduation, Stern plans to become an elementary school teacher who works in special education. Aside from her studies, Sterns holds a leadership role as a Seton Hall Peer Advisor here at the University. Additionally, Sterns is a member of Alpha Gamma Delta, the New Jersey Aspiring Educators Association (NJAEA), and the Psychology Club.