Yale College Voices: Exploring Diverse Roles and Innovative Projects of Our Staff

In this uplifting episode of "Yale College Voices," host Darice Corey welcomes two extraordinary contributors to the Yale community: Fafa Van Ha, the Lazarus Fellow in Food and Agriculture at the Yale Sustainable Food Program, and Ryan Huynh, the Woodbridge Fellow at the Center for the Study of Race, Indigeneity, and Transnational Migration. They share their unique journeys and transformative experiences at Yale, highlighting the power of learning from diverse perspectives, embracing uncertainty, and the profound interconnectedness of their personal and professional lives. Fafa recounts her inspiring path from social justice work in Chicago to her fellowship in Alaska, focusing on holistic health and food systems, while Ryan explores his passion for ethnicity, race, and migration studies, ignited by an eye-opening course on US history and the genocide of indigenous people.

As the conversation unfolds, Darice, Fafa, and Ryan delve into the nuances of storytelling through audio, particularly in preserving family histories and bridging generational gaps. Fafa shares her heartfelt experiences with language barriers and cultural differences, emphasizing her efforts to record her family's history through informal interviews and Asian American history studies. Ryan discusses his deeply personal senior thesis project on the second-generation experience and oral history interviews, which strengthened his connection to his family and their legacy. Their dialogue underscores the transformative power of audio storytelling in fostering connections and understanding individual identities.

Fafa and Ryan also discuss their impactful roles at Yale and the significant contributions they have made. Fafa passionately speaks about her involvement with educational programming at the Yale Sustainable Food Program and her transformative experiences in community building and mentoring. Ryan offers insights into his administrative role, supporting fellows programs and research related to race, indigeneity, and transnational migration. Their conversation highlights the opportunities and challenges of collaborative efforts across campus, the importance of centralized platforms for event promotion, and the enduring value of support systems and meaningful relationships. Tune in for a captivating discussion that celebrates the strength and impact of diverse voices at Yale, and be inspired by the remarkable journeys of Fafa and Ryan.

Podcast Host: Darice Corey | Senior Director of Web and IT Planning | Yale College Dean’s Office DEIB Advisory Committee Co-Chair

Podcast Guests:

Fafa Van Ha | Lazarus Fellow in Food and Agriculture at the Yale Sustainable Food Program

Ryan Huynh | Woodbridge Fellow at the Center for the Study of Race, Indigeneity, and Transnational Migration

Producer: Ryan McEvoy | Yale Broadcast Studio

Social Media Team and Content Creators:

Esther Donald Mwakisambwe ’25 | Yale School of the Environment

Thomasine Harris Fletcher ’25 | New Haven Promise Intern | Quinnipiac University

Parasmani Pandey ’25 | New Haven Promise Intern | Brandeis University

Kevin Sarango ‘25 | New Haven Promise Intern | UCONN

In this enriching episode of "Yale College Voices," host Darice Corey engages in a deep and thoughtful conversation with Joel Silverman, the Director of Academic and Educational Affairs for Yale College and former dean of Morse College. As they traverse Joel's extensive and diverse experiences within the realm of education and administration, listeners are offered a profound insight into the complexities and the profound impacts of his roles.

Joel opens up about his personal journey, recounting his upbringing in a family where his father was a lawyer and his mother a social worker—a dynamic that profoundly influenced his approach to his roles at Yale College. His narrative continues with his transformative experiences such as moving to Morse with his wife and young son, revealing the profound personal and professional fulfillment derived from engaging closely with students and the broader academic community.

As the discussion unfolds, Joel and Darice delve into the nuanced emotional landscape of academic administration. Joel shares candid anecdotes about the pressures of always needing to be "on," balancing his professional responsibilities with his personal life, and the challenging yet rewarding nature of being a dean. He highlights moments that were particularly impactful, such as an instance when students expressed their gratitude, which underscored the meaningful connections fostered during his tenure.

Further enriching the conversation, Joel discusses the transition from his role as a dean to his current position, marked by an invitation from esteemed colleagues. This shift wasn't prompted by burnout, but rather by a thoughtful consideration of where he could best serve the community while maintaining a balanced life, emphasizing the importance of family and personal pursuits.

Joel also touches on the broader implications of his role in shaping educational environments that are not only intellectually enriching but emotionally supportive. Darice and Joel explore how administrative processes can be streamlined to allow more time for meaningful engagement with students and colleagues, thus enhancing the educational experience and fostering a supportive community atmosphere.

Joel's story is not just a narrative of personal and professional achievements but also a testament to the power of empathy, support, and connection in educational leadership. This episode not only highlights the challenges faced by educators in high-stakes roles but also celebrates the profound impact they can have on students' lives and the broader educational landscape. It's a compelling reminder of the human element in education and the importance of nurturing it even in the most demanding settings.

Podcast Host: Darice Corey | Senior Director of Web and IT Planning | Yale College Dean’s Office DEIB Advisory Committee Co-Chair

Podcast Guest: Joel Silverman | Director of Academic and Educational Affairs, Yale College

Producer: Ryan McEvoy | Yale Broadcast Studio

Social Media Team and Content Creators: Lisa Dong ’24, Khulan Erdenedalai ’25, Will Gonzalez ’26, Corine Huang ’26, Esther Donald Mwakisambwe ’25, Marcos Membreno ’27, Ava Seymour ’27, Kai Zhang ’26

In this enriching episode of "Yale College Voices," host Darice Corey welcomes Aubrey Ellis, an experienced theater production professional and prop-making specialist, for a detailed conversation about the world of theater arts and prop creation. Aubrey recounts her early interests stemming from her upbringing in Syracuse, New York, and how her college experiences fueled her passion for making props. The discussion offers listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges and creative processes involved in prop-making, including an amusing story about handling an order of 42 crock pots and the complications that arose.

Throughout the episode, Darice and Aubrey explore the demands of working in a predominately male industry, underscoring the importance of having support and good mentors both during and after college. Aubrey provides glimpses into specific technical challenges, such as dealing with allergies to stage blood and creating special effects that require meticulous attention to detail and safety. Highlighting her advocacy for fair compensation and mental health supports, Aubrey shares her transformative apprenticeship experiences and the sexism she faced, driving her to push for better conditions for young professionals in the field.

Aubrey talks about her current role at Yale, managing operations and production for the Yale dance lab and the Yale Baroque Opera project. She elaborates on the recent successful performances and the educational value these projects provide to students, emphasizing cultural exploration and artistic expression. The conversation also touches on the need for educational reforms that include basic practical skills training in high schools, such as tool usage and carpentry, to empower students and instill confidence through hands-on learning.

Listeners will leave this episode with a greater appreciation for the complexities of theater production, the critical need for more support and fairness in creative industries, and the enriching power of the arts in education and personal growth. In essence, this episode not only dives into the technical and personal aspects of theater production but also champions the expansive impact of the arts on society and individual well-being.

Podcast Host: Darice Corey | Senior Director of Web and IT Planning | Yale College Dean’s Office DEIB Advisory Committee Co-Chair

Podcast Guest: Aubrey Ellis | Operations and Production Manager, Yale College Undergraduate Production

Video/Podcast Producer: Ryan McEvoy | Yale Broadcast Studio

Social Media Team and Content Creators: Lisa Dong ’24, Khulan Erdenedalai ’25, Will Gonzalez ’26, Corine Huang ’26, Esther Donald Mwakisambwe ’25, Marcos Membreno ’27, Ava Seymour ’27, Kai Zhang ’26

This captivating episode of “Yale College Voices” welcomes Thomas Near who is Saybrook Head of College, Professor and Chair of the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, and the Bingham Oceanographic Curator of Ichthyology at the Yale Peabody Museum. Listeners will explore Tom Near's remarkable journey from his difficult youth, marked by personal challenges, to becoming an influential leader within the Yale College community, dedicated to fostering an environment of representation and inclusivity.

Throughout the episode, host Darice Corey and Tom Near engage in a powerful discussion about the hurdles and successes of diversity initiatives at Yale College. Tom shares his firsthand experiences and highlights significant achievements, such as the increased retention and representation of underrepresented groups in STEM majors due to programs like Yale's foundations of biology. Furthermore, the discussion extends to the broader impact of having a diverse faculty, which not only enhances the learning environment but also significantly improves program rankings, creating a buzz of positive changes across campus.

Moreover, the episode takes a personal turn as Tom recounts pivotal experiences that shaped his leadership and mentoring style. He emphasizes the value of empathy, understanding, and resilience in creating supportive spaces for students and professionals alike. His stories reveal the transformative power of embracing one’s past and using it to connect and lead with authenticity.

This conversation also touches on broader systemic issues in higher education, such as the need for better representation of BIPOC students, reflecting on how these changes could foster a sense of belonging and encouragement among students.

This episode of "Yale College Voices" presents a candid and inspiring exploration of how Tom’s personal history interweaves with his professional endeavors to produce environments where diversity is not only acknowledged but celebrated. Join us as we uncover the challenges, triumphs, and ongoing efforts to make Yale College a beacon of inclusivity and how such efforts can serve as a blueprint for other institutions striving toward similar goals.

Podcast Host: Darice Corey | Senior Director of Web and IT Planning | Yale College Dean’s Office DEIB Advisory Committee Co-Chair

Podcast Guest: Tom Near | Saybrook Head of College, Professor | Chair of the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology | The Bingham Oceanographic Curator of Ichthyology at the Yale Peabody Museum

Video/Podcast Producer: Ryan McEvoy | Yale Broadcast Studio

Social Media Team and Content Creators: Lisa Dong ’24, Khulan Erdenedalai ’25, Will Gonzalez ’26, Corine Huang ’26, Esther Donald Mwakisambwe ’25, Marcos Membreno ’27, Ava Seymour ’27, Kai Zhang ’26

In this captivating episode of "Yale College Voices," host Darice Corey welcomes Charmayne Allen, Assistant Director of Student Affairs at Yale College, for a deep dive into her life and career. Born and raised on a Navajo reservation, Charmayne shares her educational journey, which includes overcoming academic challenges and discovering her passion for higher education through influential experiences at Northern Arizona University.

Throughout the episode, Charmayne provides insight into her role at Yale, where she oversees student organizations and promotes student engagement. She highlights the delicate balance of loving her job while setting boundaries to prevent burnout, stressing the importance of recognizing signs of fatigue and the necessity of taking breaks.

Charmayne also delves into her cultural background, detailing the influences of growing up in a community with deep-rooted traditions and values. She discusses the significant cultural differences between her parents' families and how these shaped her work ethic and personal life. Furthermore, the episode explores Charmayne's involvement in the Indigenous Leaders at Yale, her commitment to fostering a sense of community, and her efforts in advising and mentoring students.

The conversation also covers lighter, yet poignant topics such as the versatility and cultural significance of fried bread in Navajo culture, adding a personal touch that connects food to heritage and family.

Darice and Charmayne engage in a heartfelt discussion about the challenges and rewards of their educational paths, the impact of personal experiences on their professional lives, and the continuous journey of learning and growth. This episode not only sheds light on Charmayne's individual journey and professional endeavors but also illustrates her profound commitment to enhancing student life and embracing every opportunity to influence positively.

Podcast Host: Darice Corey | Senior Director of Web and IT Planning | Yale College Dean’s Office DEIB Advisory Committee Co-Chair

Podcast Guest: Charmayne Allen | Assistant Director of Student Affairs

Producer: Ryan McEvoy | Yale Broadcast Studio

Social Media Team and Content Creators: Lisa Dong ’24, Khulan Erdenedalai ’25, Will Gonzalez ’26, Corine Huang ’26, Esther Donald Mwakisambwe ’25, Marcos Membreno ’27, Ava Seymour ’27, Kai Zhang ’26

In this captivating episode of "Yale College Voices," host, Darice Corey, is joined by Kripa Bhagat, Senior Associate Director, Richard U. Light Fellowship, Office of Fellowships. Kripa is an enthusiastic advocate for language immersion and cross-cultural interaction who shares her journey from a first-time language learner to an expert in global education programs. She begins by recounting her surprising yet transformative experiences in a day camp immersion program where participants communicated exclusively in Chinese—a language she initially did not speak. Her dedication led her from this challenging start to becoming the first student from her high school to formally study Chinese.

Listeners will enjoy Kripa’s engaging stories about organizing and participating in cultural activities ranging from calligraphy to talent shows, all designed to deepen the linguistic and cultural immersion for students. She also discusses her international experiences, including her educational pursuits in China under the Startalk program and later, her professional roles in Taiwan. These anecdotes highlight the challenges of adapting to new cultures, the unexpected moments of connection, and the invaluable support of peers and mentors during her journey abroad.

This episode will captivate listeners with Kripa's compelling narratives and her enlightening perspectives on celebrating cultural differences, fostering open-mindedness, and the remarkable individual and communal advantages of worldwide learning. The vibrant discussion delves into the life-changing effects of language acquisition and intercultural encounters, whether experienced overseas or within the academic realm of Yale.

Podcast Host: Darice Corey | Senior Director of Web and IT Planning | Yale College Dean’s Office DEIB Advisory Committee Co-Chair

Podcast Guest: Kripa Bhagat| Senior Associate Director, Richard U. Light Fellowship

Producer: Ryan McEvoy | Yale Broadcast Studio

Social Media Team and Content Creators: Lisa Dong ’24, Khulan Erdenedalai ’25, Will Gonzalez ’26, Corine Huang ’26, Esther Donald Mwakisambwe ’25, Marcos Membreno ’27, Ava Seymour ’27, Kai Zhang ’26

In this enlightening episode of Yale College Voices, host, Darice Corey, sits down with Jacquie Munno, Programs Manager for International and Professional Experience at the Yale Sustainable Food Program. This episode uncovers Jacquie's deep-rooted connections to food, agriculture, and sustainability. From Jacquie's beginnings in rural upstate New York, to her meaningful experiences abroad in Italy and India, her journey exemplifies the power of adaptability and finding one's place in the world. Jacquie also discusses her strategies for self-care and balancing work and home life, underscoring the necessity of flexibility and trusting oneself amid unpredictability.

Throughout this episode, Jacquie speaks passionately about Yale's commitment to inclusivity, belonging, and the farm's significant role as a space for students to explore their personal stories and histories. Jacquie shares her insights into the Yale farm's dedication to creating an inviting environment, fostering diverse community partnerships, and offering students enriching agricultural experiences.

In the dialogue with Jacquie, listeners will explore the importance of embodied work, the evolution of student engagement in food systems, and new initiatives that allow the community to reconnect with pre-colonial agriculture and a broad spectrum of food cultures.

With anecdotes of Jacquie’s family influences, personal advancement, and student-driven ventures, this episode offers a compelling blend of scholarly investigation and heartfelt storytelling. The podcast audience will discover the excitement and challenges of Yale farm's various programs and events including the interactive First Friday pizza events that draw the community together for a serving of sustainability and education.

Podcast Host: Darice Corey | Senior Director of Web and IT Planning | Yale College Dean’s Office DEIB Advisory Committee Co-Chair

Podcast Guest: Jacqueline Munno | Programs Manager for International & Professional Experience, Yale Sustainable Food Program

Video/Podcast Producer: Ryan McEvoy | Yale Broadcast Studio

Social Media Team and Content Creators: Lisa Dong ’24, Khulan Erdenedalai ’25, Will Gonzalez ’26, Corine Huang ’26, Esther Donald Mwakisambwe ’25, Marcos Membreno ’27, Ava Seymour ’27, Kai Zhang ’26

In this compelling episode of "Yale College Voices," host Darice sits down with Assistant Dean and Director of the Native American Cultural Center, Matthew Makomenaw, who offers a candid narrative of his experience as a Native student within the often challenging setting of higher education. This dialogue reveals the emotional weight of societal pressures Matthew faced, including the taxing demands of social exposure and observation.

Matthew speaks to the heart of his struggles, addressing the stereotypes and barriers imposed by educators and peers alike. Remarkable is his confession that despite his tendency to tough out adversities, a learned behavior from his time in sports, he recognized this might not be universally beneficial for all.

Touching on the preservation of cultural identity, Matthew recounts profound personal moments, highlighting the pervasive nature of racial stereotypes. This episode doesn't shy away from difficult conversations about the roles of native representation and the need for increased visibility in higher education.

Darice and Matthew explore the essential subjects of finding community, embracing support networks at places like the career center, and the transformative potential of studying abroad. Issues of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging are front and center as Matthew emphasizes the necessity of honoring indigenous thought and enhancing native student support at Yale College.

The episode is rounded out with reflections on personal growth, mentorship, and the balance between active advocacy and the simplicity of living free from constant pressure to represent one’s community. Matthew's dedication to influencing positive change and fostering an environment that prioritizes understanding and kindness above all else concludes this inspiring segment of "Yale College Voices."

This episode offers a compelling look into the life and thinking of one of Yale College's key administrators, Andrew Forsyth. Join podcast host, Darice Corey, as she engages in a rich, illuminating discussion with Andrew, Associate Dean and Chief of Staff at Yale College.

In this conversation, Andrew reflects on the intrinsic value of academic exploration and the serendipitous, deeply enriching discoveries to be made while plumbing the contents of library shelves. He candidly shares his journey from the historic city of Glasgow to the prestigious corridors of Yale, where he now plays a pivotal role in shaping the institution's strategic initiatives and fostering a sense of belonging among the college community.

Andrew also expounds on his approach to teaching, informed by a steadfast commitment to inclusivity and responsiveness to the diverse learning styles of his students. Beyond the classroom and administrative functions, he provides personal insights into his motivation for pursuing a Ph.D. in religious studies, and how academic recognition and adversities – such as the inability to travel due to world events – have impacted his professional trajectory.

This episode delves into Andrew's thoughtful musings on leadership, the relevance of human connections in our academic and professional lives, and his active engagement with local cultural organizations. He also discusses his recently published work on the interplay between common law and natural law in America, marking another scholarly milestone in his distinguished career.

Please join us for a thoughtful and stimulating discussion that bridges the worlds of academia, law, ethics, and community, painting a portrait of a multifaceted individual helping to steer Yale College’s course into the future.

Podcast Host: Darice Corey | Senior Director of Web and IT Planning | Yale College Dean's Office DEIB Advisory Committee Co-Chair

Podcast Guest: Andrew Forsyth | Associate Dean and Chief of Staff at Yale College

Video/Podcast Producer: Ryan McEvoy | Yale Broadcast Studio

Social Media Team and Content Creators: Lisa Dong ‘24, Khulan Erdenedalai ‘25, Will Gonzalez ‘26, Corine Huang ‘26, Esther Donald Mwakisambwe ‘25, Marcos Membreno ‘27, Ava Seymour ‘27, Kai Zhang ’26,

In this compelling podcast episode, Yale College Voices podcast host Darice Corey invites Ricky Belizaire to reflect on the multifaceted journey of self-discovery and identity that led him to his current role as a Community Wellness Specialist for the department of Yale College Community Care (YC³).

The conversation opens with a consideration of the dedication and training of athletes which then engenders a transition into a deeper exploration of Ricky's personal experiences.

With candor and vulnerability, Ricky shares his early realization of his queer identity and the challenges he faced navigating societal norms and family dynamics. From the complexities of coming out in high school to the nuanced experiences of acceptance and visibility in college, Ricky's narrative is a testament to resilience and authenticity.

Throughout the episode, Ricky emphasizes the importance of self-expression and acceptance, despite external pressures and misconceptions. His anecdotes about interactions with friends and family and their unwavering support underscore the significance of allies in the journey toward self-discovery and acceptance.

Listeners are treated to a mosaic of Ricky’s diverse perspectives, woven with themes of courage, resilience, and the power of community. Ricky's story serves as both a beacon of hope and a call to action, encouraging listeners to embrace their true selves and foster environments of acceptance and understanding.

Podcast Host: Darice Corey | Senior Director of Web and IT Planning | Yale College Dean's Office DEIB Advisory Committee Co-Chair

Podcast Guest: Ricky Belizaire | Community Wellness Specialist (CWS) | Yale College Community Care (YC3)

Video/Podcast Producer: Ryan McEvoy | Yale Broadcast Studio

Social Media Team and Content Creators: Lisa Dong ‘24, Khulan Erdenedalai ‘25, Will Gonzalez ‘26, Corine Huang ‘26, Esther Donald Mwakisambwe ‘25, Marcos Membreno ‘27, Ava Seymour ‘27, Kai Zhang ’26