Student Internship Program

This program allows students to participate with faculty in the activities of the Diversity Infusion Program. The internship is designed to help students improve their leadership skills, diversity skills, learning skills, communication skills and interpersonal skills. Students also receive a scholarship for participating. The internship can be done for one semester or for two semesters. Please encourage students from your campus whom you believe would benefit from this internship opportunity to apply. Application instructions and an application web form are included in this site.

Student Interns are invited to use this simple form to share about their experience with the Diversity Infusion Program.

Meet our Student Interns and hear what they are saying about the Diversity Infusion Program.

2009-2010 Intern Group Photo
Haley Lynn Anfinson	In my nineteen years of living I have explored eighteen different countries, coming in contract with many diverse cultures. These travels have helped to shape me into a global citizen; I’ve learned the importance of treating everyone with equality and to always extend a helping hand to anyone in need, regardless of differences. I am a Presidential Scholar at SCC and the daughter of two professors at SCC so I realize the huge role that academics play in my life. Every day I work hard to use the gifts God has given me to enrich both my life and lives of others around me. I enter into each of life’s situations with an open mind, which leads me to see the good in every obstacle I must face. I always try to give everyone the benefit of the doubt, dwell on the good moments in life, and consider every day an opportunity to do something great. “Having traveled to eighteen countries in nineteen years, diversity has always been infused into my life. The Diversity Infusion Program has reinforced what I have always been taught: compassion, tolerance, and the ability to hear another’s heartbeat above my own. Those who wander are not always lost, and living one week with a stranger makes that stranger much less strange.”
Zahid Arab	"The Diversity Infusion Program is a refreshing way to show the different facets of Diversity and how students can become strong advocates at their schools and throughout their communities."
Reem Assy	"My name is Reem Assy, I have a Bachelor's degree in business from the University of Damascus. I moved to the states two years ago after I got married to physician at Good Samaritan hospital. Back home I did have a very busy life, I used to work for a communication company in the customer relation department for four years, before that I worked as public relation coordinator in a cosmetic company for two years. On my spare time I took courses in public relations, managements, sales, secretarial and English. I loved my job, it was not only the experience I got, but it was more feeling myself as part of the productive society. Initially when I moved to Arizona, I had difficult time adjusting to my new life, not working, becoming a house wife, and adopting the new culture. But soon after I started going to school at Phoenix collage I realized how much I can provide to my society. When we understand and accept our differences, we can reach the impossible." I have taken classes in communications and interpersonal relations. It was not just about what I learned, but it was more about communicating with very nice people representing the mix and the rich culture of this country. I always dreamed about continuing my studies in business administration, although I haven't made my final decision yet, since I do have much interest in public relations. I have not experienced working in the US yet. I like to be given the opportunity to pay my duty back to my society, learn from it and continue to grow. I'm a hard working person, who likes people, and who likes her job. I'm interested in working with people on a personal level to learn from them and share what I know with them, things I learned form traveling and visiting many places, and from being exposed to many cultures. At Phoenix collage I started my first learning experience in the US, and I liked it. I'm going to continue work on myself, my philosophy in life is: "learning is a continuous process will never end until your six feet under."
Margarita Avila	My name is Margarita Avila and I am 37 years old. Everyone calls me Margie for short. I am going to Glendale Community College for an associate’s degree in Family Life Education. Then I plan to go to ASU West for my bachelor’s as a Social Worker. I have three wonderful children - Mario 21, Cristal 20, and Valentina 15. I also have three grandchildren Little Mario 3, Jazmine 8 months, and a little one in heaven. I love to scrapbook and work with all types of people. I’m very dependable, reliable, and a people person. I’ve volunteered at a mental clinic holding groups, advocating, and just listening to people for over 3 years and I enjoy every minute of it. Now I got accepted into the Diversity Infusion Program and am very happy about it.
Josh Berdeaux	"Josh Berdeaux is a student with a disability that has made the transition into the college environment and enjoys working with others to include more people with disabilities in higher education.A student that looks for the positive in every situation and works to help other students with disabilities deal with sometimes overwhelming prospect of navigating the system of the educational processes. His interest in public service and leadership skill development has defined his undergraduate academic pursuits and extracurricular activities. Josh has served as a volunteer in many positions around the Valley and is a recipient of a Presidential "Call To Service" recognition award and various certificates of recognition by the City of Phoenix. Josh is on the fast-track to become a disability advocate, particularly in the educational environment. In his personal life, Josh’s hobby interests range from video gaming to marshal arts. I appreciate the opportunity to have been a part of this program. It has provided me with a mechanism for gaining more experience in leadership, provided a great networking opportunity, and gave me a change to meet some really great people."
Hugo Max Blanco	My name is Hugo Max Blanco. I was born in Lima, Peru. I moved to Miami, Florida in 1990 and lived there for 14 years. In 2004 I moved to Phoenix, Arizona to start a new life. I consider myself a good person, honest, responsible, dedicated, organized, respectful and with integrity. I started attending college since last summer and I am looking to graduate in Hospitality and Tourism/Hotel Management. I am fluent in Spanish and English and currently I am taking Italian. For this semester I am going full time with 13 credits and I will do my best to keep my grades. I work for The Cheesecake Factory as a server 5-6 days a week. I like soccer, rock 'n roll and to travel around the world (I just got back from Peru) The Diversity Infusion Program helped me grow as a person and to reinforce my leadership skills.
Christina Blanton	"The Diversity Infusion Program has opened an entire new world for me. I have met and gained many new International friends. I also feel, after serving on the Black History Month Committee, that my campus is more diverse through the sharing of the African American culture and history through Black History Month. Thank you"
Sharon Blanton	"I am who I am today thanks to God, my family and the Diversity Infusion Program. I advocate for persons with disabilities through my certification as a Developmental Disabilities Specialist. While attending Glendale Community College, my internship and the Developmental Disabilities program, was the catalyst that allowed me to support and advocate for students with disabilities. My website created during my internship “Exceptional Students” is available online at the GCC official web site found under Student Life. Decades from now I would like to be remembered as a person who made positive changes in our society. The Diversity Infusion Program is a great opportunity for students and teachers to make positive changes in the diverse society we live in. Special thanks go to my daughter who taught me to persevere, to my mentor, Dr. Van Marche, who guided me, and to Dr. Gray and Terry Mitch who always supported me."
Donna Candreva	I am a student co enrolled at PVCC and NAU. I am working on my BAS in Early Childhood Education. I am also a MCCD employee currently working at SCC in the Child Enrichment Center. I work with 2-5 year olds. I am married to my highschool sweetheart Mike. We have two teenage children Angela and Mac and a house full of critters. "The Cultural Diversity Infusion Internship has opened my eyes to the real world we live in and given me a glimpse of what can be accomplished by the persistent human spirit."
Sharon Ann Chambers
Julie Charter	Julie Charter is enrolled in the Equine Science program at SCC. She joined in the Diversity Infusion Program with the anticipation of meeting others of diverse ethnic backgrounds and enjoying practical implication of diversity within the community from other like minded students. Her related interests include diversity in religion, political science, and linguistics, as well as supporting the large refugee community in the Valley. She as a keen fascination in the Middle East in general as well as the the origins of modern day and ancient horse breeds. Her goals in joining the program are to see her project(s) succeed and to be challenged to think more objectively. Her one of her future goals is to have a business training and breeding horses in the Middle East or Asia." The Diversity Infusion Program has been a wonderful experience for me this semester. I found that the meetings were very insightful and I looked forward to them a lot. I also thought there was the right amount of meeting times to fit into my schedule well and it was helpful to know the whole program schedule before hand. One of the highlights of the program was getting to meet some of the staff involved. There was a broad variety of staff from different backgrounds and experiences, who all attributed to the program. They were more than willing to help us with any thing we needed for our projects or just to answer questions we may have. I was very happy with level of communication within the program. I was glad to make new friends through the program as well. As students we all had different focuses for joining and we helped contribute to each others time, often helping each other with our projects. My project, though it did not achieve exactly what I had hoped, it at least gave me many opportunities to share with people about the refugee community and answer questions people had. I am hoping that there will be some continuation in the number of people who choose to visit or help out. I enjoyed my time in the program a lot and would recommend it to others."
Carlita Cotton (Cece)	My name is Carlita Cotton (Cece) I am a vivacious humanitarian; my single focus is to bequeath a lasting endowment on the world. I graduate May 2010 from Mesa Community College (Associate of Applied Arts) and transfer to University of Arizona in August to begin a dual bachelor program in Nursing (B.S.N) and (BA) in Psychology. I currently belong to several organizations: AmeriCorps, TRIO, Honors Program, and Phi Theta Kappa. Notwithstanding the substantial gratification received from servitude galvanized my decision in volunteering: Banner Desert Hospital, Granite Reef Senior Center, and Civic Center Library. My purpose in joining various clubs was simply to broaden my immediate world while exposing myself to new communities. The bottom-line goal is to strengthen my leadership skills in conjunction to heightening my perspicacity of world affairs. My experience in the Diversity Infusion Program proved highly beneficial. I learned that culture is not only race, ethnicity, or heritage. Culture is in every community and the art of learning then is adapting to the surroundings. I believe embracing the diversity is the essence of Diversity Infusion. To summarize, learning in a climate outside the normal comfort zone increases awareness to appreciate difference.
Ginny De La Cruz
Cathy Donnell	My diverse heritage begins on my father’s side of the tree. Turley, my maiden name is a small American Indian tribe in Oklahoma, translated as “thunder”, and is from the Cherokee and Black feet tribe. My grandmother was Irish, who I was named after.On my mother’s side of the tree is also quite interesting. My great grandmother on my mother’s side traveled to this country, from Mexico undocumented in approximately 1920. It is believed that the man that fathered her children was from France. My great grandmother’s last name was Pardo, meaning “dark”, in Spanish. I am proud to document that she lived 101 years. I am blessed to have an extended family, as my dad remarried a beautiful woman, who is from the Philippians and is also Japanese. Together they gave me two brothers. I was afforded the opportunity to live in Hawaii for a short time in my teens, and attend junior high and summers in my whole new world. As a teen I also was a teacher’s assistant in the special education department at my elementary school, where I learned to read and type in Braille. My career background is in adult Special Education, and Occupational Therapy. I enjoy traveling with my husband and four children, have lived in five states, and visited eleven. Currently, I study and work in behavioral health, proudly as a second generation family member. Diversity Infusion has taken student internship study to another level for me. The program has allowed me to view, learn, and embrace my world and all that it encompasses.
Pam Ernst	Being a part of the Diversity Infusion Program has helped me to become aware of the vastness of diversity; it is “more than meets the eye.” Through speakers, film clips, and articles I have been exposed to the multi-faceted world around me. The program creates an environment to learn and expand your intelligence on matters of Diversity. It has given me an immense appreciation and understanding of those around me. I have learned to never assume and stereotype individuals, to be more sensitive when I speak, and to listen with compassion to the stories of those different from myself in a non-judging manner. For my project I created a diversity website for Paradise Valley Community College. The site went live in May 2006. It is my hope that students, faculty and the community will use the site to see what’s happening at PVCC with respect to diversity and more importantly to show the benefits of a diverse campus."
Miriam Estrada	This program is a real eye-opener. I now understand why some student interns come back, semester after semester, even if they no longer qualify to receive the money from the scholarship. It's very interesting how both teachers and students get involved in the program, and whether you're shy or outgoing you're definitely a fit for this program."
Iryna Falush	My name is Iryna Falyush and I am originally from Ukraine. I speak three languages, Ukrainian, Russian, and English. I am a student at SCC pursuing an Associate's Degree in Health Sciences with a specific interest in pharmacy studies. I am also an active member of the Global Artichokes Club, which is the former international club and I participate in the Conversation Partner Program to learn the Italian language and culture. Currently, I am an Intern at Dial Henkel Corporation and participate in the Diversity Infusion Program. I also work part-time in the International Education office under the supervision of Therese Tendick. My participation in the Diversity Infusion Program Internship was very challenging and interesting from an educational perspective. I had an opportunity to express my organizational and educational skills to have an event with refugee children. The experience was rewarding and challenging to me personally as well as the participants of the event. Collaberation with Lutheran Social Services with the organization of the event turned out to be a great experience and I would definitely do it again. Happy smiles on children's faces are inspiring and rewarding!
Howie Fields
Michelle Fish	Personal Mission Statement: To find personal value, I will: LEARN something new everyday ENVISION myself becoming a better person & leader ANCHOR my life in honesty RECOGNIZE my strengths and continue to develop my talents PURSUE challenging endeavors by never limiting my options MORALLY believe in my values PHYSICALLY keep myself healthy & safe REMEMBER that everything important in life grows out of relationships I currently reside in Scottsdale, AZ, I am single and have and wonderful child. I am “Aunt” to three great children. I am in excellent health and remain conscience about leading a healthy lifestyle. I am a full time student at Scottsdale Community College in my 3rd semester for an AAFA Theatre degree and on the President's Honors List for the Fall of 2009. I am President of the ImageMakers club and a member of Phi Theta Kappa. I have a real love for acting and performance related activities. Ever since I was a little girl, the stage has always fascinated me. I continually seek out activities that provide further education and insight into the depths of the theater and screen world. I someday hope to gain a SAG movie contract. For now I settle happily with the main character in an independent movie coming out late 2008 as well as performing in various theater stages. I am also a freelance photographer. I continue to donate time and personal financial resources to the various charity organizations. In the most recent year my focus is on the Phoenix Air National Guard Patriots, supporting Air Guardsmen and their families. I was officially elected to the board of directors March 19th 2007 and act as the PR director, web master and photographer. Currently I am a dedicated actress performing in TV, Film and Theatre as well as a weekly Indy radio show. I participated in achievement based pageants and hold the 2005/2006 Ms Heart of America Grand National Princess title. Past titles include; Ms American Rose 04/05 Seattle City Queen, Ms American Rose 04/05 Washington State Queen; Ms USA Rose 04/05 Washington State Queen and 04/05 Ms World Rose - Ms Ireland first runner up. For fun, I enjoy acting, fitness, hiking, boating, horse back riding, martial arts, figure skating as well as cooking, travel & entertaining. My interests include oceanic discovery, foreign travel, music, performing arts & entertainment. This Program has prompted me to take a closer look at those around me. No longer do I consider people as they are at face value. I've realized everyone has a story and a background that makes them who they are. Who they are makes the world complete.
Sarah Fore	Sarah Fore moved from her hometown of Gloucester, Virginia, to Goodyear, Arizona at the age of 15. She graduated from Millennium High School in 2007 and enrolled at Estrella Mountain Community College for a degree in Special Education, Psychology and an emphasis in American Sign Language. She is transferring to Grand Canyon University in the fall to complete her bachelors degree. She is currently works as a Peer Mentor at the Estrella Mountain Community College campus as well as a respite and habilitation provider for special needs children. She enjoys films, all forms of art, reading, and history. I am learning and absorbing so many intresting perspectives of diversity. The presentations can be so thought provoking and insightful. I look forward to all the meetings and feel acomplished after having presented my own presentation on diversity.
Paul Garcia	My name is Paul, but my family calls me "Bubba". I grew up under difficult circumstances. My mom and dad are both alcoholics. We didnt have alot of money growing up, so we lived in a bad part of town. I eventually ended-up in a gang and stayed in and out of jail/prison for the last 25 years of my life. I consider myself extremely blessed to still have the love and support of my family and friends. Because of them, I've turned my life around. Even though I'm 41 years old, I have goals and dreams today.The college expereience has opened my eyes to so many great things. Today, I believe in my academic abilities and I'm in hot pursuiit of my goal to become a Behavioral Health Counselor/Social Worker. Realizing how smart I really am, as well as the college experience, has boosted my confidence and motivation through the roof. I look foward to each day today and I am happy. Life is still a bit difficult for me, at times. The difference today is that I no longer ""WISH"" that I could be somewhere else, or get somewhere in life. Today, I have the confidence and motivation to go out and make positive things happen for me. I look back on my life and consider myself lucky. Lucky that I am able to overcome my upbringing. Most of my family is still stuck in that dysfunctional cycle and all of them suffer from a dependency of some sort. I cant change the past, or fix my family and friends. But I can make my future what I want. And I can help others avoid going down the path that I went down. I use to think I wasted my life. Now, I feek like it's just beginning.
Salina Gonzales
Jonathon Green	The Diversity Infusion Program is a great program that has helped made me aware with prejudices that I have and surround me.
Stephanie Grosam	My name is Stephanie and I am a recent graduate of ASU. I graduated in May of "09 with a BA in Design Management. I am continuing courses at MCC to remain on health insurance until I have enough money saved to return for my MBA. I'm a nerd at heart, graduated from high school with a 4.3 GPA, was awarded the Provost full-ride scholarship to ASU and graduated at the top of my class at ASU Suma Cum Lauda. The two things I place the most importance on in life is the pursuit of happiness and my relationships with others. This experience has been very eye-opening and insightful. I would recommend this internship to may students who are looking to broaden their personal experiences with diversity and other students seeking the same.
Gloria Hall
Mary Jane Harris	"I am one of the many adult re-entery students at Scottsdale Community College. I have returned to the world of academics to pursue both a BS in Mathematics and Psychology. My goal is to become a teacher in Mathematics and to pursue a Masters in School Psychology to ultimately become a School Psychologist. I am involved in the Psi Gamma Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa, which is the Honors Society for two-year colleges. I am Vice Chair of Student Life and Leadership. I also started my own foster care for animals, Fur Love Fur-Ever, which I run out of my home. Since re-entering college last spring, my involvement with the MCCD Diversity Infusion Program has been one of the most exciting relationships that I have had the privilege of being involved with. The first meeting, which took place in September, was like a big, warm hug. Not only was everyone considerate and friendly, they were sincerely interested in the opinions and perceptions of others. The members actively want to contribute to the college, to students, and the community. I am looking forward to continuing this wonderful experience and growing from the knowledge and life experiences of the other participants. I hope you can join us...!"
Alecia Kimes	Alecia Kimes was born and raised in Central Florida, first moving to Arizona at age 11. She completed her secondary education at Millennium High School while dual-enrolling at Estrella Mountain Community College, where she continues to attend. She is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in psychology, with the intention of teaching at the college level and doing therapy sessions with LGBTQ and other kinds of “at risk” youth. In her free time she enjoys writing short stories and playing videogames. The Diversity Infusion Program has gifted me with an incredibly rewarding life experience. It was an absolute pleasure to work with my mentor and not only learn about a diversity subject important to me (women's issues) but share my newfound knowledge with others. I would have never before considered public speaking my forte but I can say with confidence that being forced to work so far outside of my comfort zone was not only strangely enjoyable but has definitely allowed me to emerge as a better, more well-rounded person. I love the recognition I have gotten from my peers and faculty around campus - it is always good to feel appreciated for the hard work you do! I would definitely encourage anyone who is considering applying for this Program to just go ahead and take the chance. I don't think they would be in any way disappointed.
Huy K. LePhan	"As a student intern, I am proud to be a part of the Diversity Infusion program. In the past, I have involved in many different programs that promote diversity, but I am most awed by the endowment of diversity and open-mindedness of this program, targeting the college environment. Diversity is a big part of American progression in the past 100 years and should be promote to prevent misunderstanding toward our differences, something we are to be proud of and distinct ourselves from others. College is a great time of our lives, to learn new thing and become successful in whatever the career that we are expanding toward, but college also is a time when students are to be encourage to gain knowledge of social ongoing and to adapt to new ideas and principles that will help them to advance their lives and the lives of others."
Brenda Lopez	My name is Brenda Lopez. I have lived in Arizona for 27 years. I have been married for 25 years and have 3 wonderful children who are grown and attending college."
Jazmyne Lyons	Hello, my name is Jazmyne Lyons. I am a 40 year old adult re-entry student at Paradise Valley Community College. I am in my second year going fulltime with no less than 16 credits per semester. I am a mother of three grown children – two of whom have lives of their own while the third lives with me. I am studying Cultural Anthropology and Web/Graphic Design, so I will be here for another year. I am planning to go to NAU to get my Bachelor’s upon graduating. Besides being involved with the Diversity Infusion Program, I am also highly involved in other areas of the school. These would include; Peer Mentoring – both classes and individuals, AWARE – adults who are returning to education, PEAK, New Student Orientations, PVCC Ambassadors, Phi Theta Kappa, Honors, and the Student Life Center. I truly enjoy being in the school environment, and I honestly believe that I would not have gotten as much out of it if I had gone to college right out of high school. I am very excited to have been chosen to be a part of the wonderful program of Diversity Infusion. My goal is to use my cultural studies to spread knowledge through a magazine about our neighbors. I feel that through knowledge and understanding of our fellow man, we are better able to promote peace with each other. By being chosen for this program, I am able to see this in the present - rather than the future.
Diego Magana	I was born in Mexico but came to the U.S. at the age of one. My family did a lot of moving around so I had to learn to adapt to a constantly changing environment. I'm pursuing a triple major in Business, Computer Software, and Engineering. My experience in the Diversity Infusion Program brought out the virtue of leadership from within me.
Wanja Mitchell	What matters is where I’m going My name is Wanja Mitchell and I was born in Memphis, TN. I was raised in Flint, MI by a single mother whom I credit for my “anything is possible” mindset. I have also lived in Naples, FL and Batesville, MS. I am now a resident of Phoenix, AZ and the journey doesn’t end here. I am currently working towards my Associates Degree in Business at Glendale Community College. Last semester I made the President’s list and was recently inducted into Phi Theta Kappa. All of my required credit hours should be complete by the winter semester. When I receive my Associates Degree I want to go on to get my Bachelor’s Degree but I have not decided what University I want to attend. All of my hard work has helped me to get to where I am now. My plans are to continue this journey on to a successful life. The Diversity Infusion Program has taught me to be more aware of ALL the differences of others.
Tracy Miller
Brian Moore
Alicia Mulllings	My name is Alicia Mullings and I graduated from Trevor Browne High School in 2007.  I received a Presidential Scholarship and Basketball Scholarship giving me a full-ride to attend Phoenix College.  I am right now maintaining a 4.0 grade point average while being a member of the Phi Theta Kappa, Honors Program, and captain of the Phoenix College women’s basketball team.  Prior to the Diversity Infusion Student Internship I have had experience in diversity by working with special needs students at my high school and volunteering to help in the Special Olympics.  I also lived with a family from the Philippines for a summer in high school, which was definitely a new, great experience.  After Phoenix College I plan on attending a four-year University to get a Bachelor’s degree in science, so I can be accepted into the Physician’s Assistant Program.  Once I graduate I will have my Master’s Degree and can start my career as a Physician’s Assistant.
Ha Nguyen	My name is Ha Nguyen. I come from Hanoi, Vietnam. As about my name, "Ha" may mean laughing over here, but it actually means "river" in Vietnamese. I came to the U.S. two years ago to pursue my Associate Degree in Business at SCC. I love to travel and meet people from other cultures. I am very happy to be as part of the Diversity Infusion Program. I know that I will have the opportunities to meet interesting people and get involved in many cross-cultural activities." I am an international student from Vietnam. I feel so fortunate to be able to participate in the Diversity Infusion Program this semester. It is a wonderful experience with Maricopa staff, faculty and students and I really enjoy our seminars. I have learned a lot from the Program. In my country, people don’t really talk about diversity yet, so this is my first exposure to this topic. The Program also sponsored my participation in the Maricopa Global Leadership Retreat, which was one of my most unforgettable experiences in America. I had a chance to meet students from all over the world, make friends, and learn a lot from their perspectives / culture. I highly recommend this Program to all Maricopa students. It is a really fun and useful experience. As for me, if I have another chance to participate in the Program next semester, I would love to!!!
Lara Noss	My Name is Lara Noss and I am 21 years old. I am currently attending Gateway Community College. I am originally from Frankfurt, Germany and I moved to the U.S. in August 2008.   Here in Arizona I am hoping to obtain at least my Masters Degree in Psychology.  Phoenix and Arizona are beautiful places to live and I do enjoy it very much. But I also miss my home country and cannot wait until I can go back home and visit. I am a very out-going and easy-going person. People tell me it is easy to have fun and laugh with me. I am always trying to make the people around me smile.
Jennifer Papworth	Jennifer Papworth is mother to three boys and a part-time student at Rio Salado College, pursuing an Associates Degree with a Certification in Public Administration. She works part-time from home as a Web site administrator, volunteers in her community providing information and support to women who choose to breastfeed, and is the parent representative on the Site Council at her children’s Elementary School. Jennifer plans to sit for the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners Lactation Consultant exam in July of 2010 to become an Internationally Board Certified Lactation Consultant. The Diversity Infusion Program’s Student Internship provided me with the opportunity to hear different perspectives on a variety of subjects, as well as present new ideas to others. I have learned so much about myself and the world around me, and I can’t wait to share what I have learned with others.
Halina Brooke Reed	Hi, I'm Halina Brooke Reed, and this is my second year with the Diversity Infusion Program. As a second year participant, I am a student mentor and a student member of the MCCD Diversity Advisory Council. I am a student at both Scottsdale Community College and Paradise Valley Community College, and am representing Scottsdale this year. I am also involved in Student Leadership Council at PVCC as Secretary and am a Peer Mentor with PVCC’s Peer Mentoring Program. After I complete my studies in the Maricopa Community College District, I hope to transfer to ASU and complete an interdisciplinary program in the Social Sciences. I’m undecided as far as careers are concerned, but know that working with and helping people in an intellectually stimulating environment are key elements of my future career. The Diversity Infusion Program has provided me with the opportunity to work with amazing faculty who have a true interest in welcoming and celebrating diversity in the classroom and on the campuses they represent. I’ve gained many valuable insights and perspectives on diversity’s major role in education and day-to-day life through this program and am truly thankful for the opportunities it has presented to me. I encourage all students who have a strong desire to learn about diversity in the curriculum and about themselves as members of our diverse community to apply to this program—I’m confident that it will open up as many pathways (intellectual and tangible) for others as it has for me!"
Amy S. Ricks
Janina Rohde
Jana Rohennan
Adrian Romero	"I was born and raised in Mexico City . After 20 years of living there, I moved to AZ and here I am. I am currently studying at SCC, majoring in Journalism. My interests are varied, such as world issues and getting to know different cultures. I live with my parents, my sister, two dogs, and a fish."
Chevas Samuels	When I first learned that I’d be a part of the Diversity Infusion Program, I was quite excited!  I immediately researched the definition of diversity.  I found words like assortment, range, multiplicity, variety, and mixture and I thought I knew what it meant until I attended the very first meeting.  When people hear the word diversity, the first thing they think of is culture, race and ethnicity.  That is only part of it.  Diversity covers so much more than culture, it covers careers, beliefs, political affiliations, age, geographical location and the list goes on.  What a wonderful thought!  I was sitting in a room of students and faculty and each one of us represented a branch of diversity.  I’ve never looked at diversity the same way again and I’ve made it my mission to expand the significance of diversity to my fellow classmates, and members of my campus staff, faculty, and out into the community.           I was born and raised in a General Motors family in Flint, MI. After tiring of Retail Management, I decided to return to college.  Writing was always something I loved and did well. My second grade teacher discovered my writing talent and supported me above and beyond any teacher I’d ever seen. She was my first “publisher.”  She took my stories and helped me make them into books with cute fabric covers.  Writing became my focus at the age of seven.  Through the years, many of my English teachers also encouraged me to pursue writing. I knew that I could write, but I lacked confidence back then. I moved to Phoenix in 1995 with the intent to change my life.  I signed up at Gateway College in 2003, but an accident left me unable to walk, so I had to defer.  I returned to Gateway in 2006 with a renewed spirit and focus on completing my education at Gateway and beyond. Since my return to Gateway I’ve changed completely. I wake up and can’t wait to get there and that won’t change once I get to ASU’s Walter Cronkite School of Journalism.           My interests grew and soon I was involved in many campus activities and organizations including Intern/Diversity Training Program, Vice-President & Editor/Black Student Union, Member/IGNITE-PROSPER-World Explorers Club-INSITE, Ambassador/ Associated Student Council, President/Women’s Forum, Club Training Day/Representative, Prescott Leadership Retreat/ Representative, I’ve studied abroad in Prague, and currently working on starting a new campus club, the Gateway Democrats Association, producing a original stage play, and starting my own newsletter. I’m also an advocate for breast cancer research and increasing the penalties for Domestic Violence and crimes against children.           I have a sixteen yr. old daughter, Auburn, and our weekends are spent at the museums, theaters, or movies.
Bret Genaro Sanchez	"Hello everyone, my name is Bret Genaro Sanchez. I am a 23 year old honors student at Paradise Valley Community College. I am on my way to transfer to ASU West's Barretts Honors College and graduate with a degree in Criminal Psychology or Higher Education Administration. I am a Student Ambassador for PVCC and a Diversity Infusion Intern. At one time I was the Secretary of Club Ed at PVCC. I am currently on the National Dean's List and my schools Presidents List. I have a biography that will be featured in the United States All American Collegiate Yearbook. Since I have been in the Diversity Infusion Program, I have been able to network with a variety of professors and administrator from Maricopa Community Colleges. It is great to see faculty and staff from our great college system, care about the diverse backgrounds of their students as well as the histor of the subjects they teach. By infusing the different cultures, students can see the real value of their education. And for that, I thank the Diversity Infusion Program. "Diversity is the Worlds greatest strength and its greatest challenge. It is the idea of everyone complimenting one another for the brighter future of mankind. It is not tolerance; it is love and acceptance of each other. Since I have been in the Diversity Infusion Program, I have been able to network with a variety of professors and administrator from Maricopa Community Colleges. It is great to see faculty and staff from our great college system, care about the diverse backgrounds of their students as well as the history of the subjects they teach. By infusing the different cultures, students can see the real value of their education. And for that, I thank the Diversity Infusion Program."
Jacqueline Sandoval
Kaitlynn Santeford
Courtney Schimke	When we stop talking about race, ethnicity and all the differences in people we will have stopped racism and discrimination." I've been studying the language and the Deaf culture and am very interested in teaching others the language and culture. Through my semesters at PVCC I have learned quite a bit about ASL and how a visual language can help people with a wide range of learning disabilities along with children who learn sign language as very young children. The ELL community is often overlooked when addressing issues of diversity especially when English is forced as the primary language in all school settings. "
Kaveish Sewalia	The diversity infusion program has opened my eyes to the diversity that is not only around us but within us as well. I moved to America in August 2001 from my home country of Trinidad in the southern Caribbean. Within the last eight years, I have lived in Wisconsin, California and finally Arizona. Throughout my travels, I have been exposed to and influenced by many cultures that made me the person I am today. Being an intern in the Diversity Infusion Program has allowed me to see that my unique culture is a combination of many of these different cultures. As a result, participation in this program has allowed me to see myself as a different person than before. I am now an empathetic human being who appreciates diversity in all forms. We should embrace diversity because we ourselves are diversity. "The diversity infusion program has opened my eyes to the diversity that is not only around us but within us as well."
Ibrahim Sharif	Asslam-o-alaikum, for this means “peace be upon you”.  Greetings, my name is Ibrahim Sharif and I was born on July, 10th 1987 in the city of Jerusalem.  For most who don’t know, Jerusalem is home to the three largest monotheistic religions in the world.  As a fortunate student I have been blessed with the chance to go back to the motherland every three years and eat away at the living, breathing culture that resides in this place.  I have been around people of different cultures and ethnic groups, this has made I easier for me to relate to and accept all different types of people.  Growing up with immigrant parents, I have learned that there are many cultures that require the world to be seen through their eyes.  Throughout my life, I have had a diverse group of friends with an array of multi-cultural backgrounds.  This has helped me understand that there is more than just one type of race, religion, or racial background.  I love to travel and again have been very fortunate to voyage all over the Middle East and some parts of Europe.  Traveling opens one’s eyes and I believe everyone should be able to experience a new realm of culture. The Diversity Infusion Program offered at SCC is an experience of a life time, allowing one to engage with people from diverse backgrounds intertwining your beliefs, culture and customs with someone from the other side of the world.  For the human race to be equal as one we need to maximize cultural globalization.  The Diversity Infusion Program is a start.
Michelle Smythe	I am Michelle Smythe, a full-time student at South Mountain, and my goal is to transfer to ASU as a journalism major. I have served as a reporter and editor for The Horizon, SMCC's campus newspaper. I am also an officer in Alpha Eta Delta, SMCC's chapter of Phi Theta Kappa. I am an Arizona native and have lived in Tempe for eight years. I grew up in Tucson, which is much more laid back and, in my opinion, more liberal also. A lot of my own ideals and opinions stem from my upbringing in Tucson and I am proud of it's impact on my life. I have a son and daughter who are at the center of my life. Having children motivated me to return to school so that they would have a better life and so that they prize a college education as a basic building block in attaining a prosperous life. I also want them to be pursue their dreams and I hope to serve as a role model for them.
Marisel Sosa
Rebecca Stultz	I'm a returning student after 10 years. I am majoring in sustainability and political science. I was born and raised in Tempe, Arizona and as soon as I was 18 I was gone. I traveled and worked and found my home in Montreal, Quebec. In order to make it my permanent home a 4-year degree will be needed. I have decided to go all the way and pursue a PhD. A great, life affirming, and inspiring experience. It changed the way I look at the world.
Marianna Szabo
Jeanne Tweeten	My name is Jeanne Tweeten and I am extremely excited to be a part of this diversity infusion program.  I am currently a student at Chandler-Gilbert Community College and looking forward to graduation.  After I receive my Associates I plan to transfer to ASU in the fall to work on my Bachelors degree in Psychology; after which I would like to attend Medical school to earn a degree in Psychiatry to practice as psycho analysis.  I love working with people and especially enjoy helping others.  I find the acceptance of all cultures is crucial to our ever-growing society and hope to help pass this ideology on to others. This Diversity Infusion program has opened my eyes to so many different aspects of diversity that I had never considered before.  I am fortunate to have had the opportunity to participate in such a program and I really learned more than I could have ever imagined.
Agnes Umuligirwa	My name is Agnes Umuligirwa and I was born and educated in Africa. I am now a Mesa Community College student and I am studying Women’s Studies and Sociology. I have been an intern in the Diversity Program with Dr. Gray for two semesters. This program is great and offers me the opportunity to share my story with others who have experienced similar difficulties in adjusting to a new country and a new culture. It also has provided me with an avenue to expand the awareness of the needs of non-traditional foreign students who are not classified as “international” students. I am also an adult re-entry student and I work in the Adult Re-entry and Career Center at Mesa Community College campus where I assist other students in finding campus resources and following their dreams. I am also a Mentor for the Women of Courage Program at MCC where I continue to advocate for the well-being of other students like myself as they pursue their success at college. Through education and persistence, I have continued to overcome the difficulties and obstacles that are involved in building a new life in America. I am grateful for the new friendships I have developed and for the support of programs like the Diversity Infusion Program, the Women of Courage Program, and the Leadership Development Program. Margaret Mead said: “If we want to achieve a richer culture, rich in contrasting values we must recognize the whole gamut of humanity potentialities, and so weave a less arbitrary social fabric, one which each diverse human gift will find a fitting place.
Anai Valdez
Vaughn Walker
Mary Watts	I gained a deeper understanding about diversity from interning in this program. I already knew that being different wasn't bad, but I did not realize how deep the diversity subject was. Many diversity subjects are covered that I did not even know pertained to diversity at our meetings. I really enjoy learning from the mentor teachers!
Ena Williams	I am Ena Williams and am a native of Jamaica. I became deaf when I was a baby at the age of six months. It was caused by meningitis. I moved to Ahwatukee, AZ from Washington, DC almost three years ago. I live with my fiancé and am attending an interpreting course at Phoenix College. I am very excited to be involved with the Diversity Infusion Program. This Diversity Infusion Program is awesome and very important for my experience because I want to learn about students' different topics and to respect their point of view.
Thomas Williams	My name is Thomas Williams; I am originally from Germany and moved here to the United States about three years ago. I found out about the Diversity Infusion Program through my friend Marianna Szabo and with that about the Conversation Partner Program that she was coordinating before me. I always thought that it was a great idea to bring different cultures together and have them find similarities amongst themselves. It was a joyful experience, and I am very glad that I got the opportunity to be a member of this great initiative."
Annette Wilson	Hello! My name is Annette Wilson. I have heard it said that life begins at 40. I am living that cliché, and loving every minute. My personal interests include meeting people, cooking fabulous meals to make socialization more fun, reading great books, hiking in beautiful places, and quiet time to meditate. My professional interest lies in achieving academic excellence, participating in Honors and Phi Theta Kappa groups, Tutoring, and starting the Pre-Pharmacy Club on my campus. My being selected as a student intern for the Diversity Infusion Program was just an extra bonus!! Carpe Diem!!
Robyn Zei	My name is Robyn Zei I am in my third semester at SCC I am a graduate from Chaparral High School and after SCC I hope to attend San Diego State University with a major in nutrition. Because of my dedication to school and work I do not have any hobbies but while in high school I used to participate in musical plays and I took voice lessons which I loved. In the future I hope to have my own business where I will be a nutritionist who specializes in helping people with eating disorders. I am participating in the diversity infusion program because in the future I will be dealing with many different people from different backgrounds and if I am not knowledgeable about diversity I could possibly offend my patients.

The Diversity Infusion program has touched the lives of students who receive instruction in this special context, but who have not participated in the Diversity Infusion Internship Program. We have included links to examples of student projects from classes infused with diversity topics. Students who would like to contribute their experiences are invited to send information on a web form. Neil B. Jacob Adams Nicole Tomczyk Kristin Smith