2020
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Elizabeth Eppley
2020 AmeriCorps VISTA from North Central New Mexico Economic Development I hail from the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, where I completed my undergraduate degree in Anthropology from Appalachian State University. I was born and raised in Winston-Salem, NC and was drawn to the desert on a road trip about four years ago. I am excited to be here in New Mexico where, in addition to working as an Americorp VISTA for the Community Learning Network, I look forward to getting involved in the local agriculture and sustainability movements, as well as the art scene. I believe that the key to achieving better environmentally-friendly systems within the US and ending poverty is by empowering communities, and I am ready to enact this through my work here at CLN. |
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Najmeh Mousavi
2020 Facebook Career Connections Intern I am currently a Graphic Design student at Santa Fe Community College in Santa Fe, New Mexico. I am also an intern at Community Network Learning in the summer of 2020, working on Social Media and Marketing development and Graphic Design. During my career, I have served as Art and Science Teacher in an elementary school, and have had experiences in web design and children’s books illustration. I moved to New Mexico in 2013, and have been enchanted with its wonderful nature and vibrant culture ever since. |
Hello! My name is Amanda Powell and I am a local freelance photographer residing in Santa Fe. I am originally from Michigan, where I completed a BS in English Linguistics at Eastern Michigan University, with a minor in Graphic Communication. I made the transition to New Mexico four years ago, and have absolutely fallen in love with the Land of Enchantment - the landscape, people and culture here have truly captured my heart. I am excited to use my computer literacy, website building, and photography skills to help CLN make a difference in this wonderful community!
Bailey Aragon is a public affairs and communications professional in Washington, DC. She hails from New Mexico where she served in the administration of New Mexico Governor Susana Martinez. She also served as Policy Director for the New Mexico Association of Commerce and Industry, the state’s chamber of commerce. She is the President of the New Mexico Society of Washington, DC and is a member of the Junior League of Washington. Aragon holds a Bachelor of Arts in Strategic Communication from the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque.
Hi! My name is Barbara Leppala. I'm from Albuquerque, but I'm headed up to Santa Fe to attend St. John's College. I'm interested in public policy and community development, and I enjoy reading, cooking, and hiking. I'm looking forward to volunteering with the Community Learning Network to engage with my home state in new and exciting ways!
Brandon Adriano Ortiz is a recent graduate of the University of New Mexico’s Master of Architecture program with a certificate in Historic Preservation + Regionalism. He is a member of the Taos Pueblo community and is a practicing traditional micaceous potter. Brandon’s focus on the preservation of traditional craft and earthen construction methods doubles as an excuse to play with mud professionally. He believes that people and place are inextricably connected and this relationship is grounds for real change.
Hey I'm Brennan, and I am originally from New Mexico. I was born in Santa Fe, and up until recently have lived in Albuquerque most of my life. I am now residing in Des Moines, Iowa for the time being, but I still would like to help in any way I can. I develop and design websites and video games as a hobby and would like to put my technical skills to work in an impactful way. The future, especially now, is very uncertain. But I am confident that if we all focus on what we can do in the present to add value and help the lives of others, the future will be that much better for it.
Danielle Cadef is a jewelry artist in Durham, NC. As a native Floridian, the flora, fauna and landscapes are a continual inspiration in her work. She is self-taught utilizing the library and internet for education. Always fascinated by how people have adorned themselves, Danielle explores the history of jewelry and its techniques across time and cultures. She creates wearable art using materials from anywhere and everywhere, influenced by textures and shapes commonly found throughout the natural world. She recently has branched out into offering jewelry photo editing services, social media management and coaching, and web design to other jewelers and artist.
Hello! My name is Elizabeth Blake and I am a senior at Stonehill College in Easton, Massachusetts. I am studying computer science and data analytics. In addition to coding, I love swimming, attending group exercise classes, and going on retreats with my school. In my free time I also run the Stonehill Asian American Society club and manage my family's small business!
Ellen Humphreys is an actress and casting assistant at Midthunder Casting. She was born and raised in Oklahoma, went to college in Boston, and is based in Santa Fe.
Heather Brodie Perry lives in East Bridgewater Massachusetts and works as a Reference
Librarian/Assistant Professor at Stonehill College in Easton, Massachuses. She teaches courses about
the intersec$on of informa$on technology and social policy. She lives with her husband and three sons
on a small hobby farm of chickens, sheep and a very friendly pigs.
Librarian/Assistant Professor at Stonehill College in Easton, Massachuses. She teaches courses about
the intersec$on of informa$on technology and social policy. She lives with her husband and three sons
on a small hobby farm of chickens, sheep and a very friendly pigs.
My name is Jenn Scheer. I'm a designer and developer living in New York City. My habits and interests include learning, music, travel, art, movies, computers, earthy projects, making things, environmentalism.
My name is Julia Ulsh and I am a Senior at Villanova University! I am studying Computer Science and am actually staying at Villanova for an additional year to complete my Master's Degree in Computer Science as well. At Villanova, I am the Editor in Chief of the Belle Air Yearbook, a faith sharing group leader with Campus Ministry, a member of the Blue Key Society (tour guides on campus) and a member of the Irish Dance team. For fun, I love to make arts and crafts like scrapbooking, painting, and jewelry making. I also love to bake, cook, listen to music (especially Taylor Swift!), and spend time with my family, friends, and dogs!
Karanina Madden-Krall is an active participant in New Mexico's vibrant art community. With a BA in Art History, she has over 10 years experience in both for-profit and nonprofit art institutions; fundraising and development for the arts; and art collection archival management. She is currently pursuing her masters in art conservation, and a graduate certificate in Historic Preservation and Regionalism with UNM School of Architecture in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Hi! I am Katelyn Patchell. I am a junior in high school at Bosque School in Albuquerque, New Mexico. I love music and I am a classical singer. However, I am most interested in spending my life advocating for human rights issues. I believe our country doesn't do enough to best support Indigenous people. Lending a virtual hand is the least I can do to help out. I am excited to test my online skills, and learn from Native Artisans!
My name is Keily Castro Miranda. I am a 21 year old Mexican-American aspiring artist residing in Albuquerque, NM. I love doing film and photography projects, I think they are great tools for storytelling in our communities and a great portal to start having those hard healing convos in our with our sisters and brothers. Social justice work is very important to me and I think when you combine social justice with art it becomes a catharsis to bring forth change, justice, representation and community when we needed it the most and I hope my art can do that. I am also currently working on trying to open my own skin care line, and one day I hope I can combine all these forms of art and create a powerful community of change through them.
Lexi Boese: After creating her own speaking program for the public school district in Albuquerque at 20 years old, Lexi has gone on to become a communications entrepreneur. At 23, Lexi joined a biotechnology startup and created a strategy that not only commercialized its first 8 products worldwide but helped them raise over a quarter of a million dollars. Since then, she has commercialized other start-up organizations, ranging from biotechnology to kung-fu studios. As a writer, creative strategist, and communications expert, Lexi’s passions lie in understanding people and helping them match them with products or services that will better their lives. When she’s not working you can find her at Boese Brew Co supporting her husband’s businesses, or exploring the outdoors. She is currently working on her first novel.
Marissa DeAguero, from Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo is a student at Santa Fe Indian School and assisted with website building.
Mari Metzgar - My background and experience include communications, project management and process improvement. I have two degrees: a B.S. in Design and BBA in Computer Information Systems. I am the perfect ‘left-brain/right-brain’ person – I see solutions through a creative and technical view. I have worked as a virtual independent contractor for a number of years assisting with website maintenance and creation, communications and marketing. I want to be able to use my skill set to further connect and assist our community through the power of the Internet.
Hi! My name is Rachael Stegmaier, and I am a senior in college at the University of Puget Sound in Tacoma, Washington. I am majoring in Art History and minoring in Spanish. I’m originally from Albuquerque, New Mexico, and spent my entire life in the Southwest until the age of 18, so the Santa Fe Indian Market is an event that’s familiar to me. I hope that I can help in any way possible :)
Sofia Resnik is a visual artist and web designer from Albuquerque, NM. Sofia has a B.A. in Sociology and Minor in Studio Art from Occidental College in Los Angeles. Her academic focus is on urban sociology, particularly gentrification. Sofia has worked as an assistant art teacher at the Albuquerque Museum for 9 years as well as volunteered with at-risk preschoolers and teenagers. Sofia's mission is to work at the intersection of academics, art, and activism.
Willie Hoag - I am a 37 year old graphic designer running a creative services business with offices in San Francisco, CA and Albuquerque, NM. I specialize in development for e-commerce businesses and offer asset creation services from branding, to web development, and content creation. My design principles were cultivated within the worlds of skateboarding and Hip-Hop which have allowed me to align with unique brands and causes I am passionate about. I stand as a community member with devotion to those around me affected during these trying times.
Ray Heil is a senior at Mandela International Magnet School in Santa Fe. He enjoys doing website maintenance and other tech support for small nonprofit organizations and individuals. In his free time, Ray likes to create adventures for the roleplaying game Dungeons & Dragons and play with his dog, Bug. By volunteering with Community Learning Network, Ray hopes to be able to work with more people and focus on different areas of tech support.
Brayam Gonzalez is a College Student studying Computer Science at Santa Fe Community College In Santa Fe, NM. His Main field of interest in Computer Science in Web Development and is working with PROTEC to get an internship this summer. He is very curious always wanting to learn more and enjoys walking a Shih Tzu puppy called Meme.
Hi my name is Courtenae Magdalena. I am from Jemez Pueblo and I am half Navajo as well. I am currently a tribal employee in Ohkay Owingeh. I work for Pathway to Success Youth Program as a project coordinator for Strategic Prevention Framework-Partnership for Success through SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration). I am also a part-time college student at Santa Fe Community College. I am currently a Graphic Design student. My interest is in designing/media/technology. I also like to play video games on my spare time and take my tog for walks and runs.
Lynne Hendrick - I am a professional artist and designer. I was an art instructor for a number of years in California, both at the Community College level and at the University level. I moved on to the field of Travel. I was a Tour Director for over 20 years, teaching history, geology, flora, fauna, and the current politics affecting our National Parks in New Mexico, Utah, Colorado, Arizona, Wyoming, South Dakota, Montana, Hawaii and California.
My name is Pema Dema and I am currently a Social Work major at the University of Portland. I was born in Bhutan and moved to Santa Fe, NM which has been home for me ever since. I love widening my range of perspectives and enjoying life to the fullest. I hope to improve many communities and lives in one way or another in my lifetime.
Tash Deschenie is a gifted artist and learning facilitator. As a member of the Navajo Nation, she has assisted with hosting numerous visiting college and high school groups in Dinétah (the Navajo Nation) over the years. She has also served as an AmeriCorps Vista member in the educational field.
2019
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Emily Cole
2019 AmeriCorps VISTA from North Central New Mexico Economic Development became interested in the Americorps VISTA volunteer program because I wanted to learn how nonprofits operate and sharpen my writing and communication skills. I graduated from Fort Lewis College in Durango, Colorado with a bachelors degree in International Business. I have a passion for working with people from different backgrounds and life experiences and sharing our cultures with each other. With my time in Santa Fe, I hope to assist the community in expanding opportunities for untraditional learning and increase funding and awareness for various projects that are going on within the community. I look forward to being a part of the warm and close-knit community of Santa Fe. My personal interests are traveling, trying new foods, meeting new people and rock climbing. Lhadze Bosiljevac
2019 AmeriCorps VISTA from Opportunity Santa Fe Lhadze Bosiljevac is an AmeriCorps VISTA serving at Opportunity Santa Fe, an initiative of the Santa Fe Community Foundation. Christopher Torres
2019 AmeriCorps VISTA from Opportunity Santa Fe Christopher Torres is a VISTA Backbone Support Coordinator serving at Opportunity Santa Fe, an initiative of the Santa Fe Community Foundation. Christopher oversees ongoing relations with partnering organizations in his service towards AmeriCorps. As an AmeriCorps member, he has helped undertake multiple tasks including but not limited to tutoring, conflict resolution, problem solving, working with volunteers, event organization, publicity, fundraising/resource development, community outreach, and research/data analysis. In his youth, Christopher gained firsthand knowledge of the struggles of the impoverished community and has since made it his goal to grow, learn, and assist in community service endeavors. In his spare time, he enjoys the sublime splendor of nature’s beauty and escapes off into one of his novels embracing the peaceful and tranquil moments of everyday life. |
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Zia Noisecat
2019 Intern I graduated from the Santa Fe Indian School in spring 2019 and will be attending Carleton College in the fall. I am currently assisting with research, reporting, program development, and educational facilitation with New Mexico TechWorks and the Community Learning Network. I shadow doctors and nurses in fields of medicine that interest me as part of the HEP program. |
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Christa Marti
2019 Intern |
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Evan Jr. Mendez
2019 VISTA Summer Associate I am from San Luis, Colorado, it is the oldest town in Colorado. I am a veteran and attended New Mexico Highlands University (NMHU), in Las Vegas, NM. I have spent most of my time working a small family ranch, helping my parents in San Luis,CO, and living in Denver, CO. I heard about being an AmeriCorps VISTA by participating in a program called PROTEC through Santa Fe Community College (SFCC) in Santa Fe, New Mexico. I have an interest in Tech so I thought participating in VISTA through TechHire Santa Fe would help me gain the skills I needed to pursue a job in tech. I am learning basic programming fundamentals: HTML, CSS, and JavaScript and meeting with local tech leaders. |
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Lisle Faust
2019 VISTA Summer Associate I am an AmeriCorps Summer Associate working at New Mexico TechWorks, where I am excited to spread my passion for technology and connect with the community. This fall, I will be starting at Trinity University in San Antonio, Texas. I am hoping to double major in computer science and political science. During my sophomore and junior years of high school, I participated in the New Mexico Supercomputing Challenge with a few of my classmates. For our project, my teammates and I built a model to find the best placement of smog reducing materials in an urban environment and it won first place during the Awards Ceremony in the spring of 2017. I am a born and raised Santa Fean and am grateful for growing up in a friendly, inclusive and supportive community. I enjoy watching movie marathons (especially Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, and the entire Marvel universe), flying drones, and going camping and river rafting with my family. |
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Tash Deschenie
2019 VISTA Summer Associate Tash Deschenie is a student and Tech staff member at San Juan Community College in Farmington, New Mexico. She also served as a Vista Volunteer and Coordinator at the Dream Dine' Charter School in Shiprock, New Mexico. Tash is a gifted artist and learning facilitator. She has also assisted as a host team member with numerous visiting college and high school groups in Dinetah (Navajo Nation) over the years. |
2018
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Mary O'Connor
2018 Intern “As an exchange student at Villanova University, I got the opportunity to do a service trip during my Fall break with Community Learning Network in Santa Fe. After a week of sleeping outdoors in a tipi in Dulce, I completely fell in love with New Mexico, it’s landscape, and the myriad of cultures and histories that weave threads across the everyday walks of life. Originally from a small sheep farm in the hill of the southwest of Ireland, I decided to return to learn more about the wonders of Santa Fe in the summer as a Communications Associate. My primary responsibilities are digital marketing, managing social media, documenting events, and blogging about the work of Community Learning Network. I have learned so much from experiences and times in an entirely different world from that which I was raised in. My mind has expanded to the limits of the horizon as I have spent time learning from indigenous leaders, members of the Hispanic community, and from the people of Santa Fe itself. The charm of the Land of Enchantment is its ability to touch the mind and open the soul to the world.” |
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Rebecca Darling
2018 Intern My time with Community Learning Network shaped my college education and path in life. I got the chance in intern with CLN after my freshman year of college. I saw firsthand how important it is to respect the Earth as well as each other. I switched my major to Sociology and began to learn about social issues, systems and constructs. I really started to see things clearly for the first time and felt called to give back and create positive change. During my internship with CLN I got to learn more about Native American spiritual practices and sustainable farming techniques. We brought a group of high school students to Taos and worked alongside the people at the Taos Pueblo. It was amazing seeing the students grow and learn. I am excited to be returning this summer to intern with CLN. It is wonderful to see how this group has grown and evolved to meet the changing needs of their communities. I can’t wait to help with the tech initiatives and see how increasing internet access and Computer Science education will help to decrease the digital divide in our country. |
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Geneva Hancock
2018 Intern As a mentor for Stonehill College’s Justice Scholars Program, I was given the opportunity to fly out to Santa Fe, New Mexico for one week after my graduation to serve with the Community Learning Network. While there, I was immediately immersed in the rich culture of Santa Fe and its surrounding communities. I volunteered at a local farm, met with community leaders to listen to their stories, visited museums and some of the oldest churches in the country, had the freedom to explore the city, and even helped out at a local horse shelter. Although I set out on this journey by myself, everyone I met during my travels brought me in as a part of their family. The positive energy that embodies Santa Fe radiates from all who reside there, and anyone who is lucky enough to visit will feel it too. This opportunity has allowed me to explore and advance in my own spirituality, as well as learn about the complex history of one of the oldest cities in America by entirely immersing myself in its culture. I am so grateful for the Stonehill College Justice Scholars Program, for giving me endless support throughout the entirety of my journey, and the Community Learning Network, especially Jennifer Case Nevarez, for making my experience in the Land of Enchantment absolutely unforgettable. I will be back soon. |
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Matt Moschella
2018 Intern I’ve had the pleasure of working with and learning from Jennifer on two separate occasions through Community Learning Network. As a student of philosophy, psychology, and religion, I came to New Mexico searching for ways to live – particularly one that felt right for me. During my two stays I farmed, painted, taught code, and helped design websites. Working as a part of Community Learning Network and modeling after Jennifer, its CEO, I was able to offer my abilities to the people I met. I trusted them to hone my skills and guide me to new places, new friends, and new understandings of the world. I was lead to engage in the strengthening of community with openness to possibility and the willingness to serve and learn. By becoming a part of the lives of others I found my place in New Mexico and with gratitude to those who guided me along the way I discovered the joy of working for with and in community. I am now looking to pursue a degree in clinical psychology and enthusiastic to live the lessons I’ve learnt from my time in the Land of Enchantment. |
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Victoria Pitz
2018 Intern I am so thrilled to be returning to Santa Fe for my third consecutive year! I am a senior at Fordham University in New York City and my southwestern journey began in the summer of 2016 on a Fordham Global Outreach trip. In 2017 I had the opportunity to return to New Mexico to work with Community Learning Network. We facilitated a high school service-learning experience from Santa Fe to Taos and back. Afterwards, friends and I had the unique opportunity to visit with Dr. Larry Emerson in Navajo, NM, whom I had met the previous summer. There, we worked on his farm, discussed life since we’d last crossed paths, and how we could incorporate our experiences out west into our future endeavors. Unfortunately, Dr. Emerson passed away last fall, however, I have held close to my heart the lessons I learned and the unique opportunity I had being one of the last students he’d ever taught. Since my last visit to the land of enchantment, I began my training & fundraising for the NYC marathon, taught English to refugees living in the Bronx, worked with homeless families in New Orleans, had my classical composition inspired by south western artwork performed in NYC, and took on a role as Managing Editor for CURA Magazine, a literary magazine for art & action. While the year since I’ve left has been full of miracles and super inspiring people from across the map, there’s nothing I enjoy more than visiting Jennifer and working with Community Learning Network— working in an enchanting setting and promoting unbelievable real-life learning with real-life people has given me the strength, confidence, and peace of mind I needed, knowing now that I can have fun doing what I love while making an impact (and allowing myself to be impacted by) the people around me. This all too often seems impossible, but is in fact the real-life experience and mission of CLN which is why I will keep returning to satisfy my zest for connection and adventure. Yet, no matter how many trips I take, it always leaves me hungry for more— therein lies the real-life magic. Thank you, Community Learning Network! |
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JC Ramirez
2018 VISTA Summer Associates My name is JC Ramirez, I am a DREAMER from Aguascalientes, Mexico. I have been making an effort to be a part of my community ever since before I graduated from Capital High School in the top 10% of my class. During high school I was able to be introduced to the active members of my community from the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Members through my life mentor Roy Martinez. Thanks to his efforts in making sure students have the extra help they need in developing their own skills in their own passions, I was interested in helping other students do the same. After high school, I was able to be an AVID tutor for students who were planning on being their family’s first generation to attend college just as I had done going to UNM. To this day, with all my students, I will always do my best to ignite the sense of striving for their goals no matter what they perceive their obstacles might be. With the help of the VISTA program, I will continue to reach more students and meet new people who will want to do the same. |
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Liz Guthrie
2018 VISTA Summer Associates "I am a senior studying computer science, but I also studied psychology for a couple of years before switching my majors. My greatest interest lies in becoming a software engineer after graduation, but I also care about giving back to the community. Because I didn't yet know what I would be doing, AmeriCorps VISTA was a great opportunity for me to be able to both give back and develop my own skills and network. It's important to me to promote competency with technology in the community because I believe that it will be key to improving standards of living, driving learning and discovery, and securing a brighter future. Techhire has allowed me to meet a lot of people working in a wide variety of jobs in technology and learn what they do. It's been a gift for me to experience the unique culture and community in Santa Fe, and I've particularly enjoyed being able to experience a community that is so rich in artists. I feel truly blessed being able to work for Jennifer Nevarez and meet so many people working in the tech industry." |
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Alexis Rodriguez
2018 VISTA Summer Associates "My name is Alexis Rodriguez, I am an ambitious 18 year old college freshman with the mindset of pursuing a technical career. I graduated from Capital High School in May 2018, and decided to get deeper into the technology field. I have always had an interest within technology, whether it is the exterior or interior perspective of it, I tend to enjoy it all. I have some experience in graphic design, photography, website designing (front & back end). Throughout high school, I was enrolled in the design pathway, as well in a film class, and I have found a passion in technology. I believe that I can be very creative when I get an opportunity for something. My Senior Year at Capital, I was the boy’s varsity team captain and it was a great responsibility that I needed to manage. My liability as a leader has been demonstrated as I engage in other people's perspectives and ideas. I ensure that I allow decision-making within my group and so that the most efficient solution is delivered. Therefore, I was never so responsive to the role because I feel that my type of leadership is that of a team effort build up. It was my duty to make sure we communicated as a team, not to communicate for the team. I never ran the team by myself, I accounted many of my teammates to help me through the season. I love to be productive in many aspects, and working with computers is a big one. As I look back into the past, I recognize that I have accomplished many things because of technology. Therefore, I decided to engage into my community through the AmeriCorps Vista Program. I was motivated to try Opportunity Santa Fe because of the people around me. I was inspired by my parents, my teachers, my colleagues and my girlfriend. Therefore, I dived into this program to explore the many career opportunities that Santa Fe has to offer. As a Vista intern I have truly seen and learned a large array of things. All of which have motivated me to become more involved with the community and the various professionals within it. One day I know I will be thanking Americorps for selecting me as an intern and hope to obtain a career." |
2017
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Louise Majorey
2017 AmeriCorps VISTA from Opportunity Santa Fe She has been a resident of Santa Fe for over 12 years, having moved here from Virginia where she was teaching Fashion Merchandising and Design at Radford University. Since moving to New Mexico she has been a Family and Consumer Science teacher in the Pojoaque Middle School and Los Alamos High School. She is looking forward to serving as a VISTA and the Santa Fe community in an education related project. In her spare time she enjoys gardening and spending time with her little sister from Big Brothers Big Sisters. |
2017 Interns
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Mario Martinez
2017 Intern Mario is a young Northern New Mexican filmmaker, photographer, and creative. His focus is on advocating for free speech and expression through all forms of media. Martinez's journey has only started and will expand rapidly. A resident of Northern New Mexico headed to Las Cruces to pursue a college degree in filmmaking, his talent and expertise has been a great addition to the New Mexico TechWorks project. A summer intern for Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), we are grateful to both he and LANL for their effort and support of the NM TechWorks Career Profile project. You can check out the video interviews he created online in our video bank at www.nmtechworks.com |
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Monica Barton
2017 Intern I graduated from Fordham University this past May, and I will be attending Boston College Law School in the fall. Last summer, I participated in a Global Outreach project through Fordham in the Navajo nation. There I fell in love with the South West, the Navajo nation, and the work Community Learning Network does. Their work is what drew me back again this summer, and I am so grateful for the opportunity. |
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Stephanie Leo
2017 Intern I'm a senior at Fordham university studying International Political Economy. In May of 2016, I participated in Fordham's Global Outreach program and was introduced to the wonders of New Mexico and the Navajo nation. Since my initial trip, I have been interested in learning more about the southwest and native cultures. When I heard about this opportunity I knew I could not pass up the chance to return to New Mexico to live, work, and explore the land of enchantment while working with this great organization and engaging in an immersive learning experience. |
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Victoria Pitz
2017 Intern "I'm a junior at Fordham University in New York City and will pursue a career as a music therapist and writer. In May of 2016, I participated in Fordham's Global Outreach program which brought me to New Mexico/the Navajo Nation. Since then I've been enthralled with hiking/exploring in the southwest, learning about native cultures and sharing stories with others. Being that my previous trip carved a special place in my heart, I couldn't help but reach out to Jennifer upon reading an article she posted about "a calling to return" to the "Land of Enchantment." I am excited to be returning to New Mexico with two of my closest friends to work, live, explore and most importantly share stories with New and old faces. Forever thankful for this outstanding organization and for introducing me to my true passion, hands-on real-life learning! |
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Alexandra Marshall
2017 Intern Alexandra is joining us this spring from San Antonio, Texas.. Founder of FreeSpiritPresss.com, Alex is a talented website designer and creative spirit with a love for wellness, travel, and web design. Stay tuned to see how she works her creative magic! We are grateful for her good spirit and appreciate the talent she brings to our team. We look forward to her help with the "Love Where We Live" Tell It Like It Is Youth Media Team student pilot project with Tierra Encantada and web media classes she is scheduling to teach at Make Santa Fe. In the meantime, check out her website at www.freespiritpress.com . |
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Carly Gordon
2017 Intern Carly Gordon is a sophomore student from the Bay Area in California. She is a math and mechanical engineering double major at Howard University in Washington, DC. She first traveled to Shiprock as a high school student and immediately fell in love. Since then, she has come back as an intern to assist with the educational immersion program. She hopes to return again soon. |
2016
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Hilary Douglas
2016 Intern Hilary Douglas graduated from the University of Mary Washington in 2014, where she studied Sociology. Growing up, she attended a school system where many of her peers were of a lower socioeconomic status. This instilled the belief in her that access to health and education should be available to all. After hearing about the Community Learning Network, Hilary was extremely excited to be a part of their efforts to inspire the youth of Santa Fe, NM. This is her first trip to New Mexico, but she is sure that she will return soon. Haela Booth-Howe 2016 Intern Haela graduated from Stonehill College in 2016, where she majored in Health Sciences. She is passionate about promoting health & wellness for all people, education, and worldwide travel. She fell in love with the land and people of New Mexico on a week long service-immersion trip her senior year and couldn't wait to return to this truly beautiful place. In August of 2016 she is beginning a year of service in the Dominican Republic, where she will be teaching English to elementary-aged children. Download a copy of our cool book of recipes!
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Amber Weir
2016 Intern Amber Weir is a student at the University of Texas in Austin where she studies Public Relations. She has always been attracted to the mission of nonprofits and hopes to work for one after she graduates. She is a Young Life leader at a lower socioeconomic school in South Austin where she is a mentor to high school students. This experience has formed a passion for low income populations and children’s education. |
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Maddie Plansky
2016 Intern Maddie Plansky has a passion for learning, travel, and meeting new people. She first experienced the magic of New Mexico in October 2015, where she spent the week in Little Rock. She quickly found herself buying a ticket back, and will forever be grateful towards Jennifer for giving her a life-changing week in Santa Fe and Taos. Maddie treasures the relationships she fostered with all different beautiful people. She is now going into her third year at Villanova University studying psychology and communications. She will spend the next few months of her life exploring Copenhagen and all of Europe. No matter what, New Mexico will always hold a strong place in Maddie's heart and she is sure she will be back soon! |
2015
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Alexandra Nevarez
2015 Intern Alexandra Nevarez attends the University of Texas in Austin. She is a sophomore in the McCombs School of Business. She is currently on the quest for balance between her love for all art forms, her curiosity in marketing and consumer behavior, and her fascination with the interconnectedness of humankind. Rebecca Darling 2015 Intern Rebecca Darling is a student at St. Edward’s University in Austin, TX. She hopes to join the alternative learning community as a teacher when she graduates. She is also a gifted musician and singer and can be seen performing in Austin regularly. To read the article published in the Greenfire Times magazine that Alexandra and Rebecca wrote about their experience as interns with Community Learning Network this summer, click below! |
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Jordan LIndsay
2015 Intern Jordan Lindsay is a Freshman student at Mississippi State University in Starkville, Mississippi. She wants to be a chemical engineer and is concerned about water and the environment. Thanks for joining us this summer! Your skill, tenacious attention to details, adaptability, and giant heart (and beautiful voice) were a huge blessing for all of us!! Looking forward to your return in 2016 (and we miss singing along with you to Ed Sheeran, Sam Smith, Dixie Chicks, Michael Jackson "We are the World,"... and of course, The Lion King) "New Mexico is one of the most beautiful places I've ever experienced. Instead of being focused on material possessions, people seemed far more interested in self improvement and giving to the community, especially in Navajo Nation. Spending time living in and learning about an often overlooked culture was so eye-opening to the way I live my everyday life. I met several wonderful people that I love dearly and can't wait see again! As for the hogan, it's an experience like no other...The biggest thing for me was the idea of a cyclic life, represented by the four directions. I learned about mindfulness, divine action, family and ancestors, and gratitude. It was amazing to walk in there in the morning after sunrise and see yet another example of how to grow as a person in a global community." ~ Jordan Lindsay |
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Maggie Chen
2015 Intern Maggie Chen a student at Fordham University in New York. She is studying International Studies and is a gifted photographer. We are fond of her adventurous, dauntless spirit and so appreciated her presence this summer. As she said so aptly, " Those who are awake lives in constant amazement." "I would like to thank Jennifer Case Nevarez for this amazing opportunity to be a fly-in intern for Community Learning Network. This time in Santa Fe, New Mexico was an experience of a life time. I've met some amazing, talented kids and bonded with indigenous people from all over the world. I've shared peace and love with many diverse cultures and learned about their traditions. I wouldn't have had this opportunity to learn, grow and expand if it wasn't for her. It was such a blessing and every single moment was much appreciated! As Jennifer stated " material things will come and go but experience will never leave you." ~ Maggie Cheng |
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Tash Deschenie
2015 Intern Tash Deschenie is a student at San Juan Community College in Farmington, New Mexico. Last year she served as a Vista Volunteer and Coordinator at the Dream Dine' Charter School in Shiprock, New Mexico. Tash is a gifted artist and learning facilitator. This summer she participated in our Santa Fe Fordham Alumni trip, but has also assisted as a host team member with numerous visiting college and high school groups in Dinetah (Navajo Nation) over the years. |
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You Can Make a Donation to Support our Internship Program!
All Contributions are Tax-deductible!
Tax-deductible donations accepted online here:
Or mail tax-deductible donation checks to Community Learning Network Internship Program PO Box 33423 Santa Fe, NM 87594 USA
