ChiEAC TEAM

FOUNDER and EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

I stopped teaching at a small Hispanic-Serving Institution in 2019 because needs of our students were being communicated to the administration and not being addressed. Seeing this as systemically problematic, I left.

ChiEAC was born during the pandemic with a substantial portion of my retirement money ($15k) and a $4,500 grant from the government in 2020 that I still have no idea where it came from.

Over the years, ChiEAC has grown from an organization focused on serving the needs of undocumented college students. We currently work with students at all levels of the academic spectrum K-Adult Education.

When Benjamin is not serving the needs of South Chicago students and families, he values spending time with friends and family, supporting local coffee shops, making soup, trying to learn how to dance, and training jiu jitsu.

CHIEF STRATEGY OFFICER

Diagnosed with a terminal illness in 2023, I turned my fight for survival into a mission of legacy - founding TreeXLines as a healing bridge between communities, cultures, and consciousness. With over 30 years in healthcare, education, and leadership, I now lead as a voice for plant medicine, mental health, and decolonized wellness rooted in spirit, culture, and radical self-care. I joined ChiEAC in 2025 to provide critical strategic insight that is helping to guide the organization into the future while preserving the mission and vision.

CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER

Arely A. Anaya is a bilingual advocate for social, environmental, and economic equity, with a strong background in development, communications, and community engagement. She holds a BA in Global Studies and is pursuing a Master’s in Geography and Environmental Studies at Northeastern Illinois University. With extensive experience in program management and strategic outreach, Arely has led statewide advocacy efforts, built over 480 partnerships, and championed labor and environmental justice. A recent LEAFS Fellow and recipient of the 2024 Emerging Leader Award from Breaking It Down, she brings both grassroots and strategic expertise to her work. Her focus remains on equity, community empowerment, and systemic change.

EDUCATION JUSTICE FELLOW

Sabian Murry is a third-year student at the University of Chicago studying Human Rights with a pre-law focus. Passionate about education and the law, Sabian aspires to return to her roots in the South and advance underprivileged communities through pro-bono work. 

She currently mentors high school students on navigating the college application process, helping curate applications, revise personal essays, and increase interview skills.

Her other passions include watching movies, reading books, and building Lego's!

BUSINESS ANALYTICS & STRATEGY MANAGER

I joined ChiEAC not just to take a job, but to help build something transformative. As a first-generation student from a small town in India, I’ve seen how education uplifts communities.

My journey — from earning a Master’s in Computer Science Engineering, leading technical teams for 5 years, working on client projects, to completing an MBA in Analytics, Strategy, and Entrepreneurship at Babson College — has been shaped by one belief: impactful business is about purpose, not profit alone. My role at ChiEAC is entrepreneurial in nature: analyzing data and problems, designing solutions, and redefining growth strategy.

I work closely with leadership to explore business models and roadmaps that expand our impact. I’m on a mission to apply my expertise in technology, project management, analytics, entrepreneurship, and human-centered leadership to solve real-world problems in education and employment — turning challenges into opportunities and growth. Opportunities for anyone should never be limited by circumstances.

PROGRAM MANAGER

Sophia is a student at Oakton College currently pursuing a degree in business. She is committed to applying what she learns in the classroom to real-world settings. Known for her strong organizational skills and attention to detail, Sophia is also an Excel spreadsheet professional, skilled in creating data-driven reports, tracking budgets, and developing efficient systems for organizing information. Her growing expertise in business and data management positions her as a valuable contributor in both academic and professional environments.

DATA STRATEGY COORDINATOR

Pursuing a B.S. in Statistics and Machine Learning at Carnegie Mellon University, with a focus on scalable, impact-driven data solutions. I specialize in predictive analytics, AI/ML applications, and building ETL pipelines that transform raw data into actionable insight. My work spans education equity research, survey design, and community-focused web development, combining technical depth with human-centered design. I’m passionate about applying advanced analytics and ethical tech to drive both social impact and innovation.

LEGAL CLINIC COORDINATOR

Alexa is an undergraduate student at the University of Chicago, originally hailing from Georgia with roots in Honduras. With a deep passion for social justice, Alexa is dedicated to addressing systemic inequities and empowering underserved communities. As a Legal Services Advocate, she leverages her academic knowledge and lived experiences to provide compassionate support to individuals navigating legal challenges. Her work emphasizes accessibility, advocacy, and the protection of fundamental rights, aligning with her commitment to fostering equity and justice. Whether through her studies, advocacy, or community engagement, Alexa is driven to make a meaningful impact on campus and beyond.

HEALTH EDUCATION COORDINATOR

Rian is a student at the University of Chicago, studying biology with a focus in neuroscience. She has worked on different health and science promotion programs throughout her educational career and is deeply interested in facilitating the accessibility of science and health education. Rian is from Houston, a city known for its large-scale health system, and she aspires to eventually work as a physician that plays a role in making the understanding of health, and the science behind it, an accessible component in underserved communities that are continually overlooked by such systems.

FAMILY EDUCATION COORDINATOR

Millie Bell, a first-year at University of Chicago pursuing degrees in biology and medicine, serves as a Community Mental Health Advocate at ChiEAC. An avid violinist since the age of three, Millie balances her love for music with her academic and extracurricular pursuits. In high school, she was a local journalist covering topics like extracurricular activities, academics, and how current events shape student experiences.

In her free time, Millie enjoys bullet journaling, listening to music, and spending time with friends. Whether exploring new coffee shops in Chicago or hunting for treasures in thrift stores, Millie’s curiosity and creativity shine through in all aspects of her life.

MENTAL WELLNESS COORDINATOR

Litzy Tafolla is a second-year student at the University of Chicago, majoring in Psychology with a pre-health emphasis. Passionate about the intersection of mental health, community engagement, and creative expression, Litzy serves as the Mental Wellness Coordinator for the Chicago Education Advocacy Cooperative (ChiEAC). In this role, she designs and facilitates programs aimed at promoting emotional wellness and resilience among diverse student communities.

Litzy actively integrates culturally responsive practices into mental health support, leveraging her background in psychology to create meaningful connections and foster environments where students feel seen, heard, and valued.

Her dedication and innovative approach significantly contribute to ChiEAC’s mission of supporting the holistic well-being and academic success of students across Chicago.