ChiEAC TEAM

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR and ADVOCACY COORDINATOR

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 trying to connect with people on LinkedIn, drafting an article of interest to someone, or talking to New Arrivals in the Jewel parking lot, he spends time with family and friends.

Benjamin also trains jiu jitsu which is a guiding philosophy for much of the work we do. We work hard.

DIRECTOR of COMMUNITY COMMUNICATIONS

I am a bilingual communications professional from Venezuela, with a robust background in traditional and digital marketing, strategic communications, and public relations. Holding a Bachelor's degree in Communications and Journalism, I bring a wealth of experience, having worked across multicultural markets where I’ve developed a versatile skill set. My professional journey has been driven by a passion for innovation, technology, and sustainability, and I am committed to initiatives that foster positive change for both individuals and communities.

Since immigrating to the U.S., I have excelled in customer service and client success roles with multinational companies, where I’ve honed my ability to navigate diverse, dynamic markets. I am dedicated to creating meaningful connections, whether through providing exceptional service or supporting organizational growth. Helping people—whether through fostering effective communication, supporting business success, or contributing to social impact—is what truly drives me.

DIRECTOR of COMMUNITY HEALTH EDUCATION

Hey everyone…I am passionate about making a difference in underserved communities through mental health advocacy and education. As first-generation Latina graduate student, I know the challenges experienced by others in my culture. I work with ChiEAC to improve the health knowledge of the communities we serve.

As a graduate student in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a focus on Athletic Counseling, I combine my background in psychology, counseling, and community outreach to create meaningful change.

I am also eagerly seeking research opportunities with scholars in areas related to Athletic Counseling…any leads…let me know!

Whether I’m mentoring students, supporting families, or empowering others through research and workshops, my goal is to bring culturally relevant care and inspiration to those who need it most.

DIRECTOR of EDUCATIONAL INNOVATIONS

Giselle is a proud Chicago Southsider. For undergrad, she attended DePauw University where she studied Education Studies. After graduating from DePauw, she went on to get her Masters of Education in elementary education. Giselle is currently an elementary bilingual teacher in the Chicago Public School system and loves working with her fourth graders so much! She has served in various roles at CHIEAC including hosting English classes, and working directly with families to resolve educational needs. Community is important for Giselle and she hopes that throughout her time at CHIEAC, she continues to build community with the amazing people that she comes across as well as meet any of their needs. 

COMMUNITY LEGAL EDUCATION 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.

COMMUNITY 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.

COMMUNITY RESOURCE NAVIGATOR

My name is Alondra. I’m 19 years old, Mexican, and the third of five siblings. My grandmother named me, though I’m not sure she remembers that now. I first met her when my family and I moved to the U.S. in 2014. Since then, a lot has changed. I’ve learned to play the violin, become fluent in English, made friends, finished high school, and now I’m starting college. Above all, I’m proud to be a daughter, sister, and aunt. Every day, I strive to be honest, kind, and fair—not just for others, but also for myself.