Keeper of the Dream

Growing up, Thy Hoang’s mother always told her to correct her peers, saying: “We are not immigrants; we are refugees.” To Hoang, this detail embodied her family’s struggles with discrimination as displaced migrants of the Vietnam War. “As the daughter of two refugees, I empathize with the challenges minorities face in America and have been inspired to dedicate my life to advocating for a more equitable future,” Hoang says. 

This dedication is mirrored in every facet of Hoang’s life. Whether it’s implementing new organizational plans in the Golden Grizzly Pantry to support students facing financial insecurities, helping others though her work as a calculus tutor and human anatomy teaching assistant, or volunteering for the Gender and Sexuality Center — Hoang believes that instilling confidence in others will reflect the communities they’ll later serve. Her drive transcends OU’s borders: Off campus, Hoang serves as an emergency department ambassador at Ascension, a physical therapy technician with Team Rehabilitation and a volunteer with World Medical Relief — always striving to better the lives of those around her.

Majoring in studio art and clinical and diagnostic sciences, Hoang uses her art to share underrepresented stories. Most notably, her series “Telling Asian Stories,” which spotlights microaggressions and racism against Asian-Americans, reached millions of people, even winning her the Congressional Art Competition twice. 

In the classroom, Rachel Reynolds Zahorsky, special lecturer in Studio Art, noticed Hoang’s commitment to observing, listening and learning right away. “In each area of study, she uses her skills to advocate for others and to forge connections with her community,” Zahorsky says. “Thy’s artwork often includes representation of people communicating content through intimate personal scenes.”

Hoang’s commitment to lifting others does not go unnoticed elsewhere. Career and Life Design Coach Yejie Lee often works with students to dispel the myth that success follows a single, predetermined path. “Thy is the embodiment of this mindset,” Lee says. “Not only has she excelled in her passion for art—showcasing her creativity and earning recognition in various exhibitions—but she has also cultivated her love for helping others through her double major in studio art and clinical diagnostics. This unique blend of artistic talent and a commitment to making a tangible difference in the medical field is a testament to her vision and versatility.”

As a student and teaching assistant in the class of Christopher Kauhn, special lecturer in the Department of Biological Sciences, Hoang has applied her convictions to her learning and teaching methods. “Thy is an intelligent and compassionate person who possesses attributes which are necessary to become a conscientious future leader in health care and an advocator of societal change,” Kauhn says. “As a lecturer, I am extremely thankful for having teaching assistants like Thy and believe she will pioneer meaningful change with her leadership, unwavering positivity and focus on uplifting marginalized groups.”

Living in several African countries while growing up shaped Fatoumata Samb’s perspective of the world. Samb attended international schools in Senegal, Mali, Guinea, Tunisia and the Ivory Coast – an experience that connected her with people of diverse backgrounds and laid the foundation for her dedication to promoting diversity and fostering understanding.

When Samb came to OU as an international student, she became active in leadership positions on campus — all geared toward creating an inclusive environment. “When I arrived at Oakland University, I felt like I rediscovered myself yet again,” Samb says. “I was welcomed into a new society with different challenges and realities, and I quickly found a family far from home. This support has been a source of inspiration and motivation for me.”

This inspiration translated into Samb becoming the vice president of the African Student Union (ASU), where she tirelessly works to share African culture and diversity with the campus community. Kwame Sakyi, Ph.D., who serves as the adviser to the African Student Union, describes Samb as a motivated leader who strives to make students feel welcome and integrated — whether it's through participation in activities, help with navigating college resources or building community. “She is committed to promoting multiculturalism at OU. She wants to foster unity among African students and does not want them isolated within their inner group. She envisions them as a central part of campus culture and diversity,” Sakyi says, adding that Samb becoming ASU vice president is the first time an undergraduate student has been in such a position of power within the organization.

In addition to her work within the ASU, Samb is a stellar student with a GPA of 3.97 working toward a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition. She also serves as a resident assistant, peer mentor with the Center for Multicultural Initiatives and orientation group leader with Orientation and New Student Programs (ONSP).

Celeste Huff, ONSP coordinator, says as an orientation group leader, Samb creates a welcoming environment for incoming freshmen and their families. “While one of the main goals of orientation is the course registration piece, Fatou's main goal for the students was to create a sense of belonging for her students. She made and maintained connections throughout the summer where her students would ask questions or needed additional support,” Huff says.

As a peer mentor in the Center for Multicultural Initiatives, Samb builds positive and supportive relationships with student participants and serves as a role model and mentor. Chad Martinez, director of Title IX and Compliance, describes Samb as a dedicated leader in her campus leadership roles. “Fatoumata's empathetic nature and willingness to support her peers through academic and social challenges make her a key figure in our community. Her unique perspective, shaped by her international experiences, adds depth to her interactions and enhances her ability to promote intercultural understanding,” Martinez says.

Dance is an instrument for expression, community and breaking cultural barriers for Aliyah Spears. Pursuing her dream of becoming a dancer and dance educator, Spears makes an impact by tying together her artistry and commitment to social and racial justice - on and off stage. “Simply showing up for myself and my artform every day has put me in the position to break the stereotypes of women of color being unable to pursue their passions,” Spears says. “This is pertinent in the field of dance, an artform that has traditionally been dominated by Western European aesthetics. This has caused many young dancers, especially of color, to cease their pursuits.”

Spears, who is majoring in dance with a K-12 Dance Education Certification, is active as a community leader at Oakland University and beyond: She is a member of the Michigan Dance Council, part of the student leadership cohort of the National Dance Educators Organization and vice president of the GrizzOrg D.A.N.C.E.R.S. Board. Spears co-created a cohort of African American collegiate dancers to support and raise awareness for the Black dance community. Their first initiative took place in February, when they welcomed guest artist Tony Frazier to teach a class in hip hop and hip-hop culture to expose peers to the groundwork that Black artists have done for the dance world.

Known to her professors as an outstanding student and leader, Spears consistently brings her best work to class. “As a student leader and an officer in our department, Aliyah exhibits an astounding level of professionalism and is one of the students who provides the glue that holds our students together, promoting understanding among individuals from many different backgrounds” says Professor of Dance Elizabeth Kattner, Ph.D. “She worked tirelessly both in her high school and community before coming to Oakland University and has continued to grow in her leadership as a student here.”

Mary Murphy, special lecturer of dance education, echoes this sentiment. “Through her leadership efforts in the university’s student organization D.A.N.C.E.R.S., Aliyah has made various contributions to improving and encouraging diversity and race relations,” Murphy says. “Currently, she is organizing and implementing diversity training for students within the dance department and the university at large.” 

Spears’ community involvement reaches beyond campus. She serves as assistant director of the non-profit organization Social “U,” which provides social interaction and community for adults with cognitive and intellectual disabilities.

“Aliyah has been involved in her community since high school, and continues her selfless work even while in college,” says Gregory Patterson, chair of the Department of Dance.  “Her active participation with the non-profit organization called “Social U,” is simply remarkable. Additionally, Aliyah is consistently involved with other community volunteer work, for instance, teaching special needs dance classes, knitting hats for the homeless, tray favors for patients at local hospitals.” 

Focused on change and progress, Mackenzie Smith springs into action to give others a voice.  “In high school when I realized students' voices were not being heard, I started our school's first Student Congress to empower students in decision-making that would directly affect us,” Smith says. “I have always aimed to break normality and make demands on systems that were failing my community. After coming to college majoring in political science with a specialization in courts, politics and justice, I knew the drive I had would only grow.”

As Smith predicted, that drive expanded to leadership roles on campus, always keeping in mind service to the community, as well as focusing on breaking barriers, “as a Black girl in a predominantly white institution with many aspirations to get involved.” During her first year, Smith interned with UN-Pac, a national organization advocating for youth power reforms. In her role, Smith was responsible for educating OU students on UN-Pac, building a student-led team to expand the organization on campus, and promoting democracy by registering students to vote, scheduling meetings, tabling events, canvassing, door-knocking and facilitating class discussions.

Smith’s passion for social justice translates into her work in the classroom. In the class of Laura K. Landolt, Ph.D., associate professor of political science, Smith is a bright student, willing to participate in class discussion when others might not, and is taking two challenging classes at the same time, “undaunted by the level of difficulty,” Landolt says. 

Additionally, Smith also serves as a legislator in Student Congress, where she advocates for the campus community and represents student voices and their ideas. As a first-year assistant, CORE ambassador and orientation group leader, Smith supports others with their college experience and helps them build connections on campus.

Celeste Huff, coordinator of Orientation and New Student Programs, says Smith knows how to make new students feel comfortable by sharing her own experiences with them in a fun and engaging way. “Mackenzie's dedication and commitment to advocacy and diversity directly align with her future goals of going to law school,” Huff says. “She has created and continues to foster an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to amplify their voice.” 

Smith’s academic advisor, Steven Bryant, describes Smith as one of the students who is seen all over campus due to her involvement in many different leadership roles. “Mackenzie is using her education with the intent to attend law school and ultimately enact change as a state representative and future state senator. Her education continues beyond the walls of the classroom,” Bryant says. “She truly embodies the vision Dr. King had through advocacy and service on OU’s campus and beyond. At each turn, Mackenzie has grown as a leader, a scholar and an advocate. Where others see gaps, she sees an opportunity to build a foundation.”

A’Miya Dural has felt what it’s like to be judged solely on the color of her skin. “When it came to having darker-colored skin, friends, opportunities and relationships were always hard to obtain,” Dural says of growing up. “It wasn’t because I had darker-colored skin, but because those around me made me feel as if I wasn’t capable of accomplishing anything because of what I looked like, because of their prejudice.” Taking charge of her own narrative as a college student, now Dural is an active campus leader with a focus on supporting those around her, confidently “showing everyone that it doesn’t matter the color of your skin or what your ethnicity is – you are capable. From this resolution, I now have a passion in seeking leadership opportunities at Oakland University that combat discrimination and promote understanding across racial barriers.”

Dural, who is majoring in clinical and diagnostic sciences with a specialization in pre-physician assistant, is involved in numerous leadership positions, such as being a peer mentor in the Center for Multicultural Initiatives, a first-year assistant in the First Year Advising Center and a coordinating officer of logistics and operations in the Residence Life Association. She has also served as an orientation group leader for Orientation and New Student Programs, and an admissions ambassador for Undergraduate Admissions.

In all of these roles, Dural brings a contagious, positive energy into every space, says Annabel Leonova, residence director and Residence Life Association advisor. “A’Miya’s leadership qualities and passion for social justice resonate deeply with the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.,” Leonova says. “She not only participates in events that promote interracial tolerance and understanding among students but, as a Center for Multicultural Initiatives peer mentor, also actively encourages fellow students to engage in crucial conversations and provides consistent support to first- and second-year students from underrepresented backgrounds.”

Dural has a natural ability to connect with students who may feel overwhelmed or uncertain about the college environment, often sharing her own experiences to make others feel more at ease, says Celeste Huff, coordinator of Orientation and New Student Programs. “During our Campus Kickoffs, A'Miya had more one-on-one time with these incoming students to provide guidance on what the first few weeks would look like,” Huff says. “She provided insight on how to navigate conversations with professors and peers, showcased the resources on campus and what they mean, and reminded students that it is okay to ask for help.” 

Mae Dennis, assistant director of Orientation and New Student Programs, describes Dural as an excellent student whose passion for DEI work is reflected in everything she does - on and off campus - and will transcend into her career goals in health care.

“A’Miya's clinical experience as a nursing assistant and a behavioral technician has further solidified her commitment to patient care and understanding the importance of diversity in healthcare settings,” Dennis says. “She approaches her work with compassion and respect, ensuring that she honors the backgrounds and experiences of every individual she serves.”

As a child, Amber Harris was convinced that community service was a later life endeavor. “My youthful mind seemingly was oblivious to what serving the community really meant,” Harris says. “Soon, I learned community service can happen whenever and wherever you make it!” This shift in perspective transformed her life and touched the lives of many around her: A community-focused servant leader is the best way to describe Harris. 

Her involvement on campus is vast: Harris is a peer mentor for Project Upward Bound, an orientation group leader in Orientation and New Student Programs, an admissions ambassador in Undergraduate Admissions and a first-year assistant in the First Year Advising Center – just to name a few of her roles. 

With her eye on medical school, Harris is working toward a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences and Pre-Medical Studies, keeping an impressive GPA. She also serves as a health sciences grader in the School of Health Sciences and as a supplemental instruction leader for Biology I in the Academic Success Center. “Beyond her academic strengths, Amber's unique background and perspective are essential for promoting diversity in the health field,” says Sarah Martin, special instructor for nutrition. “She embodies the qualities needed to address the varied health challenges faced by diverse communities. Her commitment to understanding and advocating for inclusive health practices will help bridge gaps in care and promote equitable outcomes for all individuals.” 

Furthermore, Harris serves as the president of the Nu Phi Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. where she actively supports initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion. Dr. Stephanie J. Lee, Ed.D., administrative associate for Academic Affairs and Provost, and fellow member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., says under Harris’ leadership, Nu Phi’s service makes an impact on campus as well as in the surrounding communities.

“From its inception, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., as the first historically Black sorority, has worked to break down barriers of race, ethnicity and culture,” Lee says. “Our legacy is rooted in fostering unity and service, and Amber embodies these values in her leadership and actions. Through her work, she has proven herself to be a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion, as well as a dedicated servant leader.”

As an orientation group leader, Harris created a positive environment on campus, helping others feel comfortable and accepted. “Amber was always ensuring others’ voices were being heard and doing whatever she can to find a solution to a problem,” says Celeste Huff, coordinator of Orientation and New Student Programs. “Amber is a dedicated student who has been working hard toward her goal of medical school. She has experienced a lot of challenges the last couple of years but has gone through them with resilience and strength. Amber's performance in and outside the classroom shows the passion she has for making a difference not only to herself but the community around her.”

Watching a video of Sandra Bland’s arrest opened middle-schooler Nia Matthews’ eyes to the injustices disproportionately affecting the Black community, changing the trajectory of her life. “This made me want to fight for disadvantaged people of color and against the system that oppresses them,” Matthews says. “Ever since then, I've always tried to be an agent for change in my communities. I love to raise awareness about these and similar problems by educating my peers about the racial inequalities that Americans still have to endure each and every single day.”

As an Honors College student majoring in film production, Matthews is an aspiring film producer aiming to “teach the complete history of America through film.” Deeply inspired by filmmaker and screenwriter Ava DuVernay, who is best known for her award-winning TV show “When They See Us,” feature film “Selma” and the documentary “13th,” Matthews set her goal to successfully tackle huge topics through film herself.

On campus, Matthews is focused on community and service: She serves as the president for Entrepreneurs in Action, event coordinator for the Association of Black Students, and member of the Golden Anime Society, Women in Film and Women in Business. She currently holds the position of Executive Board co-chair of the Student Activities Funding Board. “Nia is an excellent team player who inspires others with her enthusiasm and positivity. She actively engages with student organizations, encouraging meaningful conversations about the diverse stories and perspectives that shape the changes in our organization,” says Dayna Ferreira, accounting clerk for the Office for Student Involvement and advisor of the Student Activities Funding Board. “Her natural ability to connect with individuals from all walks of life reflects a deep understanding of the importance of empathy and dialogue in promoting understanding.” 

Previously, Matthews also served as a Pre-College Programs tutor, a Residence Life Programming coordinator, Student Congress legislator and digital advancement ambassador for Oakland University Annual Giving. 

An outstanding student, Matthews has a 3.8 GPA while being an active campus leader. “Nia stands out among her peers in many important ways,” says Shaun Moore, Ph.D., director of e-Learning; and faculty in the OU School of Business, College of Arts and Sciences, and Honors College. “She was a leader in class, volunteering to go first on many occasions where students hesitated because of the unknown. Her quick wit and comments always had the class laughing. She has outstanding contributions to improving and encouraging diversity and race relations at OU and in the community.”

Jae Hyeung Kang, Ph.D., associate professor of Entrepreneurship and faculty mentor of Entrepreneurs in Action (EIA), describes Matthews as a successful team leader with high integrity. “I can readily attest to her ability to competently perform under the most challenging conditions,” says Kang. “Her perseverance and tenacity enabled Nia to complete many difficult assignments. She is resourceful, innovative and highly enthusiastic.”

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