Opportunity Program Newsletter
The OP Newsletter is published twice yearly, and includes news and events from the program as well as staff spotlights and social updates.
Note from the Director
The Opportunity Program has had some big changes, and there’s so much to share!
Greetings from the director of the Opportunity Program (OP) at ߣߣƵ! My
name is Kelli Rouse and I have had the pleasure of directing this program for more
than eight years, building on over 20 years of working within student access programs.
During that time, OP has gone through many changes as it continues to adapt and grow
to meet students’ needs, and I’m excited to share the new iteration of the OP staff
that has taken shape over the last year. We’re beyond excited to introduce some fresh
faces on our team: Joshlin Sheridan, academic counselor and STEM advisor; Amarilis
Francis, assistant director for advising; and Ryan Roche, assistant director for student
outreach. Be sure to take a look at the staff updates section to get to know these
folks and the roles they play in our OP community!
Here at ߣߣƵ, we are focused on holistically supporting our students,
especially during the difficult times we currently face. Now, with our office fully
staffed with an OP dream team, our ability to meet our students’ academic, financial,
and psycho-social needs is unmatched.
Along with the new staff comes new programming, including a podcast, a men of color support group, and alumni panels. These programs will continue to support our students as they take on leadership roles in the Skidmore community — serving on the Student Government Association; leading student clubs as executive board members; providing support as peer academic coaches and writing tutors; working as research assistants; studying abroad; and earning Student Leadership Awards.
The Opportunity Program and its students continue to thrive and will be a part of
the fabric of Skidmore for years to come!
2024 Events and Programming
Buckle up for a joyride through the Opportunity Program’s biggest wins of 2024! Prepare for tales of triumph and the fantastic ways we leveled up last year.
Fall 2024 was a blast for OP, with awesome programs and events that kept things buzzing around campus!

Following a heartbreaking rainout in 2023, this fall saw the triumphant return of our annual OP Fishing and Hiking Trip. OP once again descended upon Moreau Lake State Park with a quiver of loaner fishing rods generously provided by the good folks at the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. Students lit up with excitement as they tapped into childhood fishing experiences or experienced angling for the very first time! They had a great deal of success with many fish brought to hand — and, by the end, everyone found the bravery to bait their own hooks! It was a wonderful outing, and we can’t wait to get back into the outdoors with students again in 2025, rain or shine.

Another major event that kicked off the academic year was the College’s celebration of one of its most esteemed alumni, Linda Jackson-Chalmers ’73. Jackson-Chalmers was a graduate in the first class of the Opportunity Program and has dedicated her life to serving her community as an educator and activist. To honor her remarkable journey, a portrait was unveiled in the Wyckoff Center, and OP students and staff were there in numbers to celebrate her accomplishments. It was a powerful and moving experience to witness generations of OP students, spanning decades, come together to honor Jackson-Chalmers’ legacy. This event served as a powerful reminder of the program’s enduring impact and the profound contributions of its alumni.
To promote the creative work of OP students — and provide a much-needed distraction during midterms — we unveiled a new Gallery Walk event in October. One of the OP office study spaces was transformed into a posh gallery, and students were invited to visit at their leisure to appreciate the work of their peers. Featured work included photography from Samuel Tejeda ’25 and Dennise Reyes Sanchez ’26; poetry and creative writing from Nas Wright ’28, Natalia Rodriguez ’28, and Ruben Washington ’27; a painting by Matthew Olivios ’26; a video installation from Katie Hosier ’27; and graphic design work from Anngie Benitez ’25, who also put in tons of hard work to curate and promote the show. The show also served as an unveiling for a painting by OP alum Randy Emmanuel Castillo ’15, which has been donated for permanent display in the OP offices.

Beyond the special events, our regular assortment of programming continued to provide valuable support and community-building throughout the semester. Our ever-popular OP Lunches offered a space for connection and conversation, while designated study spaces provided quiet havens for focused work. And, of course, our Stress Relief Events helped everyone recharge and maintain a healthy balance amidst busy schedules.
As we moved into November and the incoming cold brought a surprising shock to some of our newer students, we tried to help them cope through a new program titled Seasons in Saratoga. Over 25 attendees met in the Wyckoff Center to engage with panelists from the Opportunity Program, Student Academic Services, the Counseling Center, and Health Services as they spoke about components of wellness and how to combat challenges that may come with being in Saratoga during the winter months. The speakers shared some excellent advice, encouraging students to engage in hobbies, utilize campus resources such as light boxes, available in Student Academic Services and the Counseling Center, and seek support services when feeling physically or mentally unwell. Despite the cold evening, students enjoyed tea and cookies together and enthusiastically participated in a Q&A session, with attendees bringing up important topics such as creating a consistent sleep schedule, coping with new allergies at college, and staying physically active. Hopefully, all in attendance came away with a helpful tip for enduring the long winter!
It was a semester filled with growth, connection, and a whole lot of positive energy, setting a great tone for what’s to come! We’re excited to build on this momentum and bring our students and the Skidmore community even more engaging experiences in the semesters ahead.
OP Student Spotlight
Our students are the heart and soul of this program, and their journeys truly illuminate its impact. Get ready to be inspired by these amazing individuals!
Claudette Castillo ’28
I am a first-generation Mexican American first-year student from Brooklyn, New York.
I found out about Skidmore through my college counselor, an alum who encouraged me
to apply. After touring Skidmore, I immediately fell in love with their focus on interdisciplinary
learning, small class sizes, and amazing opportunities for student involvement on
campus. I am currently planning on double majoring in anthropology and political science
with a minor in business. My favorite classes at Skidmore so far have been Politics
of Congress and Introduction to Piano.
I am currently a first-year senator in the Student Government Association (SGA) and
have recently been elected as next year’s vice president for financial affairs. I
sit on the Committee for Institutional Diversity, where we work to make Skidmore a
campus for all students to feel welcomed and comfortable to share their voices, as
well as on the Budget and Finance Committee, where we handle all financial matters
pertaining to SGA. Outside of SGA, I am also a member of Students Demand Action at
Skidmore and Raíces.
In my free time, I love going into town with my friends to try new places to eat and
finding new study spots. My favorite is the Starbucks in town. To relax, I enjoy swimming,
diving, and baking bread. My favorite bread to bake is challah bread. I have also
recently fallen in love with playing the piano, and I am excited for next year!
Alexa Lozano ’28
I am a first-year student from New York City. Coming from a low-income family, I did not expect to attend college, but this eventually changed when I was accepted to all the CUNY schools I had applied to. I noticed that I could expand my interest into something new and different for me. I decided to visit Skidmore, and when I did, I was convinced that it was a place where I could learn and grow. I am now pursuing a computer science major and a physics minor.
Aside from academic interests, I enjoy going to the gym, listening to music, going
for walks on the green, and going out to eat with friends. At Skidmore, I am currently
involved in Skidmore Codes, a club where I put into practice my computer science skills.
In the 2025 fall semester, I will be doing research about cybersecurity with a member
of the computer science faculty. I will be analyzing how data, systems, and networks
can be protected from cyber attacks. I would also be developing possible solutions
to prevent cyber threads and user stolen data.
Scarlett Judson ’27
I am a rising junior social work major from Portland, Oregon, and I love the weather,
food, and nature in the Pacific Northwest. Skidmore came onto my radar as a school
that meets 100% demonstrated need for its students. I connected with the small class
sizes and many resources available for students, including ways to get involved on
campus. It was hard coming from the other side of the country, but I have no regrets!
On campus, people know me as a peer health educator on the Sexual Health Committee
or from working at The Spa and Burgess Cafe. In my free time, I love to write reviews
for anything really! Books, movies, food - you name it! I also love to thrift. I’m
always on the lookout for my next great find at Goodwill.
I have been abroad since January in Athens, Greece! As a sophomore, this is a bit
of a unique case, but I didn’t want to wait until my junior year to explore all that
Skidmore has to offer to its study abroad students. I am loving Greece! My favorite
aspect of the program is how cheap everything is here, including groceries, clothing,
travel, and food! My classes are also really interesting and not subjects I would’ve
pursued otherwise. My plan is to keep traveling after the program ends in the summer
so I can see more of Europe! In the fall I will be studying abroad again - this time
in Thailand for a human rights internship!
Ocean Jones ’27
Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, I’ve always been deeply curious about people,
their minds, their relationships, and the stories that shape them. That curiosity
brought me to Skidmore, where I’m majoring in psychology and considering a minor in
intergroup relations (IGR) to deepen my understanding of identity, dialogue, and community.
Outside the classroom, I find joy in listening to music, reading, and expressing myself
through poetry. These creative outlets keep me grounded and reflective. On campus,
I stay connected with my community through Ujima, a club that offers space to build
meaningful relationships with other BIPOC students and engage in conversations that
matter. Along with the Opportunity Program, Ujima is one of the places where I feel
most seen and supported at Skidmore.
Professionally, I’m passionate about becoming an occupational therapist, with a focus
on working with people with developmental disabilities. That passion continues to
grow through hands-on experiences. This summer, I’ll be working at a camp for kids,
which I hope will help me build skills in caregiving, patience, and empathy.
My journey at Skidmore has been one of self-discovery and purpose, and I’m excited
to keep growing academically, creatively, and professionally as I move closer to my
goals.
Dennise Reyes Sanchez ’26
I am a sociology major from the Bronx. During high school, I worked for Teens Take
Charge, a nonprofit that works to address the educational disparities that exist within
the NYC public school system. This experience helped me recognize that I was interested
in pursuing a bachelor’s degree in sociology.
I now do research in the Gender Studies Department under the guidance of Gwen D’Arcangelis,
where we look at how Chinese medicine has been used as a healing tool for BIPOC liberation
and healing. Right now, I am waiting to hear back from the various sociological research
internships I have applied to for the summer. I would like to put it out there that
I am interested in educational nonprofit work and social science research. Thank you
for reading!
Beldine Wasonga ’26
I am a junior studying psychology and I was born and raised in Nairobi, Kenya. I first
heard about Skidmore through a friend in high school, and I fell in love with the
beauty of the campus as well as the close-knit community. Upon doing my research,
I was quickly drawn to the strong psychology program, as well as the amount of support
Skidmore pours into their students to succeed and discover their passions.
As an international student, being part of the African Heritage Awareness (AHA) club
and the International Student Union (ISU) has been incredibly important to me. These
spaces have allowed me to connect with others who understand what it’s like to be
far from home, while also celebrating our cultures and experiences. I’ve also found
a faith-based community through a Christian group on campus, where I’ve been able
to grow spiritually and build genuine friendships.
I also partake in research with my professor, which allows me to discuss upcoming
research and collect data. This year, I was able to present my research at the 2025
EPA conference, which was a great experience getting to know and interact with peers
and professionals with similar interests.
I am passionate about clinical psychology, specifically mental health, because of
the community I grew up in. Mental health stigma is very apparent, and it was difficult
watching loved ones suffer from this without having support systems or resources to
lean on. This inspired me to want to learn more and be an advocate not just for people
in my community, but for everyone who is fighting in silence. In pursuing my goals
to become a clinical psychologist, I have gained hands-on experience through an internship
at the Saratoga County Department of Mental Health and through volunteering at a home
for people with developmental disabilities in Kenya. I am excited about gaining even
more experience at the clinic this summer and potentially working at Saratoga Bridges
in the fall!
To relax, I love crocheting, cooking, painting, catching up with friends and family,
and taking long walks at the park.
Erick Mulindi ’25
I learned about ߣߣƵ through an alumnus from my high school, the African
Leadership Academy, who was attending Skidmore at the time. This connection happened
during the COVID-19 pandemic when I was in Uganda with limited travel options. I explored
Skidmore through a virtual tour and immediately fell in love with its green campus
and sustainability initiatives. The College’s Creative Thought Matters philosophy
resonated deeply with me, and I could envision myself thriving there.
At Skidmore, I was warmly welcomed by Student Academic Services and the Opportunity
Program. I fondly remember Ms. Kelli, director of the Opportunity Program, visiting
me during my first five days of quarantine. Her thoughtfulness in bringing OP merchandise,
bedding, and welcome gifts has stayed with me and helped me feel at home. The support
from OP and SAS has been crucial to my student life and success at Skidmore.
During my freshman year, I joined the African Heritage Awareness Club as secretary.
This organization helped me connect with other international students and Africans
on campus, providing a welcoming space that allowed me to contribute to campus culture
while finding a community with a shared background. I gradually expanded my involvement,
joining clubs like Ujima, Raíces, and the Computer Science Club to meet new people,
gain diverse experiences, and learn from others. Recently, with support from Skidmore’s
Summer Experience Fund, I was able to launch a primary school in Uganda to increase
access to education for underserved children. The school currently has an enrollment
of over 500 children.
I also enjoy spending time with friends, exploring Saratoga, and playing sports on
campus, particularly volleyball, swimming, and soccer. I’ve spent time building my
passion for education through volunteer work as well.
As a first-year student, I ambitiously planned to study economics, mathematics, and
computer science, and participate in the Dual Degree Engineering Program. I, however,
eventually discovered that computer science was my true passion and decided to focus
exclusively on the field. Throughout my sophomore, junior, and senior years, I immersed
myself, working as a Computer Science Peer Academic Coach, teaching assistant, and
network assistant for the IT Department. As I approach graduation in about a month,
I’m excited to continue pursuing my passion as a software engineer at Amazon.
Tiffany Flores ’25
I’m from Queens, New York, and I’m a political science-Spanish major and a student-athlete on the varsity volleyball team. My journey to Skidmore was very surprising because it was not a school I knew or was looking into at first. Then my dad told me about it and said I should send some volleyball highlights videos to the school coach. I toured the campus to see if I liked it, and as soon as I stepped foot on campus I felt like I belonged, unlike other campus tours that felt like I was looking at a community from the outside. I learned more about the opportunities I could have here and felt like I could explore all of my interests, no matter how distant they were from my major. On top of political science, I have studied areas such as photography and piano. Skidmore has allowed me to learn about different fields and use those tools in my career. My career plan is to earn my master’s degree and work in and help marginalized communities.
OP Staff Updates
Get ready to meet the newest additions to our already amazing dream team! We’re excited to welcome these fresh faces and share the latest updates from our dedicated staff.
Kelli Rouse, director, has had another whirlwind year. During the fall semester, she co-taught Academic Transformations with Joshlin Sheridan for the first time. While also advising a caseload of 50 students, Kelli was able to hire two additional team members: Amarilis Francis and Ryan Roche. The Opportunity Program is now fully staffed! In the midst of a busy fall, Kelli also celebrated eight years of being director here at ߣߣƵ. During the spring semester, the Cooking with Kelli event continued, as students learned to make fettuccine alfredo and decorate cupcakes. Kelli was also able to coach the Introduction to Dialogue course within the Intergroup Relations Department, a continued passion since joining the Skidmore community.
Amarilis Francis, assistant director for advising, joined the OP staff in November 2024. With a decade of experience in opportunity programs, she immediately welcomed the chance to support the OP office with fall admissions reading, attend OP programming events, and help staff with Summer Academic Institute (SAI) planning for the Class of 2029. During the spring semester, she attended her first OP General Body Meeting and started advising students. She has enjoyed getting to know students through one-on-one advising and meeting the larger Skidmore community. Amarilis also joined the Black Faculty and Staff Group (BFSG) and participated in wonderful events including meeting the Black members of the Skidmore Board of Trustees and a community celebration of the life of poet and activist Nikki Giovanni. Next up is exploring the Saratoga Springs area as the weather improves and welcoming the next incoming class of OP students for SAI!
Ryan Roche, assistant director for student outreach, was excited to recently join Skidmore’s Opportunity Program. His journey started in the Heights of Jersey City, where he learned the power of resilience and community. A proud alumnus of New Jersey City University’s EOF program, Ryan was so inspired by the support he found there that he made a career out of helping students break barriers and find their own paths to success through education and mentorship. When he’s not advocating for access to education, he enjoys spending time with his wife and son, adding to his tattoo collection, and traveling back home to NJ to participate in his bowling league (and making his team wish he didn’t come because, honestly, he’s a terrible bowler).
Joshlin Sheridan, academic counselor and STEM advisor, has thoroughly enjoyed her first year with the Opportunity Program team. In the fall semester, she co-taught Academic Transformations, a college and career preparation course for first-year students. She focused on supporting students with time management, goal setting, and reconnecting with their purpose for pursuing higher education. This year, Sheridan engaged in professional development aimed at helping students navigate graduate applications in health professions. Additionally, she served as a reader for the Davis Projects for Peace award applications. In December, Sheridan combined her love for baking and student well-being with a “Paint-Your-Own Cookie” event in the OP office. Finals week got a little sweeter as students got the chance to unwind while decorating winter wonderland cookies.
Devin Madkin, administrative assistant, recently celebrated her eighth year working for the Opportunity Program. During the fall semester, she continued to maintain the everyday responsibilities, financial responsibilities, marketing, and social media. The beginning of the semester is always the busiest for Devin, dealing with book and supply card charges, reimbursements, hiring new work study students, collecting receipts for an audit, marketing for events, planning OP lunches, and planning the OP General Body Meeting. When Devin wasn’t in the office, she was out enjoying the beautiful weather, enjoying her new car, and celebrating her fall birthday with apple picking and dinner with friends.
Adam Evans, learning associate for humanities/social sciences, had a wonderful time teaching his Academic Writing courses in the fall, and this year’s first-year students really came up with some impressive and creative projects. They were a joy to work with! He also had so much fun hosting the return of his favorite programming event: the OP fishing trip! He loved watching students wrangle fish (as he helped them untangle knots). Outside of the office, he’s been sticking to his usual routine of fishing and attending his kids’ sports events.
Alumni News
Our alumni network remains a vital part of our community, and their successes inspire us all!
Alumni Spotlight
The Opportunity Program hosted an “Alumni Grad School Chat” in which current students connected with OP alumni to learn about preparing for graduate school programs. This year’s guest speakers included Erik Morrison ’15 and Bao Feng ’21. Morrison is an experienced human resources professional who received an MBA from Notre Dame de Namur University and is completing his second master’s in jurisprudence from Tulane University Law School. Feng has worked in cancer research at the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard and is now a first-year medical student at the Medical College of Wisconsin. Morrison and Feng shared excellent advice about finding mentors, researching programs, and utilizing gap years. Students on the Zoom call asked thoughtful questions about the differences between the undergraduate and graduate student experience and how to balance work with academic pursuits.
Alumni Interest Form
The Opportunity Program is excited to have alumni connect with current students. Please check out or to complete a short survey regarding ways you might be interested in engaging current OP students.
Alumni Engagement Network
As always, we continue to build our LinkedIn network to connect Skidmore OP students, alumni, and staff. If you’re on LinkedIn, please !