The School of Public Policy recently hosted Mosaic: Student Voices on Justice, Identity and Policy—a community-centered celebration of the graduating students whose personal journeys are reshaping how we think about leadership, inclusion and change. Rooted in themes of justice, belonging and lived experience, the event amplified the voices shaping a more inclusive and impactful future in public service.
The program featured spoken word, poetry, song and storytelling that reflected the event’s focus on identity, justice and community. Endowed Associate Professor of Global Philanthropy and Nonprofit Leadership Angela Bies and Associate Clinical Professor Meg Brindle shared folk songs, and graduating senior Onyeka Arah shared an original poem titled “An Eyeful of Neverland,” offering a personal reflection on the Black experience in America. Associate Professor Claire Dunning read from a Howard Zinn essay on democracy, and Associate Professor Cullen Merritt encouraged students to embrace their authenticity as a tool for change. “You can’t fit in and stand out at the same time,” Merritt said.
“This special event honors the unique journeys, challenges and triumphs that brought our students to this moment,” said Clinical Professor Alana Hackshaw. “We are a community that embraces difference—in perspective, experience and identity. We do not aim for sameness... The richness of our community lies in the diversity of the people who are part of it.”
The celebration began with a workshop led by School of Public Health Faculty Specialist Beth Douthirt-Cohen. Students, faculty and staff wrote letters to their future selves or future students, reflecting on the legacy they hope to leave. Douthirt-Cohen noted that the year 2025 will be one that scholars study for the profound shifts taking place in higher education and public policy. The letters will be preserved in the University Archives and opened in 2065.
Class of 2025 undergraduate students Eli Brennan, Rosemary McNeal, Caleb Parkins and Kaleb Tucker shared reflections on amplifying marginalized voices in public service. MPP student Emily Dodge read a letter advocating for justice and free speech for immigrants, while fellow MPP student Rachelle Wakefield spoke about the vital role of Black women in policymaking.
Dean Robert C. Orr emphasized the importance of student leadership in today’s political and social climate. “We greatly need the voices and courage of our young policy students, especially now,” he said.
Faculty and staff also shared messages of encouragement throughout the program. Associate Professor Niambi Carter told graduates, “Though the future is uncertain, you are skilled and prepared for this moment, and we need you.” Clyde Moore, senior mentor for the MPS-PA program, closed the celebration with a message of inspiration and challenge for the graduates. “Use your excellence, courage, voice and talents to create ripples of positive change in the world.” The celebration reminded students that their voices and their vision are already making an impact on the future of public policy.