inspiring today, transforming tomorrow
Our nominated female leaders are role models on and off the stages, fields, and classrooms at Yale. These leading ladies are intelligent, confident, and driven, inspiring those around them today, and transforming our world tomorrow.
Our Nominees
Brynne Follman
College: Berkeley
Year: 2017
Between being player coach for women's club water polo and vice president for BKCC, Brynne has shown an incredible ability to lead. Brynne approaches challenges and/or road blocks with patience, confidence, and poise, and never fails to find an intelligent solution. Being master's aide for Berkeley college as well, Brynne inspires many students at Yale.
Helen Price
College: Davenport
Year: 2018
Helen is one of the strongest, most principled people I have ever met. When so many people are only activists on Facebook, it is incredible to meet someone who so actively campaigns for the causes she believes in. Helen is Vice-President of RALY, Yale's reproductive rights group, where she organizes everything from sex toy workshops to phone banking for Planned Parenthood. She also wakes up at 6am every Saturday to work as a clinic escort at Planned Parenthood in New Haven, which involves walking women past anti-abortion protestors and providing emotional support. She is also one of the leading voices in the campus conversation around sexual assault, and has worked very hard to help organize a nationwide conference which will take place in September. As well as being wicked smart (did you know she was a world debate championship finalist in high school?) she is an incredibly sympathetic and caring person, both to her friends and her sisters in Theta. One of our friends described her as "everyone's Jewish mom" and that is very accurate. She is always the first to check in with her friends and worry if they are stressed out or sick. Helen is an amazing person and definitely one of Yale's Leading Ladies.
Joan Rhee
College: Davenport
Year: 2016
Joan Rhee is our president for the Yale Symphony Orchestra (and she is also a role model as a fro-co). She maintains the integrity of our orchestra and organizes all of the logistics for rehearsals, as well as the board of YSO officers. As this year is the YSO's 50th anniversary, she will be very busy coordinating all sorts of events, but she is more than capable of handling it.
Nicole Ng
College: Pierson
Year: 2017
Nicole is one of the most efficient and capable people I know. She's running YIRA's Model UN tournament this year, which consistently attracts over 1500 students and requires an incredible amount of work to put together, and it doesn't even seem to faze her. She's also an incredible team member -- she's always willing to help people out when they're confused, and she has an amazing ability to coordinate people and events. I think her leadership and seemingly perfect organizational capacity will make for a great experience for all of the Yale students and delegates involved with YMUN this year. Nicole rocks.
Sam Ng
College: Silliman
Year: 2018
Sam is involved in Net Impact and she seems to always be involved in one amazing project or another. She is always calm and collected, handling a tough course load with heavy extracurricular responsibilities while somehow making it seem effortless. She's one of those "I want to be you" kind of women. She inspires me to reach higher, to take myself more seriously and to stop and think through my problems and find practical solutions rather than panicking. She is always available for friends or colleagues when she's needed - no questions asked. She's one of the most reliable women I know, someone you can really depend on, and someone who goes about life with a calm confidence that's infectious. But one of the most inspiring things about her is that she never complains or brags or looks for other people's approval. Instead, when she gets back to the suite after juggling projects and school work all day, she asks how my day went.
Karina Kovalcik
College: Silliman
Year: 2017
Both a leader on and off the field, Karina isn't afraid to go after what she wants. She doesn't let anyone tell her what to do, and her confidence is admirable. Now a junior, she's been one of the core players on the women's soccer team here as well as board members of Yale Undergraduate Diversified Investments and the William Buckley Jr. Program. She's also the best residential college kitchen coordinator around!
Ruth Hanna
College: Silliman
Year: 2017
Ruth has been the coordinator of the Yale Hunger and Homelessness Action Project, the largest student led non-profit in the college since last Spring. She is responsible for getting over 1,000 members involved in service projects each year and raises 10s of thousands of dollars for New Haven shelters and other projects. The amount of work she handles on behalf of the community is staggering, but she is constantly kind to those she works with and has the universal respect of everyone within the organization.
Hedy Gutfreund
College: Berkeley
Year: 2018
Hedy is a committed member of the Yale Democrats and is active on Fish Stark's alderman campaign. Last year she rose to the ranks of communications director within the dems and commits countless hours every week to her position as treasurer for Fish, going above and beyond her duties by canvassing, phone-banking, and putting in the grass-roots work that is in actuality below her job title but she carries it out anyways. Hedy is extremely committed to any extracurricular she gets involved with but, most importantly, always makes time to check in genuinely with those around her. She is a positive force in the lives of her friends and she teaches everyone around her the importance of dedication and integrity--while Hedy is busy, she never lets her commitments down. In addition, she always makes it to the gym which is inspiring on another level. Finally, she maintains a healthy relationship with her boyfriend. Hedy truly does it all!
If it weren't for Hedy, the Dems would not be where they are today in terms of community and campus presence. Her work is instrumental in maintaining the group's active image on campus and she has learned to balance the role of member and communications director beautifully, which I know has been a challenge for her. She has learned what it means to communicate with various press outlets (with various vested interests) but all the while maintains her genuine nature. This in itself is a great asset to Yale--we need more women who take on as much as Hedy while still remaining true to their character.
Emily Chen
College: Calhoun
Year: 2018
Emily is phenomenal at everything she does! She fully dedicates herself to the (many) groups she is in such as the Taiwanese American Society, CASPY, and Relay for Life. She never half-asses anything because it's just not in her nature. Emily is also loved by everyone around her because of her positive nature. Despite being on the boards of so many clubs at once, running TAS events, and slaying at her classes, she is never too busy to ask you how your day is going.
Alexandra Leone
College: Morse
Year: 2016
Alex is the co-president for the Yale Irish Dance group on campus, Damhsa. She cares deeply about the organization, she is organized, she works hard, and she wants to see it succeed. She writes emails, she connects with current dancers and interested students, she conducts all of the activity to keep the group running. Without her, the group wouldn't exist. She deserves to be present at the Leading Ladies Gala!
Roslyn Rivas
College: Ezra Stiles
Year: 2017
Working as a Stile House Aid for at least the past two years now, Roslyn has constantly shown leadership skills in working to make Stiles a better place as a whole. Between working several study breaks and (without even a second thought) helping with the emergency moving of furniture, luggage, and other belongings of fellow Stilesians after the flooding that occurred in Stiles the past week despite being in recovery from an injury last semester from practicing Wushu. To me, her tenacity, determination, and kindheartedness has made her stand out from the very beginning.
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Catherine Wall
College: Trumbull
Year: 2016
Catherine is one of the most passionate and hardworking women I know. She is the Executive Director of an undergraduate non-profit organization, Circle of Women, which has chapters at universities up and down the east coast. Circle of Women builds partnerships with secondary girls' schools in developing countries, develops building plans to increase the girls' access to education (e.g. dorms, computer labs, classrooms), and then fundraises to execute those plans. Catherine is a passionate feminist who is never afraid to stand up for what she believes in. Further, she served as Head Transfer Counselor last year, organizing transfer orientation and serving as mentor to 29 incoming transfer students. Catherine is an American Studies major, concentrating in women's studies. She has had a unique Yale experience, transferring as a sophomore from Lafayette College and immediately jumping into the community and obtaining leadership roles. She deserves to be honored as a leading lady!
Lia Weiner
College: Pierson
Year: 2016
Lia is a role model in every way -- she's kind, smart, and brave, and she's an incredibly loyal friend. She's very passionate about the things that interest her, and she is always genuine in her enthusiasm. She's worked on human rights policy in the Israeli government, and spends time on campus encouraging students to engage in productive dialogue about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Even on such polarizing topics, Lia is thoughtful and always willing to talk with people whose views don't match her own. Lia makes Yale a better place, both for the people lucky enough to be her friends and also for the university's community as a whole, where critical discussion has always been so important.
Katherine Fang
College: Trumbull
Year: 2017
Tiny but mighty, this girl is the real deal. She's warm, kind, and goes out of her way for everyone, and she is such a fireball about social justice and just low-key the coolest person. She has a huge FLAS fellowship from the government this year to study Arabic political thought, and she's working at IRIS on East Rock this semester, which is an organization that works with refugees. She's pretty much crazy competent at everything she does with all her clubs too. Everyone who knows her is lucky to have someone so down-to-earth to ground them. This girl is inspirational and a bright light on campus.
Nodumo Ncomanzi
College: Morse
Year: 2016
She has single-handedly managed two performance groups simultaneously (Dzana and Asempa) while providing support for countless friends at her home no matter the hours of the night and inspires me every day to be a stronger, more confident woman. She is open about her experiences as an albino woman from Zimbabwe and is interested in the intersection between women's empowerment and fashion, which I think is a very interesting and powerful field.
Olivia Pollak
College: Davenport
Year: 2016
Olivia is a truly remarkable Yale woman — intelligent beyond belief, ceaselessly kind, hilarious beyond words and a true snapchat fiend. She makes a difference on campus as a truly amazing friend, FroCo and advocate for the most pressing mental health issues on campus.
Ree Ree Li
College: Ezra Stiles
Year: 2016
Ree Ree is an outstanding individual. She is involved in all walk of life on campus including, but not limited to, Captain of the Yale Women's Tennis Team, Former Social Media Chair for Yale Student Athlete College Council (YSACC), on the Board for Special Olympics Yale, on the Schwarzman Centre Student Advisory council, is involved in both community outreach and residential college life. She is loved by all who know her and there's not one person who hasn't met her smiling face. She is hard-working, kind-hearted, talented, approachable, friendly and lovable and I think her passion for Yale is why she should be at the Leading Ladies Gala.
Sara Kahanamoku
College: Morse
Year:2016
Sara served three terms as Yale Surf Team treasurer, keeping an ancient and legendary bloodline of Hawaiian surfing monarchs alive at Yale. She also stands for the noble cause of environmental conservation every day as a geologist and environmental scientist on campus. Sara stands out as a leader because she cares deeply and genuinely for the happiness and success of her fellow students and all the people in her life.
Jiaqi Liu
College: Ezra Stiles
Year: 2018
Jiaqi is passionate about everything she does! She is very interested in developmental psychology, which is why she is very involved in CASPY, works in a psychology laboratory, and volunteers with the children's theatre. She is unbelievably kindhearted and a very loyal friend!
Carolyn Hansen
College: Davenport
Year: 2017
Carolyn is involved with Yale's Conservative Party and is a close friend of mine. When she is not helping me study for history exams, she's got her nose buried in a book at the library. Whenever I need career, internship, or life advice, she is there to eagerly help me out. A truly genuine and sincere person, Carolyn epitomizes what it means to be a Leading Lady!
Irene Jiang
College: Trumbull
Year: 2016
Irene is a force of infectious enthusiasm in everything she does on campus. On top of her impressive balancing act between school, friendships, photography, and pre-med, she is involved in the TedX Yale organization, she is a leader in the Trumbull College community, and she has dedicated huge amounts of time and effort towards the Yale Women's Club Water Polo where she has served as both Business Manager and Captain.
Irene is the kind of leader who brings so much tireless dedication to her work that she elevates the commitment level of her whole organization through sheer example. Perhaps even more impressively, Irene does all of this incredible work while also being a truly joyful person. Her mere presence makes an entire group feel happier, which makes her an effortless community-builder. Irene is a natural leader and a role model, and she is a truly impressive Yale woman.
Shannon Zhang
College: Trumbull
Year: 2016
Shannon is an incredible leader - as head Freshman Counselor of Trumbull this year AND an active medical school applicant, she juggles not only her academic responsibilities but also those of her 13 freshmen (and the rest of the 96 Trumbull freshmen)! Regardless of how dense her own school work is, she always endeavors to spend more time with our group and to make us feel more at home. Her kindness and patience with every single freshman who walks into her open hours is astounding, and she inspires every one of us to do better in our everyday lives.
Lelina Chang
College: Timothy Dwight
Year: 2018
Lelina was my freshman year roomate, and from day one I was awed by her enthusiasm and dedication to every facet of her life, first and foremost being her friends. Lelina was a part of FCC and L.E.A.D. as well as various other research and leadership activities. Despite a full workload, Lelina always has a smile and hug ready for whoever needs it, and manages to brighten anyone's day just by being herself. I consider myself lucky to have her in my life!
Julia Dixon
College: Trumbull
Year: 2016
Julia is deeply involved as a Freshman Counselor in Trumbull. She's made the transition to college so much easier for her entire FroCo group, and she always does everything she can to help us out. She's just so genuine and kind-- I'm so glad she's my FroCo because she's such a wonderful role model.
Jordana Gardenswartz
College: Timothy Dwight
Year: 2018
Jordy is an Ex!t Player and the Outreach Chair of Slifka. Jordy makes every person she speaks with feel comfortable, happy, and better about their lives and themselves. She has made countless people feel welcome at Slifka and within the TD community as a big sib. She inspires people with her ability to lead and encourage others. Jordy is kind to every person she meets and is the most genuine person I know.
Phoebe Kimmelman
College: Davenport
Year: 2017
I have never met anybody as driven or hardworking as Phoebe. Everything that she does is 100%, whether it's an internship application or a girl's night-in. Phoebe is genuine, super-smart, supportive, and epitomizes everything that a Leading Lady should be!
Megan Ruan
College: Pierson
Year: 2017
Not only is Megan intelligent and driven, she is also caring of others and willing to help if you ask. Her determination and passion to serve the Yale community is inspirational.
Jackie Salzinger
College: Timothy Dwight
Year: 2018
Jackie is very active on campus in various sectors, from music to social justice. More importantly, Jackie cares genuinely about the work of those around her, and is often ready to know more and help. Her personality simply reflects the very principles and rationales of the causes that she fights for. Her spirit and kindness are contagious, and I believe she is a motivation to many on campus.
Joanna Jin
College: Silliman
Year: 2017
Joanna is a focused, creative, and thoughtful. She's the epitome of what it means to be a leading lady in business.
Joanna has been involved with the YDN since freshman year (and currently leads the Business Team) as well as the Yale Chapter of Smart Woman Securities. Despite her financial focus, she also worked on developing a curriculum for biomedical engineering courses at Yale.
I remember Joanna as the girl who showed me what it means to truly own a skillset at all levels of business. A few summers ago, she told me about all the cool things she learned from working as a shoe salesperson at the mall. She was really into it! She could probably sell ice cubes to the Eskimos. Even though she spent the past summer working on the investment banking team at JP Morgan, she still carries that positive spirit and passion for understanding more about what makes people tick to support whatever team is lucky enough to have her.
Alicia Lovelace
College: Branford
Class: 2017
Alicia has a charisma and humor that makes you want to talk to her for hours. Her leadership style is very personable and unassuming. She is a leader that makes her team want to commit to her and their organization. On campus, she is the co-editor of the Rumpus.
Celina Chiodo
College: Morse
Year: 2017
Cece is the founder of Flourish Journal, an artistic publication on campus. A pre-med English major, she wants to become a surgeon but also loves to write and make art. She is very talented and well-rounded in the most unassuming way. She has a strong sense of who she is, and that is reflected in the way she spends her time and the way she leads.
Staphany Hou
College: Trumbull
Year: 2018
Staphany is the definition of a go-getter. She is extremely involved in YIRA and the YDN. She's intelligent, sassy, and a great Kappa sister.
Jennifer Peng
College: Turmbull
Year: 2018
Jenn is always so full of energy and spunk! She's incredibly fun to be around, but she is also great at everything she does. She is a leader on the Women's Golf Team, is involved in Kappa Kappa Gamma, and studied abroad in London this past summer. Jenn is loved by all who have talked to her because of her positive outlook on life.
Monica Wang
College: Trumbull
Year: 2018
Monica is one of the kindest people on campus. I have never heard her say a mean word about anyone. She has a phenomenal work ethic and is involved in CASA, Kappa, and CASPY. She's a loyal friend to all and an inspiration as a Leading Lady.
Sarah Gomez
College: Pierson
Year: 2018
Sarah is one of the happiest and sweetest people you’ll ever meet at Yale. She’s passionate about many different things, including the environment, culture, sustainability, and cupcakes. Her enthusiasm is so contagious that talking to her for just a few minutes will motivate and inspire you. Whether she’s planning social events for Net Impact, hanging out with her Kappa sisters, or digging a tilapia pond in Panama, she’s an amazing person to have around and always brings incredible energy to the group!
Yondeen Sherpa
College: Timothy Dwight
Year 2018
Yondeen is loved by all who meet her. She is very active within the ISO and TD communities. She makes sure everyone around her is having fun, and her positive outlook on life is contagious.
Hannah Truong
College: Morse
Year: 2017
Hannah is absolutely incredible and excels at everything she does. She's a cheerleader, an active leader in Kappa Kappa Gamma, and a researcher at the Medical School. She's kind hearted and always makes an effort to reach out. Hannah is truly a Leading Lady on Yale's campus!
Crystal Kong
College: Berkeley
Year: 2018
Crystal is just a powerhouse. She is genuinely passionate about what she does and has already contributed so much to Yale. She is very involved in the Asian American Students Alliance and many other groups associated with it. As a freshman, she ran the Asian American Studies Conference and led the Task Force post-it campaign. She has a very clear mind and a great sense of event planning and execution. She is also a great baker :)
Lauren Chambers
College: Timothy Dwight
Year: 2017
Other than being an incredibly warm and genuine person, she is one of the most talented and dedicated astrophysicists at Yale. She is a huge advocate for women in STEM, as well as women in general. As a mixed race women in STEM, she has gone against all odds and come out on top. She rarely says no, her schedule is unbelievably busy, but she always takes time to make sure those around her are doing okay. She cares about others in a way that shows the vibrance of her heart. She is dedicated to her work in a way that shows the fire in her brain. She deserves so much recognition, even if she can barely accept the praise I try to give her. #modesty
Holly Mj Geffs
College: Silliman
Year: 2018
Holly is known by everyone on campus for being a leader in her extracurricular pursuits and an incredibly loyal friend. She is leader of Students for a New American Politics, is a key member of the YDA and is involved in a billion other things, but still finds time to go above and beyond for her friends and her sisters in Pi Phi.
Sara Cho
College: Branford
Year: 2018
Sara is very involved with the AACC and is passionate about her work. She's always willing to help, whether it be proof reading an essay, or simply being someone to lean on and talk to. Sara is a leading lady who we are all lucky to call a friend!
Alexis Halyard
College: Davenport
Year: 2016
Alexis served as last year's President of the Black Women's Coalition. In this role, she inspired and led the women of the Black community. She is also a role model to many who aspire to medical school and academic success. As a pillar of humility, openness, and strength against adversity, she deserves to be recognized as an important leader to many in the Yale community.
Sofia Gulaid
College: Saybrook
Year: 2018
Sofia Gulaid is an 11/10. She serves as co-vice president of the Yale Refugee Project, and as an active member of the Yale African Students Association, the Saybrook Community, as well as C2 Soccer. She has the brightest smile and the warmest laugh on campus, and is undoubtedly a leading lady, and role model, in my life.
Laura Goetz
College: Pierson
Year: 2017
Laura is truly a wonder woman! She spent the summer working on TWO incredible research projects: one in Argentina about anemia in indigenous women and one at the medical school in endocrinology. On campus she also stands up for reproductive rights with the Reproductive Rights Action League at Yale, writes/edits for Broad Recognition, works as a CCE, and plays snare drum in the YPMB! I truly admire how she integrates her passion for science, health, and gender studies into everything she does. Seeing Laura is always a treat: her smiles and science jokes brighten the days of everyone around her!
Anna Smilow
College: Branford
Year: 2017
Anna is an amazing woman and an amazing friend. She is a Branford master's aide, so she always has advice--both school related and not.
Last year Anna invited me to a women's empowerment circle she helped create. This became one of the most important experiences I've had at Yale, and I can attribute this directly to Anna, who helped start the forum. Anna's dedication to other students and especially other women is so inspiring. As my "big sib" in Branford, she has empowered me in so many ways to take advantage of all this school has to offer and to make it my own. Everyone is so impressed with Anna's poise and intellect, and I agree with that characterization 100%.
Michelle Soto
College: Timothy Dwight
Year: 2016
Serving as one of the TD frocos for the current academic year and a past Assistant Business Manger for her A Cappella group, Shades of Yale, Michelle has embodied leadership in the entirety of the time that I've known her. She's always been willing to reach out to her fellow classmates whether they be underclassmen or upperclassmen to lend a helping hand. Whether it be academic, social, or personal Michelle has come to the aid of her frosh with indispensable love, maturity, and level-headedness to aid new students through their struggles of being a first-year student (even being there for me with my own scheduling difficulties last year when I was a freshman). To me, she is a leader in the most meaningful sense of the word: she cares about the people she leads to a point where she will drop what she's doing to help them in anyway physically possible, while also being practical and organized in her approach to issues.
Sam Ng
College: Silliman
Year: 2018
Sam radiates joy and warmth to everyone around her. As a board member of Net Impact, she is passionate about making a positive social impact in the world and inspiring those around her to do the same. Not only is she hardworking and reliable, but she’s also very bubbly and a lot of fun to be around. Her smile will light up any room, and her positive personality definitely makes her one of Yale’s Leading Ladies!
Sarah Landau
College: Silliman
Year: 2017
Sarah is everything I could want to be when I grow up. Not only is she a brilliant pre-med, HSHM major and Global Health Fellow, she is a star club soccer player, Camp Kesem counselor, Theta sister and Community Health Educators teacher. She takes care of everyone around her with a smile on her face and no thanks necessary, and I can't imagine someone more deserving of the title of Leading Lady.
Alizeh Maqbool
College: Berkeley
Year: 2017
Alizeh is a remarkable human — a physicist, a mentor to anyone she meets, a truly amazing friend. She is involved with the MSA, YIRA and the Chaplain's Office. Above all, Alizeh possesses the ability to light up any room she walks into with her contagious laughter and megawatt smile. Anyone who has ever met Alizeh is lucky to consider her a friend.
Jennifer Cha
College: Branford
Year: 2018
Jenn is an amazing friend, devoted student, energetic leader, and unique personality on campus. If you see her on campus, there's a good chance she will be doing one of four things. Playing the violin for YSO, working on something important looking for Elmseed, working at the Branford Buttery, or going on post-midnight GHeav runs. Jenn is the definition of a Leading Lady here at Yale!
Aaminah Bhat
College: Branford
Year: 2018
Aaminah is one of those people whose kindness and warmth just envelops anyone who is lucky enough to meet her. She will immediately make anyone feel comfortable and always goes out of her way to help people out, even when she barely knows them. She is also involved in all types of life on campus, from being an active member of the Muslim Students Organization to volunteering to help local New Haveners file their taxes. She's also a certified EMT! Aaminah is beautiful both inside and out, and her presence on campus has most definitely been a positive addition to the Yale community.
Sarah Pearl Heard
College: Ezra Stiles
Year: 2018
Sarah Pearl is a true gem who's radiance shines very bright on campus and in the community. You can catch her utilizing her outspoken voice in the marvelous shows by ¡Oye! Spoken Word, a group that does poetry workshops for certain schools around the area and for which she is currently serving as Artistic Director. Not one to shy from leadership, she also serves as Social Chair for the Yale Ballet Company this year. Between these and many other organizations, Sarah Pearl somehow finds time to write for DOWN, a new magazine on campus that voices students of color and is quickly rising in popularity. One of the most impressive things about this woman is the work she has been doing in advocacy in the foster care system through SaySo (Strong Abled Youth Speaking Out). She is passionate and dedicated in everything she does and is truly a leader among leaders.
Stella Shannon
College: Berkeley
Year: 2018
Stella rocks!
Paige Breen
College: Saybrook
Year: 2016
Paige is the co-president (for the second year) of the Guild of Carillonneurs. She is currently planning the Guild convention to be held at Yale this summer, presenting G&G research in Utah and continuously inspiring those around her.
Lelina Chang
College: Timothy Dwight
Year: 2018
Lelina is a true leader with a broad range of interests but a genuine passion for everything she does. It is always so inspiring seeing how excited she is when talking about her visions for an organization that she is a part of. As the social events director for LEAD at Yale, the head delegate on the Ivy Council that promotes international relations, a TD Master's Aide, a representative on the TD College Council, a dedicated member of Universities Allied for Essential Medicine (a graduate organization that focuses on medical access for people in poverty-stricken areas of the world), and a researcher in one of the leading immunobiology labs at Yale, Lelina is a very busy person. Yet she still inspires and brings joy to people wherever she goes. As an upperclassman who met Lelina when she entered Yale her freshman year, I have been beyond proud to watch her join so many activities that she genuinely loves, and make a lasting impact in every one of the organizations that is lucky enough to have her as a member.
Lelina has noble goals in life--she is deeply passionate about global health, which is apparent from her extracurricular commitments and her studies (she's a prospective MCDB/Sociology double major with a concentration in health and society). The most incredible thing about Lelina is that she always thinks of other people first and really cares about those around her, rather than single-mindedly focusing on building herself up. And that translates into a rare but successful type of leadership--she inspires others to work hard towards bettering the world not by putting herself on a pedestal, but by setting an example of love, maturity, diligence, and selflessness.
The Leading Ladies Gala is a truly wonderful, beautiful event to honor the women who tirelessly work to leave the world and Yale in a better place than they found it. I think many, many people would agree with me that Lelina is beyond deserving of recognition as one of Yale's leading women, and that any list of leading ladies on campus wouldn't quite be complete without her on it.
Alex Leone
College: Saybrook
Year: 2018
Alex devotes herself to the Yale community through a diverse set of activies: she's on the board of Net Impact, president of Yale's Irish Dancers, a member of the African dance group Dzana, and a member of the Yale Refugee Project.
Alex is a role model leader. Through out high school and college she has dedicated herself to advocating for women: heavily involved in Girl up and spending a summer interning at a woman's shelter to name a few. At Yale, her dedication and selflessness inspires those around her. Alex, with her conviction and kindness, leads by example every day.
Helen Price
College: Davenport
Year: 2018
Helen works tirelessly on Campus and everywhere she goes to further the fight for women's rights. She volunteers as a clinic escorter every saturday at Planned Parenthood. She is the vice president of Rally, Yale's student group for women's reproductive rights. She organized the first wver national Fearless Conference on Sexual Assault, to which she has also managed to send a Yale delegation, as well as delegations from college's across the country. She phone banks for women's rights legislation. The list could go on and on, but Helen truly embodies what it means to be an advocate and revolutionary for women across the world.
Alexis Halyard
College: Davenport
Year: 2016
Alexis Halyard was president of Yale Black Women's Coalition during the 2014-2015 academic year. As her vice-president, I was constantly inspired by her dedication and her willingness to sacrifice for the good of the organization. She is a shining example of compassionate, people-centered leadership.
Riddhima Yadav
College: Timothy Dwight
Year: 2018
Riddhima is UNREAL. There is no superlative that could do justice to the amazing person she is. Whoever knows her personally or those who have heard of her inspiring work will agree that she is the epitome of confidence, hard work and intelligence. She's charismatic and helpful and unbelievably humble about her impressive achievements. She's involved with The Politic, The Yale International Relations Association, The Yale Equestrian Team and of course, the UN! There are many people who look up to her and admire how she manages to balance the innumerable things she does on campus and the even greater number of things she does outside of Yale. She's not only Yale's leading lady, but a leading lady in spheres outside Yale too! She is destined for greatness and has a long way to go! Love her!!
Caitlin Dermody
College: Morse
Year: 2018
She is literally the embodiment of sunshine. This acapella singing goddess can turn anyone's day around with her infectious positivity. She is passionate about education and goes out of the her way to help people. The world is a better place with Caitlin in it!
Sonia Helen Pascale
College: Davenport
Year: 2018
Sonia Helen joined the founding team of Moneythink at Yale last year, and she now holds a variety of leadership positions within the organization. Despite how busy she is, Sonia Helen is one of the most caring and reliable people I know. She always brings a positive energy to the group, and I'm so lucky to be a part of her team.
In addition to Moneythink, Sonia Helen is a volunteer at the Haven Free Clinic, a member of the Arkansas Club, and an active Kappa sister.
Maya Sweedler
College: Ezra Stiles
Year: 2018
Maya is an inspiration. She breathes to serve the Yale community and help others. She's also super sweet.
Jordy Gardenswartz
College: Timothy Dwight
Year: 2018
Jordy really has it all covered. She's an amazing friend, a hilarious improviser, and a great person. She does an incredible job at bringing Jewish students into Slifka and making Yale feel like a community for them. I know I've felt that way because of Jordy! She cares about other women and wants everyone to get the most out of this university. For me, she has been a wonderful and caring friend.
Victoria Wang
College: Pierson
Year: 2018
Victoria is the kindest, most genuine person I've met at Yale. She leads by the pen rather than the sword. As a leader in Jook Songs, the spoken word group, she inspires everyone to find their voice--both by encouraging others' work, and by writing so gorgeously and vividly that she reminds everyone what passionate art is capable of.
Apsara Iyer
College: Morse
Year: 2016
Apsara is a thoughtful, smart and extremely caring individual. She's exemplary in whatever she does and is always ready to lend a ear to anyone with problems. At the same time, she is humble and goes out of her way to help out. She deserves to be a Yale Leading Lady! Go Apsara!
Carol Finke
College: Pierson
Year: 2018
No matter what is happening in your life, Carol makes it better. She has a contagious smile and incredible compassion for other people. She's also a stud athlete but far too modest.
Alice Zhang
College: Calhoun
Year: 2017
Alice is one of the most amazing, supportive and driven person I have met at Yale. Not only does she excel at school, she's also part of many other extracurriculars on campus. She's always a joy to be around, and can brighten anyones day. She is beautiful inside and out, and deserves to be recognized as a Yale leading lady! Keep doing you, Alice!
Camilla Opperman
College: JE
Year: 2016
Camilla is an energetic, active and caring individual. She is a varsity gymnast and kills it on her floor routines! She is heavily involved in JE, in Theta and in a bunch of other organizations. She is hard-working, talented and always makes me smile. She is this years Yale Gymnastics Team Captain and excels in everything she does. She really is a Yale Leading Lady.
Maya Sweedler
College: Ezra Stiles
Year: 2018
Maya is the ultimate power woman. She has an unparalleled ability to execute difficult, time-consuming projects flawlessly and still find time to be an incredibly loving friend. On campus, she diligently serves as Communications Director on the Yale College Council Executive Board and is a key sports writer for the YDN. Through her energy, devotion, and love, Maya inspires me to do my best.
Brooke Lamell
College: Davenport
Year: 2016
You should consider yourself lucky if you know Brooke Lamell. She is kind and friendly to everyone she knows (which is a lot of people) and consistently goes the extra mile to help others. Her commitment to what she loves is unparalleled, whether it's her astrophysics major, her position as the Senior Manager of the Yale Glee Club, or whatever other activities she is a part of. She is a wonderful person whose positive impact on Yale's campus will last for years to come.
Miranda McKay
College: Morse
Year: 2017
Miranda McKay is involved with New Haven Reads and is Vice President of Yale Pi Phi. She is one of the most loyal, hard-working friends I know and routinely makes incredible sacrifices for those she cares about. Miranda deeply values lifting up the women around her, and works to foster a community of friends who respect and support one another. I count myself so lucky to be Miranda's friend. She's so strong, constantly juggles a million things, can always be found at woads, and always has time for the people in her life. Miranda brings so much warmth and positivity to the people around her, and provides a stellar example of what it means to be a good friend and woman to all those around her.
Renee Breer
College: Berkeley
Year: 2016
Renee is a leader both within the Yale community and within the sorority Kappa Kappa Gamma, where she is the Senior Standards Representative and the Marshal. She inspires her sisters with her approachability, kindness, and effortless grace. She is a great friend, supportive sister, and role model.
Jennifer Cha
College: Branford
Year: 2018
Jennifer Cha works so hard in the Yale Community. Her participation in various groups such as the Elmseed Enterprise Fund, YSO, and Yale Economic Review makes the biggest difference to her peers and co-workers as her contribution to every team really showcases her determination and commitment. Jenn truly is passionate in all that she does, whether giving advise to friends or just practicing for hours for YSO. I've never seen anyone work harder than her and her motivated outlook on life really inspires everyone around her. She always does everything with a smile and refuses to give up easily. Jenn embodies what it means to be a leading lady.
Iwona Chalus
College: JE
Year: 2016
You should consider yourself lucky if you know Iwona Chalus. A true intellectual with an insatiable thirst for learning, Iwona can often be found at West Campus having conversations about French poetry in the 18th century, complex grammatical structures in Polish (or the three other languages she knows), her travels through Australia, the best rooftops in NYC, or her research in nanotechnology. Her life as a female engineer is the epitome of the liberal arts. She's also an amazing friend -- despite how busy she is, Iwona cares deeply about each and every of her friends and is genuinely excited about her friends’ accomplishments. I can't imagine someone more deserving of the title of Yale Leading Lady.
Jin Ai Yap
Year: 2016
Jin Ai does whatever Jin Ai wants. Her style is unreserved and she cares deeply about her friends and living a full life.
Katelyn Kang
Year: 2016
Katelyn has cut out most of the bullshit that comes with Yale life and is a great friend, great writer, and great dancer. But not in the way that you expect a Yalie to be those things.
Riddhima Yadav
College: Ezra Stiles
Year: 2018
Riddhima is a powerhouse! She is involved with so many worthy causes in and out of Yale. The environment is dear to her heart, and she fights for it with all she's got. A member of numerous UN committees and conferences, she's a rising star that is sure to turn the change she has already catalyzed into lasting improvements to the whole world.
Eleanor Slota
College: Silliman
Year: 2017
Whether she is causing your jaw to drop on the stage or schooling you in a Political Science section, Eleanor Slota is a force on campus. Although she is extremely busy with all of her activities, her double major, and maintaining stellar grades, she is still a perpetual ray of sunshine and can always put a smile on your face. Thanks for being you, Eleanor!!!
Miranda Melcher
College: Branford
Year: 2016
Miranda is a remarkably committed and capable scholar, leader, and friend. Her insatiable passion for foreign policy and Middle East politics is unprecedented; she adds a thoughtful and analytical voice to any seminar or discussion. She has also pursued this interest through her international relations blog and summer internships with the major US think tank, Brookings.
Outside of class, Miranda has played a major role in the Yale International Relations Association (YIRA) where she helps organize MUN conferences - including a major conference in Seoul, South Korea last year. Her capabilities as a team leader are numerous. She also meaningfully contributes to the Branford community and the other organizations that she participates in.
To those younger than her, Miranda also serves as a reliable and considerate mentor. Her impact is clearly visible on campus - in the classroom, in her extracurriculars, and in her relationships with others - and marks her as an exemplary undergraduate female leader.
Iwona Chalus
College: JE
Year: 2016
Iwona is just a powerhouse. She somehow manages to do all the fantastic things no one else bothers to put the effort into. Iwona is modest yet determined as she overcomes obstacles to pursue her goal, always leading through example of her own example. This girl does not quit and nothing can stop her. She's a role model for every woman who's involved in a male dominated field. Keep being awesome, and please don't just leave us behind <3
Melia Bernal
College: Silliman
Year: 2017
Melia is a powerhouse in the dance community! As captain of bhangra and founder of Shaka, she shares her passion for dance with so many people on this campus. Melia also started up Sillikneads and brings lots of joy with her delicious baked goods and creative recipes. She always has a positive attitude and is so much fun to be around, and I think the impact she has made on the Yale community will last far into the future.
Naivasha Harris
College: Silliman
Year: 2016
Naivasha Harris exemplifies female leadership by her outstanding commitment to the pre-orientation program Cultural Connections. After being a CC baby herself and then a counselor for 2 years, in her final year at CC she became head counselor, making her a CC All-Star. As head counselor this year, she lead 20 counselors in helping over a 120 first year people of color navigate Yale's campus. She is also co-founder and co-president of the Yale Native American Arts council, which works to expose the Yale community to Native American art. Her unique perspective as a mixed woman of color from the South is important not only in her extra-curriculars but in the classroom as well. As a whole, I believe that Naivasha's commitment to helping her fellow younger people of color on campus makes her a role model and an important female leader at Yale.
Rebecca Wolenski
College: Berkeley
Year: 2016
Rebecca is anything but your average leader. Being involved in Berkeley College Council and writing for Rumpus, along with participating in other activities on campus, Rebecca has demonstrated incredible leadership skills. Rebecca's outstanding ability to simultaneously be serious/"get the job done" and yet make people endlessly laugh sets her a part from other leaders.
Iwona Chałuś
College: JE
Year: 2016
Iwona is always on top of everything - she's DOUBLE majoring in mechanical engineering and in economics, and she managed to study abroad in Paris during her junior year! There's nothing that this girl sets her mind on that she cannot reach. Iwona is modest yet determined as she overcomes obstacles to pursue her goals, always leading through example of her own example. Her mature (and fun!) presence in the classroom and in her extracurricular pursuits makes her a role model for many on campus. She's a huge advocate for women in engineering and a loyal friend. Iwona is one of the most tolerant people I have met at Yale. She truly listens to what people have to say and doesn't make assumptions, a true sign of leadership. Iwonka, you inspire people around you to be just and accepting. Never change. And please don't leave us all behind!
Ellie Boswell
College: Timothy Dwight
Year: 2017
Ellie is a goddess. Kind, thoughtful, and crazy talented, she runs Yale's J Street U branch and co-directs Control Group, Yale's experimental theater troupe. This year she's helping to bring female voices to Yale theater by directing "tender of you too", a play written by Yale student Anya Richkind which features an all-female cast.
Faizah Alaoui
College: Silliman
Year: 2018
A smiling face automatically comes to mind when the name Faizah Alaoui is uttered. She is kind, smart, and humble, as a result, many don't know all the good she does. Every summer, she goes back to her home country, morocco, and spends its entirety volunteering at local orphanages. She even plans an annual party for them which She spends countless hours preparing for. The event is always a huge success; many singers come and volunteer which always leaves everyone smiling. Not only does she manage to bring joy to these unfortunate children, but she has created a bond with them that is unbreakable. Even in the depth of the snow and exams, Faizah always takes the time to call them and sees how they are doing. Too many that may seem to be something that anyone can do, but the reality is she is one of the only ones. At Yale, she is part of many associations and helps tutor the children of new haven. Although, her the amount of activities she partakes in at Yale are equal to many, I strongly believe that the charity she does overseas need to be recognized (and she would never brag about it). It is our, the Yale community, duty to shine light on this amazing young women as she truly deserves it!
Dara Huggins
College: Pierson
Year: 2017
Dara Huggins is a force on this campus. Let's start with academics: she's a psych major who frequents law-related classes and seminars. She's a Bouchet Fellow, who spent her last summer doing research in New Haven. Then to extracurriculars, where she's a veteran member of the Black Solidarity Conference (BSC) Board as well as this year's President of Yale Black Women's Coalition. Dara devotes herself to her classwork and clubs in the same way: with strength, drive, ambition, and vision. She knows where she is going and how to get there and she won't let anyone stand in her way. She's honest, thoughtful, and straightforward. In a community where people can often beat around the bush, it's immensely refreshing to work with someone direct. Furthermore, her determination is awe-inspiring and infectious to both friends and colleagues. Simply trying to get on Dara's level improves us as people as well as our organizations, so her influence reaches farther than even she knows. She's an incredible woman, who I am lucky to know, and who deserves to be one of Yale's Leading Ladies.
Stephanie Siow
College: Pierson
Year: 2017
Where do I begin? Steph does *so* many things on campus because she just cares about a lot of things! OIS head counselor? Check. Taekwondo enthusiast? Check. YHHAP member? Check.
Best thing about Steph, though, is that she's been working on this new kickass project called SEAM - she's galvanized the Southeast Asians at Yale to come up with a video and conference series to spread ideas about Southeast Asia to other young people from the region :) She's one of the most self-driven and community-focused people I know, and she's going to do good for sure.
Chelsey Clark
College: Morse
Year: 2017
Chelsea is bae.
Libby Henry
College: Silliman
Year: 2017
Libby is an inspiration to everyone she meets. She is kind and considerate but she also knows how to get things done and motivate the people around her. From her work at the Human Nature Lab, to her role as captain of the rockclimbing team, Libby's strength and focus are truly inspirational.
Amy Kolor
College: Calhoun
Year: 2017
Amy is a fantastic, wonderful person with a smile that lights up a room. She takes charge and is constantly striving towards her goals by attending conferences, pursuing a double major, and working in labs. She is the secretary of Society of Women Engineers and the secretary/events coordinator of the Society of Petroleum Engineers. Amy is definitely going to change the world.
Rita Rangchaikul
College: Morse
Year: 2017
I often find myself wondering if Rita ever sleeps. On top of her music/MCDB major, she finds time to play violin in YSO, be the pitch and arrange songs for The New Blue, serve as a member of the YMPO board, and do research at the medical school. While she is a quite impressive individual, Rita is also one of the kindest people I know. Her optimism is boundless, and her cheerfulness is contagious. I can't think of a better person who exemplifies leadership.
Emily Van Alst
College: Silliman
Year: 2016
Emily fully represents what it means to be a Leading Lady. Everywhere she goes she brings her unique perspective as a Native woman. Her desire to help others and the importance of sisterhood drives her to be a leader and mentor to so many on campus. She was a counselor for the pre-orientation program Cultural Connections twice and was president of the Junior Class. Currently she is co-founder and co-president of the Yale Native American Arts Council, a tour guide for the Yale Center for British Art, and an archivist with the Peabody Museum. Factor in the fact that she is double majoring in Anthropology and Archaeology and it makes you wonder if she’s altered physics to add more hours in a day. In short, a true inspiration.
Madeline Kaplan
College: Morse
Year: 2017
Madeline may be the funniest woman on campus. She is a leader in not one, but TWO Yale comedy groups. As Supplementals Editor for The Yale Record, she is in charge of whole issues that are published outside of the magazine's regular schedule, as well as writing and sending out The Record's newsletter. As Director of The Fifth Humour, she plans and runs the group's shows and rehearsals. She is also an amazing all-around writer, having written for campus publications like the Herald and the YDN, and for the Huffington Post this past summer.
Angela Pollard
College: JE
Year: 2016
-Heavily involved w/ Chaplain's office, PLs, JE social life
-She's pre-med
-Interested in education which is DOPE
Angela is an agent for calm, a trait that is unfailingly underrated here at Yale. Seeing her at dinner or chilling in her suite (she mixes DANK drinks, btw) is often the highlight of my week. I'm so grateful for the time that I get to spend with her while we're both here, and I'll surely be missing her presence when we're gone.
Angela is possibly my favorite woman on campus. She's someone to emulate.
Alexa Little
College: Morse
Year: 2016
Alexa is a natural leader and one of the most determined people I know. She is a co-founder of Pitches & Tones, which has become one of the best a cappella groups on campus. A skilled linguist, she is also a co-founder of the Yale Undergraduate Linguistics Society, with which she spreads the joys of linguistics to high schoolers and to other Yalies.
However, what impresses me most about Alexa is her influence on campus beyond the specific groups she has started. When she came to Yale, her dietary restrictions were not accommodated adequately in the dining halls, which made her first couple years in college extremely difficult. To make sure that no one else will have to go through the same struggles she did, Alexa has worked tirelessly with the administration to fight for better treatment of dietary restrictions and, even more importantly, mental health. Though that battle is still being fought, Yale is now a safer and more welcoming place because of Alexa’s efforts. Her name may be Little, but her influence on campus is immense.
Ashlyn Oakes
College: Berkeley
Year: 2018
Above everything, Ashlyn has a good heart. Without ever asking what's in it for her, she is literally the first person to step up to offer her hugs, her incredible problem-solving skills, her time, her compassion, her snacks, her massages, and anything else she can give. She is an incredibly talented artist and an amazing illustrator for YDN. Tbh, I only really look for her illustrations in YDN without reading articles (sorry!). Just seeing her face in the Berkeley dining hall wipes away any of the stress that was bogging me down. She is absolutely hilarious, witty, and honestly should have tried out for an improv comedy group (but let's be real, she is beyond their league). Ashlyn, so many people love you, and that's because you put out so much of your love first.
Layla Khuri
College: Saybrook
Year: 2016
Layla Khuri might be double majoring in E&EB and History, but you'll find her all over town, whether it's brainstorming at a Saybrook College Council meeting, cleaning the Green on a weekend, or dancing her way across the social scene. I think what's really special about Layla is that, despite her obligations, she prioritizes her own and others' health and happiness. She's not afraid to pipe up about yoga or mental health at Yale, even boldly sharing personal stories with a hundred freshmen at Cultural Connections. Layla's glow simply brightens a room in good times or bad.
Silvie Saltzman
College: Timothy Dwight
Year: 2017
Silvie Saltzman is a junior EP&E major in Timothy Dwight College. She is a member of the YHHAP Board, the Housing Director of No Closed Doors and a Research Assistant in the Clinical Neuroscience Lab. Silvie is devoted to serving her community and making the most of her academic opportunities here at Yale - I can't think of a better leading lady!
Deanna Song
College: Ezra Stiles
Year: 2016
Deanna is a caring, driven, and extremely smart. She always goes out of her way to lend a helping hand or shoulder. She cares deeply about each and everyone of her friends, and also possesses the charisma of a true leader. She is the captain of the Yale Women's Golf Team, and has been involved in many other groups throughout her career at Yale. Deanna truly is one in a million, and we are so lucky to have her. Keep being awesome, Deanna!
Danielle Derlein
College: Timothy Dwight
Year: 2017
There is a lot to be said about Danielle; there's her incredible work ethic, as she is one of the hardest working students I've ever met. Her devotion to her MCDB major is an example for everyone to follow. There's also her commitment to the Yale theater scene, where her stage management skills are unmatched. Seriously, she is a wizard at GCals and commanding the attention of an entire room. But above all, the greatest part about Danielle is Danielle herself. Anyone who has ever met her can confirm that she is one of the sweetest, most considerate people on the planet. She consistently goes out of her way to put others before herself, and her kindness is a model that everyone should follow. Thank you, Danielle.
Alejandra Padin-Dujon
College: Davenport
Year: 2018
Ale is an incredible human being. A true intellect with an insatiable thirst for learning, she can often be found in the Davenport courtyard having conversations about abstract mathematics, colonial art in the British Empire, complex grammatical structures in Arabic (or the four other languages she knows), and racial formations in the United States. She's also an amazing friend -- she's kind, thoughtful, caring, funny, and really just a joy to be around. She motives me and inspires me to be a better person every day.
Rachel Okun
College: Saybrook
Year: 2018
Rachel is, to put it simply, a powerhouse. From acting to DS philosophy to singing so beautifully we're moved to tears, she fully embodies the committed and passionate Yalie. But beyond her commitments, Rachel has an impossibly kind soul, an eternally curious nature, and the kind of positivity that inspires everyone around her to take a second look at life. Yale is lucky to have such a strong woman.
Priyanka Krishnamurthi
College: Ezra Stiles
Year: 2018
Priyanka is heavily involved on campus, ranging from working in her social robotics lab to serving on the board of the South Asian Society to dancing with Yale Jashn Bhangra and Yale MonstRAASity. She puts her 100% into everything she does, and often goes above and beyond to push everything she does to new heights. It is her constant optimism, kindness, and willingness to aways be there for her friends, however, that particularly distinguishes her. Priyanka, you are truly a Leading Lady, and an inspiration to all!
Sara Cho
College: Branford
Year: 2018
Sara is full of laughter, joy, and kindness. Her positivity brings light to her friendships and helps make her a great leader in all of her activities. As the co-community development chair of the Asian Student Alliance, she organizes the annual Night Market to promote awareness of Asian culture on campus. Also, a huge foodie, Sara writes for Spoon University and was featured in USA Today. She is active in the Christian community on campus through the United Church of Westville and is also a core member of the Korean American Students at Yale. Sara's humility makes her willingness to help, loyalty to mentoring underclassmen, and cheerful demeanor all the more admirable.
Lauren Tucker
College: Ezra Stiles
Year: 2018
Anyone who has met Lauren knows that she is one of the most genuinely kind-hearted people on campus. From playing Korean drums in UNITY to being a part of SAAY (Students for Autism Awareness at Yale) to being an Ezra Stiles Master's Aide, her presence is overwhelmingly positive. Lauren constantly cares for others over herself and embodies what it means to be a Yalie.
Ariana Shapiro
Year: 2016
Ariana has been a vocal political and social activist since high school or maybe before. She was a big supporter of the Divestment movement and knows a ton about what's going on in the City of New Haven and her hometown of Ithaca.
Iwona Chalus
College: JE
Year: 2016
Soft-spoken and charming, Iwona is always on top of everything -- she studied abroad in Paris her junior year and she's still graduating on time with a DOUBLE major in engineering and in economics! Despite how busy she is, Iwona always has time to stop if someone wants to say hello. She truly listens to what people have to say and does not make assumptions, a true sign of leadership.
I admire her elegant poise, nonchalant sarcasm, and her appreciation of the finer things in life. Her mature (and fun!) presence in the classroom and in her extracurricular pursuits makes her a role model for many on campus. She's a huge advocate for women in STEM and a loyal friend. Don't ever change, Iwonka!
Jane Strauch
College: Silliman
Year: 2017
Jane Strauch is an incredible example of a Yale Leading Lady. From being tour manager for the Yale Glee Club to balancing three jobs to killing the STEM life as a Statistics major, Jane does it all. In addition, she pays it forward by teaching others as a math tutor for local students and through working with a children’s choir. Not only does Jane balance a lot, but she still has the energy to be a wonderful friend. Jane radiates positivity and kindness and is always there to listen. Also, she makes great baked goods!!
Jessica Pancer
College: Silliman
Year: 2017
Jessica is powerhouse Computer Science major. She is actively involved with Float, Design for America Groove, and Kappa Kappa Gamma. She is a proactive and effective to-the-point leader. She has put these leadership skills to the test as an intern for the past two years at Facebook. On top of it all, she is a wonderful listener and will always go out of her way to be there for a friend. Jessica definitely fits the criteria for a leading lady.
Rebecca Shaw
College: Morse
Year: 2018
Rebecca Shaw is a firecracker on campus. As Assistant Director of Red Hot Poker, she writes hilarious sketches, creates hysterical characters, and keeps things running tight. She's a warm and affectionate friend, and one of the most generous people I have ever met. She works tirelessly for the things that she wants (like her work this summer on the Hillary campaign). She is also a dedicated member of Pi Phi. She's fun, loyal, and committed. She will absolutely go far!
Alexa Derman
College: Berkeley
Year: 2018
Alexa Derman is a badass. She is a fierce advocate for women at Yale, particularly within the theater community. Last year she spearheaded the Womyn in the Arts committee at the Women's Center, and now serves in the post of Public Relations coordinator. This past summer Alexa embarked on a mission to read exclusively plays written by women in response to the preponderance of male-authored work produced on campus. This fall she's producing the Dramat's first fall ex, "Mr. Burns, a Post-Electric Play" (written by Anne Washburn). Alexa is also an accomplished playwright herself: count yourself lucky if you get to read one of her award-winning plays, which center around the experiences of young (and often queer) women. Alexa fights for the representation women deserve on campus and in the world. She's an incredible leader and an even better friend. Yale is lucky to have her.
Isabel Cruz
College: Davenport
Year: 2017
Isabel brings an irresistible joy, confidence, and energy to everything she is involved in on campus, and the list is long: she dances her heart out with A Different Drum Dance Co, scrapes up her knees in Ultimate Frisbee, welcomes freshies via Harvest, and has brought awesome growth to The Women's Center. As a leader, and a friend, she is fair, kind, open-minded, well-intentioned, humble, inspiring, welcoming, selfless and generous. Those lucky enough to know her know how lucky they are -- keep being your awesome self, Isabel :)
Megan Mikenas
College: Berkeley
Year: 2016
Megan is an incredibly bright and positive leader on campus. As a leader in the geology club at Yale and as the former Student Activities Chair of Berkeley College Council (among other activities), Megan has proven her unique leadership ability. Always approaching situations with the best attitude and a smile, she certainly inspires others.
Sarah Householder
College: Berkeley
Year: 2018
Sarah Householder does more in a day than most of us laypeople do in a month. Not only is she going to single-handedly save the world as a Middle-Eastern Studies major and Pre-Med, but she dazzles this campus every day with her beautiful voice (shoutout to the New Blue) and mad acting skills. When she takes time away from all of her amazing activities and obligations, Sarah is also an unmatchably devoted friend and a wonderful human being. I promise nobody else will ever make you laugh more and be more inspired in the course of a single conversation. She also casually speaks Arabic, which is awesome. If you are not friends with her yet, you had better get on that.
Haley Sproull
College: Davenport
Year: 2017
Haley is a true leading lady. In addition to her extracurriculars and studies in the history department, Haley is a sweet and loyal friend, whether she's staying in or going out. She is amazing at balancing all that Yale has to offer, and WLI is lucky to have her as one of its business chairs!
Isabella Giovannini
College: Saybrook
Year: 2017
Isabella Giovannini is definitely one of the funniest people you've ever met. Currently she's the director of improv group The Viola Question. Aside from leading their shenanigans, Isabella is an insanely talented stage actor: you can see her this fall in Mr. Burns, a Post-Electric Play and Twelfth Night. The more you get to know Isabella, the more you admire her -- and how she somehow manages to do as much as she does while seemingly never sleeping.
Lillie Owens Lainoff
College: JE
Year: 2017
Lillie is a force to be reckoned with. She's a saber fencer on Yale's varsity squad, and the team manager for the women's team. Lillie has won several national awards for her memoir work. This summer, she studied at the Iowa Writer's Workshop and interned for a young adult publisher in New York City. Several of her articles have been published in the opinion section of the Washington Post, and she is currently sending her latest novel to a variety of publishers. Lillie shares her skills with the Yale community as a writing partner at the Yale College Writing Center.
Tiffany Oche
College: Timothy Dwight
Year: 2017
At a queenly 5'8" Tiffany Oche is a goddess walking amongst us. Those long legs keep her moving smoothly and quickly between various positions on campus: JE Student Dining Manager, TD Master's Aide, SON Board, NSBE Board, BSC Board, and MAPS Treasurer. Each of these organizations is made brighter by her presence, organized approach, clear focus, and hilarious commentary. She makes those around her want to work harder, go farther, and do better - if she can do it, with everything she has going on, then what excuse do the rest of us have? Aside from being a pre-med Cognitive Science major and extracurricular maven, at her core Tiffany is one of the best people I know. She asks you how you're doing and she means it. When she listens, she pays as much attention to what you don't say as what you do. She cares about people - not because they're on a Board with her, not because they're working on psets together. She values people solely for who they are; and that purity of heart is a rare quality in people nowadays. That, more than anything, is why Tiffany Oche TD '17 is a Leading Lady.
Katerra Logan
College: Timothy Dwight
Year: 2017
Katerra is the living embodiment of classic phrases like "having it all," "beautiful on the inside and outside," and "light unto the world" (Matthew 5:14). Having it all: she's a Christian athlete focused on getting her MPH in future. Beautiful on the inside and outside: she catches your eye with her stunning cheekbones, and she keeps it with the joy your can see through her wide, honest smile. Light unto the world: Katerra makes no effort to hide her Christian faith, a claim that can sometimes sound like a death knoll on a liberal, academic campus. She embodies the Spirit of the Lord so whole-heartedly and humbly that it's easy to forget what an act of courage it is. She's a pillar for Black Church at Yale (BCAY) and makes everyone who walks through the door feel at home.
Katerra is the girl who will buy you tea when you forget your wallet and shake off your offers of Venmo-ing you back. She's genuinely kind, courageous, funny, honest, caring, loving, intelligent, and thoughtful, but most of all she's a good person. What's more, she's a good person in a world that often prefers you to be cold, backstabbing, selfish, and hypocritical. No one who knows her hasn't wished, at least once, either in that tiny voice at the back of our heads or in that loud voice at the forefront, that we could be a little bit more like her. That's why Katerra Logan is a Leading Lady.
Zoe Huber-Weiss
College: JE
Year: 2017
Zoe Huber-Weiss is an incredible theatre artist, writer, role model, and friend. It's hard to understand her simply in terms of the significant impact she's had on the Yale community, because Zoe's unique spirit brings so much more than just dedication, fiery intellect, and talent. She's a dazzling costume designer, but she's also the voice of reason in a production meeting and the much-needed calming force behind-the-scenes. She's an outstanding English student whose insights are often unparalleled, but she also is the student who encourages everyone to look past simple (and often stereotypical) assumptions, especially about women in texts. She's a fiercely talented actress, but she's also the member of the cast most deeply engaged with the work and in working collaboratively with her cast. I could go on -- overall, Zoe is a leader not just in craft or skill (which she has so much of) but also in character, kindness, and commitment. A leading lady indeed.
Mollie Johnson
College: Branford
Year: 2018
Mollie has a talent for balancing everything. Yale College Council, Branford College Council, numerous political campaigns, and the YPU are just a few of the organizations to which she devotes her time and leadership.
She also has a contagious smile and a great sense of humor.
Grace Stonecipher
College: Morse
Year: 2017
Grace is one of the strongest people I know. She is resilient and smart and always looking out for others. She thoroughly dedicates herself to her commitments, whether it be working at the Yale Farm or acting as captain of the rockclimbing team. Even though she is crazily busy at times, Grace never is too busy to help a friend. She is a true leader!
Cayla Broton
College: Ezra Stiles
Year: 2016
Cayla always brings a smile to everybody's face. She is intelligent, enthusiastic, and warm. She is a phenomenal froco, who is a source of support for so many across campus. She is strong and never allows her values to waver.
Julianna Simms
College: Ezra Stiles
Year: 2018
Julianna Simms is a total leading lady! She is a counselor for the pre-orientation program Cultural Connections, is an editor for DOWN magazine, and a member of the spoken word group Oyé. She will also be the "Lady in Green" in a production of "For Colored Girls". Additionally, she brought her unique perspective to the classroom when she was in Directed Studies her first year. Additionally, Julianna is lowkey an amazing DJ. She is committed to dismantling the patriarchy with her amazing wit, intersectional feminism, and sense of sisterhood.
Adriana Miele
College: JE
Year: 2016
I believe that Adriana embodies what it means to be a true leading lady. Her spoken word performances, and writing as a staff columnist at the Yale Daily News and as an English major allow her to share her important perspective to the larger Yale community. She also worked for the Women's Center where she was committed to discussing intersectional feminism and queer theory. As a whole, she is a strong advocate for women of color on Yale's campus and a great mentor and friend to her fellow peers.
Julia Dixon
College: Trumbull
Year: 2016
Julia’s commitment to helping other is truly inspiring. She was a Peer Liaison for the Afro American Cultural center, a TC Master’s Aide, and a counselor for Cultural Connections. Last summer, she worked for the Ulysses S. Grant foundation teaching local students. This year, all the Trumbull freshman are lucky to have her as a Froco. Julia is a ray of sunshine and sweeter than any Georgia peach. Her intelligence, independence, and sense of humor makes every room she enters a better place.
Rachel Prince
College: Davenport
Year: 2017
Rachel is hands down the most thoughtful and compassionate person I know. She is an amazing listener, with a reserved demeanor and steadfast humility. But make no mistake--this girl is a force to be reckoned with. With her involvement in AIESEC and Volunteers Around the World, her passion and kindness have touched many people--at Yale, around the country, and abroad. Leading by example, she approaches all tasks and challenges with a unique intentionality and creativity. She thinks big and has the drive and ability to see her ideas through, from start to finish. Above all, she is fiercely committed to social justice and I know that she will be the change she wants to see in the world (and already is!).
Evie Cai
College: Branford
Year: 2018
She's involved with YIRA and Yale Faith in Action, among other groups; not only has she been a passionate and effective leader, but she's managed to also balance those obligations with her personal life too. She's just completely put together--not to mention the fact that she's one heck of a friend. I have nothing but respect for this girl.
Raquel Brau Diaz
College: Calhoun
Year: 2018
Raquel is the epitome of a leading lady; she does incredible work with the Urban Improvement Corps, tutoring young children and taking a leadership role in the organization. She is also a supportive friend, a beloved sister of Theta and an all-round wonderful person.
Ivy Sanders Schneider
College: JE
Year: 2017
Ivy is the best. She has designed costumes for 7 shows in only 2 years here at Yale, she's a Peer Mentor for Undergraduate Productions, she's on the editorial board of the Yale Literary magazine, she's the creative director of the Yale Globalist, she's a production designer for the New Journal, she's an Art and Architecture blog intern for the Yale Press, she's a photographer and social media manager for the Yale Sustainable Food Project, and she also manages to be an awesome English student and a dedicated friend. It defies logic that she's able to do all these things, but she does and she kicks ass. She's funny and kind and humble and she brings me food sometimes. Ivy is bae.
Karen Yang
College: Saybrook
Year: 2018
Karen is an amazing person to be around. She's always ready to lend a helping hand no matter how busy she is. She balances her courseload with a vibrant and impressive array of extracurriculars. She inspires. Oh Karen, wherefore art thou Karen? How art thou Karen?
Anna Sophia Young
College: Calhoun
Year: 2017
Anna Sophia is a junior Global Affairs major in Calhoun College and she has more school spirit than anyone I know! She is a dedicated hounie through and through, serving as a Master's aid, VP of Calhoun College Council, and an IM secretary. Anna Sophia is also an ESL tutor for Chinese speaking middle school students. Not only is she a hardworking, over-committed leading lady but she is an amazingly kind and caring friend!