Our Team

(she/her) ♑︎
Director

Myriam Kadeba grew up in Côte d’Ivoire, West Africa. She received her doctoral degree in Counseling Psychology from the University of Akron, Ohio and has been working at VCU since 2016. Dr. Kadeba’s areas of interest include but are not limited to multiculturalism, advocacy and social justice, international affairs, community building, and mental health. Ultimately she values helping to empower individuals and communities that hold identities that have been systemically and historically marginalized while promoting wellness, agency, community healing, and thriving.

How do you practice self-care: I see self-care as embodying and practicing love and nurturing one’s mind, body, and spirit. Engaging in self-care for me includes making sure I stay hydrated, get proper sleep and nutrition, and find ways to move my body as able. Add to the mix random dance parties with my nieces and nephews, baking and cooking elaborate recipes to share with loved ones, journaling after reading something profound, being reminded of and finding joy in the small things.

(he/him) ♋︎
Associate Director

Joshua Lockhart is a native of Richmond by way of Norfolk, VA. He received his Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Winston-Salem State University in North Carolina and went on to earn a Master of Science in Education from Old Dominion University. Joshua applies his knowledge of the historical landscape of higher education and how it allows people of color to be recognized and affirmed to assist in fostering an inclusive campus environment by embracing the knowledge of his own cultural identity and the cultures of other collaborators. Joshua’s areas of interest include facilitating programs, activities, celebrations, and events that embodied unique and engaging cultural experiences and being a key aid in providing support to the sociocultural success of many historically underrepresented student groups. Joshua’s passion for education and engagement is based on one of his adopted missions to help build a movement to eliminate the disproportion and disparity within the educational system, by guiding men and women of all ethnic backgrounds upon the path of success. He desires to be a part of a movement where he can be an example and assist in making a difference in a person’s life.

How do you practice self-care: I love to take a self-care trip. Getting away for a weekend every now and then can help you disconnect, relax, and be rejuvenated. Self-care trips don’t have to be costly; you can simply drive to the next town over and see the sights, or go camping nearby. The goal is to veer away from your normal schedule and take the time to do something just for yourself. It makes a huge difference in my life.

“Success is to be measured not so much by the position that one has reached in life as by the obstacles which he has overcome while trying to succeed.” – Booker T. Washington

(he/him) ♌︎
Program Manager For Men Of Color Initiatives

Jair Lecky is a helper raised in Woodbridge VA. He studied at VCU for undergrad, and got degrees in Psychology and Social Work. During his undergraduate experience, he was involved in service based organizations such as The Carver Promise & VCU ASPiRE. Seeking to continue working in higher education spaces, Jair decided to continue his education, and recently graduated with a master’s in Counselor Education, with a concentration in College Counseling and Student Affairs. Jair has been a full time staff member at VCU since 2019, bringing experience from Residential Life and Housing. 

Engaging in self-care is something that I have been more intentional about due to the pandemic. I practice self-care mainly through connecting to music, which can take the form of listening to music, writing music, or singing. I believe that music is living, breathing, and has emotion. I also find video games to be therapeutic. After days where it feels like things are happening “to me,” it is comforting that within the realm of video games, it is a space that I have agency. 

“An impossibility is just a possibility you don't understand yet” - Matt Haig

(she/they) ♋︎

Program Manager For LGBTQIA+ Initiatives

Beck Oh is a student advocate from northern Virginia. In 2018, she completed her undergraduate program at New York University, earning degrees in Journalism & Social and Cultural Analysis. They spent their time in New York building community and resources for student journalists of color. After graduating, Beck went onto work for an evening news broadcast show.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Beck began volunteering as a youth crisis counselor. The experience inspired her to apply to and attend Virginia Commonwealth University’s Master’s program for social work. They are passionate about community organizing, empowering students, and LGBTQ+ mental health.

How do I practice self-care: I practice self-care by journaling when I feel anxious, reaching out to friends, and taking long walks.

“I don’t do things for the response or controversy. I just live my life.” – Rihanna

(he/him) ♎︎
Administrative Coordinator

Dave Brown was born and raised in Takoma Park, a suburb of Washington DC. He attended Montgomery Blair, Takoma Academy, and Northwestern High School in Maryland. He relocated to Richmond, Virginia in 1998. He started working for VCU in 2005 and has been with the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs since 2016. His work-related interests include expanding his knowledge as an anti-racist/anti-fascist and using his privilege to work towards a more just and inclusive world.

How do you practice self-care: I practice self-care by keeping my P.M.A.(positive mental attitude) intact in a variety of ways. I find that spending time with my wife/kids/friends is a perfect way to recharge/reset myself. I am a music fanatic and have spent the majority of my life enjoying music in a live/in-person setting. I love photography and have had two books of my music photography published, as well as produced vinyl records by some of my favorite bands throughout the years. I’ve also worked at independent record stores for over 15 years. So, yeah, music is a big part of my self-care too.

"I roll with the punches, so I survive." - Chuck D.

(she/they/he) ♊
Office Assistant

Anita Liammaytry is a third-year Sociology major transferring from NVCC. She was born and raised in Woodbridge, Virginia, and is a first-generation Lao-American student. In her free time, she enjoys watching Asian Dramas; some of her favorites include Youth of May and When I Fly Towards You.

I practice self-care by listening to music and focusing on the songs I listen to, as well as doing my skincare routine!

“The reason why a roly-poly can stand up again is because it laid down for a while to look at the sky.” - Park Woojin, AB6IX

(she/her) ♓
Office Assistant

Carrington Smith was a talented visual artist from the 757 area of Virginia with a passion for celebrating African American culture through her work. A recent graduate of Granby High School and an alumna of the Governor’s School for the Arts in the Visual Arts department, Carrington explored complex themes of identity, heritage, and societal perspectives. Now attending VCU for the 2024-2028 academic years, she is majoring in Graphic Design for the Art Foundation. Carrington's artistic journey is enriched by her deep connection to her community and commitment to using art as a medium for cultural expression and social commentary.

How do you practice self-care: I practice self-care by making sure to take care of myself by doing skincare, drinking water, getting active, and being around positive people who have good energy.

“If you don’t define yourself for yourself, you’ll be crushed into other people’s fantasies of you and get eaten alive.”- Issa Rae (Actor)

(she/her) ♍︎
Office Assistant

Divine Nantamu is an undergraduate studying forensic science at VCU. Balancing between being born/raised in NOVA with a Ugandan background has helped her understand that culture, identity, and birthplace are heavily connected and important. Currently working at the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs as an Office Assistant, she hopes to support the mission and universal goal of OMSA: promote diversity and inclusion. After college, she plans to work in forensic-related fields such as CSI, psychology, or musicology.

I practice self-care by exercising, practicing gratitude, journaling, taking long walks exploring my city, sleeping as much as I can, and eating healthy.

"As a musician, language is almost like another instrument. Every word has a sound." - Rosalía

(she/her) ♌
Office Assistant

Frannie is an undergraduate senior majoring in Art History with a minor in Italian Studies. She was born and raised in Charlottesville, Virginia. After graduating, Frannie plans to continue her education in arts administration, where she hopes to make community art accessible to all. 

She has a pet lizard named Yogurt and her favorite movie is Fantastic Mr. Fox directed by Wes Anderson. 

I practice self-care by treating myself and taking care of my body. I like to unwind by cooking or baking. I’ve found that following a new recipe step-by-step can be grounding and relaxing. Cooking and sharing a meal with friends is healing and great for the soul!

“The humblest tasks get beautified if loving hands do them” - Louisa May Alcott, Little Women

(she/her) ♏
Office Assistant

Gisselle Pacas-Iraheta is a PROUD Latina (Salvadorena), first-gen, and Scorpio who is currently a junior at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), majoring in Health Services with a focus on the Pre-PA Health Track. Gisselle was born in Richmond, VA, and Raised in the neighboring county Chesterfield. Gisselle is committed to becoming a Physician Assistant to increase Latinx representation in medicine and work towards improving the U.S. healthcare system to better serve Latinx communities.

How do you practice self-care: I practice self-care by being around uplifting friends/family, shopping, exercising, and being with my two dogs (Landon & Scrappy). 

"When you choose yourself everything around you will choose you too" - Maia

(she/her) ♍
Office Assistant

Jayden was born in Washington state but has moved around for most of her life. Although she has lived in a variety of places, she tends to call VA home as she has family that lives all over the state. She is currently finishing her Bachelor's degree in Art History with plans to continue her education to the doctorate level. As a first-generation college student from a military family, she plans to use her passions in photography, history, and anthropology to pursue a research-based practice in the future. 

I practice self-care by taking moments to do things I enjoy, like reading or going to the beach. I tend to pack my schedule full to get the most out of every experience I have without immediately thinking of how overwhelming it might be so taking a minute to do something relaxing actually helps me get other things done in a more efficient way.

"Photography is an art of observation. It has little to do with the things you see and everything to do with the way you see them." --Elliott Erwitt

(she/her) ♊
Office Assistant

Juanita Agbenouwope was raised in Reston, Virginia, but is originally from Togo, a small country located in West Africa. Juanita
is a first-generation college student majoring in Mass Communications with a concentration in Public Relations and minoring in African
American Studies. Upon completing her degree this fall, Juanita will continue her education on a graduate level with the hopes of owning her own consulting firm focusing on creative brand management and strategy.

Juanita enjoys working creatively with others, all things within the realm of entertainment and fashion, as well as participating in
community service events.

I personally practice self-care by pampering myself and just treating myself to any of my desires at the moment. I anticipate
practicing my self-care routine, as it is an exciting time that provides me with time to reset!

“I am not a word, I am not a line, I am not a girl that can ever be defined" - Nicki Minaj

(she/her) ♊
Office Assistant

Kamryn was born and raised in Richmond, VA. Kamryn is a first-generation student majoring in Social Work with a special interest in social justice, in hopes of one day becoming licensed and having her own practice. In her free time, Kamryn enjoys trying new restaurants and having quality time with friends and family. 

How do you practice self-care: I practice self-care by setting aside time each day for meditation and reflection, which helps me stay centered and focused. I also make sure to maintain a balanced diet and exercise regularly to keep both my mind and body healthy.

"Do nothing without intention" - Solange

(she/her) ♐︎
Office Assistant

Kiari Cole was born and raised in Chesapeake, VA, but lives in Fredericksburg. She is currently going to school for History with a minor in African-American Studies, Education, and Teacher Preparation for Historians. One thing that interests her the most is mental health within her community as well as educating herself on different ways to grow. 

I practice self-care by doing things that I enjoy the most. Over the last year, I realized that I have to do things for myself and make time for that. It could be cooking, showing, binge-watching TV, or self-reflecting. 

“I’m too classy for this world, forever I’m that girl” - Beyoncé

(she/they) ♉
Office Assistant

Lena Dao is a freshman majoring in Mass Communications with a concentration in media production. She is a first-generation student who grew up in Manassas, VA. Her favorite Studio Ghibli film is My Neighbor Totoro and she loves art, origami, and Roblox.

I practice self-care by drawing or listening to music while spacing out. Distraction helps me relax after having to focus on something for a while. I also like trying different outfits and doing my hair like I'm a dress-up doll!

"Humans only have one ending. Ideas live forever." - Ruth Handler (Barbie)

(she/her) ♈
Office Assistant

Rebecca Burrows is a transfer student from Central Virginia Community College who is attending VCU to earn a bachelor's degree in political science. Though she was born in Qujiang, Shaoguan, China, Rebecca immigrated to the U.S. with her adoptive family as a baby and has lived in Central Virginia ever since. She plans to use her political science degree and experience gained while working as an office assistant for the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs to assist her future efforts in advocating for the well-being of underrepresented communities.

How do you practice self-care: I practice self-care by doing things that make me happy. I enjoy spending time with my sister and friends, playing video games, reading, and cooking/baking. 

“I am no longer accepting the things I cannot change. I am changing the things I cannot accept.” - Angela Y. Davis

(she/her) ♋
Office Assistant

Sam is a first-generation college student double majoring in Political Science: Civil Rights and International Studies: and Latin American studies. Among other attributes, her Salvadoran-Colombian culture is very important to her! She also loves being involved in and outside the classroom through leadership roles in the Latinx Student Association, Student Government Association, College of Humanities and Science RAMbassadors, University Council, and as an OMSA Office Assistant! Through her roles, she hopes to help the greater community around her. She is also a big fan of VCU men's basketball!

How do you practice self-care: Ensuring some alone time for myself every week; whether reading a book, watching Jubilee’s middle ground videos, or just “rotting” in bed. With a busy schedule, I prioritize setting aside time where I do not need to be anywhere or do anything, just enjoy myself! This helps me recharge and reset for the future!

“Neither love nor terror makes one blind: indifference makes one blind.” -  James Baldwin, If Beale Street Could Talk

(she/her) ♒
Office Assistant

Shanna Black was born and raised in Southeast Washington DC. Shanna is a first-generation student who is currently studying Political Science with a construction of Politics and Government. She wants to become a political scientist to help the cause of creating better political systems. Shanna’s interests are art, traveling, trying new things, and meeting new people.

I practice self-care by cutting my phone off and watching comfort shows and conducting personal hygiene like doing a face mask and taking a bubble bath. I also love spending time with my little sister. I also love music, especially alternative music, and discovering other genres that I might like. I also love sharing music as well with other people.

“Once you learn how to read, you will be forever free” - Frederick Douglass

(she/her) ♋
Office Assistant

Stephanie is a first-generation college student born and raised in the greater Richmond area with a Colombian background. She is currently undecided but is willing to explore different things to find her true passion here at VCU. Stephanie's areas of interest include journaling, music, and helping others.

How do you practice self-care: I practice self-care by being around the people I love, taking long naps, and cooking.

"Character—the willingness to accept responsibility for one’s own life—is the source from which self-respect brings" - Joan Didion

(she/her) ♈︎
Office Assistant

Yenifer Tiburcio Jerez is a junior majoring in biomedical engineering. Originally from the Dominican Republic, Yenifer moved at the age of 1 to New York where she was raised until deciding to go to Richmond, Virginia to pursue a college degree as a 1st generation student. Yenifer’s areas of interest include humanitarian aid organizations, chemistry, biology, and uplifting the Hispanic community.

Ultimately, Yenifer aims to use her biomedical engineering degree and future pharmacy doctorate to provide better health care to less fortunate communities worldwide.

How do you practice self-care: I see self-care as an escape from my very busy schedule. I practice self-care by listening to music, watching movies or novelas, and buying sneakers. I also throw in occasional dancing as a way of practicing self-care.

“Pain makes you stronger, Fear makes you braver. Heartbreak makes you wiser.” - Drake