Cohort 2025 SJR Readers + Mentors
Thank you to the Supporters of the Social Justice Reader Program at the Institute Library
Program ManagerFreda is the Director of Institutional Equity Compliance & Support and ADA 504 Coordinator at Sacred Heart University as well as an Adjunct Faculty in Women’s and Gender Studies at Southern Connecticut State University.
SJR Readers 2025
Khadijia Diop, New Haven, CT
Khadija Diop is a Junior at Engineering, Science University Magnet School (ESUMS). Khadijia is a volunteer at New Haven Reads where she works as a Literacy tutor. In school Khadijia is involved in Future Business Leaders of America and serves as the organization’s Activities and Community Service Chair. Khadijia is also a member of her school’s Principal’s Advisory Committee, where she helps coordinate ESUM’s Thanksgiving, Toy, and Food Drive. As a Social Justice Reader Fellow, Khadjia is interested in researching the influence language has on the self-esteem of young women who experience colorism. After highschool, Khadijia plans to attend a four-year University, obtain a law degree, and eventually practice Corporate Law.
Mentor: Jammie Williams, MS.
Jammie Williams has dedicated over sixteen years to working with individuals with disabilities, combining her passion for service with a deep commitment to making a difference. Jammie holds a Master Degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from Southern Connecticut State University and is pursuing her Board Certification as a Behavior Analyst (BCBA). Jammie is also a proud graduate from the University of Bridgeport and holds Bachelor’s Degrees in Psychology and Human Services. Beyond her professional endeavors. Jammie is a devoted wife and mother to four children ages 8-14. She is also a proud member of Sigma Gamma Rho, Sorority, Incorporated; which is another testament to Jammie’s dedication to service. Jammie’s journey is defined by compassion, perseverance, and a steadfast belief in empowering others to reach their full potential.
Taylor Evans, West Haven, CT
Taylor Evans is a Junior at West Haven High school. Taylor is involved in the Village Initiative Program (VIP), Delta Gems mentoring program, and Class Council. As a Social Justice Reader Fellow, Taylor is interested in researching the impact of Police Brutality on Black Women and Girls. After high school, Taylor plans to attend a four year University and become a Forensic Scientist. Taylor’s Mentor is Ashley Williams, MS
Mentor: Ashley Richardson, MS, New Haven, CT
Ashley Richardson has over twenty-years of experience working with youth and has an expansive background in non-profit advocacy. A native of New Haven, Ashley holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology from Quinnipiac University and a Masters Degree in Human Services from Albertus Magnus College. Ashley has a deep passion to provide children from underserved communities access to opportunities that will enhance their academic and social development.
Nyerere Lowe, West Haven, CT
Nyerere Lowe is Senior at West Haven High school. Nyerere is a Varsity Cheerleader and serves as one of West Haven High school’s Peer Advocates. As a Social Justice Reader Fellow, Nyerere is interested in researching the Mistreatment of Black Women and Girls in Healthcare. After high school, Nyerere plans to attend a four year University and become a Physician Assistant.
Mentor: Dr. Shanee Chandler-Drakes
Dr. Shanee Chandler- Drakes is a native of Brooklyn, NY. From the young age of 9 she had a dream of becoming an optometrist. Dr. Chandler- Drakes attended the University of Hartford for undergraduate and graduate school. She obtained a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences in 2009 and a Master of Science in Neuroscience in 2011. Dr. Chandler- Drakes attended the Pennsylvania College of Optometry at Salus University where she obtained a Doctor of Optometry degree in 2015. Dr. Chandler-Drakes is currently the owner of Stamford Family Vision Center where she services patients of all ages.
Zavion McCrea, New Haven, CT
Zavion is a Junior at Wilbur Cross High school. Zavion is a skilled athlete, playing on both his high school and AAU baseball teams. As a Social Justice Reader Fellow, Zavion hopes to research the Impact of Police Brutality on Black men. After high school, Zavion plans to attend a four year University as a Collegiate athlete playing Baseball.
Mentor: Dr. Donald McAulay, Jr., New Haven, CT
Dr. McAulay, Jr., Ph.D., a native of New Haven and a proud graduate of James Hillhouse High School. Don received his doctoral degree in Learning, Leadership, and Educational Policy at the University of Connecticut NEAG School of Education and a Master’s in Sport Management from Troy University. His Bachelor’s degree is from the College of William & Mary. His professional and scholarly interests focus on holistic athletic development across the athletic continuum, athletic identity, athletic transition/transference, institutional policy, and Black male sociopolitical and socioemotional identity development. Don is currently a Youth Commissioner for the City of New Haven and a Board Committee member for the Social Justice Readers program at the Institute Library.
India Williams, New Haven, CT
India is a Senior at Career High school. Outside of school, India volunteers as a Greeter at her Church. As a Social Justice Reader Fellow, India is interested in researching the connections between economic growth and social change. After high school, India will attend Southern Connecticut State University, where she will study Nursing.
Mentor: Fentyshia Daniels, LMSW., New Haven CT
Fentyshia is a licensed masters-level social worker with over a decade of experience. She currently serves as a Mental Health Counselor at Gateway Community College, where she provides mental health services to students. Her expertise includes therapeutic support for diverse populations, students, and those navigating crises. She is a skilled facilitator, trainer, and advisor, offering short-term solution-focused therapy and consulting with faculty and staff on the intersection of mental health and academic success. With advanced certifications in Mental Health First Aid and crisis prevention, Fentyshia has a proven record of leadership, stakeholder collaboration, and program development that fosters inclusive environments. She has held leadership roles across diverse organizations, managing programs, supervising teams, and advocating for marginalized populations. Her expertise spans psychosocial assessments, program development, community outreach, and training on cultural competencies. As an Adjunct Instructor in Human Services, she employs innovative strategies to engage and inspire diverse student populations. A passionate volunteer, Fentyshia is active in Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., and serves on numerous boards and committees focused on health equity, mental health, and social action. Her commitment to empowering communities and fostering equitable systems underscores her professional and personal miss