Congratulations to the seven students who completed the Excel program this fall: Brandol Ogando Saladin, Claire Rondeau, John Beford, Maria Delia, Max Passarelli, Rylie Flipp, and Sarahie Pierre! Read below to learn more about these amazing student leaders!
The final tier in the three-tier Circles of Leadership program, Excel provides a culminating leadership experience for those students who have completed both Emerge and Engage. Throughout the fall semester, students met weekly with Sarah Potrikus and Linzy Martinez to broaden their understanding of their strengths and those of others, think critically about current social justice issues nationwide, and reflect on their leadership journeys. The program culminated in each student sharing their personal leadership story.
Claire Rondeau Psychology, Class of 2026 Student Manager for Conference & Events Services
What is one thing you have learned about yourself through these programs? These leadership programs have been very helpful in helping me realize my leadership potential and strengths, and how I can use those strengths in my leadership roles.
What is one piece of advice you would give to your first-semester self? Hangout in the student center more. It’s a lot of socializing, but it’s also going to help you form connections, make friends, and get to know people better.
Read Claire’s Emerge philosophy Read Claire’s Engage philosophy
John Beford Public Health, Class of 2027 Dance Company officer and choreographer, Resident Assistant, Student Center Manager
What is one thing you have learned about yourself through these programs? I’ve learned how to compensate for my weaknesses with my strengths
What is one piece of advice you would give to your first-semester self? I would tell me first semester self “keep pushing! step out of your comfort zone, but also take time for yourself. life is a balancing act, don’t tip too far on either end.
Read John’s Emerge philosophy Read John’s Engage philosophy
Maria Delia Computer Science & Business Administration, Class of 2026 Math tutor, Honors Program, IT support technician and Help Desk assistant, Orientation Leader, PAL Mentor, AAFCPAs Intern
What is one thing you have learned about yourself through these programs? Each leadership program has offered a unique and meaningful experience, helping me discover more about what I’m capable of. I’ve learned that I can accomplish far more than I initially believed by trusting myself and gradually taking on more responsibility. These programs strengthened my ability to organize my schedule, improved my communication skills through collaboration, and helped me build genuine, long-lasting relationships. Facing challenges and working through difficult moments has shown me how resilient I am, and I’m proud of everything I’ve overcome.
What is one piece of advice you would give to your first-semester self? Be fully present in everything you do. Take every opportunity that comes your way, and approach each one with intention, to learn more about yourself and to see just how much you’re capable of achieving. Move through things with ease and trust your journey. Your reality becomes what you choose to create.
Read Maria’s Emerge philosophy Read Maria’s Engage philosophy
Max Passarelli Political Science & Geography, Class of 2026 Honors program, independent research projects, Delta Alpha Pi officer, Student Clinic for Immigrant Justice, professional driving instructor
What is one thing you have learned about yourself through these programs? I think I have become a more confident person through these leadership programs.
What is one piece of advice you would give to your first-semester self? During your time at Worcester State you will have numerous opportunities for growth. I suggest you take advantage of these opportunities, as they will not be available forever.
Read Max’s Emerge philosophy Read Max’s Engage philosophy
