A student run organization focused on helping you succeed academically, professionally, and socially
Seeds of Success is a student-run organization open to all CELS students, and focused on supporting CELS students from historically underrepresented populations attain a holistic educational experience at URI. Our long-term aim is for students to succeed academically, professionally, and socially by providing a physical and social space within which they can develop a sense of community, as well as leadership and team-building skills both at URI and in their next phase of life. We do this by providing research/scholarship opportunities hosting educational/career seminars and creating affinity spaces for members.
Community building and more
As a member of Seeds of Success, you’ll receive:
- Academic and professional development
- Research, fellowship, scholarship, and job opportunities
- Opportunities to build new friendships with peers
- Fun team-building activities
- Seeds of Success swag
- Dinner during our general meetings
Membership
Seeds of Success members should attend at least three general meetings per semester, attend at least 2 Seeds of Success-affiliated events per academic year, and keep in contact with current members and the leadership team.
Leadership team
“My name is Zaria and I am a senior majoring in Wildlife and Conservation Biology. I love working with plants and hope to pursue a PhD in ecology and evolutionary biology after graduation. I look forward to working with the Seeds of Success leadership team this year!”Zaria Griffith ’24
“I am a senior majoring in Biological Sciences with a minor in Human Development and Family Science, while on the pre-dental track. I will be the Vice President for Seeds of Success during the 2023-2024 academic year. I am excited for us all to take part in more interactive events, and to further build connections with our new and returning members.”Kemi Odunaike ’24
“Hi! I am a junior studying Environmental Science and Management with a minor in Geological Oceanography. This year I am the Secretary for Seeds of Success, and something fun about me is I love watching thunderstorms. I’m looking forward to being a part of a great team of leaders!”Alex Thiboutot ’24
“I am a rising junior majoring in Medical Laboratory Science and I’ll be the Academic Support Chair for the upcoming school year. I look forward to providing great opportunities for our Seeds of Success members as well as other resources to aid in academics — such as those available on campus. Feel free to reach out with any questions!”Carla Pepen ’25
“Hey everyone! My name is Karuth Jones and I’m a Junior studying Cell & Molecular Biology with a concentration in Microbiology and I will be this year’s social media and Outreach Chair. I am excited to be and to bring engagement and to keep our Seeds of Success community up to date with current events!”Karuth Jones ’25
“I’m a sophomore, psychology major on a pre-med track. I’m excited to be the volunteer chair of Seeds of Success to come up with fun and interesting volunteer opportunities.”Janvi Biju ’26
My name is Armando, and I’m a Graduate Student in the M.S. College Student Personnel Program here at URI. I’m one of the graduate student assistants for Seeds of Success this year. I’m a recent graduate from URI, so if you have any questions, please feel free to contact me!
“I am a Master’s student in the Biological and Environmental Sciences program, specializing in Ecology and Ecosystem Sciences. I am one of the graduate student assistants for Seeds of Success this year. I hope to connect with you all and answer any questions about grad school! ”Paola Cruz-Martinez ’24
“Hello! I am the M.U.S.I.C Liaison for Seeds of Success and a third year Cellular & Molecular Biology major. In my free time I enjoy playing intramural sports, reading, and doing trivia.”James Gbaba ‘25
CELS diversity committee representatives
“I am a Junior majoring in Biological Sciences on the pre-med track with minors in Leadership Studies and Japanese: Language and Culture. My role as the CELS Undergraduate Diversity Committee Representative is to advocate for your needs and continue creating a diverse and inclusive space at URI.”
“I am a rising junior studying marine biology with a minor in chemistry. I am one of the CELS Diversity Committee representatives and I am excited for all Seeds of Success and the CELS has to offer!”
Graduate Assistant: Armando García
Email: armando_garcia@uri.edu