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
President
“Hi all! My name is Carla and I am a senior majoring in Medical Laboratory Science. What I’m looking forward to the most is working alongside this amazing leadership team to strengthen Seeds of Success and to be able to support our Seeds members during their time at URI.Carla Pepen ‘25
Vice President
“I am a senior majoring in Biological Sciences and G.L.A.S Japanese on the pre-med track. I will be the Vice President for this upcoming academic year. I am excited about the year ahead with Seeds and to further develop and expand the organization!”Harrit Bermudez ‘25
Secretary
“Hi, I’m Janvi and I’m a junior psychology major on a pre-med track. As the secretary of Seeds Of Success in the upcoming year, 2024-2025, I’m looking forward to working alongside a great group of leaders.”Janvi Biju ‘26
Academic Support Chair
“Hi my name is Rachel and I’m a junior double majoring in Biological Sciences and Cell & Molecular Biology with a minor in Gender and Women’s Studies. This year I am the Academic Support Chair for Seeds of Success and I am looking forward to being a part of a great team of leaders!”Rachel Arseneault ‘26
Social Media and Outreach Chair
“Hello! My name is Olivia and I will be taking on the Social Media Outreach chair position. I am double majoring in Biotechnology and Cell/Molecular Biology with a concentration in Biochemistry. I can’t wait to get to know everyone who joins this family!”Olivia Saturn ‘25
Volunteer Chair
Graduate Assistant
M.U.S.I.C Liaison
“Hi! I am a junior majoring in biological sciences on a pre med track and minoring in Gerontology. I’m excited to take my position as volunteer chair and work with my team to bring the best opportunities forward for everyone and see what this academic year holds for us!”Chelsea Tay ‘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!Armando García ‘25
Hey everyone! My name is Adja Cissokho and I’m a junior studying Biological Sciences on a Pre-Med track. This year, I’m excited to serve as the M.U.S.I.C Liaison. As a social butterfly, I can’t wait to facilitate relationships with other organizations and help our community grow as a whole. Looking forward to an exciting year ahead!Adja Cissokho ’26 (she/her/hers)
CELS Diversity Committee Representatives
“Hi! My name is James Gbaba, and I am a rising senior studying Cell & Molecular Biology. I
look forward to being a CELS Diversity Committee Representative and supporting the voices
and needs of our underrepresented students.”
“As a junior majoring in Cellular and Molecular Biology, my passion lies in research. Outside the
lab, I prioritize balance, engaging in workouts, and quality time with friends. Being a CELS
Undergraduate Diversity Committee Representative is both an honor and a reflection of my
dedication to inclusivity. I’m committed to advocating for all voices and fostering a supportive
environment where everyone can succeed and thrive.”
FACULTY ADVISOR
Assistant Dean for Diversity & Student Success Initiatives
Office: CBLS, Rm 438
401.874.2898
afgrandidge@uri.edu