Jessica Chatonda (she/her) is a current doctoral student in the Educational Leadership & Policy Higher Education program a SUNY UB. She received her B.A. in Sociology & Gender Studies from Coe College and her MSEd in Student Affairs and Higher Education from Northern Illinois University. Prior to returning to graduate school, Jessica worked as a TRIO professional supporting first generation college students. Her research interest includes student success and wellness particularly for first-generation college students, educational access and equity, and the experiences of black women faculty, staff and students in higher education and leadership roles.