Ashley Nuñez ’23 Spreads Cultural Awareness by Example at Iona
Name: Ashley Nuñez
Hometown: Long Branch, NJ
High School: Long Branch High School
Activities: Music Ministry, Womens Club Soccer, the Organization of Latin American Students, Iona Singers, and Iona Players
Major: Adolescent Education with a Concentration in English
Favorite Spot on Campus: Ginkgo Tree and the Spellman Steps
For many students, the journey to get to college is not as simple as getting through high school and following in the footsteps of their parents. For Ashley Nuñez ’23, her academic achievements have become a milestone in her family’s history. She is a first-generation college student who is working hard to make her family proud, all while spreading cultural awareness and pride throughout campus.
Ashley is in her senior year studying English and Education. She is from Long Branch, N.J., and plans to get her master’s degree at Iona and become a high school English teacher following graduation.
She is also Vice President of the student club O.L.A.S., or Organization of Latinx American Students. This club gives students an opportunity to connect with others who share similar interests and experiences. The club is diverse, including students from a wide range of Latin and Hispanic backgrounds, and is open to all students who appreciate and want to explore diverse cultures. She is also involved with the Iona Singers, Music Ministry, Women’s Club Soccer, and is a peer mentor on campus.
“We work to create awareness and make a community where we can appreciate each other’s differences within the Latin community,” Ashley said. “We include everyone because I think it’s important for all of us to appreciate each other’s cultures.”
Ashley is passionate about representing her Mexican heritage, and O.L.A.S. allows her to do so while also learning about other cultures.
“Having a group of people that you can talk to about anything; to raise questions, express the same anxieties and fears, and overall get into the community with – I think it’s very important to know that you are not alone,” she said.
She often shows her pride by wearing traditional Mexican jewelry and singing Mexican music as part of the Iona Singers and Music Ministry, which she says helps her stay grounded. In showcasing her talents, she is spreading her pride and inspiring the students around her to do the same.
Ashley has been part of O.L.A.S. for the entirety of her time at Iona, holding the presidential title during her junior year at Iona. She reflects that the club has had a substantial impact on how she was able to adapt to the college experience, and now hopes she can serve as a guide for other students who may be experiencing similar feelings.