The Arthur O. Eve Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP)

Community Coordinators

Miguel Rodriguez '10
Miguel Rodriguez
Roniel Bencosme '11
Roniel Bencosme
Tracee Cotto '13
Tracee Cotto '13
Christopher Miree '13
Christopher Miree '13

Our Community Coordinators are four HEOP students that are dedicated to the success of other students within the program. They are responsible for helping students to find internships, externships, scholarships and job opportunities within their fields of study. These students are also responsible for finding community service opportunities that will encourage other HEOP students to get involved with not only Ithaca College, but the Ithaca community as well. They help to create a strong supportive community within HEOP so that our students are able to succeed and take full advantages of the resources that Ithaca College offers.

Miguel Rodriguez '10

I am an International Business major with a minor in Politics. Being a HEOP student at Ithaca College has made my four years of college flow a lot smoother. HEOP has not only been a resource in so many ways, but it has been my home away from home. The academic and personal support I receive from the HEOP staff is so valuable that I would not trade it for anything else. Being a Community Coordinator for HEOP is my way of giving back everything that HEOP has provided for me. I enjoy the responsibility that is given to me as a Community Coordinator, because I have become a resource for the underclassmen that need guidance in getting through a rigorous four year institution.

Roniel Bencosme '11

I am a senior Health Education and Physical Education major as well as a Coaching minor. HEOP has helped me to continue education and excel by allowing me to take summer courses to catch up in my new major. I have always found tutoring for any of my classes and have used upper classmen as resources for advice. Even as a senior, I have reached out to past HEOP Health and Physical Education majors for advice. The faculty and staff have also provided a very comfortable place to come and speak freely for me. As a Community Coordinator, I have the opportunity to help guide others in HEOP and share my experiences with them. With the support of the staff, we work hard to help others to know and use the various resources that the program has to offer. Because of this chance, I am not only given the tools to continue in my path to success but to help others.

Tracee Cotto '13

My name is Tracee Cotto and I am a freshmen majoring in Chemistry Education. As a HEOP student my life at Ithaca College has been such a wonderful experience. The programs, activities, and workshops provided by Academic Enrichment Services keep me engaged throughout the year. I feel that this program has created a community that provides overall support for myself and all of the students in HEOP. As a Community Coordinator for HEOP students, I am able to relate to the other HEOP students and help put together workshops and activities that students will enjoy. Being a part of this community has helped me to excel in my academic endeavors as well as prepare for the social aspects of my career.

Christopher Miree '13

I am a 1st year Exploratory student here at Ithaca College. HEOP made it possible for me to attend such a prestigious school like Ithaca College. HEOP provides me with all the support and help I need such as tutoring sessions, community service events, workshops, and a good laugh when you need it. As a Community Coordinator I have multiple roles such as researching scholarships/internships, assist students in finding winter and summer opportunities, assist in preparing and facilitating workshops, and coordinate cultural outings in the Ithaca community. This position gives me the opportunity to develop my leadership skills, communication skills, and networking skills. I look forward to working with HEOP and making a difference in the program and at Ithaca College. I love my job! I love HEOP! I love Ithaca!