Bio Statement
Nearah Sanon is a first-year student at Ithaca College majoring in Music Education and Music Performance, with a concentration on bassoon. She is originally from Boston, Massachusetts, where she was—and continues to be—deeply involved in her church community. Prior to college, Nearah led the children’s choir and assisted with children’s classes, using music as a tool for mentorship, education, and community building.
At Ithaca College, Nearah remains actively engaged both musically and socially. She is a member of the Ithaca College Symphony Orchestra and performs with several vocal ensembles, including Amani Gospel Singers and the Dorothy Cotton Jubilee Singers. Through these groups, she continues to develop her musicianship while participating in traditions that emphasize collaboration, cultural expression, and community connection.
Nearah is also highly involved in campus leadership and service. She is a member of Sister to Sister, Christian Community Leadership Program (CCLP), and the First Generation Club. She serves on the executive board of IC Haitians as the First-Year Representative and is the Secretary of the Black Student Union, where she supports organizational communication, planning, and advocacy-focused programming.
In addition, Nearah has participated in civic engagement through volunteer work with the Unity Center, tabling to support voter registration efforts. Across her academic, musical, and service commitments, Nearah demonstrates a strong dedication to leadership, representation, and empowering others through music and community involvement.
What does it mean to be an IAP Scholar?
Being an IAP Scholar has allowed Nearah to connect with students she may not have met otherwise, and it has helped her find leadership opportunities and meaningful mentorship among upperclassmen who support and guide her.
