Ellis began our partnership with the Northeastern University Cooperative Education program over two years ago, and we’re thrilled to welcome our fourth group of co-ops! Every six months, new faces join our team, and this time we’re excited to introduce Sofia Baiker, Ayana Montalvo, and Genesis Bejarano!
Sofia is our Fundraising and Development Co-Op, working closely with Patti Keenan, Gaia Roverato, and Olivia Goodwin-Cook on the Ellis development team. Originally from Los Angeles, California, she’s in her second year studying history and political science. Sofia brings valuable experience, having interned for a foundation, managed social media for a real estate agency, and even founded her own online baking business on Instagram, where she created original recipes and fulfilled orders for large parties!
Ayana is our Program and Administrative Generalist, supporting CEO Lauren Cook and Special Assistant Lara Candadai. Born and raised in Boston with strong Puerto Rican roots, Ayana is in her third year studying sociology and criminal justice. She’s passionate about understanding society and its dynamics, which fuels her belief in the power of education. Ayana chose Ellis because she believes every child deserves a safe, nurturing environment to learn, explore, and flourish. As she puts it, “For me, being a part of Ellis is part of my goal to be included in something that is bigger than myself.”
Genesis serves as our Program Support Specialist, working alongside program leadership, educators, and students in the classrooms. She grew up in North Carolina but is deeply connected to her Honduran heritage and is now a first-generation college student, in her second year studying criminal justice and psychology. As the oldest of five girls, Genesis developed a deep understanding of child development while helping care for her younger siblings. She’s passionate about fostering positive social relationships among children and believes in the importance of early education. At Ellis, she helps create an environment where children’s social and emotional growth is supported and celebrated.
Ellis has built a strong partnership with the Northeastern Co-Op program, leaving a lasting impression on past co-ops. Many of them continue to return, volunteering at our events and in classrooms, with some even coming back as teachers.
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