“If we are to achieve a richer culture, rich in contrasting values, we must recognize the whole gamut of human potentialities, and so weave a less arbitrary social fabric—one in which each diverse human gift will find a fitting place.”   

Nicolette is pursuing a double major in religious studies and anthropology. This includes studies through the track in archaeology with a minor in geography and history. She will graduate in 2026. A member of the Cook Honors College, Nicolette spearheaded ideas to increase awareness of the honors college community, including an on-campus housing scholarship for its members. Nicolette was one of the facilitators in reviving the former IUP Jewish Student Union, now known as IUP Hillel. She assisted with efforts to get IUP’s group into Hillel, the largest Jewish campus organization in the world. Past president of the IUP organization, she now serves as student advisor, helping new leaders in their positions and continuing with the group’s event planning. She is very passionate about combating antisemitism and making sure everyone feels safe on campus. Nicolette is an active member of the DEI Alliance and is helping with the upcoming Global Met Gala (Unity Ball). We thank you, Nicolette!

A native of Nicaragua, Marjorie is an associate professor in the Department of Foreign Languages, where she teaches a variety of Spanish language courses. Her primary research interests center on forensic linguistics, bilingualism, language prejudice, language attitudes, language in the workplace, language and gender, and bilingual interpreting. She has published multiple articles and has presented her research at professional conferences in the United States, Europe, Latin America, and the Caribbean. Marjorie is the creator of the Foreign Languages Diversity and Inclusion Series (FOLDIS). This series of interconnected thematic units allows participants to be exposed to topics of diversity and inclusion as they relate to foreign language situations and as the outcomes are applicable to a multitude of circumstances in daily life. Through collaborations with other faculty colleagues and departments, this meaningful program has been very successful. Marjorie serves as one of the department’s oral proficiency testers; is the codirector of the Universidad de las Americas Puebla UDLS-P program at IUP, in conjunction with the Office of International Education; and has been a part of the IUP Hispanic Heritage Council for many years. We thank you, Marjorie!

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