Jakora Thompson, Director
Jakora Thompson (nee Holman) is an EOF graduate of Rutgers University – New Brunswick, having earned her bachelor’s degree in Journalism & Media Studies from the School of Communication, Information and Library Studies. Jakora has nearly 15 years of experience in higher education, including student financial aid, student development programming, advising, mentoring and leading operations tailored to provide support and advocacy for marginalized students. Prior to joining the Paul Robeson Cultural Center her career has included working with TRIO Programs Upward Bound, Upward Bound Math-Science, the Ronald E. McNair Post-Baccalaureate Achievement Program. She has led initiatives focused on first-generation college students, including leading the operations for RU1st at Rutgers – New Brunswick which focuses on increasing support for first-generation college students. She has worked with the National Association for Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA) and the Center for First-Generation Student Success for our campus efforts as a First Forward Institution. Jakora received her master’s of arts at New York University Steinhardt School of Culture, Education and Human Development studying higher education and student affairs. Her research and work interest focus on increasing equity in higher education by increasing access and success for underrepresented populations; she is currently pursuing her doctorate within the Rutgers Graduate School of Education. Contact: jakora.thompson@rutgers.edu
Lashawna Edmond,M.Ed. Assistant Director
Lashawna Edmond, M.Ed., has worked within the Diversity Equity & Inclusion space for over ten years, developing strategic initiatives and programs that foster a culture of inclusive excellence and promoting organizational change. Prior to joining The Paul Robeson Cultural Center, Lashawna facilitated the implementation of equity-based processes and strategies to enhance faculty recruitment and retention at the Rutgers Cancer Institute. Lashawna previously served as the Assistant Director for Retention Programs at the University of South Carolina and Assistant Director of Student Involvement and Multicultural Programs at Presbyterian College. Lashawna holds a bachelor's degree in psychology from Western New England University and a master's degree in student personnel administration in higher education from Springfield College. Lashawna is passionate about serving as an advocate for students and supporting them throughout their matriculation and beyond. Contact: lashawna.edmond@rutgers.edu
Rayson Bernard, Senior Program Coordinator
Ray Bernard joins the Paul Robeson Cultural Center as Senior Program Coordinator. He previously served as an Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) Counselor at Monmouth University, supporting first-generation and low-income students through counseling, mentorship, and programming. Ray serves on the state-wide EOF board, where he has served as a Sector representative and the Co-Chair for the Counselor Training Institute. He is excited to bring that same passion for student empowerment and community-building to the PRCC. Contact: rb1747@echo.rutgers.edu
