
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