2024 Voices Seen Library Exhibit

Hi there! My name is Antonia (Nia) Taubr. I was born and raised in Denver, Colorado, but grew up in a Greek and Japanese household. I am a first-generation student currently studying Environmental Science and Technology with a focus in Ecosystem Restoration, and my goal for my future is to preserve and protect the planet while also helping others in different environments. In other words, I love learning about people and different cultures, and seeing them happy and thriving. If I could help the earth and the people, I would've achieved my goal. During my college career, I have exchanged cross-cultural experiences and collaborated with other students through my positions as a Resident Assistant (RA) in Residence Life, as the Coordinator of the International Student Peer and Mentor Program (ISPMP), and Co-Coordinator of the International Student Alliance (ISA). Through all of the adventures and conversations I've had in my various positions, I've learned how to break out of my shell, be empathetic, and be constantly curious of the world around me and all of the beautiful people in it :)

Photographer: Ziggy Ross

My name is Cameron Neal, I served in the United States Marine Corps from 2016 until 2020. I joined the Marines directly out of high school because I wanted to continue the family tradition of service that dates back all the way to the American Revolution. After bootcamp I was assigned to the 5th Marine Regiment, and I found myself immersed in the history and culture of the most decorated regiment in the Marine Corps. Learning about the Marines before me that fought in places like Belleau Wood, Peleliu, Hue City, and Fallujah taught me the importance of understanding history and would inspire me to pursue a degree in history. 

Photographer: Sofia Villareal

As a first-generation college student, I am driven by a deep sense of determination and resilience instilled by my parent’s journey. Growing up, I witnessed the sacrifices my parents made to provide me with educational opportunities, motivating me to seize every chance to excel academically. Clothing serves as a powerful way to express my cultural identity, incorporating elements such as a handcrafted silver belt, a traditional flowing skirt, and a colorful patterned shirt, which all reflect a deep connection to the rich culture of Sonora, Mexico. These pieces not only celebrate my heritage but also serve as a testament to the resilience and vibrancy of my community. Through each garment, I carry the spirit of Sonora with me, honoring not only the traditions of my ancestors but my family's journey while forging my path as a first-generation Latina college student.

Photographer: Stone Quinn

Ayukîi, I am Elena Cortes of the Karuk tribe, otherwise known as the Upriver People. I am a non-traditional student here at CMU, who came to school after time working as a diplomat.  

Working as a diplomat, I found how important and impactful it can be to represent yourself honestly and be open about and true to who you are. I feel that when we are open to learning and open about ourselves, each person can have something to teach you, whether they know it or not. We live in a world that can be quite wonderful, surrounded by people that are more interesting than you expect. It is my strong opinion that by creating bonds, especially with those who are different from us or what we are used to, we open ourselves up to much more vibrant and interesting lives.  

I am proud of being Karuk, I am proud of being American, and I am proud of each time I work to be myself. Since I value connection between people, even when brief, I love to share bits of my culture with those who are interested. For example, Ayukîi means hello - feel free to say hi if you see me on campus, and if you use Ayukîi to say it, enjoy learning a word from a new (and endangered) language when doing so! 

Photographer: Marissa Anaya

A lot of who I am, and who I want to become, roots from my upbringing. My parents, my siblings, my friends, and my faith. I was born and raised on the beautiful island of Oahu, Hawaii, and I can easily say that my love to love comes from my Home. I hold my Catholic faith near and dear to my heart, but my favorite thing about it is that it’s the one way our family thrives and grows together. To fully understand who I am, is to appreciate the beauty and serenity of Hawaii. Hawaii taught me a lot about giving thanks. Being thankful for even the smallest things in life, because the smallest things can hold the biggest significance.

Photographer: Marissa Anaya

“Always show kindness for you know not what battle lies behind the eyes of others.” 

I am a daughter, sister, friend, non-traditional Political Science CMU student and a proud Navy/Marine Corps Veteran. Most see a weathered, stubborn and serious person because it is hard for me to smile most of the time. My military service was the best and worst time in my life, but I would not change it and proudly serve again if allowed. I hold a solemn reverence for my Nations flag and everything the stars and stripes stand for. I have many sides that are rarely seen just screaming to break free without fear of judgement. I am strong yet weak, happy yet sad, serious yet silly, hard yet soft, full of love, have an artistic and creative side that runs wild, I love to dance and a passion for singing. I hope that all can find strength in my struggles.

Photographer: Caleb Upson

My name is Gabrielle, and my life is a compilation of short stories. I grew up in rural Ohio and, after high school, enrolled in three universities and dropped out of two. I worked in the finance, veterinary, and healthcare industries, was married and divorced, bought a house, and raised chickens, dogs, and cats. Sadly, severe anxiety and deep depression swept over me. After my 26th birthday, I found myself here on the Colorado Plateau and spent the past two years pursuing a reawakened life that I never could have imagined had I continued my version of the American Dream.  

Now, at 28 years old, I am studying anthropology, focusing on archaeology here at Colorado Mesa University. I feel honored to study the magnificent cultures that existed for so many years here on the Colorado Plateau. When studying, I contemplate how the people of ancient cultures experienced the light and darkness of life. I reflect on my own story and consider how, across millennia, we become tied together in the shared experience of humanity. A dear Native American friend, Jim Enote, while holding yucca cordage, said, "One of the first things humans learn is how to tie things together." I believe that tying things together is not only the first thing we learn; it is perhaps the most important. 

Photographer: Breana Sinclair

My name is Isa Sanchez, and I am a Mexican American first-generation student double-majoring in Psychology and Music Theatre with the intent to become a Clinical Child Psychologist. The label of first-generation has always been quite salient to me, but never something to be ashamed of. As of this year, I have been conducting a qualitative study with Psychology Professor Amy Niu to explore how the perceived differences of being a first-generation student can affect one's college transition experiences. I am so grateful for this experience as it has provided me with a more expansive outlook surrounding the importance of recognizing the unique challenges first-generation students face. I was very fortunate enough to be raised in a family where my cultural identity and background were celebrated and for that reason, I strive to be successful and overcome whatever challenges I face as to not only honor myself but also honor all the sacrifices that have been made to get me where I am today.

Photographer: Ali Kazemi

My name is Jay Stewart. I was born in Fort Worth, Texas to an amazingly hard-working mother, I was gifted a father who is my biggest supporter, and four younger siblings that I’m always rooting for. I am a first-generation black woman pursuing a career in Social Work to become a Victims Advocate in the Navy. I have always considered myself to be a product of the people around me and I take pride in that. Those around me have motivated me to be proud of my blackness, my beauty and where I come from. After moving to Colorado, I felt disconnected from who I really was and lost sight of what I valued. I’ve recently become the Coordinator for the Black Student Alliance here at CMU and in the short time I've held the position, I feel as though I have done the black community and myself due diligence. I spend every day with my parents and my community in mind which gives me the courage to take up as much room as possible and be seen. My parents might not have had the same opportunities as me, so this is for us, and I pray to give them everything they deserve for supporting me. We don’t have to sit in the shadows or give up on dreams. I am proud to be a product of my community, both the good parts and bad made me the woman I am today and the woman I’ll be in the years to come. I want black students here at CMU to know they have a community who will support them both inside our club but also in their day to day lives. We show up to members events, award ceremonies, presentations, etc. because we’re a family for life and everybody deserves a cheerleader.

Photographer: Amanda Rod

My name is Kenya Contreras, and I am a first-generation college student as well as a first generation American. My parents immigrated from Mexico to provide my sisters and I a better life, and I am here to honor their efforts. I was born and raised in Grand Junction, Colorado. 

I'm trying to find what my path is in life and who I want to be. Currently I play rugby and am part of GSA here at CMU. I strive to help others. I enjoy live music and the outdoors. I don't know where I'm going quite yet, but I know I'll get there. 

Photographer: Stone Quinn

My name is Liban ‘Lee’ Shongolo, many of my peers call me by childhood nickname “Swae-Lee”. I was born in Kenya on a refugee camp in 2002 after my parents alongside five of my siblings had escaped civil war in Somalia. Majority of my childhood took place in Commerce City, CO where I believe I was raised with great humility, sacrifice, and courage. Today I carry the pride of my country and my community on my shoulders as I pave a way for other first-gen students. Every day of my life I wake up grateful for the opportunity to chase my dreams and I hope to inspire the next generation and anyone who has had to scratch, crawl, and fight for any success in their life. Though I am only one of hundreds of thousands of students defying similar odds, let my life be a testament to the results of anyone who dares to dream beyond their circumstances. 

Alhamdulillah Ala Kulli Haal 

Photographer: Jordan Neifert

My name is Luis Manuel De Loera Lopez. I was born in Calvillo, Aguascalientes, Mexico. I moved to the United States at the age of five and lived in Avon, Colorado, until I moved to Gypsum, Colorado. I love expressing my culture, and it always puts a smile on my face when others outside my culture want to be a part of it. I am one of the Latino Student Alliance coordinators here on campus. My favorite Mexican artist is Vicente Fernandez, but I also highly enjoy Joan Sebastian and Antonio Aguilar. I cannot wait to visit my family in Mexico this summer and try some of the rich food Mexico has to offer. Overall, I strive to help anyone who wants my help and hope for a more united and understanding future! 

Photographer: Sofia Villareal

My name is Manasi. I moved to America with my parents when I was fourteen, and little did I know it would ignite a profound journey of cultural identity. In the almost 10 years I've lived here, I've grappled with a real sense of belonging, torn between my Indian roots and the American culture I've embraced. While I've grown to consider myself more American over time, I've also found myself reconnecting with my South Asian heritage. Balancing these two worlds has been a constant struggle, as I strive to honor my cultural traditions and languages while navigating life in America. Despite the challenges, I remind myself daily of the privilege I have to be here, forging my own path and finding happiness on my terms. It's an ongoing journey of self-discovery, where I'm learning to prioritize my own happiness and well-being above all else. I'm still finding my way, but each day brings new opportunities for growth and understanding. 

Photographer: Amanda Rod

My name is Markus, and I am a senior majoring in Biology with a focus on marine life. I have lived in Colorado my whole life, except for my birth which took place in Price, Utah. 

However, my identity goes beyond my major and place of birth. What is important to me is mental health and community. I had a challenging upbringing with many mental health issues that still affect me today. Instead of ruminating on it, I use those memories as tools to help others and grow myself. This led me to become the treasurer of NAMI and one of two GSA (Gender and Sexualities Alliance) Coordinators. Helping people with any issue, big or small, brings me great joy. Whether it is lending an ear or working on the emergency hotline, I am always ready to help. 

My philosophy is that life does not have a definitive meaning. I am a strong believer in Absurdism. Nothing has meaning, but what we do with our lives can give everything meaning. To quote my favorite movie that illustrates this, "I know you see yourself as a fighter. Well, I see myself as one too. This is how I fight." (Everything Everywhere, All at Once; 2022; 1:46:30) I choose to live my life through powerful Spite. Even though I have been through some hellish things, I can be better. I can survive and rise above the damage caused to me. That is what has made me who I am today and who I will be tomorrow. 

Photographer: Grace Metcalf

My name is Pragya Luitel and I’m from Kathmandu, Nepal. I’m majoring in Computer Information Systems with a minor in Business Analytics. My family and I moved to the United States for better opportunities when I was only a year old. We settled in Grand Junction, where my parents opened a small restaurant. Growing up in Grand Junction was not an easy journey as I felt distant from my relatives back in Nepal. Here my family and I faced a lot of racism which made it hard to embrace my culture. However, I learned to overcome the fear of judgment and take pride in both my culture as well as the resilience of my immigrant parents. As a co-coordinator for the Asian Student Association, I can express my culture with others here at CMU. Through these experiences, I have learned to value my cultural identity which has inspired me to advocate for diversity and inclusivity. 

Photographer: Breana Sinclair

Hi, I'm Sofia, born and raised in Vicenza, Italy, with a mix of Filipino and Italian heritage. Growing up in a military family, I've been immersed in a diverse array of cultures right from the start. Now, I’m in my first year living in the US! 

Photographer: Ali Kazemi

My name is Theresa Rosarie Facun. I was born in the Philippines and moved to Grand Junction at the age of 3. Since then, I have been immersed in both Filipino and American culture. Along with being a queer person of color, I have never felt like I belonged in a town especially like Grand Junction. I am however blessed with the support of my family and friends to not be ashamed of who I truly am.  

I found purpose in my hobbies of photography and sneaker/clothing collecting as it was a way to express who I am. Attending CMU has helped me flourish especially since becoming a co-coordinator of the Asian Student Association. I have fostered relationships with those who share the same culture and values as me, which has helped me feel that sense of belonging I have always strived for. Though my journey of self-discovery isn’t over yet, I am grateful for CMU and CIC giving me this steppingstone and for others who are just like me!

Photographer: Isaac Jessup

I have a heart for all people, especially those facing unfair adversity. You can catch me rolling around campus with a big grin on my face, either greeting those I already know or making new friends. I strongly believe in being the change I want to see in the world, and lots of times, the best way to begin is with a smile, a warm greeting, or offering a helping hand. One small act of kindness can change the trajectory of someone’s day for the better, and I try to do that at least once a day.

Photographer: Caleb Upson

Who am I? 
Dad, Stepdad, Husband, Veteran, Intern, Student, Content Creator, Army Soldier, Automotive Service Manager, Mechanic, Cuban, Big Brother, Little Brother, and Son. This is just a small list of the many hats I have worn in my lifetime. I have traveled more than half of the United States and explored four other countries. Today, in 2024, if you were to meet me on campus, you’d probably know that I am the vice president of the Veterans Club at CMU. My official Government name is William Diaz; I was born in southern California and moved to Grand Junction, CO, in 2021 to pursue a degree in Mass Communications. I would prefer a degree in Communication Studies; however, that degree option is not yet available. With such a diverse background, I have learned that the American language is potentially the most complex one in the world. Across the different states, people have different dialects, accents, body languages, and personalities. I aim to develop my varied experiences and help bridge our human differences through communication. Ultimately, I want to teach my children that you can overcome and accomplish anything you truly desire, no matter what life throws. My favorite saying is "where there is a will there is a way". For my name is William, and I can help. 

Photographer: Ziggy Ross

Kuira, my name is Yulisa (Yuli) Velazquez Saenz and I am a first-generation student pursuing a BA with a double concentration in International Business and Marketing and a minor in Spanish here at CMU. I was raised in México and then moved to the U.S. at the age of 11, which was a culture shock. So for me finding stores that resembled our tienditas (corner stores) made me feel a little closer to home. Representing my culture is carrying a piece from home with me whether it is jewelry, clothing, colors, or the way I do my hair. It reminds me of who I am, where I come from, and to always be proud of my indigenous Rarámuri roots. 

Photographer: Jordan Neifert