Meet Angel Vega, a master’s student in college student personnel from Providence, Rhode Island, and this year’s student commencement speaker for the Feinstein College of Education. Angel’s academic journey at URI spans both undergraduate and graduate study, previously earning bachelor’s degrees in secondary education, English, and human development and family science. Driven by a deep commitment to equity, representation, and student belonging, she found her calling in higher education, where she can help shape supportive campus environments. “Representation, to me, is not just about visibility—it’s about affirmation, connection, and possibility,” Angel says. “When students feel seen and understood, it can transform their sense of belonging and their ability to succeed.” At URI, Angel held leadership roles centered on student development. She worked as a resident assistant and graduate hall director, building community and mentoring student leaders, and helped welcome incoming stude...