# @universityofri on Instagram

- **Type:** Image
- **Original URL:** https://www.instagram.com/p/DYITlYwlr8A
- **Gondola URL:** https://gondola.cc/posts/65431661-universityofri-instagram
- **Thumbnail:** https://img.gondola.cc/tr:w-,h-,fo-auto/postThumbnails/a2ad01c551.jpg
- **Posted:** 2026-05-09T19:33:12.000+00:00
- **Account Owner:** URI — University of Rhode Island (@universityofri) — https://gondola.cc/universityofri

## Caption

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 students and families through orientation. She also served as a graduate advisor for diversity.dialogues.uri and gained experience in undergraduate admissions and athletic academic advising, supporting students at every stage of their college journey.

As a first-generation graduate student and the daughter of immigrants, earning her master’s degree is Angel’s proudest accomplishment, as it represents not only her own perseverance, but the sacrifices and dreams of her family. She sees this milestone as a reflection of possibility—both for herself and for others who may not always see themselves represented in higher education.

After graduation, Angel plans to continue growing as a higher education practitioner and eventually pursue a doctoral degree, while remaining committed to advancing equity and creating environments where all students feel a true sense of belonging.

📸 courtesy of: realrvch
#GoRhody #RhodyGrad #RhodyGrads #URI2026 #ClassOf2026

## Stats

- **Views:** 0
- **Likes:** 2,273
- **Shares:** 0
- **Comments:** 85

## Tags

classof2026, gorhody, rhodygrad, rhodygrads, uri2026

---
Copyright (c) Gondola