Passionate about social justice and intersectionality, Ara is a queer, nonbinary educator, mentor, and coach. They draw on their experience in education, holistic wellness, and the queer experience to create safe spaces that empower and uplift others to lead with confidence, authenticity, and inclusivity. Ara loves integrating intersectionality work and mindfulness practices to help students and staff prioritize their physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. Equally, they aim to approach programming through an intersectional lens, creating space to discuss feminism, LGBTQIA+ identities, and the intersections of other lived experiences (such as race, class, or disability) as they aim to foster community, education, and activism. In their role at MCLA, Ara serves as the professional staff leader for the Gender & Sexuality Center, serving as a mentor for all LGBTQIA+ and women students, as an advisor for student-led affinity groups, and as a program coordinator for the GSC.