Binghamton junior Abigail Connors' educational journey demonstrates a strong interest in influencing laws that benefit marginalized communities and a profound dedication to social justice.
The ability to pursue a variety of topics while remaining committed to her passion - public policy - was what drew Connors to her major: philosophy, politics, and law with a focus on public policy.
"I've really been able to design a schedule filled with classes that are interesting and meaningful to me," said Connors. She was further inspired to pursue a human rights minor by a course she took with Alexandra Moore, director of the Human Rights Institute (HRI), during her first year, which strengthened her desire to work in policy positions that are focused on justice.
Through internships with Journey's End Refugee Services and the Broome County Public Defender's Office, Connors has obtained practical experience outside of the classroom.
"I was able to do actual, community-based work early in college thanks to those internships," she said. "They demonstrated to me that this type of work, which directly and favorably affects people's lives, is what I want to continue doing."
As co-president of the Binghamton Policy Project, Connors assists in directing student groups that draft and promote policy recommendations. Recent initiatives have addressed food insecurity and improved mental health education in nearby prisons. She clarified, "It's about developing practical solutions with students and stakeholders, and then working to bring those concepts to fruition."
Connors is also the director of policy for the Student Association, where she has assisted in spearheading projects like an election day voter outreach project, a campus-wide sexual health awareness campaign, and a new initiative to assist students who are having trouble finding off-campus housing.
Her independent research on sexual violence against women peacebuilders, which was part of a larger HRI project, is one of her proudest achievements. This research was published in the Binghamton University Undergraduate Journal.
In addition to her advocacy and academic work, Connors has 16 years of experience as a dancer. She finds balance and artistic expression as a member of the Appalachian Dance Company at Binghamton.
"Dance has always been my way to reset and let go," she said.
Connors is guided by the line, "For there is always light, if only we're brave enough to see it, if only we're brave enough to be it," from Amanda Gorman's debut poem. She keeps those words close to her heart as a reminder of the strength of community, purpose and perseverance.
