DANIEL ADMASU
Daniel Admasu is a Senior at Towson University, pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Mass Communications with a focus in Journalism along with a Minor in Electronic Media & Film. In addition to his academic pursuits, Daniel is a Radio DJ at the 24/7 FM station, WHFC 91.1 FM, where he hosts his weekly radio show, “The Groove with Dan” where he covers news ranging from weather, local, sports, and entertainment all the while airing Top 40 Music. Furthermore, Daniel serves as a News Writer for Towson University’s online independent student newspaper, The Towerlight, where he covers campus-related news and announcements. Beyond his roles in media, Daniel is the Executive Board Member for the Broadcast Education Association at Towson University, serving as the organization’s Secretary and Communications Coordinator. His journey in Mass Communications began with the attainment of an Associate of Applied Sciences in Mass Communications from Harford Community College. During his time, he served as an on-air reporter and website developer for the college’s online student newspaper, Owl Media. His exceptional work along with colleagues earned him recognition by being featured in The Baltimore Sun and on WJZ-TV 13. Daniel is planning to graduate from Towson University in May of 2024 and his goal is to become a TV reporter at a Maryland news station.
JASMINE QUEEN
I am a student here at Towson University with a major in Communication Studies and a minor in Music Industries. I grew up in Prince George’s County, MD where I attended Northwestern HS and studied instrumental music in the visual and performing arts program. I decided to major in Communication studies after taking a public speaking course at my former community college. Through my studies here at Towson in the Communication department, I have found a passion for communication and have become well aware of the role it plays in our lives. I hope to apply the knowledge I have gained and conduct research on online communication. Upon graduating from Towson University, I aspire to follow my love for music and pursue a career in the music industry.
SAMUEL SMITH
Samuel A. Smith is a Psychology and Women & Gender Studies student at Towson University. He began researching intimate partner violence in the transgender community in 2021, and has completed 3 summer research projects, as well as several other research projects. Samuel began queer health education in high school, presenting several times to his school’s Gay Straight Alliance. He has been a vocal queer rights activist throughout his time at TU, serving as vice president and president of GenderBLUR, co-vice president and president of Undergraduate Research Club, co-chair of LGBTQ+ Educating & Affirming Diversity (LEAD) at St. Matthew Catholic Church, and is a long-standing Sexual Assault Prevention Educator. He has educated students and faculty alike, and was even invited to present to clergy and staff for the Archdiocese of Baltimore. He also has worked hundreds of hours as a Sexual Assault Forensic Exam (SAFE) Advocate at GBMC and has testified to the Maryland House of Delegates to work toward more compassionate and comprehensive sexual violence laws. For his extensive work in LGBT IPV and sexual violence issues, Samuel was the awarded the 2023 Towson University Pride Award and Stonewall Award. Samuel hopes to continue his work in advocacy, research, and education continuing his journey to give a voice to those on the margins.
SUE BORCHARDT
Sue Borchardt is a freelance research artist who specializes in creating animated shorts that tell stories about ideas, research, and the art of “sensemaking”. Using the power of animation and visual storytelling, she brings theory and practice into dialog to illuminate and enrich shared knowledge. Through her work, she delves into the complexities of messy political, social, biological, and psychological dynamics, employing sensemaking tools, models, and frameworks that include the cynefin framework, Wardley strategy mapping, polarity mapping, and design thinking. She recently joined the Towson University Community as an adjunct faculty member teaching Creativity in Art, Media, and Communication (IDFA 203) in the College of Fine Art and Communication (COFAC).
SYDNEY KLABNIK
Sydney Klabnik (she/her) is a senior psychology major with interests in gender and sexuality studies and political science. She is originally from Cabot, Pennsylvania. Sydney hopes to pursue a career in higher education so she can inspire students to become the best versions of themselves and to remain resilient in the face of life’s challenges. On campus, she is a proud member of the women’s club soccer team, a campus tour guide, and a mentor for the Transfer Mentor Program. Sydney will present at TEDxTowsonU to share her story of how she has stayed strong despite significant mental and physical barriers on her path towards success. She hopes that her talk will encourage others to speak openly and honestly about their own struggles with mental health. She wants everyone to know that they should never be ashamed to ask for help. Rather, reaching out for support is the bravest thing you can do for yourself.
ZACHERY SUACO
Zachery Suaco, a dedicated sophomore at Towson University, is on a journey that blends academia, creativity, and a profound desire to make a meaningful impact on the world. As a student event coordinator at Towson University, Zach immerses himself in bringing people together, driven by boundless curiosity and a passion for meeting new faces. He doesn’t just organize events; he forges connections that serve as a testament to his ability to foster unity and camaraderie. Zach’s multicultural background, hailing from the Philippines and relocating to the United States at the age of 10, fuels his unrelenting desire to explore and engage with today’s society. He possesses an uncanny ability to seamlessly integrate into various groups and communities, be it filmmaking, photography, writing, or finance. His entrepreneurial spirit led to a successful photography business specializing in portraits that reflect the essence of his subjects. Looking ahead, Zach envisions a path that transcends the ordinary, where he bridges the gap between creativity and analytical skills, becoming an influential force for positive change in the world. With boundless enthusiasm, unwavering determination, and a commitment to growth, Zachery Suaco embodies the spirit of a young visionary. His journey propels society forward in an age of constant evolution, where his passion, creativity, and determination leave an indelible mark on the world.