Class of 2026 Grad Reflects on Defining Moments of Leadership, Mentorship, and Community in Charger Nation

Ahead of Commencement, we reached out to Allisson Maite Peña Tavarez ’26, a Biology major, to hear about her experience as a Charger and what her plans are for the future.

How does it feel to be graduating?

Graduating feels surreal. It's not unexpected. I've dedicated the past four years to this moment, but there are truly no words to describe what it means to call this an accomplishment. What makes it even more special is knowing that this achievement isn't mine alone. I share it deeply with my classmates and with every single person who supported me along the way.

Tell me about your plans after graduation.

I will continue to add onto my Charger legacy, as I am continuing my education right here at the University of New Haven, pursuing a Master of Business Administration with a concentration in marketing and digital marketing. I'll also be furthering my leadership skills as a graduate assistant in the Dean of Students office.

Looking back at your time here at UNewHaven, what are a few things you are grateful for?

I'm grateful for the sisterhood I found within my sorority Hermandad de Sigma Iota Alpha, Incorporada. My sisters became one of my greatest support systems and helped me grow in ways I still can't fully put into words.

I'm also grateful for the community I built here through leadership roles, the classroom, and campus life. Being able to foster genuine connection in so many different spaces made my experience at the University truly meaningful.

I'll always be grateful for the incredible staff in the Dean of Students office, the Office of Residential Life, the Myatt Center for Diversity and Inclusion, and the Center for Student Engagement, Leadership, and Orientation (CSELO). Their unwavering support and constant encouragement to take on more pushed me to become the leader I am today.

What are some defining moments that helped shape who you are today?

My most defining moments all center around leadership, mentorship, and community. My sorority taught me the power of sisterhood, accountability, and creating spaces where people feel seen and supported. Every leadership role I held, whether through a campus office or a student organization, challenged me to grow in confidence, communication, and adaptability. Collectively, those experiences shaped the person standing here today.

How did you get involved during your time here at the University of New Haven?

It all started with applying to become an Orientation and Transition Leader, and, after that, there was no turning back. That role opened the door to mentoring students who I'd later share a Commencement stage with, which is one of the most full-circle feelings I've ever experienced.

From there, I joined the Undergraduate Student Government Association as executive assistant, became a resident assistant with the Office of Residential Life, and eventually served as their senior office assistant. I also represented the University as a Charger Ambassador and office ambassador for Admissions.

One of my proudest opportunities was being selected for the President's Public Service Fellowship, where I was placed at . Giving back to the Greater New Haven community through that fellowship was an experience I'll carry with me always.

On the student organization side, I was a general member of the Latin American Student Association and Black Student Union, served as social media chair for the Women's Club Softball executive board, and held every leadership role within my sorority, most recently as president of the Alpha Lambda chapter for the 2025-26 academic year.

What are some of your favorite memories made during your college career?

My new member presentation for my sorority will always hold a special place in my heart. It was the moment I was introduced to the Fraternity and Sorority Life community, and it changed everything. Being an orientation leader and later watching my students walk across the stage alongside me is something I'll never forget.

Two memories truly stand out above the rest. Celebrating my chapter's 20th anniversary at the University, and bringing back the alumni who founded it to be honored was a moment of living history. Also, producing the 20th Annual Stroll Show for SIA during Black and Latino Alumni Weekend was a moment of pure pride and joy.

Which class, project, professor, endeavor had the biggest impact on you?

Without a doubt, the President's Public Service Fellowship and joining my sorority have had the greatest impact on me. At CitySeed, I met community members whose stories moved me, and I gained an inside look at how nonprofit organizations create real change in places such as Greater New Haven. It deepened my commitment to service in a way I didn't expect.

My sorority Hermandad de Sigma Iota Alpha, Incorporada has continuously pushed me to show up as the best version of myself in every space I enter. It has helped me grow as a leader, embrace service, and connect with others through opportunities such as the Northeast Greek Leadership Association Conference held in Pittsburgh, PA. I am beyond grateful for everything it has given me.

What are your future career goals?

My goal is to complete my MBA here at the University of New Haven. From there, I hope to bridge my Bachelor of Science in Biology with my business background to pursue a career in marketing or business administration within the pharmaceutical industry.

I'm also excited to continue building and establishing my photography business along the way.

What is one piece of advice you have for incoming first-year students?

Be open. Get involved in the things you love and especially in the things you're not sure about yet. There is always something new to learn, and this is the perfect time to discover it. Take full advantage of every resource available to you because this period of your life is one you'll want to make the most of.