Meet Our Peer Educators

Picture of Kendall Baines

Kendall Baines

Hometown: Milton, GA

Year: Junior

Major: Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

I'm passionate about helping students better understand their health and challenging common misconceptions around important wellness topics. It's incredibly meaningful to be able to share information that empowers students to make informed decisions and support their overall well-being. Knowing that someone leaves an event with a new perspective or a better understanding of how to care for themselves is what motivates me to do this work.
Picture of Natalie Calvo

Natalie Calvo

Hometown: Miami, FL

Year: Junior

Major: Health Science

I'm passionate about being a Peer Educator because it gives me the opportunity to increase awareness of health resources and topics that can positively impact students' lives. I enjoy helping students feel more informed, supported, and connected to the resources available on campus. Through collaborations with student organizations and interactive programming, I'm able to promote health and well-being in meaningful ways. Knowing that even a brief conversation can help a student make informed decisions or feel more supported is what motivates me to contribute to a healthier University of Miami community.
Picture of Zahira Cirilo‑Laverde

Zahira Cirilo‑Laverde

Hometown: Atlanta, GA

Year: Junior

Major: Nursing

I'm passionate about working as a Peer Educator because it gives me the opportunity to connect with my peers and help them access the resources, information, and support they need to thrive. I believe that every student deserves to feel informed, supported, and empowered to make decisions that positively impact their well-being. Through health education, outreach, and meaningful conversations, I'm able o raise awareness about important topics and help students navigate challenges they may face during their college experience. Knowing that even a small interaction can make a difference in somone's life motivates me to contribute to a healthier, more connected, and supportive campus community.
Picture of Jes Pongnon

Jes Pongnon

Hometown: Fayetteville, NC

Year: Junior

Major: Health Science Pre-Med Track, Minors in Public Health and Psychology

I'm passionate about sharing the importance of health education with my fellow students and helping create a campus culture that prioritizes well-being. I belive that access to accurate health information empowers students to make informed decisions and take charge of their physical, mental, and emotional health. Through peer education, I have the opportunity to raise awareness of important health topics, connect students with valuable resources, and encourage healthy habits that can have a lasting impact. Knowing that I can help others feel more informed, supported, and confident in their wellness journey is what motivates me to do this work.
Picture of Maddy Webster

Maddy Webester

Hometown: Marlborough, MA

Year: Senior

Major: Exercise Physiology

I'm passionate about being a Peer Educator because it allows me to collaborate with other Peer Educators to create programs and events that promote health and well-being across campus. I enjoy helping students learn about the many resources available to support them and raising awareness of important health topics that can positively impact their college experience. Through this role, I've also had the opportunity to expand my won knowledge of campus resources and health education, which motivates me to continue supporting a more informed, connected, and healthy University of Miami community.

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