2026 Student Orientation Coordinators
Mariah Cagnaz
Psychology Major
Minor: Criminal Justice
Senior
“Hi new students! I want you all to know how amazing your journey here a Central will be. Though it might not always be easy, it will all be worth it for the memories you make. Make the most of out every year here because it really does go by in a flash.”
Location: New Student Programs
Thierry St.Victor
Computer Technology Engineering Major
Senior
“As you come into orientation, just come with an open mind and be yourself. There’s no pressure to have everything figured out, this is just the start, and you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be. Take the time to talk to people, ask questions, and explore what’s around you. The more you lean into the experience, the more meaningful it’ll become. We’re really happy to have you here.
Location: New Student Programs
2026 Orientation Leader Team
Aidan Farina
Computer Science Major
Sophomore
“Get involved, introduce yourself, and don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. I hope you leave Orientation with the confidence to begin your journey at Central!”
Location: Student Center Circle
Alexsondro Alfonso
Exercise Science Major
Sophomore
“Lean into curiosity, ask bold questions, and don’t be afraid to get things wrong, growth comes from trying your best. Build connections and remember that you belong here just as much as anyone else.”
Location: Hilltop Cafe
Alyssa Brythe Owoo
Network Information and Technology Major Junior
“At CCSU, I’ve realized that your experience can be more than just going to class. Take your time exploring what feels right for you and allow yourself to grow along the way. The more you pour into CCSU, the more it pours back into you.”
Location: Mid Campus Residence Hall
Anderson Aviles-Tobar
Mechanical Engineering and Technology Major
Sophomore
“I want every new student to be able to find a community on campus. There is always a space where you will belong at Central!”
Location: Henry Barnard Hall
Andrea Monteza
Criminology Major
Junior
“I want incoming students to feel welcome here at Central! Orientation is a great way on making new connections with others and creating memories with new people!”
Location: Rec center
Angel Sherpa
Nursing Major
Minor: Psychology
Sophomore
“I choose to be an OL so I can make everyone feel invited and help new students transition at Ccsu. During my orientation, I wasn’t so sure of coming to central but the OLs really helped me feel like I belong here and influenced my choice of choosing central, so I hope to make similar positive impacts on new students.”
Location: Student Center
Aniah Gaines
Social Work Major
Minor: Psychology
Senior
“Orientation is the place to meet new people and make new friends! Say hi, talk to individuals, make new friends, learn about one another, they don't bite!”
Location: Student Center
Anthony Esquilin Ortiz
Manufacturing Management Major
Minor: Human Resource Management, Business
Junior
“My goal is for new students to feel comfortable and welcomed as soon as Orientation begins. Don’t be afraid to jump in, meet new friends, and enjoy the experience!”
Location: Entrance of Rec Center
Bre Acosta
Accounting Major
Minor: American Sign Language
Junior
“I want new students to feel as welcome as I did during my orientation. It’s a great place to meet new people and make friends.”
Location: Welte Hall
Ceasar Ellison
Mathematics - Pre-BS (Education) Major Sophomore
“Starting at a new school may feel uncomfortable, but don't let that stop you from getting out of your comfort zone! Take Orientation as a chance to meet people, ask questions, and find your place as a Blue Devil. You belong here as a member of the Central Family!!!”
Location: Ebenezer Bassett Hall
Daniel Devone
Political Science Major Minor: Sociology Senior
“Orientation is your first steps into college. It’s where you meet new people, try new things, and start figuring out what your time at Central is going to look like. Get involved, have fun, and don’t stress it. Before you know it, you’ll feel right at home in the Blue Devil family.”
Location: The Blue Chair
Destiny Benejan
Psychology and Sociology Major
Senior
“Come as you are, embrace opportunities, and be open to new experiences! Your experience at CCSU is what you make of it, so make it an amazing one! We are so excited for you to join the Blue Devil family.”
Location: Front of the Student Center
Diana Ramirez
Social Work Major
Senior
“Orientation brings many opportunities for new incoming students; I look forward to making everyone feel welcomed and a part of the Central Family!!”
Location: Robert Vance Academic Center
Ella Heisler
Marketing Major
Senior
“I hope every new student I cross paths with at Orientation learns to make the most of themselves and their experiences at Central. You are your OWN person, and you can make any decision that you know will make you happy and full of life. Your story is YOURS!”
Location: Rec Center Indoor Track
Ian Reyes
Exercise Science Major
Sophomore
“Starting at a new school can feel overwhelming but Orientation is there to make it easier. It’s a time to meet people learn your way around and begin feeling comfortable in a new environment. Take advantage of the experience get involved and make it a great start to your journey.”
Location: Breaker's Lounge
Bella Sanchez
Exercise Science Major
Sophomore
“Coming to Central means creating friendships, bonds, becoming part of the Central family. Orientation will encourage you to create those bonds and help you through your journey as you become a Central Blue Devil.”
Location: Rec Center
Jared Esquilin Ortiz
Social Work Major
Sophomore
“Remember that everyone around you is figuring things out, too. Be open to meeting new people. Ask questions when you need help and take advantage of every opportunity to get involved.”
Location: Rec Center
Joel Bailey
Computer Science Major
Sophomore
“College is better with friends. Coming to orientation, you can meet a lot of people and create new and better connections. Come to orientation, it’s going to fun!!!”
Location: Hilltop Cafe
Kasey Jarvis
Exercise Science Major
Sophomore
“Central is about community and connections. There is plenty of opportunities to meet new people, join clubs, and be involved in campus activities. Welcome to the Blue Devil family!”
Location: Student Center Circle
Katelyn Burkett
Nursing Major
Junior
“Be yourself, stay open to new experiences, and don’t hesitate to make connections. Orientation is just the start of your Central journey and enjoy every moment!”
Location: Student Center
Keysy Gomez Mena
Human Biology Major Minor: Psychology Senior
“I want the new students to feel the love and positivity central has to offer as well as feel part of the central family. Come to orientation with an open mind, I promise you’ll have fun!”
Location: Student Center Circle
Laila Pacheco
Marketing Major
Sophomore
“Get involved, try new things, and don’t be afraid to take up space on this campus! This is your home away from home, and your potential here is unlimited. Orientation is here to help you find your path and thrive.”
Location: Rec Center
Maddie Corr
History Major
Junior
“CCSU is your chance to be you! This is your time to meet new people, learn new things, and make memories that you will cherish forever! Embrace your experiences along the way and be brave in trying new things! I’m so excited to welcome you to Central and help you navigate your new home! Welcome new Blue Devils! 💙
Location: Semesters
Malakye Edwards
History Elementary Education Major
Junior
“Incoming students should have a warm welcoming coming to central. Orientation is the place to truly get that blue devil feeling”
Location: Welte Hall
Malik Thomas
Psychology Major
Minor: Biomolecular Science
Junior
“Excited for another great year of orientation and to meet the incoming students, CCSU is a great experience and I can't wait to showcase and share all that this school has to offer to all the new students.”
Location Rec center
Mckayla Webster
Finance Major
Senior
“I want every new student to feel welcomed and connected from the moment they step on campus. Be open to new experiences, introduce yourself to someone new, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone.”
Location: Student Center Circle
Melody Santos
Political Science Major
Sophomore
“Take advantage of your time here at Central!! Try new things and meet new people, even if it feels scary at first. These moments and memories are ones that you’ll cherish for a lifetime!”
Location: CCSU Bookstore
Meylin Valdiviezo Sanchez
Strategic Communications (PR) Major
Senior
"Welcome, New Students! I encourage you to explore everything that Central has to offer and step outside of your comfort zones. There are tons of opportunities here waiting for you, and as long as you’re taking steps towards new experiences, success will follow!"
Location: CCSU Bookstore
Mia Savino
Physical Education Major
Junior
“Never be afraid to try new things! Find things that work best for YOU and make the most out of the opportunities you have!”
Location: CCSU Soccer Field
Kai Holmes
Biology Major
Minor: Entrepreneurship
Junior
“Central is a great place! When it comes to community, this is the place that you want to be. When you see an OL during the year, know that we are here for you to help you! We've been there, and we will help you through it.”
Location: The Quad
Mimi Colon
History Secondary Education
Sophomore
“I want new students to be excited about becoming a student here at Central, similar to how my OL’s made me feel! I am really excited to meet new students and create connections at all Orientations!”
Location: Elihu Burritt Library
Noah Derby
Graphic/ Information Design Major
Minor: Game Studies
Senior
“Every student should see CCSU as their second home, and I want to make sure the new students feel that energy and love. First impressions matter, so I hope to make your Orientation a fun one!”
Location: Beecher Residence Hall
Rachela Karvelis
Criminology Major
Minor: Psychology
Senior
“I want to make your transition into Central the most fun and comfortable that it can be! I am happy that you are here!!”
Location: CCSU Bookstore
Rafael Ortiz
Mechanical Engineering Major
Sophomore
“I aim to make sure everyone feels a part of the central family as they set foot on campus! Orientation is such a fun experience, have fun and make the most of it!!”
Location: Student Center Circle
Sabiha Dodd-Brown
Political Science and Journalism Major
Senior
“Bring your all and don't be afraid to be yourself! It may be scary at first but I promise you it gets better as time goes on. Release your inner Beyonce!"
Location: Ebenezer Bassett Hall
Sean Carter
Marketing Major
Minor: AI
Junior
“Hey, new blue devils, welcome to CCSU! If you want to feel more at home, I recommend joining clubs and attending as many events as possible, as there you can find like-minded people and make new connections. Also, make sure to stay organized with your classes, as this will be a huge lifesaver when it comes to taking tests and exams.”
Location: Activities Room
Teuta Hida
Political Science Major
Minor: Philosophy
Sophomore
“My goal is to make sure every new student feels welcomed and supported as soon as they enter Central. I want to create an environment that provides safety as well as fun! Orientation is just the beginning of your wonderful journey at Central!”
Location: hilltop Cafe
Thomas Ahima
Electronics Technology Major Minor: Business
Junior
“As a new student, your first year at Central should feel like home. There are many opportunities for you to grow throughout campus. Don't be afraid to try new things, meet new lifelong friends, join a few clubs, and most importantly, have fun along the way!”
Tijha West
General Studies Major
Minor: Criminal Justice
Senior
“Give yourself grace as you start this new chapter. You don’t have to have everything figured out. Just stay open, get involved, and trust that you are capable of more than you think.”
Yari Marrero
History Secondary Education
Junior
“I hope every new student feels safe, supported, and at home as soon as they arrive. Orientation is your opportunity to meet new friends, create fun memories, and start this new chapter with excitement.”