RIT Difference Makers

The Division of Access, Engagement, and Success is honored to highlight Rochester Institute of Technology leadership, faculty and staff, and occasionally students in our Difference Maker series, sent out electronically across campus, making its debut in 2020.

It’s a way to get to know one another, see how the work we all do brings value to RIT, makes an impact on the student experience, and also aligns with RIT’s Strategic Framework and its four interconnected pillars of: Transformative Student Experiences and Success, World-Changing Research, Culture of Well-Being and Belonging and Global Reach and Mindset.

Do you know someone that should be highlighted at an RIT Difference Maker?

Nominate a Difference Maker

Headshot of a woman with long hair and glasses

"Don't be afraid to ask questions, seek support, or take up space. Your voice matters, your story matters, and there are people who want to see you succeed."


Julissa Gonzalez, MSW
Hispanic Latine Heritage Month DIfference Maker 2026
Assistant Program Director
Arthur O. Eve Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP)
Division of Access, Engagement, and Success

Hispanic Latine Heritage Month

Hispanic Latine Heritage Month is celebrated from September 15 through October 15

2026

Julissa Gonzalez

Damian Deamici

 

2025

Milagros Concepcion

Jase Rivera

Lucio Salles

Ancelin Quinones

 

Native American Heritage Month

Native American Heritage Month is celebrated in the month of November.

2026

 

2025

Kyndale Simmons

Black Heritage Month

Black Heritage Month is celebrated in the month of February.

2025

Thomas Warfield

Natasha House

Marcus Holmes

Woman's History Month

Woman's History Month is celebrated in the month of March.

2025

Peggy Tirrell

Erika Duthiers ​​​​​​

Leah Mackin

Christye Sisson

Asian Pacific Islander Desi American Heritage Month

Asian Pacific Islander Desi American Heritage Month is observed in May.  We are celebrate it early, in April, due to the academic year ending in May.

2025

Fawad Ahmad

Cha Ron Sattler-LeBlanc

Amlan Ganguly