Justice Washington

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For Justice Washington, Albertus Magnus College has been a place of growth, resilience, and community. A New Haven native and former student-athlete, Justice found unwavering support from his basketball coach, Mitch Oliver, who pushed him to believe in his own potential—on and off the court. His time at Albertus also deepened his sense of leadership, especially after the loss of his best friend, Qualon Wilkes. Carrying Qualon’s memory with him, Justice embraces every opportunity, knowing that perseverance and the Albertus family have shaped his path forward.

“[At Albertus] They care about what you got going on — stuff that [doesn’t] seem important, but it gives you the sense that people care. People want to know about your life.”

Stephanie Santiago

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As the daughter of two immigrant parents and the only one among her six siblings to pursue a college degree, Stephanie Santiago has demonstrated remarkable drive and perseverance. At Albertus Magnus College, she embraced every opportunity, from forming close connections with faculty to studying abroad in Italy, France, and the United Kingdom through an AIFS program she helped fund through scholarships and savings. Her dedication and ambition led her to secure a position at KPMG, one of the Big Four accounting firms, where she gained invaluable experience in audit and financial services. Stephanie’s journey is a testament to hard work, resilience, and the power of a close-knit community that supported her every step of the way.

“I'll always associate Albertus as a home away from home. This has been the best experience of my life. I know they say college really changes you, and I'm a living testament of that.”

Shannon Visco

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Shannon Visco has been heavily involved on campus, including serving as Student Government Association President, a tutor at the Lillian Adley Germain ’57 Center for Academic Success, and a member of the Drama Club. Throughout her time at Albertus, she has been a dedicated leader, mentor, and advocate for her peers. During her junior year, she experienced the heartbreaking loss of her father, but the overwhelming support from the Albertus community reinforced the strong sense of family she found here. Through resilience and dedication, Shannon has made a lasting impact, ensuring that every student feels heard, supported, and empowered.

“Relationships and friendships with other students, faculty, [and] staff has been amazing…There is always such a kindness from everyone you encounter.”

Sharaya Keele

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Sharaya Keele is graduating with a major in Sport Management and minors in Sociology and Business Management. A dedicated student-athlete, she has served as President of the Student Athlete Advisory Committee, played for the Women’s Basketball team, and worked as an academic coach in the Germain Center. Her achievements include being named to the CSC Academic All-District Basketball team (2022), the All-Sportsmanship Team (2022-2023), and receiving the Female Student Athlete Outstanding Involvement Award in 2024. Sharaya’s inspiring journey includes overcoming Epilepsy and Hypotonia as a child, using basketball as physical therapy, and later transitioning to play at Albertus. She also had the opportunity to attend the 2024 NCAA Convention as part of the Student Immersion Program.

“I just don't know that I would've grown like this somewhere else. I feel like this community has given me the opportunity to grow the way I did”