Taruna is the Director of Macaulay Honors and Honors and Scholarships—she believes in the transformative power of education and advocacy. Previously, Taruna held careers at UNICEF USA, at Queens College as the Director of Experimental Education, and as an international teacher. Working tirelessly, Taruna raised awareness for global issues across all educational and community platforms. Now, Taruna strives to increase student awareness of the honors campus community, scholarships, and Macaulay support at Queens College.

Taruna is nothing short of a champion for her students and staff and continues to advocate, support, and develop transformative strategies to increase student support and empowerment.

Rebecca has her Master’s in Social Work and over six years’ experience in non-profit and higher education spaces. She appreciates having the opportunity to learn more about students’ interests and strengths, and, with a background in English and within writing centers, she especially enjoys working with students on their fellowship essays.

Outside of work, Rebecca loves reading, trivia nights, spending time with her rescue dog, and playing rec volleyball (somewhat badly but getting better!)

Varinia began her career as a Program Officer at the Institute of International Education, advising international students in the Fulbright program. She then spent eight years as Assistant Dean of Pre-Health and STEM Advising at Hofstra University. Most recently, she was Director of Student Success and Medical School Admissions Advisor at Medical School Headquarters, guiding applicants through the competitive medical school process.

Also, Varinia greatly enjoys getting to know each student’s background and interests and providing them with the tools and support they need to achieve their goals.

Dr. Grier is an associate professor of English at Queens College and the Graduate Center. He has published on race and cosmetics in Shakespeare, the role of Shakespeare in US racial politics from the eighteenth century to the present, and gender in rock music. Grier is also a jazz singer and dramaturg.

Leilani is a passionate and experienced professional with a strong background in student engagement, leadership development, and diversity initiatives. She has worked with Opportunity Programs, Anansi Creative Studio, and The Posse Foundation, where she led impactful workshops, student retreats, and events that uplift underrepresented students and foster inclusive campus communities.

Outside of work, Leilani enjoys expressing her creativity through writing and photography.

Saif is a 23-year-old from Pakistan, a licensed cosmetologist, and a senior Economics major. By day, he is juggling classes and leadership as the President of Queens College’s Pakistani Student Association—one of the campus’s biggest clubs. Saif loves blending creativity with strategy, whether it’s running events, building community, or planning what’s next.

Outside of that, Saif is all about fashion, travel, and chasing new experiences.

Radwa is a college assistant under the Scholarships and Fellowships office. She is a Queens College Alumni who graduated with a BA in Political Science & minored in History. She is also currently getting her masters in Urban Planning at Hunter College.

On her free time, Radwa likes to go to the movies, hangout with friends and read.

Diana is a coffee enthusiast and custom mechanical keyboard collector. Diana enjoys the Macaulay Honors admissions season and is dedicated to supporting the team in every way she can.