Alumni Reflection

Jess Fernandez ’22 in Features | October 20, 2023

         Lawrenceville taught me to find creative ways to celebrate and share my culture with others. Being a Latina at Lawrenceville, a predominantly white institution, taught me about the importance of intentionality and inclusion. The Latine diaspora spans all different parts of the globe with a wide range of experiences. The diverse representation of Latine students on campus allowed me to reflect and learn how to foster inclusion and representation within my leadership roles, including my time as a prefect. This is an important lesson that I have brought with me beyond the gates of Lawrenceville, helping ensure that all students feel included and celebrated. I attribute much of the learning and reflection that I have done during my time at Lawrenceville to the wonderful teachers and peers who joined me in many discussions about identity and belonging. Whether inside or outside the classroom, many teachers have engaged in meaningful conversations about the wide range of unique experiences, including my own as a queer Latina, represented within the Latine community. Through dialogue I have come to learn more about myself and how I understand my other identities in the context of my Latinidad. For their key role in my growth and self-discovery, I thank the Latine students, faculty, and staff at Lawrenceville.