SPAA Graduate Profile: Aliyah Saleem (BA'24)
Name: Aliyah Saleem
Hometown: Plainfield, New Jersey
BA Grad Month/Year: May 2024
Current Position/Organization: Founder and Executive Director of Hope for Health & Hygiene
Why did you enroll at SPAA?
I enrolled at SPAA because of my involvement in starting a community organization, which provided me with valuable practical experiences. However, I recognized the need to complement this with theoretical knowledge. SPAA's curriculum resonated with my career aspirations in the public sector, offering a seamless alignment with my goals and providing the necessary preparation for my professional journey.
What do you hope to accomplish with your degree?
With my degree, I aspire to contribute to the advancement of health equity and maternal and child health in urban communities by working within a government agency. SPAA has provided me with the necessary skills and experiences to confidently navigate the challenges of the public sector. I am committed to leveraging my education and collaborative spirit to make meaningful contributions to societal well-being
Favorite SPAA memory and/or most meaningful experience at SPAA?
I had several memorable experiences at SPAA, each contributing to my growth and dedication to public service: firstly, studying abroad in St. Lucia, where I immersed myself in the critical examination of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in the Anglophone Caribbean. This experience was incredibly transformative as it broadened my understanding beyond U.S.-based nonprofits. Exploring the operations, funding mechanisms, target demographics, and cultural contexts of St. Lucian nonprofits deepened my appreciation for their work, culture, history, and landmarks. Additionally, I formed meaningful connections with my peers from Newark, Camden, and New Brunswick, fostering a sense of community and collaboration that enriched my experience!
The Virtual Discussion with Local Leaders in Government and Women's History Month Panel: Celebrating Dynamic Women in Leadership events showcased SPAA's commitment to connecting aspiring public service leaders with current public service leaders, providing invaluable insights and inspiring representation. It was empowering to envision myself innovating solutions to pressing issues and understanding the skills needed to excel.
Another significant moment was receiving the Service Professional Achievement Award in April of 2023. This honor affirmed my dedication to community service and highlighted the invaluable support I've received from my faith, family, friends, and SPAA professors. Their encouragement has been critical in my journey.
Lastly, receiving the Inaugural Honorable Sheila Oliver Service Award from the New Jersey Municipal Management Association was a profound honor. Named after a trailblazing public servant, Lieutenant Governor Sheila Oliver, this award symbolizes the legacy of her impactful leadership and the doors she opened for aspiring leaders like myself. I am deeply grateful for the opportunities SPAA and its supportive community have provided me, further shaping my commitment to making a meaningful difference in public service.
Next steps?
As I look toward the future, I am filled with hope and optimism for the countless possibilities that lie ahead. With a steadfast commitment to advocacy, service, and social justice, I am confident that together we can create a world where every individual has a fair and equal opportunity to thrive and succeed, regardless of race, gender, socioeconomic status, or religion. From my roots in Plainfield, NJ to my experiences as a student leader and advocate, each chapter of my story has contributed to my growth as a compassionate, resilient, and socially conscious individual.