York College's Nicole Russell Named The 2025 Active Minds Emerging Scholar

Nicole Russell, a proud disabled student leader and vice president of the CUNY Coalition for Students with Disabilities at York College (CCSD@York), has been selected for the 2025 Active Minds Emerging Scholars Fellowship, supported by the Scattergood Foundation for Behavioral Health. Her unique perspective as a disabled student leader sets her apart and serves as an inspiration to many.

Nominated for her outstanding advocacy and volunteer service on behalf of students with disabilities, Nicole is the only York College student chosen for this national fellowship. Her project, “Active Minds: Breaking Barriers,” which she launched a podcast exploring the intersections of mental health, disability, race, and identity, has made a significant impact.

Nicole received a $1,000 stipend, a $250 project grant, and the Cultivating Connection Award. She will be honored at the Active Minds National Conference in Washington, D.C., this Summer.