Alumni Spotlight: Abreham Gebre

CAS’ 19 JUPS Minor

My immersion in JUPS proved unequivocally transformative, profoundly influencing my perception of a diverse spectrum of social justice concerns, and allowing me to see the world through different lenses. It broadened my understanding of the interconnectedness of global challenges, from human rights and social inequality to environmental sustainability and conflict resolution. I was particularly drawn to the thought-provoking discussions and the genuine sense of community that JUPS offered. The program provided me with invaluable knowledge and skills that have been instrumental in my current work at the Association for Diagnostics & Laboratory Medicine (ADLM). As an Education Coordinator at ADLM, my role primarily involves facilitating educational initiatives and supporting the professional growth of our members and stakeholders within the field of diagnostics and laboratory medicine. While my role predominantly centers on diagnostics and laboratory medicine, I genuinely recognize the profound influence that justice and peace studies can exert on individuals’ lives. The pursuit of justice and peace inherently aligns with the aspiration to foster a just and harmonious society, principles that resonate with me on both a personal and professional level.

I have a master’s degree in the field of education policy. I take immense pride in affirming that my affiliation with JUPS continues to exercise a profound sway over my unwavering commitment to the promotion of social justice and equity within the sphere of education. My research and scholarly interests primarily revolve around the intersection of education policy, equity, and social justice. Specifically, I am deeply engaged in exploring the impact of education policy on marginalized and underrepresented communities, with a focus on identifying and addressing disparities in access to quality education. I’m also keen on examining the effectiveness of various education policy initiatives in promoting equitable outcomes for all students, regardless of their socioeconomic background or demographic characteristics.

One of my most memorable experiences from the program was a particularly impactful seminar on conflict resolution and mediation. During this seminar, we had the opportunity to engage in a simulation exercise that required us to negotiate and mediate a complex conflict scenario. This immersive experience challenged me to think critically, empathize with different perspectives, and work collaboratively toward a resolution. What made this experience truly memorable was the passionate and diverse group of individuals in the program. The depth of discussions, the commitment to addressing real-world issues, and the unwavering dedication to social justice left an indelible mark on me. It was a powerful reminder of the importance of dialogue and understanding in resolving conflicts and promoting peace.