Bard College Sophomore Leads Inclusive Campus Initiative

Jalen Smiley, a sophomore at Bard College, is now in his second year as co-founder and co-clubhead of The Community Project (TCP). The club began as a Posse-centered space but has since expanded to serve all scholarship program students from the Office of Equity and Inclusion, as well as the larger Bard community.

Through innovative events and programs—including Posse Potlucks, art shows, and healing circles—TCP provides opportunities for authenticity and connection.

Jalen arrived on campus eager to engage with the college experience. The idea for the club was born when he met with his adviser, Daniella Mingo, a Posse Atlanta alumna and assistant director of the Office of Equity and Inclusion, on his first day of freshman year.

Being called on to lead in this way makes me feel like I am making a change.

“Daniella approached me about the opportunity to create more intentional space for Scholars on campus, and I was eager to help build that,” Jalen said.

TCP raises awareness of the Posse program and encourages the larger community to participate in on-campus programming, such as the annual PossePlus Retreat. This year, the retreat had more than 25 additional attendees—known as “Plussers”—compared to last year.

“Being called on to lead in this way makes me feel like I am making a change for not only current and future Posse Scholars but also people of color on campus who need a space to be around people who look like them,” Jalen said.

TCP strengthens the bond between Posse Scholars and the broader campus community, delivering on its goal to make college environments more inclusive for all students.