Alumni Feature
Rina Madhani (GLS ’14) is a proud Chicago native who has called the vibrant streets of New York City home for the past 14 years. As a dedicated educator, Rina has left an indelible mark on the educational landscape of the Bronx, where she served as a passionate advocate for students and their families. Her commitment to fostering positive change led her to co-found Start Lighthouse, a 501c3 literacy nonprofit organization that places social justice at the forefront of childhood literacy advancement.
Rina's dedication to education and her innovative approach to literacy initiatives have not gone unnoticed. She has garnered recognition as one of the L'Oréal Paris Women of Worth, a testament to her unwavering commitment to empowering underserved communities. Her impact has also been acknowledged by the NYU community, where she was named a 2023 NYU Alumni Changemaker of the Year and a 2021 Liberal Studies Alumni Ambassador.
In addition to her work in education and literacy, Rina has been honored with prestigious awards, including the Blackstone Entrepreneur Award, Bronx Power Women, and the Penn GSE Recent Alumni/Early Career Award of Merit. Her journey is a testament to the transformative power of education and the ability of alumni to effect meaningful change in their communities.
Below, Rina shares more about memorable professors, favorite classes, and how NYU set her on her current trajectory.
What did you study at NYU, and what do you do today?
I pursued a bachelor's degree in Global Liberal Studies, specializing in Politics, Rights, and Development. This program was a perfect fit for me as it allowed me to explore various subjects, delve into global issues, and gain a holistic understanding of the world. Today, I am incredibly proud to serve as Start Lighthouse's Co-Founder and Executive Director. Our mission revolves around advancing childhood literacy and promoting social justice and equity in education. This journey has been deeply rewarding and fulfilling, allowing me to apply the interdisciplinary skills and global perspective I gained at NYU to make a tangible impact on communities.
Tell us a fun fact about you.
One particularly exciting chapter in my journey was being selected as a L'Oréal Paris Women of Worth recipient in 2022. This prestigious recognition honored me as 1 of 10 women from across the country who are profoundly impacting the lives of students and their families. Beyond the award itself, what made this experience even more remarkable was finding myself within such an incredible community of women who share a passion for positive change. It was a deeply meaningful and special moment in my life, reinforcing our collective commitment to making a difference in education and literacy.
Rina reading to a group of students
What are 3 words that define NYU for you?
When I reflect on my time at NYU, three words come to mind: transformative, interdisciplinary, and exploratory. NYU broadened my academic horizons and fundamentally changed how I perceive and engage with the world. It's an institution where intellectual boundaries are constantly pushed, fostering a spirit of curiosity and innovation.
Share your most memorable moments from NYU.
Two moments stand out as the most memorable during my time at NYU:
One was the senior seminar I took with Professor Ascension Mejorado. This experience allowed me to explore a subject I was passionate about, guiding me through conducting meaningful research and developing critical thinking skills that continue to serve me well today.
The other memorable moment was my study abroad experience in Madrid. Working with T-Oigo and supporting students with hearing impairments in their journey to learn English was impactful and deeply humbling. It underscored the importance of inclusive education and ignited a commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.
What is your favorite place on campus?
Washington Square Park holds a special place in my heart as my favorite spot on campus. Its central location and vibrant atmosphere provided a hub of activity and a sense of belonging.
If you could take one more NYU class today, what would it be?
My favorite class at NYU was undoubtedly "Economic Development & Historical Patterns of Industrialization," which I took during my sophomore year with Professor Ascension Mejorado. In this course, I had the opportunity to collect financial and economic statistics on the Spanish economy during the Eurozone crisis. Analyzing this crisis's social, economic, and political effects on Spanish youth was eye-opening and helped me develop a deeper understanding of global economic dynamics. If I could take one more NYU class today, I would seek out a similar course that combines real-world analysis with academic rigor, as it was an experience that profoundly shaped my academic and personal growth.
If you could give one piece of advice to NYU’s graduating students, what would it be?
To NYU's graduating students, I offer the advice to embrace every opportunity for experiential learning. NYU is a place where the world converges, and taking full advantage of its diverse perspectives and experiences is essential.
Be fearless in pursuing your passions and values, and remember that your education at NYU has equipped you to make a meaningful impact on the world. As you step into the next phase of your journey, stay committed to learning, growing, and using your knowledge to effect positive change in your communities and beyond.