Ashtian Holmes
Director
(212) 776-7276
aholmes@bmcc.cuny.edu
What UMLA means to me: I am proud of how UMLA has grown in size and scope and our strong alumni network. I feel most proud of the moments when UMLA alumni unexpectedly show up at my office or call to share the good news or say ‘thank you.’ I appreciate that they stay connected to the program even after moving on from BMCC. Watching our students develop into extraordinary professionals and leaders provides me with a profound sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Yuleisy Audain
Associate Director
(212) 776-7263
yaudain@bmcc.cuny.edu
What UMLA means to me: UMLA means family and community commitment. This empowerment in the knowledge of mentoring comes up not only while you are part of the program as a current student but also beyond when you graduate and move forward. UMLA means resilience, care, commitment, and elevation from one place to another and becoming better individuals, and I am glad to support the students to become their best selves.
Marc Louis
Assistant Director
(212) 776-6258
mlouis@bmcc.cuny.edu
What UMLA means to me: UMLA is more than just a name; it’s a transformative program that empowers young men at BMCC. It’s a beacon of hope that has provided me with opportunities for growth, mentorship, and community building. UMLA has been a catalyst for change in my life, emphasizing the importance of leadership skills, resilience, and social responsibility. But more than that, it’s where I found my voice, connected with others who share similar experiences, and truly made a difference in my community. UMLA has inspired me to reach my potential and lead with purpose and integrity.
John Fields
Work-study Coordinator – Office Manager
(212)-776-6055
Jfields@bmcc.cuny.edu
What UMLA means to me: UMLA implies a way of life while passing through BMCC, being pointed in the right direction, and getting the much rightful help when a student comes into the office or is directed to us. UMLA also means passion and concern to see others achieve their goals in sight.
Josiah Ramesar
Tutoring Assistant
(212)-776-6055
jramesar@bmcc.cuny.edu
What UMLA means to me: UMLA allows me to help students that look like me succeed and graduate from BMCC. The college has a disproportionate rate of Black and Brown men graduating at a lower rate than their women of color and white counterparts. I want to see everyone succeed and be the change in the world they strive for. Joining UMLA has directly connected me to other struggling students and being that mentor and essentially brother in their lives. If I can help others see the true potential that they couldn’t see beforehand, my goal is met.
Asfi Raihan
Digital Marketing Specialist
Mraihan@bmcc.cuny.edu
What UMLA means to me: UMLA is more than a program—it’s a community that shaped me as a leader, mentor, and professional. Through mentorship, collaboration, and impactful events, I’ve learned the power of resilience, connection, and giving back.
Azeez Alimi
MORE at Morehouse Coordinator
(212) 776-6423
AAlimi@bmcc.cuny.edu
What UMLA means to me: UMLA is a family-oriented program that is a starting place for all students. I started here as a student, where I learned the skills necessary to move on to the next stage of life.
Fareed Safo
MBK Coordinator
(212) 776-2745
Fsafo@bmcc.cuny.edu
What UMLA means to me: UMLA is a community where we support one another and help people of color. This means a lot to me because, growing up, I always loved the idea of learning from and experiencing things with people who looked like me. Having the opportunity to help others inspires me to keep going.
Genesis Rubio
MBK/Wellness Assistant
Grubio@bmcc.cuny.edu
What UMLA means to me: UMLA is more than a program—it’s a Family and community that helps you grow academically and personally. UMLA not only helps the students but also helps you, as a coworker, look forward to a better life and achieving your goals. UMLA has helped me grow into the person I am today, giving me the opportunity to learn and lead others on a better path. UMLA guides you to become a leader.
Abigail Rojas
Mentoring Assistant
abrojas@bmcc.cuny.edu
What UMLA means to me: To me, the Urban Male Leadership Academy (UMLA) is more than just a program. It’s a space where mentorship, community, and growth come together to support students on their academic and professional journeys. Being part of UMLA allows me to support and help lift students, fostering their development as leaders both in and beyond the classroom.
Urban Male Leadership Academy
Office Hours:
Monday-Friday
9 a.m.-5 p.m.
