KINGSTON, R.I. – April 23, 2025 – Those who supported and contributed to an inclusive culture at the University of Rhode Island were honored at URI’s Inclusive Excellence Awards ceremony on April 10 in the Memorial Union Ballroom.

“These awards recognize undergraduate and graduate students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends of the University who are committed to demonstrating and promoting inclusion at URI in the areas of community leadership, academic excellence, and service,” said URI President Marc Parlange. Parlange also praised the work of URI Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer Markeisha Miner.

“During these uncertain times, Markeisha has provided a sense of calm and cool, and in every interaction with members of our URI community she has remained dedicated to our foundational values,” he said.

“Inclusion IS excellence,” said Miner. “We simply cannot be excellent without the contributions of each community member. URI is the #1 public university in New England precisely because of our commitment to inclusion.”

“The Inclusive Excellence Awards bring students, staff and faculty together to celebrate those who work hard to intentionally build inclusiveness into what they do here at URI,” added Michelle Fontes, assistant vice president of Community, Equity, and Diversity. “To be able to celebrate and award our community members who have been recognized by their peers while enjoying great music, food and social connection is a great experience for all attendees —something they make a point to let me know!”

This year’s honorees are:

Inclusive Excellence Lifetime Achievement Award: Yahaira “Jay” Placencia
A founding member of the URI Board of Trustees, Yahaira “Jay” Placencia has been a champion for equality, mentorship, and community connection throughout her career.

As a senior vice president for Bank of America, Placencia has been passionate about addressing the needs of small business owners, entrepreneurs, and non-profit organizations. As executive sponsor of the Hispanic/Latino Organization for Leadership and Advancement at Bank of America, she fosters an inclusive workplace, empowers Latino professionals, and champions leadership development.

Placencia serves on the United Way of Rhode Island board of directors, where she chairs the community advisory board. She is a board member of the Neighborhood Health Plan of Rhode Island and a founding advisory board member of the RISE Women’s Leadership Conference.

A first-generation Dominican American, Placencia earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from URI while working full-time. Her daughter Imani Givens graduated from URI in 2024 and her son Jaden Givens attends La Salle Academy.

Staff/Administrative Excellence Award: John Carl Cruz and Shirley Consuegra, Early Alert Services
John Carl Cruz and Shirley Consuegra, co-coordinators of Early Alert Services in the University College for Academic Success, were recognized for the important roles they play in identifying and supporting students facing academic and personal challenges.

With a longstanding commitment to supporting underrepresented and marginalized communities, Cruz has worked with organizations such as Talent Development, College Unbound, Onward We Learn (formerly College Crusade of Rhode Island). Consuegra has served on the URI President’s Commission for The Status of Faculty, Staff, and Students of Color; as well as the University College for Academic Success Professional Development Task Force, both of which focused on advancing inclusion and equity at URI.

“Receiving this award is a deeply meaningful honor that reaffirms the importance of creating spaces where every student feels supported, valued, and empowered to succeed,” said Cruz. I am grateful to be part of a community that prioritizes equity and inclusion, especially during a time where these values are being challenged.”

Faculty Inclusive Excellence Award: Joseph Nardolillo
Joseph Nardolillo, an assistant professor in the College of Pharmacy, has introduced topics such as gender-affirming care, interpreter services, and health equity into the pharmacy curriculum. He is developing a research program focused on leveraging pharmacists and student pharmacists to improve cardiometabolic care and reduce health disparities in underserved populations.

Nardolillo leads a collaboration with Brown University, connecting URI pharmacy students with middle and high schoolers in Providence, Pawtucket, and Central Falls—impacting more than 200 students across 10 events to promote pharmacy careers.

Faculty Excellence in Inclusive Teaching Award: Britny Brown
Britny Brown, a clinical assistant professor in the College of Pharmacy, continuously incorporates practices into the classroom to increase the sense of belonging and has shared these impacts at the university and national level. She has been a member or co-chair of the College of Pharmacy’s Belonging, Inclusion, and Wellness committee since 2017.

Brown has directed some of her efforts toward the College Curriculum Committee, ensuring that the course materials reflect diverse perspectives, promote fairness and honesty, and remain accessible to all stakeholders.

Staff/Administrative Inclusive Excellence Award: Nina Schiarizzi-Tobin
Nina Schiarizzi-Tobin is the assistant director of Disability Access and Inclusion, overseeing neurodivergent programming, providing training and consultation on teaching practices, disability rights, transition planning, and inclusion. She serves on numerous strategic planning committees and task forces, including the Disability Advocacy Group, Accessibility Task Force, and is a founding member of the New England Neurodiversity in Higher Ed Coalition.

Student Organization Inclusive Excellence Award: Black Student Union
Their goal of the Black Student Union is to create a space where students can be informed, empowered, and enjoy a sense of belonging. The group prioritizes inclusion and collaboration by strengthening relationships between multicultural organizations and promoting unity through innovative programming and joint initiatives. The Black Student Union believes that lasting change begins by creating spaces where all voices are valued and heard.

Undergraduate Student Inclusive Excellence Award: Meilin Quiroa Reyes
Through her roles as Cultural Committee chairwoman of the URI Student Senate and as vice president of the Rhody F1rst Student Organization, Meilin Quiroa Reyes is dedicated to fostering supportive environments for underrepresented communities. Her leadership in mentorship and advocacy programs ensures that first-generation and diverse student populations have access to resources and opportunities.

Graduate Student Inclusive Excellence Award: Samuel Filiaggi
After earning his bachelor’s degree in marine affairs from URI in 2019, Samuel Filiaggi is completing his master’s degree in marine affairs at URI and his juris doctorate through a joint-degree program with Roger Williams University. Once he completes his studies, Filiaggi will practice environmental law. As a transgender man, he encourages others to bring their whole selves into the room when addressing ocean and coastal issues.