This November, AGEP-T FRAME and IRACDA NY-CAPS Program Manager, Karian Wright, was selected by Caribbean Life News as a recipient of their 2014 “40 under 40” award. This award celebrates the achievements of professionals born in or with roots in Caribbean nations. 2014 marked the second year of the awards ceremony.

Karian, who was born in Jamaica and currently lives with her family in Massapequa Park, was one of 40 honorees recognized in a ceremony and gala celebration held on November 26th in Dyker Heights, Brooklyn. Karian was recognized for her long history of work with underrepresented postsecondary scholars. For six years prior to her joining the CIE, Karian was an advisor, adjunct faculty member and Assistant Director of Graduate Student Recruitment at Monroe College, where she also completed her MBA in 2011. Karian joined the Center in 2013 as Program Manager of the NSF-funded AGEP-T FRAME project. This past summer, she added management of the NIH- fundedIRACDA NY-CAPS Postdoctoral Scholars Program to her responsibilities. In addition to all she has accomplished in her career, Karian was also recognized for her service and volunteerism with the community as both a reverend and a minister.

When asked by Caribbean Life News to whom she looks up to as a mentor, Karian responded that it was her father. “He is one of the kindest, most affectionate individuals I have ever known. He has always been my biggest supporter and encouraged me to do my best at all times.” Congratulations, Karian! The CIE is proud of all you have done and all you will accomplish in the future!

You can read the entire list and profiles of Caribbean Life News’ “40 under 40” awardees here.