Our Mission
Columbia Synapse is a student-led chapter of Synapse National at Columbia University. We support individuals with acquired and traumatic brain injuries by fostering a strong peer-support group network, educational outreach, and patient-centered advocacy.
At the core of our work are our weekly virtual support group meetings, where individuals with brain injury and volunteers come together to share their experiences, navigate challenges, and offer emotional support. These meetings foster a sense of community, enabling participants to discuss a range of topics, from daily struggles to broader life transitions. Through reflective discussions on themes like identity, resilience, gratitude, and adapting to new realities, we aim to empower survivors with both practical strategies and a strong support network.
From these meetings and the meaningful relationships with individuals with brain injury, we develop awareness initiatives that target unaddressed needs, foster resilience, and challenge misconceptions about brain injury. Through regular community events, peer mentorship programs, and collaborative partnerships with healthcare providers, we strive to build meaningful connections between survivors, caregivers, and student volunteers
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Executive Board
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CLAIRE ZHU
President

MELEY HAILE
Senior Advisor

MANAN VIJ
Co-Vice President

Kayla Kim
Director of Events

Nicole Serrano
Secretary
Directors of Peer Support Group

Ashley Thomas
PSG Director

Jessica Lee
PSG Vice Director

Nicole Serrano
PSG Newsletter Director

Vanessa Michel
Buddy Program Director
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Tressel Holton
PSG Outreach Director