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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

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MELEY HAILE

Senior Advisor

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MANAN VIJ

Co-Vice President

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Kayla Kim

Director of Events

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Nicole Serrano

Secretary

Directors of Peer Support Group

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Ashley Thomas

PSG Director

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Jessica Lee

PSG Vice Director

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Nicole Serrano

PSG Newsletter Director

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Vanessa Michel

Buddy Program Director

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Tressel Holton

PSG Outreach Director

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