‘Living proof of the transformation’ — Pair of Medgar students, President Ramsey star in launch of World Food Movement platform

By Nick Masuda | nicholas.masuda31@mec.cuny.edu

The Lizzie and Jonathan Tisch Stage at the Victoria Theater in Newark has normally been reserved for the spotlight of stars such as John Leguizamo, composers entertaining with Tchaikovsky and the filming of PBS’ uber-popular ‘American Songbook.’

But, we’d argue, none of them captivated an audience like Fatima Ndiaye and Aaliyah Bartholomew did on September 28, as the pair of Medgar Evers College seniors helped the World Food Movement (WFM) launch its worldwide mission of providing hot meals to students in need.

Their words? Moving. Emotional. Relevant.

Their impact? Let’s just say that they were in just as much demand for post-event selfies as the night’s entertainment, the award-winning musician Abby V.

On a night where WFM touted its new relationship with Medgar’s Transition Academy — with hundreds of meals already hand-served on Wednesdays in the Cougar Pantry — the India-based organization also honored Dr. Patricia Ramsey, our president.

After delivering powerful words about her own bout with food insecurity — and recognizing Transition Academy leader Dr. Waleek Boone — Dr. Ramsey sat in awe, beaming from ear to ear, as both Ndiaye and Bartholomew walked on stage, with the former dotted in a jacket that read, “Social Justice is in our DNA,” and the latter in a tracksuit, just hours removed from competing at Van Cortlandt Park in the Bronx as part of the cross-country team.

The dozens of young people in the audience that were darting to and fro throughout the night stopped for the approximately eight minutes the students were on stage, hanging on to their every word, seeing a relatable figure on stage that is authentically navigating life and all that it has to offer.

But it wasn’t just the audience at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center that felt the impact, but also Ndiaye and Bartholomew themselves, so they decided to pen their own perspectives.

And, while you’re at it, make sure to watch their speeches below — you won’t regret it.

• • •

Aaliyah Bartholomew, Senior, Biology

If the mission was to produce a life-changing, perspective-shifting, awareness-raising, and community-building experience, then indeed, the mission was complete. It was such an honor to be a part of the Melodies with a Mission event hosted by World Food Movement. I was proud to represent my school and show what it meant to be a Medgar Made student. 

Now, before I continue, I must admit that this beautiful day may not have come into fruition without two things: grit and commitment. Why? Because on that very same day, Sunday morning, I was on my way to Medgar Evers College campus to meet my team, to attend a cross-country meet. Yes, I literally ran a 5K race at Van Courtland Park, came back to campus and got in an uber to go to New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), where the event was held. Was I tired? Yes. Was I feeling 100%? No. But was I going to miss out on this amazing opportunity? A resounding NO!

And I am glad I didn’t miss it. I was greeted with warm smiles as myself and my fellow Medgar Evers College student speaker, Fatima, were welcomed into the theater. I was seated in the second row to the right of the stage. I was entertained by award-winning singer, songwriter, music composer and producer Abby V. 

I witnessed our college’s president be honored on the stage and then share her heartfelt story about her days as a college student and experiences with food insecurity (she gave a well-deserved shout out to Dr. Waleek Boone, the man who spearheaded the partnership between MEC and the World Food Movement). 

I also heard from other influential figures and World Food Movement directors about why their mission, “No one should go hungry,” is such a vital service to humanity. 

Then I was given the opportunity to speak.

I opened with the reason for my athletic attire and complimented the crowd on their colorful, oriental, and ornate outfits. I then shared a bit about my background- life in Grenada, seeing what food insecurity meant for families, individuals and students, my transition to the United States and my experiences with seeing food insecurity as a college student. 

I spoke about how a program like this would help students meet their need for nutritionally balanced meals. I explained that if an individual’s basic needs are met, they are more likely to excel and perform to their fullest potentials. There would be less financial strain, improved time management, increased focus, and an overall enhanced quality of life. 

Students will not have to worry about where they will get their next meal, or how they would make their money stretch to afford something to eat for that day. Having a reliable, delicious hot meal is one more resource for positive change.

I ended by saying that the impact of the initiative and the hearts behind it are being felt across our campus. This is not just a meal; this is an opportunity to be better and do better. I thanked everyone and returned to my seat. 

It was not until the event concluded, that I truly understood the impact of what I had done. 

Dozens of individuals came up to me, complimenting my speech and candor on the stage. Many gave inspiring words, insightful ideas and encouragement to keep going, keep moving and to keep striving. 

It was a momentous occasion, and it all became a reality because of one YES, the commitment to that YES, and the willingness to prepare for and execute on that YES.

This was truly a pleasure.

• • •

Fatima Ndiaye, Senior, Social Work

On September 28, 2025, I had the honor of speaking at the World Food Movement Launch at NJPAC. This event brought together advocates, educators, and community leaders dedicated to addressing food insecurity, particularly among college students. 

Being part of this initiative allowed me to reflect deeply on my own journey at Medgar Evers College and the transformative power of access, advocacy, and community support. 

The event emphasized the importance of collaboration in tackling systemic issues that affect students’ well-being. It was inspiring to see so many individuals working toward the shared goal of ensuring that every student has the resources needed to succeed. 

During my speech, I shared my experiences as a senior majoring in Social Work with a minor in Child Welfare, which have shaped both my academic and personal growth. I spoke about the challenges of being a single mother who works, commutes two hours to school, and strives to maintain academic excellence while living paycheck to paycheck. 

Despite these difficulties, Medgar Evers College has supported me academically, financially, and emotionally through its programs and resources. Services such as free therapy, groceries, and clothing for my daughter provided through Transition Academy have made a tremendous difference in my life. 

These supports have allowed me to focus on my education while feeling valued and cared for by my college community. 

In my speech, I emphasized that feeding programs on college campuses are essential — especially in a city like New York, where the cost of living is extremely high. 

No student should ever have to choose between eating and pursuing their education. Access to nutritious meals has not only alleviated my financial stress but has also enabled me to stay focused and motivated. Because of these resources, I have been able to maintain a 4.0 GPA, serve as Vice President of the ABSW Social Work Club, and secure an internship with the Office of Communications. 

These achievements demonstrate the life-changing impact of student support programs. 

Reflecting on the event, I was inspired by how the World Food Movement’s mission aligns with my own values as a social work student and advocate. Food insecurity is more than just a hunger issue — it is an equity issue that affects students’ ability to learn, thrive, and reach their full potential. I shared with the audience that, in my experience, when students are fed, supported, and believed in, they are empowered to overcome obstacles and achieve success. The stories shared by others at the event reaffirmed my belief that community partnerships can drive meaningful change. 

This experience strengthened my commitment to advocacy within and beyond the college setting. 

Medgar Evers College has truly been my safe haven, providing a foundation of stability and encouragement during my academic journey. Programs like Transition Academy ensure that students are met where they are and given the tools to succeed. 

The partnership between Medgar Evers College and the World Food Movement represents hope, compassion, and opportunity. Together, they ensure that students not only survive but thrive academically, emotionally, and personally. 

I am living proof of the transformation that occurs when students are supported, nourished, and empowered to reach their full potential. 

• • •

Dr. Patricia Ramsey, President, Medgar Evers College

Dr. Ramsey delivered a stirring speech during the event, including her own reflections on food insecurity.