Office of Student Leadership and Engagement
Mission Statement
The mission of the NYU School of Engineering Office of Student Leadership & Engagement is to support the academic goals of the School by providing services and programs designed to enhance and maximize students’ co-curricular educational opportunities. All programs and services are designed and implemented with the aim of creating a rich educational environment, infused with the core values of: community engagement and civic responsibility; diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging; innovation and creative thinking; interpersonal and leadership development; and connection to the global university. The Office of Student Leadership & Engagement strives to increase student satisfaction in Brooklyn, assist in the retention of students leading to graduation, and provide opportunities for students to develop essential life skills.
Core Values
Aligned with the NYU Tandon School of Engineering’s Students First strategic plan, the Office of Student Leadership & Engagement will promote a positive school climate that empowers students in regards to:
Community Engagement and Civic Responsibility
We believe in broadening the educational experience through active civic engagement and embracing the NYU tradition of being “a private university in the public service.”
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging
We believe in developing a true sense of belonging among students by fostering an inclusive community that recognizes, supports, and encourages a diverse campus community.
Innovation and Creative Thinking
We believe in creating a collaborative environment that embraces interdisciplinary thought and social entrepreneurship, to support the development of creative leaders.
Interpersonal and Leadership Development
We believe in the holistic development of intellectual, emotional, and interpersonal skills that further individual and community growth.
Connection to the Global University
We believe in complementing and supporting the University's academic mission as an international center of scholarship, teaching, and research by connecting students to experiences and opportunities across the University, both here in New York City and around the world.
Contact Us
Office of Student Leadership & Engagement
engagement.tandonstudentlife@nyu.edu
Phone: 646.997.3800
Fax: 646.997.3197
Location & Hours
We are located in LC 221 and LC 223.
The office is open weekdays (Monday - Friday) from 9am-5pm throughout the academic year, except for university holidays.
Staff Contacts
Brittney Anne Bahlman
Senior Director, Student Leadership & Engagement
Office: LC 224
E-mail: bab14@nyu.edu
Phone: 646-997-3353
Mike Burgo
Associate Director
Office: LC 220
Email: mb4121@nyu.edu
Phone: 646-997-4149
Sa'Haara Bryant
Assistant Director
Office: LC 218
Email: sjb728@nyu.edu
Phone: 646-997-3000
Anna Galarza
Assistant Director
Office: LC 222
Email: avg5027@nyu.edu
Phone: 646-997-3972
Graduate Assistants & Graphic Designer
Office: LC221
Phone: 646-997-3800
- Rachel McLaren - rsm9034@nyu.edu
Rachel is a first-year graduate student at NYU’s Graduate School of Arts and Science, currently pursuing an M.A. in Experimental Humanities and Social Engagement with a focus on Anthropology, Public Humanities, and Creative Writing. They earned their B.A. in Anthropology and Psychology, with minors in Peace & Justice Studies and Latin American & Latino Studies from Fordham University in 2025. Rachel’s work and academic experiences center around community engagement, cultural research, and artistic consultation and development. When not at work or school, they are likely to be attending a dance performance, reading, or traipsing through a museum!
- Shadiamond Walters - stw4120@nyu.edu
Shadiamond is a first-year graduate student at NYU’s School of Professional Studies, currently pursuing a M.S in Public Relations and Corporate Communications. She earned her Bachelor’s at Fordham University where she studies Journalism and African Diasporic Studies. During her undergraduate career she gained a great appreciation for community engagement, particularly advocating for underrepresented groups in the collegiate space. Outside of her studies and career she enjoys trying different restaurants around the city with family and friends. Currently, her favorite restaurant, according to her Beli profile, is Bogota in Park Slope!
- Vart Awakimian - va2486@nyu.edu
Vart earned her B.A. in Psychology, and a minor in Theater from the American University of Beirut. She is currently pursuing her M.A. in Higher Education and Student Affairs at NYU Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development. She brings a wealth of experience in Student Affairs, developing and supporting student clubs, organizations, and campus-wide initiatives. She currently supports the Tandon Undergraduate Student Council, 13 student clubs, the WoMentorship Program, and campus-wide programming including Orientation, Club Fest, and the Student Leader Awards, among others. Vart speaks English, Arabic, Armenian, and Spanish, and enjoys acting, dancing—mainly contemporary, salsa, bachata, and Brazilian zouk—and traveling. She can often be found working out at the gym or enjoying a good cup of cappuccino.
- Emily Nguyen - etn6939@nyu.edu
Emily is a third-year Integrated Design and Media student at NYU Tandon School of Engineering. Originally from Orange County, California, she enjoys playing guitar, finding new music, and traveling.