CFES Brilliant Pathways is proud to announce the addition of two recent college graduates to its growing team of Fellows dedicated to supporting the college and career readiness of students across the country.

Claire Carson, a 2020 graduate of Colgate University, and Rose Breen, a 2020 graduate of the University of Vermont, will work with students across the Adirondacks served by CFES’ $12 million federal GEAR UP grant. They will also work with Scholars in some of CFES’150 schools in 25 states.

“The GEAR UP grant allows Fellows to work on a more in-depth level with students in the North Country, in addition to learning about rural and urban schools across the country,” said CFES President and CEO Rick Dalton. “They will contribute to special projects, writing and communications, curriculum development and in the implementation of our Core Practices – Essential Skills, Mentoring, and Pathways to College and Career.”

Carson is from Canandaigua, NY, and graduated from Colgate with a bachelor’s degree in Peace and Conflict Studies and a minor in Latin American Studies. She was a four-time recipient of the Dean’s Award for Academic Excellence with Distinction, finishing her undergraduate studies with a 3.70 GPA and high honors in Peace and Conflict Studies. At Colgate, she was a Peer Advisor; president of the Colgate Ski and Snowboard Club and the Colgate Hiking Club; and 2020 Delegate to the Model African Union. Carson, who is proficient in Spanish, participated in educational travel to the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Italy, Bolivia, and South Africa through school programming.

“I’m passionate about social justice,” said Carson. “Eventually, I want to go to grad school and work in higher ed, so this opportunity is perfect for me because I can cultivate my personal and professional interests, work directly with kids, and even finish the ADK 46ers in my free time!”

Breen, who grew up in East Burke, VT, graduated with a 3.88 GPA with a bachelor’s degree in Psychological Science and minors in Animal Science and Human Development and Family Studies. She was awarded the Vermont Scholars Award for excellence in academics and was named to the Dean’s List for six consecutive semesters. She was also involved with UVM Athletics, working as the videographer for the Men’s Lacrosse team, as an assistant in the ticket office, as a National Anthem singer, and as an intern in the Student-Athlete Development department.

“As someone who is pursuing a career in advising, I know the knowledge and experience that I will gain here at CFES is going to be a big part of my success in future endeavors,” said Breen.

Carson and Breen started working for CFES on July 1 and will live together in Essex during their one-year Fellowship.