2025 Dean’s Merit Scholar Nuria-Ray Muhammad Rodgers
Nuria-Ray Muhammad Rodgers
Nuria-Ray Muhammad Rodgers
BA Human Development and Learning, minor in Sociology
Nuria-Ray Muhammad Rodgers initially applied to the psychology program at UIC, but based on her application, it was suggested she consider the Human Development and Learning program. As she learned about the program, she decided that it indeed, was the path she wanted to take.
“My first year I knew it was the perfect fit. The professors, and people and discussions we had in classes, no major could have been better. In the program, we focus on people helping themselves,” said Rodgers.
She has excelled academically, maintaining a 4.0. While grades are important, she says that doing research papers for more than just the grade, to gain knowledge, has helped to give her purpose.
Rodgers has participated in several research projects. Associate Professor Nic Weststrate helped guide her first project on infant mortality, and how to interact with mothers inter-generationally. A second formal research project through the Urban Public Policy Fellowship focused on marginalized communities.
“Nuria’s greatest strengths are her leadership skills and passion for making the world a better place for students on campus and for communities beyond UIC,” says President’s Distinguished Professor Bernadette Sánchez, coordinator of the Human Development and Learning program.
Rodgers has been highly active outside of classes. She is one of the co-founders of the Human Development and Learning Club. Working as a peer coach and then as a College of Education student ambassador, she has supported other students, advocating for them and helping them find resources. She completed the Urban Public Policy Fellowship, where Assistant Professor Stephanie Torres served as her faculty advisor for a fellowship research project focused on holistic healthcare and healing. She has also been on the executive board of the Black Muslim Student Collective and served as an intern with the Muslim Chaplain She plans to stay connected to UIC after she graduates and make sure the Human Development and Learning Club continues for future students.
This fall, she will attend the Crown School of Social Work at the University of Chicago to pursue a master’s degree. She credits Associate Dean Maria Luna-Duarte encouraging her to apply to the University of Chicago. She says support from Luna-Duarte and other professors have helped her to see options she didn’t see herself.