Breea Bass
Sophomore

What’s your passion as it relates to social justice or service?
I think education is critical to the development of self, character, community and consciousness. As it relates to social justice, I believe all of these issues are massively lacking in a multitude of communities in the U.S.; mainly those that are economically and socially disenfranchised. Thus, my passion is to bring all of these characteristics into manifestation and into the lives of disenfranchised peoples. One thing I’ve learned is everyday we can all make a difference in the smallest of ways. Whether, it’s helping children study for the SATs, being a mentor for others, or simply lending a helping hand.

What are you involved with/in @ LMU & externally?
Currently, I serve as senator for ASLMU, Public Relations chair in senate and member of the Student Reserve Board (SRB). I am the Public Relations chair for Sistah Friends and the Political Chair for the Black Student Union. Also, I am a proud member of TLC (The Learning Community) class of 2012!

Outside of LMU I have my own non-profit organization called Elevated. This organization works through Option for Youth Charter Schools in the San Gabriel Valley to assist high schools students with affairs dealing with college readiness. I am a member of the National Society for Collegiate Scholars and have been a congressional intern for Congressmen Adam B. Shift in Pasadena for the past two years, and I love the experience.

What are some challenges you’ve experienced at LMU? / How are you coping or how have you overcome them?
The most difficult challenges I have dealt with here at LMU, were beyond me and sometimes left me feeling defeated because they were so far out of my control. These issues dealt with personal struggles, lost loved ones, financial struggles, and other hardships. I have learned to cope with and overcome these issues by making peace with the fact that life is a molding process, in which there are inevitable trials and tribulations that I will be faced with. Many of which will seem out of my control, but I now welcome these challenges with the realization that all of my steps are divinely ordered. With every short coming I may have or battle I may come across, the resource that I need, whether it be a person or an entity, will present itself in God’s graces. Life is made up of ten percent what happens and ninety percent how you react to it.

On Campus mentors/influences?
Robbie Lee: Program Coordinator, The Learning Community
Jade Smith: Assistant Dean, Student Affairs
Shannon Taylor: Assistant Director, Student Leadership & Development: ASLMU
S.J. Robert W. Scholla: Director in the Jesuit Community
And my ever supporting TLC community!

What’s one fun fact about yourself?
I am more comfortable in heels than tennis shoes!

Danielle Santos
Junior
Communication Studies Major
African - American Studies & Theater Arts Minor

What’s your passion? Why?
Danielle’s passion is helping people realize and acknowledge their full potential. She is an advocate for uplifting others and speaking out for the unheard when facing injustices. As a firm believer in God, she believes that He has imbedded in her heart a genuine love and care for others. Danielle is certain that if she can put a smile on someone's face, warm their heart and uplift their spirits, then she has fulfilled her passion.

What are you involved with/in @ LMU & externally?
You can find Danielle almost everywhere around LMU, but mostly in the Black Community. She is a Resident Advisor in Leavey 5/6 and works as a Facilities Supervisor in Malone for all Campus Rec Student Center Facilities. Danielle holds various positions such as the Vice President of Sankofa Society, Events Coordinator for Sistah Friends, Sergeant at Arms and sits on the Constitution Revising Committee for the Black Student Union. Adding to her extensive LMU résumé she is also a member of the Student Alumni Association, Harmony Unison of Beats and Virtuous Motion Spiritual Dancers.

What are some challenges/ How have you overcome them?
Leaving home and not knowing anyone at LMU was a bit of a challenge for Danielle, but her natural loving personality helped her overcome that within weeks. She has experienced financial hardships regarding tuition at LMU but has been blessed with scholarships and approved loans to help her continue in her education. Time has always been Danielle’s biggest challenge but through attending LMU, maturing and being actively involved has lead her to manage her time more wisely.

On Campus mentors/influences?
She believes that every faculty and staff member that she comes in contact with influences her somehow, no matter their race, gender, or education level. She finds encouragement by being exposed to the truth in situations whether she wants to hear it or not which in return she appreciates because it makes her a better person. Danielle ended her interview by giving a special thanks to all the faculty and staff involved in TLC, the Communication Studies Department and the African-American Studies professors that she has had because they have had the biggest influence on her.