Colin Powell School Psychology student Vanessa Lopez isn’t just pursuing a degree — she’s building a movement. Born and raised in the Bronx, her commitment to mental health equity is deeply rooted in her community. Her journey, marked by leadership, advocacy, and a pursuit of systemic change, is an inspiring example of purpose-driven public service.
The Foundations of Purpose
For Vanessa, her advocacy began close to home. Growing up, she saw the profound effect of mental health challenges in her neighborhood.
“I was born and raised in the Bronx, a community that has shaped both my identity and my purpose,” she shares. “Growing up, I witnessed firsthand how deeply mental health stigma, lack of resources, and systemic inequities impact individuals and families, especially in underserved neighborhoods like mine.“
This early awareness fueled a professional mission: to make mental health care more accessible, equitable, and culturally responsive. “I want to be a clinician who not only provides care but also advocates for systems-level change across the country.“
The Transformative Power of Mentorship at the Powell School
Vanessa’s transition to CCNY as a transfer student was pivotal, and she credits the Powell School’s support systems for helping her thrive. Her first steps included signing up for mentoring from a Student Success Guide (SSG).
“Entering a new institution came with challenges,” Vanessa recalls. “Coming from a community college, adapting to a new environment was initially overwhelming; however, the guidance and support I received from my SSG mentor, Gabriela Castro, helped me build confidence and find my place at CCNY. That experience showed me how transformative mentorship can be during moments of transition.“
Now, she’s paying it forward as a Peer Mentor in the same program.
“Serving as a Peer Mentor in the same program feels truly full circle,” she says. “I now have the privilege of supporting new students… Being able to guide them, answer their questions, and help them navigate CCNY reminds me daily of my own growth. Mentorship has become one of the most rewarding aspects of my CCNY experience.”
Bridging Clinical Practice and Public Service
Vanessa’s commitment to community service goes beyond peer support. As a Second Year Moynihan Public Service Fellow, she has continued to explore her calling for leadership and advocacy through a new lens. “The Moynihan Fellowship has deepened my understanding of the intersection between clinical mental health work, public service, and policy,” she explains. “It has encouraged me to think critically about how systemic changes, community-based interventions, and clinical practice work together to address long-standing inequities.”
This dual perspective informs her work in every setting:
- The Bronx Mental Health Leaders Program: As Outreach Coordinator for this student-run initiative at Montefiore Einstein (the hospital where she was born), she connects members with pioneers in the field, leading to research presentations at national conferences.
- NYC Mayor’s Office of Community Mental Health (OCMH): As a Mental Health Access Intern, she supported research on peer specialists and learned about innovative crisis response initiatives like B-HEARD, a program that dispatches mental health professionals instead of law enforcement to crisis emergencies.
- NAMI Next Gen Youth Advisory Board (New York State): She collaborates with 11 advocates statewide to redesign youth-centered programs and contributes to policy conversations with New York State senators.
Looking Ahead: Clinician, Advocate, and Global Citizen
Vanessa’s ambition is matched only by her drive to gain diverse experiences. Having interned with the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene and been honored by Humans of Public Service, her next steps will be global.
“I will soon be participating in a medical internship in Morocco, where I hope to expand my clinical skills while strengthening my global understanding of public health and community health care.“
As she approaches graduation, her path is clear:
“I plan to pursue and apply to doctoral programs to pursue my doctorate in psychology , with the ultimate goal of becoming a clinician and tie that into community mental health advocacy.I want to continue bridging clinical practice with public health initiatives, especially in underserved communities, and give back to the Bronx.“
Vanessa also shares some words of advice to her fellow students:
“The Colin Powell School has truly given me the confidence and knowledge to grow as a leader. My biggest advice is to take on opportunities that align with your passions, even if they feel intimidating at first. In order to grow, you have to place yourself in an uncomfortable position. Seeking support from others and unwavering resources that CCNY and the Colin Powell School offer will truly help your college trajectory.“
Her ultimate hope is that her visibility will inspire others from similar backgrounds.
