Seeing widespread poverty in her home state of Mississippi, Aja decided that the best way to make an impact was through social work.

“When you grow up knowing that not all of your needs are being met, you want to do something about it. After working in child protective services and adolescent mental health, I knew that I could do direct practice. I felt constrained by not having a stronger foundation in social policy, which is why I came to the Brown School.”

 Aja has been actively involved in student life. She is working with the Center for Social Development on an asset-building initiative in Mississippi, Alabama, Louisiana and Florida. She was also instrumental in organizing a student advocacy workshop for Brown School and local high school students.

“As citizens, it is our responsibility to be engaged in the political process. I want students to learn how they can change policy.”