The Center for Student Involvement (CSI) at Ramapo College is excited to welcome two new coordinators, Cheyenne Shannon as Coordinator of CSI Operations and Kriselle Bellini as Coordinator of Fraternities, Sororities and Student Organizations. Both bring unique experiences and fresh perspectives to campus, aiming to enhance student engagement and foster a vibrant campus community.
Shannon is a proud Ramapo College graduate, she has now returned to campus as a professional staff member. Reflecting on her journey, Shannon shared how she was an undergraduate student at Ramapo in 2018. During her time as a student, she was actively involved in CSI, serving as the president of the College Programming Board (CPB). During the COVID-19 pandemic, she helped Ramapo transition to a new program at the time, Archway, which ultimately led her to a career in management and employee engagement.
After graduating early, Shannon went into the corporate world, working at Amazon as a manager before transitioning to General Motors. Although she gained valuable experience, she found herself looking for a more community-driven role. “I wanted to pour into people the way I was poured into when I was a student here at Ramapo,” she shared. Her passion for student engagement and leadership development led her back to Ramapo.
Since stepping into her new role, Shannon has embraced the transition seamlessly. “This is probably the smoothest transition I’ve ever had,” she said, appreciating the support from her colleagues. One of her primary goals right now is to focus on strengthening student training and staff meetings with energy and creativity. “CSI is the personality of Ramapo,” she said, emphasizing her commitment to make programs fun, engaging and meaningful.
Shannon is also working on reviving past traditions and introducing new events. Though she couldn’t reveal all the details, she hinted at bringing back a campus tradition. Additionally, CSI staff survivor competitions will be making a return.
Bellini, a recent graduate of Ohio State University, brings a fresh perspective for student involvement, particularly in the Greek Life community. During her undergraduate years, Bellini was an active member and leader within her Greek organization.
Originally from Bergen County, Bellini felt an immediate connection to Ramapo College. “I grew up coming to Ramapo, whether that was a cheerleading competition or driving past when I was in Mahwah,” she said. After graduating, she looked for a career in higher education and was excited when the position at CSI aligned with her interests.
Starting her first full-time job after college was definitely an adjustment for Bellini, but she said the transition has been a lot smoother thanks to the people around her. “Everyone made it really easy and seamless. There’s still things I’m learning, of course. But because of the environment, it’s been really helpful,” she shared.
One of Bellini’s main initiatives is strengthening the presence and awareness of Greek Life on campus. She is particularly excited about bringing back Greek Week, scheduled for April 13 to 19, a tradition that has not been held in a couple of years. “It’s gonna be a week filled with activities for Greek life, different community service, philanthropy, just an opportunity for Greek life to come together.”
When asked for advice on getting involved, both coordinators emphasized the importance of trying new things. “Try everything once,” Shannon emphasized. Bellini echoed this sentiment, encouraging students to engage with their peers and staff. “Talk to everyone, go to everything you can. If you see a flyer and it looks interesting, just go to it. Talk to every student you can talk to all staff members you can and don’t be afraid to put yourself out there.”
Outside of work, both coordinators enjoy traveling. Shannon has a personal goal of visiting multiple destinations each year. Bellini, on the other hand, is a huge Ohio State football fan and loves spending summer days reading on the beach.
With Shannon and Bellini now part of the CSI team, student involvement at Ramapo College is set to grow. Their creativity and passion will bring new opportunities and fresh energy to campus life.
lkelyman@ramapo.edu
Featured photo by Jordyn Baham
