Josefina Senese (30), from Argentina, is pursuing a doctorate in education policy at Boston University, where she is also a research assistant at the Wheelock Educational Policy Center. Her personal story is a testament to her resilience and determination. As the first in her family to attend college, she worked part-time to support her family and eventually earned her degrees with honors. Josefina has an extensive history of employment and volunteer service dedicated to educational research and policy.
Josefina is deeply committed to community service, providing free English language and math tutoring sessions to students with mild disabilities. Her diverse volunteer experiences, including research on education policies affecting Mapuche students in Chile and supporting democracy and social development policies across Latin America, highlight her broad interest in educational equity and her commitment to leveraging her skills for societal benefit.
Her past projects demonstrate her commitment to addressing the challenges faced by children with disabilities in educational settings. This work includes partnerships with local entities in Ghana and Uganda, showcasing a collaborative and respectful approach to research, and working with the Indiana Department of Education on the impact of inclusive settings on students with disabilities.
Josefina’s work, aspirations, and personal journey are dedicated to improving the educational experiences of girls with disabilities. Her academic achievements and professional contributions position her as a significant advocate for inclusive education policies. Her future endeavors promise to further impact the educational landscape, especially for those most marginalized in society.