The Iowa ACAC Executive Board is excited to welcome a new member! Yuri Tilapi is the new co-chair for Inclusion, Access, and Success. We 
asked Yuri to share a little bit more about her background so that we can get to know our new exec board member.
1. Can you tell us a bit about your personal and professional background?
I am originally from Chicago, IL - 60629 neighborhood to be exact. My parents immigrated to the US from Mexico in the 80s. I grew up with 5 siblings, 4 sisters, and one lucky brother. I had a wonderful group of teachers, college coaches, and counselors at John Hancock College Prep High School help me through the college search as I navigated the process as a first-gen student. I'm a first-gen graduate, go Kohawks! I've been in admissions since 2016, loyal to Coe :) I'm currently Associate Director of Admission.
2. What are you most excited about in this new co-chair position?
I am most excited to learn more about the association and the decision-making behind it all. Also, to contribute ideas and continue to build community with POC in spaces not necessarily created for us.
3. What is some advice you have for high school and college admissions counselors as we look to assist students in finding colleges, specifically with inclusion, access, and success in mind.
A lot of admission counselors are eager to connect with them! We're full of answers to their burning questions about diversity (safe spaces on campus), scholarships, resources (specifically for students of color & first-gen community), and more! Each student is unique so one specific path doesn't work for all of them - keep their options open as they learn more about 4-year colleges/universities, trade programs, 2-year community college, etc. Oftentimes students don't think a school is an option until they actually connect with us, we're here to help.
4. What is one thing we would be surprised to know about you?
Besides wanting to meet Selena Quintanilla given the opportunity to bring her back... I have 20 thriving plants that take up a lot of space and need lots of attention but are oh so lovely! Caring for them is so therapeutic.