Nyah News Spotlight: Wendi Adelson

Each month, we’ll be highlighting a different Nyah Project advisor with a short Q&A.

Advisors are crucial members of the Nyah Project family, supporting the organization and our Fellows in different ways: as coaches, mentors, and facilitators, and/or ambassadors.

This month, meet Wendi Adelson!

Wendi, can you briefly introduce who you are, what you do, and how you got here?

I am currently the Head of DEI and Legal Operations at Vault Health, and the mother of two amazing kids. I’ve spent the past two decades giving voice and agency to immigrants, DREAMers, and victims of human trafficking. I was most recently the Executive Director of the Immigration Partnership & Coalition Fund which brings together business and civic leaders in Florida to fight for sensible changes to immigration policy. Previously, I was a clinical law professor at Florida State University College of Law and Director of the FSU Center for Human Rights where I ran a legal clinic that represented immigrants and individuals with mental and physical disabilities. I was also a law clerk to the Hon. Adalberto Jordan on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit.

What did you study in school?

I have a Bachelors Degree from Brandeis University in American Studies, a Masters Degree in International Relations from the University of Cambridge, and a J.D. from the University of Miami.

In addition to getting involved with Nyah Project, how do you serve?

In addition to being a Nyah Project advisor and Access coach where I support Fellows with the college and scholarship application process, I am currently on the board of the IMPAC Fund and the Office of New Americans of Miami-Dade.

How has travel changed your life?

Living in Uganda, and understanding what it feels like to be "the only" in the room.

What are the top three (3) traits you value in a leader?

The leadership traits that I value are honesty, authenticity and willingness to use their power for good.