 The National Coalition for Dialogue & Deliberation (NCDD) has welcomed its Fall 2025 intern cohort, a group of 7 diverse and accomplished students dedicated to fostering inclusive democracy through dialogue. The cohort includes Nahum Ding, a natural mediator studying Human Development; Merveille Julia Bock D'Ileletoua, a human rights advocate and Peace and Justice student; Natalie Vasquez, a Political Science and Urban Studies major focused on immigrant and women’s rights; Sarah Huegler, a Geology and Astronomy student committed to understanding diverse perspectives; Sadiqua, a Psychology major with strong leadership experience; and Sydney Wiggins, a Political Science and Data Science student blending technology with civic engagement and Emory University student, Fern Biswas. United by their commitment to listening, collaboration, and democratic participation, these interns will contribute to NCDD’s programs, communications, and membership engagement, representing the next generation of changemakers working to strengthen democracy from the inside out. The National Coalition for Dialogue & Deliberation (NCDD) is excited to introduce our Fall 2025 intern cohort—six exceptional students who bring unique perspectives, experiences, and passions to our mission of fostering inclusive democratic participation. From conflict mediation to human rights advocacy, from data science to planetary geology, this diverse group embodies the interdisciplinary spirit that drives meaningful dialogue and deliberation work. Nahum Ding: The Natural MediatorNahum Ding is a junior at Texas A&M University studying Human Development and Family Science, where he explores the vital intersections of human connection and development. Growing up in a medium-sized family, Nahum naturally gravitated toward the role of mediator—an experience that sparked his deep interest in conflict management and resolution. Looking beyond graduation, Nahum's curiosity extends to urban planning, public policy, and whatever opportunities come his way. When he's not in class or working, you'll find him consuming all forms of media—from movies and television to podcasts and music. His approach to learning and growth reflects the open-mindedness that makes dialogue possible Merveille Julia Bock D'Ileletoua: Advocate for the Voiceless Merveille Julia Bock D'Ileletoua—who goes by Julia—is a Peace and Justice student at the University of San Diego with a powerful background in International Law. Her experience working with a human rights organization in the Republic of Congo, where she supported survivors of torture, illegal detention, and arbitrary arrests, has given her firsthand understanding of advocacy, project management, and community engagement. Julia's passion for peacebuilding and human rights drives her commitment to creating inclusive spaces where every voice is heard. She joins NCDD eager to both learn from and contribute to our mission of dialogue-centered democracy. Natalie Vasquez: Building Bridges Across Difference Natalie Vasquez, a senior at the University of Pennsylvania, is double-majoring in Political Science and Urban Studies while championing immigrant rights, women's rights, and creating spaces for "dialogue across difference." Her approach to civic engagement is grounded in curiosity and kindness—always seeking to listen as much as she contributes. Natalie believes that engaging with a diverse community of scholars and practitioners will challenge her assumptions, broaden her perspective, and deepen her commitment to fostering constructive dialogue. She's excited to learn from and contribute to NCDD's supportive network while continuing her journey as a thoughtful and engaged global citizen. Sarah Huegler: Finding Common Ground Through Listening Sarah Huegler brings a unique perspective to NCDD as a Geology major with a minor in Astronomy at the University of Hawaii at Hilo. Originally from Pennsylvania, Sarah grew up surrounded by nature and developed a love for volunteering and community service through high school and university. What makes Sarah's contribution to dialogue work especially valuable is her deep belief that we can learn something from everyone—especially those with whom we disagree. Whether she pursues natural hazards or planetary geology post-graduation, she carries this commitment to understanding diverse perspectives. Sadiqua: Leading with DialogueSadiqua, a junior at the University of Pennsylvania majoring in Psychology with plans to pursue a Masters/JD, brings impressive leadership experience to NCDD. Originally from Queens, NYC, she is passionate about developing leadership skills, fostering stronger dialogues, and making positive impacts in her communities. At Penn, Sadiqua serves as President of the QuestBridge Chapter and is a Fellow with both SNF Paideia and Penn's Leadership Education Institute, where she continuously strengthens her leadership and advocacy abilities. When she's not leading campus initiatives, she enjoys reading, walking, traveling, and exploring new restaurants. Sydney Wiggins: Technology Meets Civic EngagementSydney Wiggins, a Political Science major and Data Science & Analytics minor at the University of Pennsylvania (Class of 2026), is also pursuing a Master's in Computer and Information Technology. She brings valuable experience in digital systems, policy analysis, and data-driven research from her work at Philadelphia City Hall, Penn's SNF Paideia Fellowship, and projects that integrate computational methods into the social sciences. Sydney is carving out a career path at the intersection of technology, governance, and equity, with particular interests in housing equity, dialogue and disagreement, and organizational strategy—skills that will help NCDD bridge the digital and democratic divide. Fern Biswas: Deepen UnderstandingFern Biswas is a first-year student at Emory University, pursuing a double major in Political Science and Creative Writing. In high school, Fern led a Transgender Affinity Group, contributed to the Alameda County Youth Poet Laureate Program, and cultivated their interests in leadership and academic research. At Emory, Fern continues to explore their passion for law and community engagement as an active member of the Barkley Forum, where they participate in the Emory Conversation Project. With a strong interest in journalism, the performing arts, and diversity initiatives, Fern values open expression and meaningful dialogue. As an intern with the National Coalition for Dialogue and Deliberation, Fern hopes to deepen their understanding of how collaborative communities are built and how conversation can transform political and social engagement. A Cohort United by Purpose What unites these 7 remarkable individuals is a shared commitment to the power of dialogue, the importance of listening, and the belief that democracy thrives when all voices are included. Throughout the fall semester, these interns will contribute to NCDD's work in communications, program development, membership engagement, and more—all while building skills, finding purpose, and joining a movement for collaborative change.
As NCDD continues to champion inclusion, equity, and the power of dialogue to bridge divides, this intern cohort represents the next generation of practitioners ready to strengthen democracy from the inside out. Welcome to NCDD, Nahum, Julia, Natalie, Sarah, Sadiqua, Sydney, and Fern. We're excited to work with you! Interested in joining a future NCDD internship cohort? Learn more at https://ncdd.org/workwithncdd.html or contact Executive Director Keiva Hummel at [email protected].
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ABOUT NCDD
NCDD is a community and coalition of individuals and organizations who bring people together to discuss, decide and collaborate on today's toughest issues.
© The National Coalition For Dialogue And Deliberation, Inc. All rights reserved.
© The National Coalition For Dialogue And Deliberation, Inc. All rights reserved.