Maliq Royer-Crann is working to uplift the next generation of leaders through mentorship and support.

“I always want to continue to make an impact, whether that’s through mentorship or support,” he said.

Royer-Crann is a student leader in the SEEK program at Baruch College. SEEK stands for Percy E. Sutton Search for Education, Elevation and Knowledge — a statewide initiative that helps disadvantaged students access higher education.

What You Need To Know

  • Maliq Royer-Crann, a corporate communications major, helps his fellow students at Baruch College

  • Royer-Crann gives back through the SEEK program for disadvantaged students and the Urban Male Leadership Academy

  • The rising senior mentors other students and hosts events for his classmate to network and learn about leadership

“With the support of SEEK academic, economic and emotional support… I feel like it’s really changed me a lot as a person [and] has made me see things differently,” he said.

A first-generation college student from Flatbush, Royer-Crann has mentored nearly 200 first-year students through the program.

“I had my peer mentors that looked out for me,” he said. “So I think it’s important to give back to your community.”

He also joined Baruch SEEK’s Urban Male Leadership Academy, which empowers young men of color. Now president of the UMLA Advisory Board, the corporate communications student organizes networking opportunities and social events.

“Having that space on campus in a community that really cares about, about UMLA or about the growth of themselves and each other and tries to be better themselves and be better leaders is really important,” he said.

“He wants to give back,” said Sasha Pantialaz, a SEEK counselor and UMLA director at Baruch College. “It’s not just something that he puts on his resume. It’s something that comes from his heart.”

Royer-Crann was recently elected vice president of student affairs in Baruch’s Undergraduate Student Government, a role that will allow him to expand his efforts.

“I want to provide spaces for students of color, immigrant students, students that are going through things that aren’t typically talked about — provide that space for them and let them feel comfortable,” he said.

For his work opening doors for fellow college students, Maliq Royer-Crann is our New Yorker of the Week.