All Mellon High Impact Scholars

Meet The High Impact Scholars

Our scholars are artists, journalists, researchers, and community leaders whose work advances knowledge, creativity, and social justice. Each brings a unique perspective and commitment to making a difference in their fields and communities.

2025 Scholars

Luz Mely Reyes

Venezuelan journalist, media entrepreneur, and editor specializing in migration, political, and investigative journalism.

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Lester Hamlet

Cuban filmmaker dedicated to exploring social change and cultural identity through cinema.

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Talita Trizoli

Brazilian curator and theorist specialized in feminist and contemporary art from Brazil.

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Tessa Mars

Haitian visual artist exploring themes of identity, resistance, migration, and historical heritage through vibrant contemporary art.

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2024 Scholars

Ángel Nakamura

Mexican multimedia journalist focused on organized crime, human rights, and social justice in Mexico.

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Daymé Arocena

Afro-Cuban singer, composer, and director synthesizing jazz and Afro-Cuban traditions as a reimagination of diasporic cultural expression.

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Frank Báez

Dominican poet, narrator, chronicler, and artist whose literary contributions have earned him international recognition.

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Tessa Mars

Haitian visual artist exploring themes of identity, resistance, migration, and historical heritage through vibrant contemporary art.

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