This article is a collective effort of students and friends to advocate for Gissell Abreu. Gissell Abreu-Rodriguez is considered for many as a mentor, advisor, and friend. Since 2001, Ms. Abreu has been a role model for all students at the University of Massachusetts-Boston and national-wide. She has had significant accomplishments like promoting diversity on our university, advising and helping students in order to pursue graduate studies, being sensitive about studentsí issues, organizing events that are beneficial to our Umass community, such as: conferences, helping others in the creation of a food bank for the indigenous Maya Kiche, bringing the Nobel Peace Prize winner Rigoberta Menchu as well as other outstanding personalities to Umass-Boston, among others events and activities through out eight years she has been working at Umass-Boston.

It has been brought to our knowledge that this great leader, Gissell Abreu, may be leaving us soon. Right now, Gissell is working at the Chancellorí s Office; however, she is having to chose between going to another department where she wonít be able to support our students, or leaving Umass-Boston. Gissell Abreu cannot be taken for granted; she is an important stone for all the ones who have had the pleasure to meet her and work with her. There should be other possible measures to take about her status at Umass-Boston and allow her to stay working closely with us, the students.

Gissell Abreu-Rodriguez is a crucial member of the university community. We feel strongly about her abilities and contributions, and understand the great disadvantage that her absence may create for the development of the student body. Her life experiences do not stray too far from many of the students at UMB. We need more people like Gissell Abreu-Rodriguez to set the example as a role model. One thing we do not need less of: a role model.