Emerging Leaders Class of 2021

Rachel Orton was born in Western NY and lives on Grand Island with family. She believes her purpose is to serve others just as her grandparents did. Rachel is wrapping up her B.S. in Africana Studies through Buffalo State College's Individualized Studies program, and her friends are the root of this pursuit. Above all, she is an abolitionist and lifelong learner who wants to partner with others to build person-centered systems that prioritize Black and brown communities. 

Rachel is an active poll worker, has received conferencing training from the Erie County Restorative Justice Coalition, and has been a participant of the NYS Model Senate Session Project. She has also served over 1,700 hours as an AmeriCorps member assisting returning citizens impacted by America's criminal justice system, and co-founded the Buffalo Black Lives Matter chapter.