Get to Know us

Meet Lucas Roach; our fearless staff leader. He never failed to ensure excellent facilitation of all activities and service while traveling the Dallas area. His humor and easy-going personality proved valuable in a multitude of high stress situations - from toll-booths to no way to pay for gas, he never failed to find an answer. All this would not have been possible without the tremendous support from his various caffeine sources you could always catch him with.

Say hello to our student leader Maya Altemeier! Always energetic, there's never a moment she's not ready to tackle the world. Her personality is just as bright as her yellow shoes, which came in handy for the long car rides to and from Dallas. The entire trip wouldn't have been possible without her willingness to coordinate and student lead all activities. Just think twice about asking her to run the coffee machine.

It's Jesus Sanchez, bro. With a big smile and big heart, his passion to help others was vibrant while serving Crossroads Community. After a long day of service, he's the only one you'll ever see stepping out of the shower in a button up; always fresh and crisp. See him from a distance and you may be lucky enough to catch him posing OVO.

Tyler Wills - man, myth, legend? Tyler fits the definition for 'Jack of All Trades' from his involvement in cheer, to educating college students and 5th graders alike on healthy masculinity. You can find him throwing someone in the air, building a table, or maybe navigating through the treacherous roadways of downtown Dallas. Don't let the hat confuse you, there are curly locks of hair below.

Mr. Michael Niles; he wears the beard in our Dallas team. Catch him on a podium somewhere in the near future, because his agreeable attitude will be sure to resonate somewhere with anyone. His daring and risk-taking tendencies (i.e. drinking a beverage he may/may not be allergic to) may seem unnecessary, however they've got him this far and he sees no point in stopping soon. If you catch him blushing, don't flatter yourself; he sunburns easily.

Photographer, chef extraordinaire, newly acclaimed chess player - only a few personalities taken on by Danny O'Halloran. His ability to see the potential for art in every moment of our trip has left us with physical copies of our memories together. Without his passion and love for the kitchen, we very well may have been eating PB sandwiches every meal. He is always ready for an intellectual and mindful conversation, making him a great travel partner in any situation.

Apoorva Raikwar everyone (yes she really likes pizza). A graduating senior this year, she gave our group a great perspective and positive attitude throughout the trip. Apoorva's passion extends far beyond that piece of pizza. As a member of University of Iowa's Student Government, she works tirelessly to promote positive change all over our campus. This makes sense, as she hopes to see just as much positive change in the service she helped provide along the trip. Always down for a great jam or good laugh, we can expect to see great things from her in the future.

Alda Dansou, you'll never find another individual like her. A quick learner, she's never afraid to try something new, even if that means being held six feet in the air "for fun". Her taste in music always has her ready to break it down. Whether it be her smooth dance moves or perfect harmony when banging some Frank Ocean in the car, be ready. Professional dancer? Future singer? Who knows. All we know is a bright open future is in store for our very own Alda Dansou.

Vijay Kamalumpundi ladies and gentlemen. Or as some would call him, the man with many titles. Snapchat model? (as you can see for yourself). Professional swan herder? And his most infamous talent; self-inducing severe stomach aches due to a full belly. You may ask, is he perfect? Close, but no. His only flaw? Picking Houston to win it all for March Madness.

Smile wide for Hope Ritter! With more juice than the Energizer Bunny, she's always ready for a game of Heads Up! or to be your co-pilot when needed most. Her empathy and compassion are the reason you'll find her to be the last one to leave a task, often after everyone else has thrown in the towel. And when it comes time for a picture after a long day of service, you can always count on her for a string of floss before your close up.

Hannah Page; a highly adaptable individual, she's quick to lend a hand. Even if this means grabbing a shovel and learning to use it properly in only a matter of seconds. When not digging holes or getting a good stretch in, she never forgets to exercise her brain when studying biology. She may belong to the small crowd of St. Louis Cardinals fans on campus (sorry Chicago kids), but this only goes to prove her loyalty and passion for the things she believes in.

Addison Armstrong, call him A² if you please. Not only is he a crucial member of the boyz room, Addison went above and beyond on nearly everything that was asked of him during our time in Dallas. Whether it was for late night snack runs, cooking dinner, or keeping the vans on the right path (except that one time), he was the man for the job. #BoyzRoom #BET

Clara Lyden will have you wide eyed from the moment you meet her. Her spontaneous and upbeat personality will keep your vibes high no matter the day. Her openness and ability to connect with anyone makes her an easy one to fall into conversation with. This is especially true with her many alter-egos she can think up in just moments. Don't let her silly side fool you; she's in the pursuit of an engineering degree which speaks to her unparalleled intelligence. And don't be afraid to share the aux cord, it's sure to please.

Be quick on your toes around Alison Monroe! Her split-second jokes and comments will have you laughing or fumbling for a worthy response. But don't let her wit intimidate you; Alison's outgoing nature will make you feel welcome and at ease just as quick. Her contributions to the community are sincere and deeply important to her. When she's not dedicating her time to service however, she's always down for a run down the slopes. That is except for Dallas; it might have been the wrong place to try and catch some snow...

Get to know our kindest ASB group member: Sreeja Vepa. Her genuine interest in other people's passion and life goals makes you want to talk with her forever. Sreeja is easily one of the nicest people to talk to, laugh with, and serve with. She is involved in everything at Iowa, but never fails to make time for her ASB family. Her willingness to try her best at every service project has earned her the title of "master of moving tree stumps". She also killed it as the leader in one of the panic rooms.

Erika Velasco, one of the only people we know who could probably out sing Drake at his own songs (Drizzy 2.0?). It's as though she's used to paparazzi, as she was never caught unprepared for the camera. Her love for service is apparent in the compassion she exhibits for other people, and is kind at heart in any situation. As one who likes to keep busy, don't be surprised to find her in the CRWC throughout the week.