Field Notes
Staff Spotlights: Summer 2023 Interns at Root Cause!
We are so lucky to have had Reena and Ana join the Root Cause team this summer as our fantastic interns! They have both been a joy to work with, and we wish them both continued success in all their future endeavors. Read more about them below:
Reena Kagan (she/her) | Intern
Where is home for you? Menlo Park, California
University and graduating class: Duke University, 2026
What are you studying? Global Health, Neuroscience, Spanish
Projects: The Biogen STAR Initiative in Cambridge and Somerville, Building Community Wealth in Springfield, Massachusetts, Collective Action research
What was your path to Root Cause?
I participated in the DukeEngage program in Boston, where our program directors presented us with a variety of options for nonprofits to intern with. I interviewed with several organizations and decided that Root Cause was the place I wanted to be!
What drew you to this internship through the DukeEngage program?
I was intrigued by the notion of a nonprofit that exists to consult other nonprofits and corporations on ways to create social change—I did not know such an industry existed and I was eager to learn more! Additionally, I appreciated the hybrid nature of the work that would allow me to meet most of my coworkers in person at some point during the summer. Lastly, I loved the friendly, open company culture and the kindness with which they welcomed me.
What has been your favorite part of working with Root Cause?
My favorite part has been the ability to work on several different projects and learn about the many aspects of Root Cause’s work.
Root Cause Mad Libs:
- I am passionate about: education equity, healthcare access, and child development
- Some of my favorite books/movies/podcasts are: Educated (book), Pink Panther (movie), and Serial (podcast).
- One song I’ve had on repeat lately is: “Dancing in the Moonlight” by Toploader.
- On the weekends, you can find me: cooking, reading, or playing with my dog.
- In 10 years, I hope to see: a world where more people feel happy and healthy.
Ana Ramírez (she/her/ella) | Intern
Where is home for you? Houston, Texas and Bogota, Colombia
University and graduating class: Duke University, 2026
What you’re studying: Political Science and Cultural Anthropology
Projects: Finding Common Purpose (FCP), corporate philanthropy research
What was your path to Root Cause?
I was accepted into the DukeEngage Boston program and was looking forward to learning more about social equity through a big-picture lens. After interviewing with other partners, I knew that I would be able to do so first-hand at Root Cause.
What drew you to this internship through the DukeEngage program?
I was in awe of the array of meaningful projects Root Cause has accomplished over the years. I admired the inclusivity that embellished every and all interactions with clients and coworkers. I knew I had to learn more about an organization that sought to uplift others with empathy-driven strategies and implementation.
What has been your favorite part of working with Root Cause?
The Root Cause team has been welcoming and eager to mentor me as I learn more about non-profit consulting. I know the way they caringly treat everyone is a value I will take with me after my internship.
Root Cause Mad Libs:
- I am passionate about: inclusive leadership, educational equity, and continuous learning.
- Some of my favorite books/movies/podcasts are: Persepolis 1 by Marjani Satrapi, The Sound of Things Falling by Juan Gabriel Vasquez, and Counting by 7s by Holly Goldberg Sloan.
- One song I’ve had on repeat lately is: “Classy 101” by Fied ft. Young Miko.
- On the weekends, you can find me: hanging out with friends, exploring the city through food, or walking.
- In 10 years, I hope to see: more young people having access to a quality education.
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