“I came from what could euphemistically be called ‘humble circumstances,’ but my life was completely changed, and made, by financial aid. In high school, I was awarded a scholarship to @yale, from which I went on to receive a B.A., an M.B.A, and a Ph.D. That scholarship opened the door for so many possibilities and gave me access to resources I would never otherwise have gotten. My experience showed me that universities can be rare spots in American society with very solid institutional practices to ensure that opportunities for social mobility are being widely distributed, especially among traditionally underrepresented students. Now, as vice dean of @princetonspia, I’m responsible for making sure we deliver as good an education as possible. But what I am most passionate about is making sure our School is serving a mission in society to be as inclusive and diverse as possible. In pursuit of this mission, I founded the Princeton University Preparatory Program (@puppscholars) to provide more opportunities to low-income high school students and prepare them for selective colleges and universities. I still get excited by the idea that I get to play a part in creating change and helping to ensure that the rising generation will be afforded the same options that I was. I know some may disagree, but I strongly believe that beyond their scholarly and teaching roles, universities have a social responsibility to keep this country a model for the American Dream. Public policy schools are in a uniquely heightened position to address and promote upward social mobility, and I think our School has and will continue to do this in a useful and meaningful way. I feel a strong sense of ‘us’ at @princetonspia — and I think our students feel it too. We are devoted to creating an informed citizenship of students and faculty whether it is exercised on campus, locally, or nationally. The energy for change is palatable and it is incredible to see this invigorated in our community.” – Miguel Centeno, Vice Dean of @princetonspia. **** #Princetagram #PolicyProfile is an @Instagram series featuring our community. Want to be featured? Comment or DM us.