Student Spotlight: Jasmine "Jaz" Griffin (MPA-PNP 2026)

Jasmine "Jaz" Griffin (MPA-PNP 2026), treasurer, Wagner Black Student Association (BSA)

Can you share a bit about yourself and what inspired you to attend a school of public service? 

I grew up in Harlem, New York, where life in the projects exposed me to systemic inequities and the unmet needs of my community. These experiences shaped my worldview and instilled a deep commitment to public service. Harlem isn’t just where I’m from; it’s who I am, and I carry it with me everywhere I go. YERRRR! 

At 32, I’m a proud graduate of Virginia State University, an HBCU where I earned my political science degree. My time there strengthened my passion for understanding societal structures and equipped me with critical thinking skills. I’m obsessed with logic and deductive reasoning and love solving complex problems by crafting actionable solutions. 

Outside of academics and professional aspirations, I have a passion for reading, love love love African-American literature. I’m also a huge basketball fan and a lover of good food; whether it’s discovering new restaurants or enjoying a home-cooked meal. While I’m naturally quiet, calculated, and observant, my Harlem roots ensure I bring boldness, resilience, and authenticity to every space I enter. 

Attending a school of public service is the next step in my journey to leverage my experiences, academic background, and problem-solving skills to address systemic inequities. My goal is to uplift communities and build bridges to policies and resources that foster sustainable change. 

Reflecting on your experience so far, are there any specific lessons or skills that you will take with you after leaving Wagner? 

At Wagner, I’ve gained invaluable insights into the power of collaboration and the importance of embracing team diversity to achieve optimal results. So far, my coursework has taught me how to navigate the dynamics of both leadership and teamwork, equipping me to guide teams effectively while also contributing as a thoughtful and engaged team member. I’ve also refined my ability to analyze problems from multiple angles, integrate data with real-world perspectives, and prioritize equity in decision-making. Wagner has emphasized the significance of balancing strategic thinking with the human element (something I unfortunately tend to forget), ensuring solutions are both impactful and inclusive.

These skills and lessons have and will continue to shape my approach to public service, enabling me to foster cohesion, inspire innovation, and drive meaningful progress in the communities I serve. 

How has being involved with BSA contributed to your graduate school experience? 

Although I’m the newest member of BSA, joining has been one of the best decisions I’ve made during my time here at NYU Wagner. It has pushed me out of my comfort zone in the most rewarding ways, encouraging me to be more personable and fostering meaningful connections with peers who share similar values and aspirations. 

BSA has provided a supportive space where I can engage in authentic conversations, celebrate Black excellence, and contribute to a sense of community within graduate school. It has also taught me the value of building relationships and the importance of being present for others. Being part of BSA has enriched my NYU experience by giving me a sense of belonging and allowing me to grow both personally and professionally. It’s been an unexpected yet essential part of my journey, helping me expand my network, deepen my connections, and step more confidently into my graduate school experience. 

What BSA event are you most looking forward to this spring and why? 

This spring, I’m most looking forward to the mentorship program that my fellow BSA members are working to launch. I strongly believe in the importance of investing in the youth, and this initiative reflects that commitment. What excites me most is our focus on mentoring kids beyond the “NYU neighborhood,” emphasizing that NYU should be a resource for all of New York City to benefit from, not just those within close proximity to campus. 

I’m inspired by the potential to connect with young people, share knowledge, and empower them to see possibilities they might not have imagined for themselves. This program is not only a chance to give back but also an opportunity to strengthen the relationship between NYU and the broader NYC community. I’m eager to contribute to making this vision a reality and to see the impact it will have on both the students and mentors involved.