Luis “Junior” Alvarez was born and raised in the South Bronx. His life story reflects resilience, pride, and a deep commitment to justice, rising from Bronx Community College to York College while proudly serving as Chairperson of the CUNY Coalition for Students with Disabilities (CCSD), advocating for more than 11,000 disabled students across CUNY. Junior embraces intersectionality and is deeply proud of being both disabled and queer, using their lived experience to uplift others and build truly inclusive spaces. Academically, Junior enjoys sociology and psychology, consistently pushing themself through research, writing, and major projects. Through every challenge and achievement, Junior stays committed to growing, leading, and helping others “take flight” alongside.