Welcome to Staff Spotlight! Get to know the dedicated staff at the Alliance for Young Artists & Writers, who work year-round to support the success of the Scholastic Awards.

This month, we’re highlighting Program Events Coordinator, Chimankpam Arungwa!

What are your hobbies outside of work?
My hobbies are tennis, basketball, and Muay Thai.

Describe your role at the Alliance for Young Artists & Writers. 
At the Alliance, I handle our in-person and virtual events and coordinate our Scholastic Ambassadors.  

What is your favorite part about working at the Alliance? 
Interacting with the teens we support and the supporters who make it happen. It’s always great being able to have a variety of different conversations. 

What is your favorite book of all time, and what makes it so special to you?
A Face in Every Window by Han Nolan. This was a great read for me because it truly evoked so many emotions for me when I was younger. 

Favorite snack while working?
Peanuts or grapes.

Favorite song at the moment?
Isaka II by Ciza, Tems, and Omah Lay

A Scholastic Awards alum who inspires you and why?
Honestly, I’d say Haydil Henriquez. [Editor’s note: Haydil Henriquez is a Scholastic Awards alumna, the inaugural Bronx Poet Laureate, and the Associate Director, Regional Awards at the Alliance for Young Artists & Writers.] Having worked closely with her these last two years, I’ve been able to see her work ethic and how she treats the people, work, and environment around her with so much love and care.