UNC Pembroke graduate Jordyn Roark met with head officials at the White House last week to discuss the American Rescue Plan and ways to support students experiencing homelessness.

Roark met with Rep. Cedric Richmond, senior advisor to the president and director of the White House Office of Public Engagement and Julie Chavez Rodriguez to serve as Director of the Office of Intergovernmental Affairs.

They also discussed the administration's work surrounding their "comprehensive strategy to prevent and respond to gun crime and ensure public safety," focusing on the section regarding community violence intervention and youth employment. Additionally, Education Secretary Miguel Cardona's Twitter account shared a video message about how wraparound support Roark received in college helped her succeed.

Roark earned a bachelor's and master's degree in social work from UNCP. She currently serves as the director of Youth Leadership and Scholarships for SchoolHouse Connection.