Yvanna “Ivy” Tica

Yvanna Vien “Ivy” Tica Yale University ’26, Sociology with an Education Studies Intensive Certificate  

Yvanna Tica is a rising senior at Yale University majoring in sociology with an education studies intensive certificate. This summer, Ivy will support Allison Epp at the Fund for Johns Hopkins Medicine. She is passionate about equitable access to education and is excited to understand how advancement supports that practice.  

Connect with Ivy, and read her entire profile here:  

What drew you to this opportunity?   

I was drawn to this internship because it offers a glimpse into how universities sustain the equity work that they claim to value. As someone studying sociology and education, I’ve been thinking a lot about how institutions structure access. This felt like a chance to see how those decisions are shaped by funding, storytelling, and community-building.   

What are you most excited about during your internship?    

I’m excited to learn how advancement offices translate big values — like inclusion and access — into real, fundable initiatives. I want to understand how development teams engage alumni and donors in meaningful ways, especially when it comes to campaigns focused on equity.   

What is your most memorable college experience?   

College has been a collage of unforgettable experiences, but one that stays with me is the first time I worked with Yale Admissions during our three-day admitted students program. With hundreds of events across campus and over a thousand high schoolers added to the student body overnight, the energy was electric. I loved watching students experience college life and seeing some fall in love with the campus the same way I did.   

Where do you want to be in 10 years, and how can this internship help you get there?   

In 10 years, I hope to be working somewhere that bridges education, policy, and equity — whether at a university, nonprofit, or think tank. This internship gives me a foundation for that by helping me see how institutional change gets funded and sustained behind the scenes.   

What does philanthropy mean to you?    

To me, philanthropy is about resourcing care, the act of intentionally directing time, money, or energy toward the people, communities, or futures we want to invest in. It’s not just about giving — it’s about believing that certain stories, dreams, and institutions are worth sustaining, and then doing the work to help make that possible.   

What excites you most about spending your summer in Baltimore?   

Experiencing the legendary seafood! I’m a big foodie, and I love seafood — not surprising, as I grew up in an archipelago. I’m also looking forward to exploring the city and getting a feel for its arts, history, and architecture!