From the president
Kambiz Roghanchi, a second-year Human Services/Pre-Social Work major at Raritan Valley Community College, is a standout student leader whose personal experiences have motivated him to help others. Passionate about assisting those suffering from autoimmune diseases, Kambiz volunteers for the nonprofit, Myositis Support and Understanding (MSU), which aids people with a rare muscular autoimmune disease. As a moderator for MSU’s support group, he works with patients and caregivers, discussing topics ranging from challenges and emotions to treatments and tips. Kambiz runs a monthly book club, Myositis Reads, and presented an online seminar, “Risk V. Benefit,” addressing his decision to join a clinical trial. In June 2024, Kambiz will be representing Dermatomyositis patients in a discussion with the FDA on access to treatment. Locally, he volunteers with the Adult Day Center of Somerset County, helping the elderly. He also led “Teens for Refugees,” a group of 12 students who welcomed a Syrian refugee family and served as a translator for Afghan refugees who resettled in New Jersey. Using his skills in Farsi, Mandarin, and Arabic, he translated for medical staff and psychiatric services. Kambiz embodies RVCC’s core values of community engagement, diversity and inclusion, and scholarship. His compassion and achievements are inspiring.
Personal Statement
A diagnosis of Dermatomyositis, a rare neuromuscular autoimmune disease, sparked my passion for volunteering and community engagement, inspiring me to empower and support others facing similar challenges. My experiences have equipped me with the empathy, understanding, and skills to effectively navigate this complex medical landscape. I volunteer for a nonprofit called Myositis Support and Understanding (MSU), where I sometimes help moderate a support group for patients and caregivers, creating a safe space for open discussions encompassing treatment, social challenges, and personal experiences. I also founded "Myositis Reads," a virtual book club that convenes monthly to provide a welcome respite from the demands of illness, fostering camaraderie and shared literary exploration. I spearheaded the "Teens for Refugees" initiative and led 12 high school students in welcoming a Syrian refugee family into our community. I also have volunteered my language skills in Farsi, Arabic, and basic Mandarin to provide translation services for medical and psychiatric care for Afghan refugees. Locally, I volunteer with the Adult Day Center of Somerset County, helping the elderly. Through these endeavors, I have witnessed the transformative power of empathy, compassion, and shared experiences in fostering resilience and hope.