Joel Teron

Joel Teron is a GS Junior, majoring in Sociology with a Special Concentration in Public Health. A Bronx native and proud Puerto Rican, Joel brings a deep commitment to community building, public health advocacy, and student support to his role as Campus Life Coordinator for the General Studies Student Council.

Before arriving at Columbia, Joel earned his associate degree in Public Health from Borough of Manhattan Community College, where he served as President of the Health and Wellness Club and worked as a Supplemental Instructor in the Learning Resource Center. His academic and professional journey has been shaped by his lived experience and long-term recovery, which inspires his dedication to harm reduction, health equity, and creating supportive environments for marginalized communities.

Outside the classroom, Joel serves as Assistant Director of the Keith Haring Harlem Center at the Alliance for Positive Change, where he oversees harm reduction services, HIV/HCV testing initiatives, and community outreach programs across New York City. He is passionate about bridging academic knowledge with real-world impact and empowering communities through compassionate care and evidence-based practices.

As Campus Life Coordinator, Joel hopes to foster inclusive, engaging, and wellness-centered programming that strengthens connections among GS students. He is especially committed to creating spaces where nontraditional students feel seen, supported, and empowered to thrive at Columbia.

When he’s not organizing events or studying, Joel is an avid marathon runner who enjoys training in Central Park and mentoring fellow runners preparing for their first races.