Tariq Thompson
Tariq is the CFA's Administrative Aide.
My role in the CFA
I provide administrative support for all of the Center’s operations, including office organization, event management, budget management, and communications. If you receive an email from us, it’s most likely me!
Most enjoyable thing about my work
I played video games all the time with my friends as a child. Whenever we played together, I consistently chose the “support” role. Helping my friends thrive brought me great satisfaction—whenever they cleared an objective, it felt like I did, too. I like to think of my administrative work in a similar vein: though I’m not the central force behind the Center’s operations, most of it can’t get done without my support. When my colleagues get a win, I get a win too. It’s a really fulfilling experience.
Proudest recent accomplishment at work
Before joining the CFA as an Administrative Aide, I served as the Program Coordinator for NYU’s College & Career Lab (CCL). My role was to ensure the safety and well-being of our 9th grade students, and to support the successful facilitation of our summer program. Creating a safe learning environment for our students has been my most important accomplishment at the CFA.
When my colleagues get a win, I get a win too
Tariq speaking to students and families at CCL’s end-of-summer ceremony in 2023
Proudest recent accomplishment outside work
I recently graduated from NYU’s Creative Writing Program with an MFA in Poetry. During my time there, I taught an undergraduate course titled “Introduction to Poetry & Prose.” Reading, writing, and discussing poetry and prose with my students was a consistent joy, and I’m grateful to have shared the classroom with them.
My poetry explores the relationship between Black popular culture, personal history, and memory. If you’re interested in learning more about my creative work, visit my website!
Something that might surprise people about my work
I think there’s a common belief that administrative work is boring, mindless, and repetitive. My work at the CFA is intensely creative! I’m constantly problem-solving and adapting. Sure, there are systems and processes in place that provide structure to my work, but I get to dance within them.
Anthony Cruz
Project Administrator, CFA
Working with Tariq has been an incredible experience. Through Tariq’s attention to detail and considerate planning, every project or event they’re involved with shines with demonstrable care for faculty and our staff. Another benefit of working with Tariq is his careful thought process, which has been invaluable as our team connects our smaller tasks with the Center’s larger strategic plan, mission, and vision. I also appreciate the positive environment they foster through 1-1 meetings and all-team celebrations. Tariq has been an incredible addition to the CFA team, and I am proud to call him a colleague!
Danielle Wendricks
High School Application and Postsecondary Counselor for the College & Career Lab
Tariq possesses an incredible talent for making all those he interacts with—middle and high school students, faculty members, and colleagues—feel celebrated for their contributions and supported in their endeavors. His meticulous focus on enhancing the student experience has played a key role in shaping the long-term curriculum development at CCL, which will impact students for many years to come. This profound care for others has significantly influenced my approach to teaching and working with youth.