Block Student Associates 2025-26

Bazil Frueh

Journalism (2026)

I am a junior from Toledo, OH majoring in Journalism and minoring in Art History. As a new BMSA, I am incredibly excited to engage the greater Northwestern community in conversations about the Block's new exhibitions. Outside of the Block, I lead the staff of Northwestern's queer-interest publication CRUSH Magazine, create news packages for WNUR News, and read poetry for Helicon Literary Magazine. I'm so thrilled to learn from and teach others about the Block's expansive collection!

Sam Habashy

Journalism and International Studies (2026)

I am a junior from Dallas, Texas studying Journalism and International Studies, and I am so excited for what's in store as a Student Associate at The Block this year! I discovered The Block Museum after attending a documentary screening last winter and I was drawn in by the Block's ability to inspire and connect with the Northwestern community and beyond. I am privileged to be part of a unique platform engaging with a multitude of voices and experiences and hope to seek out the hidden histories that shape our stories. I find especially fascinating the cross between art and religion, and what that looks like when sacred spaces are reimagined as galleries or when galleries take on a sacred atmosphere, sometimes even challenging our preconceptions about religious boundaries. I'm thrilled about the opportunity to grow and learn alongside other student associates!

Ashley Kim

Journalism and Asian Languages & Cultures (2027)

My name is Ashley Kim and I’m a sophomore studying Journalism. I grew up in Hong Kong, New York and Philadelphia, all of which are home to some incredible art museums. I’ve always sought to explore new cultures and better understand my own through art, museums have been a happy place throughout my life where one can do just that. As a new student at Northwestern, the Block was one of the first places that felt like home, and I’m thrilled to be part of this team bringing art to life on campus!

Felipe Reis Maccari

Manufacturing and Design Engineering (2026)

My name is Felipe Reis Maccari, and I am a third-year Northwestern student completing the Manufacturing and Design Engineering major and the Art Theory and Practice minor. Having my product design approach focused right at the intersection of precision and artistry, Duchamp’s “Fountain” is a moment in museums’ history that has always intrigued me — indeed, what determines the thin life between a product and a piece of art? As a Block Museum Student Associate, I am excited to have this and other discussions with the rest of the BMSA community, learn more about the functioning and curacy of the Block, and leverage the presence of art among my friends and classmates on campus.

Faith Magiera

English Literature and Classics - Latin Concentration (2027)

My name is Faith Magiera and I am a sophomore studying English Lit and Classics, and I am so excited to be able to share my passion for the humanities with the Block community! I have always loved visiting museums, and after taking an Art History course my freshman year, I realized that the art world was another way in which I could find a greater understanding of other perspectives and continue to learn how to live a life filled with meaning. When I am not at the Block, I usually play Quizbowl or write for the Northwestern Undergraduate Law Journal.

Tori Montinola

English Literature and Legal Studies (2027)

My name is Tori Montinola, and I study English literature and legal studies, focusing on medieval manuscripts and writings. I’m also an international student from Manila, Philippines, so I’m quite far from home. I am incredibly excited to be working with The Block Museum here at Northwestern with many talented and passionate people who aren’t afraid to make that known. I’m a big fan of art exploring religion, revolution, and Biblical allegory, so my favorite artists are Francisco Goya, Hieronymus Bosch, and Gustave Dore.

Vanya Saksena

Economics and Global Health Studies (2027)

My name is Vanya Saksena, and I am a sophomore from Geneva, Switzerland, studying Economics and Global Health Studies with a minor in Chemistry.  I visited the Block and heard about the BMSA program during the fall quarter of my freshman year, and since then I have been looking forward to becoming a part of the Block community! I have always loved the way museums utilize visual art and immersive experiences to educate and inspire their audience, and as a BMSA, I’m super excited to gain experience facilitating conversations about art, and introduce more NU students to the amazing exhibitions and events hosted by the Block.  

Emily Shen

Economics and Political Science (2026)

I am a junior studying Economics and Political Science with the Business Institutions Minor. As a frequent museum visitor, art is more than color, light, and shadow to me; it carries history, conveys values, and influences generations. Being a part of the Block Museum team gives me the ability to serve as a bridge between artists, curators, and visitors. I look forward to the interactions with visitors when they are on tour with me as we ponder upon the meanings behind the creation and curation of the work in the exhibition, but also to weigh in on our own interpretations of the topics!

Tyree Walton

Environmental Sciences (2027)

I am a Sophomore from Columbus, Ohio studying Environmental Sciences and Data Science. As a student associate, I am excited to connect with the community through a shared interest and love of art. I look forward to facilitating and participating in conversations about art and learning about the museum's behind-the-scenes work!