Year in Review: Top ‘Columbia Neighbors’ Stories of 2025

December invites us to reflect on moments that shaped the year. As we look forward to ushering in a new year and continuing to tell local stories rooted in connection, culture, and community, we’re looking back on the pieces that resonated with our readers throughout 2025.

From candid community conversations with local leaders to vibrant photo recaps of Uptown celebrations, dive into this collection of the top Columbia Neighbors stories of this year.

January: A Lens on Local Advocacy

George Van Amson Fellow Obse Abebe Talks the Importance of Intersectional Justice

Reflecting on the Power of Restorative Justice With George Van Amson Fellow Eloise Benoit

We stepped into the New Year with local stories that exemplified the power of community-driven social impact. Our George Van Amson Fellowship spotlights centered the voices of civically engaged students and offered a lens into how their work with local organizations has shaped their perspectives on advancing justice.

For Obse Abebe (CC’27), her time at the holistic legal defense-focused nonprofit The Bronx Defenders crystallized the importance of meeting the communities you serve where they are. Through her work at the recidivism-focused nonprofit The Fortune Society, Eloise Benoit (BC’25) gained a deeper appreciation for building meaningful connections. Both of their fellowship journeys were informative and inspiring, offering insight into some of the most pressing issues Uptown communities are grappling with and expressing their dedication to changing the narrative. The future looks bright!