Grads at a Glance: Falling in Love With Public Service

A young man with short curly hair in a suit and purple sash that reads "Spellman Scholar" sits outside on a sunny spring day.

Hansel Ortiz-Rosario (Photo provided)

ALBANY, N.Y. (May 13, 2026) — Political science major Hansel Ortiz-Rosario has spent his time at the University at Albany welcoming incoming Great Danes to campus and representing the University at events as an orientation leader and UAlbany ambassador.

Graduate Hansel Ortiz-Rosario from New Windsor, N.Y. Major: Political Science. Next Steps: Master's in Criminal Justice, UAlbany.

“I was able to welcome and support thousands of incoming students and families, helping them feel confident that UAlbany was the right place for them,” said Ortiz-Rosario.

Drawn to the Capital Region’s proximity to state government and UAlbany’s nationally recognized Rockefeller College of Public Affairs & Policy, Ortiz-Rosario honed his love for public service at UAlbany. He interned with the Schenectady County Public Defender’s Office, where he assisted public defenders with case preparation and worked in criminal defense by observing court proceedings.

“My internship was especially meaningful because I had the opportunity to help serve underprivileged clients within the Schenectady community and gain firsthand experience in public service and advocacy,” said Ortiz-Rosario. “It allowed me to serve others and make a positive impact on my community.”

Ortiz-Rosario also serves as a housing manager with UAlbany’s Residential Life staff, helping create a welcoming and supportive home for students.

Having made a home at UAlbany himself, he plans to pursue a master's degree in criminal justice while continuing to serve the Albany and broader Capital Region community through public service and advocacy.