Staff

Valen Daughtrey, EOP Program Counselor
An EOP alumnus, Daughtrey began his journey at FIT over two decades ago, earning both an AAS and a BFA in Illustration with double minors in English and History of Art. As a freelance illustrator and teaching artist, he returned to EOP during summers to serve as an art history course assistant and tutor, demonstrating his dedication to both the arts and education. Now pursuing a Master’s in Fine Arts in Illustration at FIT, Daughtrey serves as a program counselor and academic advisor, leveraging his unique blend of creative and academic skills to support students on their educational journeys. His own progression from EOP alumnus to program counselor makes him a guiding influence and exemplifies his commitment to student success.

Carsandra Diggs, OEOP Data Assistant
Diggs has worked as a data assistant in the Office of Educational Opportunity Programs for more than 20 years. She earned a BS in zoology from Howard University, a BS in Physician Assistant Studies from Touro College, and a Master of Public Health (MPH) from Columbia University. She has also worked at Beth Israel Hospital and at Englewood Hospital Medical Center and served as a guest lecturer at Keane University.

Robert Dufour, Program Coordinator, OEOP Art and Design Prep Program
In his 20 years at OEOP, Dufour has seen hundreds of students’ lives transformed by the programs’ opportunities and support. He considers it a privilege to assist students as they embrace their talents and pursue their passions. Dufour obtained a BFA in fine arts from Tulane University and an MA from Lehman College.

Zackery J. Echevarria, EOP Program Counselor
Echevarria serves as a Program Counselor for the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) at Fashion Institute of Technology. In this role, he provides academic advisement, supports student engagement, and coordinates initiatives that promote student success and personal development. As an alum of both the college and the EOP, he brings a deep understanding of the student experience and a strong commitment to the program’s mission. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Film and Media in 2022 and is passionate about helping students achieve their higher education goals. With a student-centered approach, he is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where EOP students can thrive.

Sylvana Firrincieli, EOP Program Counselor
Firrincieli joined the EOP team in 2012. She serves as a counselor and educational advisor, assisting students with academic and personal development and career goals. She believes in providing structured support and enrichment and is committed to "walking alongside the students" during their academic journeys. Firrincieli obtained a BA in mathematics from Iona College and both an MA and an EdM in psychology from Columbia University.

Molvere James, Administrative Secretary
James is an alumna of FIT and its EOP and Childcare Assistance Program (CAP!). She graduated with an AAS in Fashion Design and a BS in International Trade and Marketing. Formerly a longtime program coordinator of CAP! and SELF club advisor, she currently serves as an advisor for FIT's Black Student Union. She also is a member of the Epsilon Kappa Chapter of Chi Alpha Epsilon National Honor Society. Ms. James has five grandchildren and firmly believes that all of life’s storms and trials should lead one to purpose. She also is a member of the Epsilon Kappa Chapter of Chi Alpha Epsilon National Honor Society.

Corina A. Jenitz, Student Services Representative
Jenitz’s service to FIT began in the Office of the Registrar, where she helped identify eligible students for the Tuition Assistance Program (TAP). She then joined the Department of Student Life and assisted with the flea markets and the Printing Center, among other responsibilities. She now supports the Office of Educational Opportunity Programs as a Student Service Representative. 

Taur D. Orange, Director
As the director of FIT’s Office of Educational Opportunity Programs, Orange provides oversight for programs serving talented New York State students who have significant socioeconomic needs. An assistant professor with FIT’s Division of Enrollment Management and Student Success, she is a 2004 recipient of the SUNY Chancellor Award for Excellence in Professional Service. She has devoted more than forty years to youth leadership, student development, and program design for secondary and postsecondary school levels, and she has served as a consultant to various agencies, community-based organizations, and churches. Orange holds a bachelor's degree in psychology from Wesleyan University and a master's in professional studies in human relations from New York Institute of Technology.

Line Osias-Cayenne, Senior EOP Program Counselor, CAP! Coordinator
Osias-Cayenne has served as program counselor and academic advisor to EOP since 2000. She also serves as EOP’s enrollment liaison to the Office of Admissions. Osias-Cayenne is dedicated to helping students engage in the undergraduate experience and navigate the challenges and opportunities they encounter at FIT. An alumna of FIT, Osias-Cayenne holds an AAS in Fashion Design and a BFA  in Illustration. She also holds an MFA in Painting from the New York Academy of Art.