As a part of our ongoing series “CASW Profiles,” we’re on a mission to put faces to many well-regarded names around our agency. Through these rapid-fire interviews, we’re trying to highlight the stories, personalities, and perspectives that make up Children’s Arts and Science Workshops.
This month, meet Madison Wilder, a dedicated and conscientious group leader at Dos Puentes Elementary School and the evening staff at Dyckman Community Center.
How did you get your start at CASW? In what ways has the agency changed since you started and, furthermore, in what ways have you changed?
“When I was a sophomore in high school I was one of the first participants to sign up for the CASW program at Beacon in James Monroe High School. During that time I had great mentors like Isaiah and Hanan. After I graduated high school back in 2021, I went on to do SNL on Saturdays. During the summer of 2022, I also worked Beacon’s summer camp as an assistant group leader…” [AGL] “…later, I went from working in the Bronx to Washington Heights, where I was an AGL for two years then a group leader. I feel like the agency has changed because they added different types of activities for different types of age groups, and also, I feel like I have changed a lot during my whole work experience at CASW.”
Where would you personally like to see the organization go in the future?
“I would like to collaborate with different sites located in the Heights and Inwood.”
What is your most impactful memory at CASW?
“Having a bond with kids of different ages.”
Now it’s time for our “Would You Rather” Section. Movie or TV Series?
“TV Series.”
Summer or Winter?
“Summer.”
Ocean or Forest?
“Ocean.”
Order in or Eat out?
“Eat out.”
What is your favorite food?
“Seafood boil.”
What is your zodiac sign?
“Capricorn.”
Name one person you admire.
“My mom.”
Name you favorite country or place.
“Dominican Republic.”
Name you favorite color.
“Light purple.”
Name a song you identify with.
“Free Mind by Tems.”
