Mariam “Mimi” Daoud is a dedicated advocate, educator, and community builder who believes that when students receive the whole-person support they need, they are better positioned to succeed. Originally from Peoria, Illinois, Mimi earned her Bachelor’s degree from Coe College, where she majored in Social & Criminal Justice and Psychology with a minor in Communication Studies. While at Coe, she founded the Muslim Students Association, served as a College Adjustment Peer helping first-year students transition to college life, and was a student representative on the Board of Trustees — roles that deepened her commitment to creating inclusive, student-centered learning environments.

Before joining Kirkwood as a Student Engagement and Success Coach, Mimi worked in nonprofit leadership, volunteer coordination, and community organizing, including with Advocates for Social Justice and Artivists of Iowa. She also served as a Sexual Assault Survivor Advocate at Riverview Center, where she supported survivors through trauma-informed care and developed a deep understanding of how well-being and belonging are essential to success. Mimi continues to serve her community as a board member of Our Future Iowa, a nonprofit that invests in emerging leaders by paying them a livable wage to pursue community passion projects, and as the President of 237 Collective, a local art gallery that uplifts artists and builds creative connection across Cedar Rapids.

“Our feelings are our most genuine paths to knowledge,” wrote Audre Lorde, and for Mimi that means creating spaces where students are seen, heard, and equipped to learn and grow.

Outside of work, Mimi finds joy in creative expression and connection. She loves exploring art museums, traveling to new places, and experiencing different cultures and communities. You can often find her singing karaoke with friends, hosting community events, or spending time with her family and chosen family — the people who keep her grounded, inspired, and laughing.

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Cymone is a Cedar Rapids native and a graduate of Washington High School. She went on to earn her Bachelor’s Degree in Liberal Studies with a focus in Health and Human Studies from the University of Iowa. As a proud first-generation college graduate, Cymone is passionate about supporting and encouraging today’s students to reach their dreams, just as others did for her.

Before joining Kirkwood, Cymone worked in the K–12 school system where she partnered with school leadership to create access to valuable resources and elevate underrepresented voices. Whether in education or in the community, she is committed to making meaningful connections and leaving a lasting impact. Cymone lives by the philosophy that “Leaders lead” — working to close gaps and remove barriers before anyone else realizes they exist.

Outside of work, Cymone loves to laugh and calls herself a self-proclaimed comedian. She enjoys listening to Bob Marley, learning unique facts, and collecting great quotes to live by.

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