Meet the 2025-2026 Amate House Fellows
This year’s fellow cohort comes to us from 6 different states, and 6 different universities. They join a network of over 950 Amate House alumni who have, for 40 years, answered the call to lead and serve here in Chicago.
Ellie Alberts
Behavioral Health Fellow
With a degree in Biology and a minor in Theology from Creighton University, Ellie has combined rigorous academics with deep compassion and service. Ellie will serve at the Chicago Family Health Center as a behavioral health fellow. After her year of service she plans to attend medical school to continue her journey of healing and advocacy.
Lizzy Nelson
Behavioral Health Fellow
Lizzy graduated from Creighton University with a degree in Medical Anthropology and Public Health. On the pre-med track, Lizzy is passionate about advancing community health and will serve as a Behavioral Health Fellow at Chicago Family Health Center. Her commitment to holistic, community-centered care will serve the community well.
Kenzie Spigner
Criminal Records Attorney Assistant
Prior to starting her year at Amate House, Kenzie lived and served in community at Annunciation House along the U.S. Mexico border. A proud Creighton grad, Kenzie brings heart and humility to her work. This year, she will serve as a Criminal Records Attorney Assistant at the Greater Chicago Law Clinic.
Clare Cullinan
Campus Minister
Graduating the valedictorian of the University of Notre Dame’s Class of 2025, Clare brings a deep commitment to faith, service, and justice. She will serve as Campus Minister at Our Lady of Tepeyac High School, where her leadership and compassion will be a gift to students and staff alike.
Diana Rodriguez
Prevention Educator
Graduating from Texas State University with a BA in Social Work, Diana values compassion and justice. She served as the Vice President of the Hispanic Student Association during her undergraduate years and brings a meaningful academic background to her work. During her year at Amate House, Diana will serve as a Prevention Educator at Sarah’s Inn.
Sarah Sterba
Health Educator
A graduate of Notre Dame, Sarah majored in Economics with Pre-Health. She has a passion for healthcare access and has volunteered in hospitals and as a tutor with school aged children. This year, Sarah will serve as a Health Educator at Erie Family Health Centers. She will, no doubt, serve her community with thoughtfulness and care.
Atziri Marquez
Criminal Records Attorney Assistant
After graduating from Swarthmore College, Atziri moved to Japan to teach English. She comes to Amate House well traveled and curious. Atziri has a passion for justice, education, and cross-cultural connection and will serve at the Greater Chicago Legal Clinic as an immigration assistant.
Sophia Serna
Athletics and Graduate Support Coordinator
Sophia recently completed her Biology degree at Creighton University, where she demonstrated a deep commitment to service, leadership, and healthcare. She has traveled domestically and internationally in her pursuit for global health. This year, Sophia will serve as the Athletics and Graduate Support Coordinator at San Miguel School.
Angeli Teixeira
Program Assistant
Graduating from Villanova with a degree in Peace and Justice, Angeli is passionate about oral history and resistance. She has traveled the world and is proud of the work she has done to create social change through meaningful story telling. During her year at Amate, Angeli will serve as a Program Assistant at The Quinn Center.
More “Becoming a Fellow” Information
Become the Next Amate House Fellow
Follow the calling of these current Amate House fellows to serve and lead in Chicago.