Zhijing is a founder of Ink and Ivy—a project that holds much significance to her. Pen paling began as her personal hobby, but it has grown into an initiative that brings encouragement, creativity, and compassion to thousands. She feels continually inspired by the kindness and thoughtfulness of volunteers who pour their hearts into every letter, and cherishes this community. Outside of Ink and Ivy, she enjoys hanging out with her cats and reading.

Zhijing coordinates volunteers, organizes events and recruitment, and communicates with members of leadership to further Ink and Ivy's mission.

Sichen founded Ink and Ivy to support a cause close to her heart. She started this initiative with the hope that it could be a ray of light for those who feel limited by their circumstances, and a reminder to them that their future holds possibility and promise. Alongside Zhijing, she builds Ink and Ivy to uplift people and create meaningful impact.

Sichen leads event outreach and coordination, working on-the-ground to facilitate partnerships and advance Ink and Ivy's mission.

Maria is the design lead of Ink and Ivy. She works on creative aspects of the initiative, and actively seeks new, inspiring ways to organize impactful projects such as volunteering for causes. 

Maria loves using her expressive artistic skills, particularly in creating cards. She directs any creative design decision and reaches out to invent more ways to engage resources and further enhance Ink and Ivy's mission. 

Sarah is passionate about writing, self-expression, and youth-led community initiatives. As a Regional Director for Ink and Ivy, she hopes to create welcoming spaces where students can share their voices through letters and meaningful creative dialogue. She enjoys organizing events, connecting volunteers, and spreading encouragement through thoughtful writing.

Academically, she has a strong interest in veterinary medicine and chemistry and aspires to pursue a future career in research. Outside of academics, she is deeply committed to ballroom dance, which she has practiced for over 11 years and through which she has achieved many strong competitive results. She also enjoys hands-on crafts, a variety of sports, and literature—all of which nurture her creativity and curiosity.

Arya is a regional director for Ink and Ivy who is passionate about encouragement, creativity, and cultural connection through handwritten letters. She has experienced firsthand how words of support can bring comfort and motivation during challenging times, and she cherishes the joy of sharing small, meaningful moments through writing. In her free time, she enjoys playing the guzheng.

As a regional director, she is excited to organize events, welcome new volunteers, and spread smiles and encouragement to those who need it through letters.

Qi is a regional director at Ink and Ivy who is compassionate, hardworking, and resilient in the face of challenges. After learning about and participating in Ink and Ivy's recent event, she was inspired by how something as small as a letter can connect people around the world, and bring warmth and encouragement to others. This mission deeply aligns with her values, motivating her to join the leadership team.

Eddie Chen is a 16-year-old student at Pine-Richland High School in Gibsonia, Pennsylvania. He has played the piano since age 8, the alto saxophone since 11, and the guitar since 13, and he has performed piano solos at Carnegie Hall.

Eddie leads a student band that performs at local nursing homes during the holiday season, using music as a way to give back to his community. In his free time, he enjoys fishing and spending time with family and friends. He is interested in the medical field because he values compassion, communication, and helping others.

Jenny is a regional director for Ink and Ivy who values genuine connection and thoughtful outreach. She enjoys being involved in work that helps people feel encouraged and supported, and she believes small gestures can have a meaningful impact.

Outside of Ink and Ivy, Jenny spends her free time watercolor painting and doing nail art. She is excited to connect with her community, help grow the organization in her region, and spread encouragement through handwritten letters.