Raylynne Kuhn

A December 2024 graduate of Russell Sage College, Raylynne Kuhn uses her dual degrees from Sage’s B.S. in Psychology and B.S. in Expressive Arts in Mental Health programs in front-line work helping survivors of human trafficking find safety and stability. In the following Q&A, she reflects on how her Sage education — from classroom learning to internships, alumnae connections, and faculty mentorship — helped lead to her full-time role.

Please tell me about your work at Safe Inc. What are you responsible for?

I work at Safe Inc of Schenectady as an anti-trafficking case manager, where my primary focus is helping children and adults impacted by human trafficking achieve stability and safety. My role includes developing personalized safety plans and connecting clients with essential community resources to support their path toward secure and independent living.

How do you use what you learned at Sage in your work?

During my time at Sage, I studied Psychology and Expressive Arts in Mental Health. My education equipped me with a strong understanding of psychological diagnoses and their impact on an individual’s daily functioning. Training in trauma-informed care has strengthened my ability to approach sensitive topics with care and intention. Additionally, witnessing the role that art can play in supporting mental health has inspired me to encourage all of my clients to engage in creative expression as part of their healing process.

I understand that an internship and alumnae connection helped lead to your position at Safe Inc. Would you tell me more about that?

During my senior year, I interned with Russell Sage graduate and adjunct professor Melanie Puorto Conte at CAPTAIN Community Human Services, where I was introduced to Safe Inc.’s program.

I subsequently interned at Safe Inc., shadowing a case manager and gaining hands-on experience in direct client support. In March 2025, I reconnected with Safe Inc. and accepted a position as an anti-trafficking case manager.

Is there a professor, class, or experience at Sage that deserves a shout-out for helping you get started in your career? 

I would like to sincerely thank the Sage community. Attending a smaller institution fostered meaningful and lasting connections with both faculty and peers. In particular, I am deeply grateful to Assistant Professor of Expressive Arts in Mental Health Tracy Gilbert for her unwavering belief in me. She recognized potential in me during moments when I struggled to see it myself and consistently reminded me of the purpose behind my chosen field of study. For her support, I am truly thankful.