Passaic Today

Three generations of women are expected to celebrate as Iliana Woodhull, a survivor of child and domestic abuse, crosses the stage at Montclair State University Commencement on Monday, May 13. After overcoming years of trauma, immigrating to the United States illegally, and surviving three suicide attempts, Woodhull will be achieving her American and academic dreams.

Upon receiving her bachelor’s degree in Family Science and Human Development, Woodhull, 41, will become the first in her family to earn a degree. She plans to attend the graduation of her daughter Angel Bernales next year. Bernales is currently completing her senior year as a Psychology major at Montclair while Woodhull prepares to begin her master’s program with aspirations of becoming a licensed clinical social worker.

Woodhull recounts fondly a memorable moment when she and her daughter both graduated from Sussex Community College in 2021. However, Monday's commencement will mark a significant milestone for Woodhull as it symbolizes healing from individual and generational trauma.

“It’s been a tough road,” Woodhull admits. “It’s a huge accomplishment, not just for me but for the women in my family. It’s going to be an unforgettable moment.”

Woodhull's journey has not been without its struggles. Her most recent suicide attempt was just two years ago—a painful memory for both mother and daughter. “That’s the one that woke me up,” says Woodhull. A weeklong stay in a psychiatric hospital made her realize how blessed she was.

Woodhull's story is one of resilience and determination. Despite being diagnosed with depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), she uses her experiences to help others—particularly Latinas—understand mental health services and reduce associated stigma.

In addition to being an active student leader on campus, Woodhull also completed an internship at a child advocacy center and has continued to volunteer there. Her work and academic performance have earned her praise from faculty members at Montclair.

“Iliana has shown us that you can share your vulnerabilities, fears, and challenges and build on your strengths to not only succeed but thrive,” says Associate Provost for Hispanic Initiatives and International Programs Katia Paz Goldfarb.

Woodhull's journey has been marked by numerous obstacles. As a child in Mexico, she suffered abuse at the hands of family friends. She later immigrated to the United States as a teenager, crossing the desert with her uncle and two strangers. Despite these challenges, Woodhull persevered, teaching herself English while working as a waitress in New Jersey.

Woodhull's resilience is evident in her academic achievements. She completed her GED in 2011 and received her green card in 2018. Today, she is a proud U.S. citizen who cherishes her Mexican heritage.

As she prepares for graduation, Woodhull continues to heal from her past traumas while focusing on the future. She uses therapy, medication, meditation, and mindfulness practices to cope with her mental health challenges.

Bernales shares that it's difficult for her to discuss their shared experiences with anxiety and depression but emphasizes that she never resented her mother. “I understand her. I’ve always been there for her," says Bernales.

Despite the hardships she's faced, Woodhull remains optimistic about the future: “I haven’t had a single thought; I’ve had triggers but through mindfulness, I’ve learned to accept and recognize what I feel,” she says.”I accept it as part of my past but not as a part of my future."