Annual Report

Natalea Cohen, currently pursuing her master’s degree in Geology with a specialty in Natural Hazards and Disaster Risk Reduction at Fort Lewis College, has embarked on an extraordinary journey in the field of geosciences. With a global perspective, Natalea has conducted extensive research projects in El Salvador, investigating the impact of climate change on severe hydrometeorological events. ADDSTEAM collaborates with Natalea to identify career opportunities aligned with her passion for science communication, community engagement in disaster risk reduction, and promoting diversity within the geosciences.

Salvador Cruz, a proud first-generation graduate, earned his master’s degree in Plant Biology from North Carolina State University. With an impressive background encompassing five years of natural and social science research experience, including working at Genentech, Salvador is transitioning into project management and coordination roles. His ultimate aspiration is to make a difference in the biopharmaceutical sector and contribute to the delivery of life-saving medicines to patients. ADDSTEAM supports Salvador on his journey by connecting him with professionals in the field.

Samantha Deasy, a Neuroscience master’s graduate from Georgetown University, is driven by her research on executive functioning deficits and emotional dysregulation among those affected by stress, with a special interest in underrepresented minority groups. While currently a research assistant at Georgetown, Samantha collaborates with ADDSTEAM to shift her focus from academia to more hands-on work. Her ultimate aspiration is to become a clinical psychologist dedicated to serving underprivileged and underserved communities. Together, we support Samantha’s journey towards making a meaningful impact in the field.

Michelle Nwagwu, earned her Masters in Public Health from Mercer University. Michelle has always been passionate about improving health outcomes for underserved and minority populations and one of her professional goals is to create policies that will positively impact the healthcare system. Recently graduated, she now works in research at the Moorehouse School of Medicine. Michelle has been working with ADDSTEAM to develop her interviewing and professional development skills to help take her career to the next level.

Daniel Palacios, is a PhD student specializing in Computational Bioscience at Baylor University. Originally from Mexico, Daniel’s enthusiasm for science and technology flourished in the United States. As an ADDSTEAM Scholar, he has embarked on remarkable endeavors, including authoring his inaugural first-author manuscript and interning at NASA. Daniel actively collaborates with Texas Children’s Hospital, delving into the fascinating realm of machine learning. With his dedication and multidisciplinary expertise, Daniel is poised to make lasting contributions to the field.

Deborah Partey, is pursuing a bachelor’s in Economics with a minor in Mathematics at the University of Nevada, Reno. With a strong passion for understanding labor and race dynamics, Deborah actively enhances her skills to prepare for the job market. Her research project, utilizing Geographic Information System (GIS) technology to map racial covenants in her county, showcases her commitment to tackling complex economic problems. ADDSTEAM proudly supports Deborah’s journey by expanding her professional network and connecting her with opportunities.

Laurie Zabala, earned her master’s in Integrative Neuroscience from Georgetown University. Laurie discovered her passion for science after college and made valuable contributions in the field of cancer research as a dedicated research assistant at Pfizer Inc. and in the neurobiology field investigating Alzheimer’s disease. With an undergraduate degree in history, Laurie’s experience and expertise are leading her toward a science policy career, where she aims to drive actionable solutions for pressing scientific challenges. ADDSTEAM stands alongside Laurie, providing guidance and networking opportunities throughout her pivotal career transition.

Asya Spears, a PhD student in Policy Analysis at the Pardee RAND Graduate School, is a trailblazing mathematician, data science educator, and entrepreneur. As the founder of Rose Data Studio, a data coaching company, Asya bridges the gap to create a more diverse and skilled data workforce. As an esteemed ADDSTEAM Scholar, Asya focuses on completing her dissertation while receiving support from ADDSTEAM in refining her career application materials and expanding her professional network.

Sarah Wang, a PhD student in Chemistry at the University of California, Irvine, navigated the challenging transition from academia to the non-academic workforce after dedicating years to her academic pursuits. Drawing upon the knowledge and skills acquired during her PhD, Sarah is determined to contribute to the realms of industrial electrification and decarbonization. The ADDSTEAM community celebrated Sarah’s successful thesis defense and subsequent job placement at RMI, a company transforming the global energy system to secure a clean, prosperous, zero-carbon future for all.

Eva Portillo, is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Biology at Agnes Scott College. Driven by her desire to understand and address health disparities prevalent among minority populations, Eva aspires to become an epidemiologist. Her research on personal care product usage and its impact on vulnerable communities sheds light on the disproportionate exposure to harmful chemicals faced by marginalized groups. ADDSTEAM supports Eva’s pursuit of a master’s degree in epidemiology, providing mentorship and resources to empower her journey towards creating a healthier and more equitable future.