2021-2022 Cohort 5

Nora Auma is a biology major from Baltimore, Maryland who currently plans to pursue a MD-PHD, and then a career as a Pediatric Hematologist Oncologist  with a focus on clinical practice. Nora aspires to research sickle cell disease to find an alternative to pain medicine for sickle cell patients one day. She chose to attend Howard because of the welcoming family environment and the contributions the university has made to African American culture and the country. Nora was drawn to Howard University because of the research opportunities offered through the Karsh STEM Scholars program. Nora is looking forward to researching not only in her fields of interest but also exploring other research opportunities in the STEM field.

Jordan Banks is an applied mathematics student with a minor in computer science from Calera, Alabama. Banks’s interest in STEM grew from her passion for logical thought processes and problem-solving. She plans to pursue a Ph.D in applied mathematics and later conduct research in the field and eventually teach future generations at the collegiate level to think critically towards seeking solutions. Banks chose to attend Howard University not only because of its prominence as a leading and challenging HBCU, but also because Howard is a place where she can grow academically and socially among scholars who both look like her and who are also preparing to lead our society. She hopes to share her passion for STEM, specifically mathematics, and inspire future generations at Howard University while giving back to the university that gave to her.

Brooklynn Blackwell is a Civil Engineering major from Cleveland, Ohio. After completing her undergraduate studies, she will pursue a Ph.D in Civil Engineering. Blackwell chose to pursue Civil Engineering because she has a deep love for people and the environment. In this field, she can consciously cater to both people and the planet without having to sacrifice one over the other. She aspires to pursue a career in Environmental Engineering while also working to specialize in Construction Technology and Management. Her goal is to provide clean drinking water to communities worldwide and to take part in projects that encourage the development of infrastructures that are conducive to preserving our habitat. She chose Howard University because she knew that Howard would challenge her and help her to achieve her career goals as well as encourage her personal development in a community setting. As a student who moved around a lot, she’s happy to have finally found a place to call home with the Karsh STEM Scholars Program.

Sarah Bolarinwa hails from East Greenbush, New York. She is a biology major, with a double minor in chemistry and Afro-American studies. She is interested in neuroscience and neurogenetics with a sociology, anthropology, and public health perspectives. She intends to pursue a Ph.D. in neuroscience/neurogenetics. Her future research goals include studying the neurological effects of trauma stemming from racism among people of color. Bolarinwa chose to further her intellectual and academic development at Howard University to be amongst bright and forward-thinking peers. Sarah hopes to discover more about herself and the world around her through the more decolonized educational experience that Howard will provide. She is enthusiastic about the opportunity to pursue a STEM career in an environment that will provide her with the resources necessary to join the ranks of scientists whose work has had a positive impact on the lives of our society’s most vulnerable populations.

Maize Booker is a Computer Science major from Upper Marlboro, Maryland. His natural curiosity and eagerness to learn about new concepts and ideas are what led him into the constantly evolving world of computer science. His goal is to make an impact in the learning, training, and education sectors by creating interactive software applications that will benefit the global community. After graduating from Howard University, Maize plans to earn his Ph.D. in computer science with a focus on augmented and virtual reality as he continues to progress in his journey to achieve his goal.

Kirsten Branch is a Biology major and Chemistry and Psychology double minor whose passion for innovation and racial equity in healthcare compelled her to apply to the illustrious Howard University. She was raised outside of Detroit, Michigan and moved to Houston, Texas, where she developed her interest in neuroimmunology and cancer research. As a Karsh STEM Scholar, Kirsten seeks to expand her knowledge through class curriculum, laboratory experience, and giving back to her community. She decided to pursue an MD/Ph.D because of her compassionate character and desire to contribute to the expansion of humanity’s knowledge of medical issues and treatments. Through her journey to becoming a neurosurgeon, Kirsten wants to inspire and encourage others to blaze new paths and break glass ceilings. She hopes to create a program for minority high school students to gain exposure to the wonderful world of medical research and become cognizant of and confident in their abilities to pursue this intimidating career path.

Madeline Bumpus is a Computer Science major with a Mathematics minor from Toledo, Ohio. She is  working towards earning a PhD in Computer Science, so that she can further the rapidly expanding field of computer programming. Madeline is passionate about designing and writing software, and often finds beauty in the languages we use to communicate with computers. She is interested in researching and combating systemic biases in computer programming, both within the data and the algorithms. Her future goals include increasing the number of women of color in software engineering and addressing current and upcoming technological issues.

Ava Conyer is a Biology student from Burlington, New Jersey. She is dedicated to obtaining an MD-PhD and aims to do research about and practice medicine in the specialty of dermatology. Conyer believes that the skin can be a window into many underlying conditions, and as such, dermatology is necessary, because skin directly impacts the self-confidence and quality of life of many people. She selected a STEM field because she has been fascinated with exploring phenomena since her early childhood and believes that research allows her to contribute to society in a meaningful way. She hopes to conduct research that will help address disparities in health care felt by minority communities across the United States and the world, particularly related to topics that disproportionately affect minority patients.

Miles Davis is a civil engineering student from Washington, DC. From an early age, he was interested in building structures and creating design elements for systems. He loves working creatively and analytically on real-world problems. Davis attended the SciMaTech Academy and served as the President of the National Junior Society of Black Engineers. His interest in Engineering was piqued by the many math, science, and engineering classes he took prior to attending university. He chose to attend Howard because of notable alumni and his desire to be surrounded by people who look like himself with similar goals and dreams. His career interests involve urban planning, architectural design, and structural sustainability. Davis aspires to be a structural engineer and architect after obtaining a Ph.D in architectural engineering. He plans to help rebuild and improve the quality of living in low-income communities. Davis’s long-term goal is to establish his firm, employing engineers and architects to sustain and progressively advance the community.

Diane Fakinlede is a biology major, psychology and chemistry double minor from Owings Mills, Maryland by way of Ondo State, Nigeria. Exploration starts with research and with the brain being so vast in the abilities it carries, Diane desires to filter her focus towards cognitive neuroscience. She plans to pursue her MD/PhD to conduct research on neuron signaling and the effects of viruses and pathogenic substances on the integrity of brain characterization. Being surrounded by people of color during her early childhood years inclined her to want to continue to learn and thrive in similar environments and was her prime motivator for attending Howard University. Diane has always valued community, so one like the Karsh STEM Scholars Program, which contains a community of people who are deeply rooted in their rich culture and their dedication to complement their STEM academic curiosities, is very meaningful to her. Diane hopes to build a legacy for herself to inspire future generations to come.

Jonathan Greer is a Math and Physics double major and Computer Science minor from Raleigh, North Carolina. Jonathan plans to obtain a PhD and become a research professor, studying condensed matter or plasma physics and their energy applications while also teaching students at a university. Ultimately, Jonathan hopes that his research will help to combat the global energy crisis and climate change. He also aspires to provide outreach programs for underrepresented groups in STEM like those that sparked his love for math and science.

Kaie Hall is a chemical engineering major of Caribbean descent from Bowie, Maryland. Hall is interested in the field of Regenerative Medicine and advancing its use for the betterment of mankind. He plans to complete an MD/PhD in biomedical engineering focusing on Regenerative Medicine in stem cell differentiation. Hall chose Regenerative Medicine because of its potential to become a tool that could change the known world. To him, getting into this field early ensures minority representation in Regenerative Medicine development and focus.

Assata Harris is a chemical engineering major from Maryland. Her career interests lie in environmental health and engineering. Her goal is to get a PhD in environmental engineering and become a research scientist. Using her background in chemical and environmental engineering, Assata hopes to examine the intersection of public health and environmental engineering through water and wastewater treatment. She hopes to research questions around the improvement of wastewater treatment resiliency and the equitable delivery of new technology to communities historically and disproportionally affected by environmental pollution. She chose Howard University because she wanted to attend a school rich in both culture and research/learning opportunities. Outside of STEM, Assata has a passion for hiking and book clubs. She also likes to spend her time with her family and friends.

Jordaina Hewitt is a civil engineering major from Queens, New York. She plans to pursue a Ph.D. in civil engineering with a focus on sustainability and accessibility. Hewitt wants to potentially research advanced materials and resilient sustainable infrastructures with an emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion. She chose engineering because she enjoys sciences that incorporate creativity and math. She likes that civil engineering has a variety of sub-disciplines and values collaboration and interdependence. Jordaina chose to pursue a STEM career because she believes that being among the problem solvers of society will have a greater impact on making solutions more inclusive and accessible for our community.

Ananya Hota is an honors Biology major with a double minor in Chemistry and Psychology from Charlotte, North Carolina. Ananya chose to attend Howard University because of the plethora of research and academic opportunities available both on campus and in Washington D.C. Through the Karsh Stem Scholars Program, she hopes to grow both professionally and as an individual. Following her undergraduate career at Howard University, she aims to earn an MD/PhD and pursue the career of a physician-scientist. She wants to delve deeper into microbiology, molecular biology, genetics and bioinformatics as possible areas of specialization in the future.

Gregory Hyson is a mechanical engineering student from Upper Marlboro, Maryland. He intends to pursue a PhD in automotive and transportation engineering. Hyson ultimately desires to start an automotive manufacturing company of his own in the future. He hopes to inspire development and self-improvement within African diaspora. This desire is what drives his efforts in the STEM field. Having many family members, including his mother, attend Howard University and growing up in the D.C. area, he knew the significance and opportunities that come with attending this institution at young age. As a result, he chose to attend the university he knows develops and stimulates change around the world through the great people it produces.

Dayna Jackson is a Physics student from Laurel, Maryland with an interest in aerodynamics and condensed matter. She wants to revolutionize the motor industry by developing technology and mechanisms that help make high speed vehicles that reverse global warming, along with conducting research in the capture and redistribution of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere into tree farms. She hopes her research can grow back destroyed nature areas and restore breathable air. Jackson decided to attend Howard University and major in a STEM discipline because she wanted professors that could understand her experiences and help her apply the science she learns in class to scenarios in her everyday life. She hopes to share her knowledge and become a mentor for many young African Americans who do not see much representation in the STEM field. Jackson looks forward to continuing her education and obtaining a PhD, adding her discoveries and research to physics.

Morgan Jones is a Mechanical Engineering major from Houston, Texas. She is interested in pursuing a PhD and conducting research in sustainability. She wants to integrate the use of robotics in sustainable living. Jones chose to attend Howard University because she wants to be at a school composed of intelligent and ambitious African American students and supportive faculty who will help her achieve her goals. She seeks to use STEM to build initiatives and create resources for African American communities and feels that Howard University is the best place to do so.  

Khloe Kelley is a biology major, double minoring in psychology and chemistry, from Henderson, Nevada. Upon finishing her undergraduate studies, she is dedicated to pursuing an MD/PhD and becoming a physician-scientist, her fields of interest being neurodegenerative disease or behavioral neuroscience research as well as clinical neurology. Khloe chose to attend Howard University because of its diverse network of successful faculty, alumni, and students that will encourage her to achieve her goals. She notes that the supportive environment that comes along with attending an HBCU is especially important  to her. Khloe’s interest in the STEM field began at a young age, as she felt that it fostered her curiosity and creativity, while also encouraging forward thinking and logic. Throughout her time at Howard, Khloe has been able to carry out research projects within her fields of interest and matriculate through internships at top research universities. She looks forward to one day utilizing her knowledge and expertise to expand her field and increase health equity 

Myles Mackie is a Mechanical Engineering major from New Orleans, Louisiana. Growing up, Mackie had an affinity for STEM, gravitating towards math, design, and robotics in grade school. His development in 3D modelling and computer programming led to him choosing his major. Mackie decided to attend Howard University because of his desire to grow in an environment known for fostering black excellence, and the Karsh Stem Scholars Program specifically created an opportunity for him to be surrounded by other aspiring black STEM professionals. He plans to pursue his PhD in engineering to follow his passions by creating something that can help people. He wants to continue being an inspiration for his family, friends, and community and prove that anything is possible.

Ayanna Mann is a Physics Major from Aurora, Illinois by way of Detroit, Michigan. She aspires to pursue a career in research and development, eventually becoming a lead researcher in Astrophysics and Quantum Physics. Mann chose a STEM related discipline because of her constant desire to learn more about the world we live in. She lives by the motto “The Only thing I Know 100% is that I know nothing 100%”, which drives her passion for finding more through the exploration of physics. She believes physics is the center of all natural science and feels when one discovers a foundation it allows growth, an understanding she hopes to expand as a future researcher. Mann chose Howard because she wanted to be surrounded by driven Black leaders determined to make change like herself. The lack of Black women representation she saw growing up is one of her primary influences for entering the field. Mann plans to optimize her success so she can be a role model for youth to pursue their dreams without fear. Ayanna wants to instill the same passion in the new generation that she had growing up, inspiring them to navigate their desires as a fearless generation of STEM achievers.

Aaliyah McAfee is a computer science student from Houston, Texas. She plans to pursue a Ph.D. in cybersecurity. She is interested in researching the different applications of computer science, specifically the ways in which computer science can be used to make life easier for people. She is also interested in learning more about cybersecurity and the ways it is used to protect people’s information. She hopes that through her research, she can discover weaknesses in the current methods of cyber security and assist in strengthening the effectiveness of the most common types of cyber protection. She chose to pursue STEM because she is interested in solving problems with modern solutions.

Tyla McAffity is a Biology major and a Chemistry and Political Science double minor from Raleigh, North Carolina. She is dedicated to obtaining an MD/PhD in the field of cancer biology and molecular genetics, before practicing medicine in the field of oncology. She plans to conduct her research and practice medicine at the National Cancer Institute and MD Anderson Cancer Center. Later in her career, Tyla plans to work in health policy at the World Health Organization, hoping to ensure that all minorities have equal access to healthcare, quality care, and health equity. She chose a STEM-related discipline because she considers STEM a field of growth through exploration and discovery. Furthermore, it is a field that will allow her to find answers to the most complex problems facing the world today through research and exploration. McAffity anticipates being able to use her knowledge in the field of cancer biology and molecular genetics to advance our current methods of cancer treatment. Through her research and clinical practice, she ultimately hopes to find a suitable and sustainable cure to cancer, impacting the lives of millions across the world.

Devon Mooring is a biology student from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with a double minor in chemistry and journalism. He plans to obtain a PhD in microbiology with the goal of contributing to research in infectious diseases and the microbiome. In addition to his interest in research, Mooring is passionate about science communication. He strongly believes that access to scientific knowledge should be universal, and not limited by one's educational background. Through his efforts in making science approachable and understandable to all, he strives to bridge the gap between complex scientific concepts and public understanding. Mooring is driven by the hope that his work will inspire the next generation of scientists, much like how science communicators have profoundly influenced his own path in science.

Nnenna Nwankwo is a Chemical Engineering student from Bowie, Maryland. Nnenna intends to pursue an MD/PhD in biomedical engineering with a focus in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Her current research interests lie in studying polymeric biomaterials for neural tissue engineering. In the future, she hopes to help bridge the gap between the laboratory and the clinic by creating technologies that would aid the translational process of tissue engineering. In addition, she hopes to become a mentor for other young Black women interested in the engineering field. Nnenna chose to pursue a career in engineering and medicine because of her commitment to lifelong learning. She looks forward to using her knowledge to help her community and is excited to embark on her journey to becoming both an efficient and creative scientific researcher.

Arianna Pankey is a Biology major from Bowie, Maryland. She aspires to enhance her education skills and experience in biomedical investigation and the practice of medicine in pursuit of her MD/PhD to improve public health. She wants to pursue her MD/PhD in neonatology with a focus on infectious diseases and neurology. Her love for STEM and medicine began to develop after her mother was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. Pankey hopes to one day be able to find cures for diseases that impact countless lives. She aspires to serve her community and inspire other minorities as they learn and grow as well. During her time at Howard University, she plans to help her community in any way possible. Arianna is determined and dedicated to better her community and contribute to the medical field to the best of her ability. 

Alexa Ryan is a biology major, chemistry minor, from Dallas, Texas and plans to pursue a MD/PhD to become a physician scientist. She plans to travel the world while treating patients and performing research with a focus on autoimmune diseases. Science has always presented itself in new and engaging ways, and the chance to find answers to any conceivable question is what drew her to STEM. Ryan says Howard University became home as it delivered on its promises of a diverse student and staff population and a welcoming but competitive academic culture. Her desire to be with other intelligent minorities who want to change the world they live in was the deciding factor in attending Howard University.

Anuoluwapo Soneye is a computer engineering student from Sacramento, California. Since high school, Soneye has had an affinity towards coding and chose to study computer engineering to be well-versed in both the software and hardware components of computers. Soneye not only chose Howard University to meet other intelligent Black scholars but also because of its wide-reaching network. Dedicated to pursuing a PhD in the field of computer science or computer engineering, she is interested in the fields of Quantum Computing and Machine Learning. In the future, she also plans to continue teaching coding and hopes to become a role model for other Black engineers.

Salimah Thaxton is a biology major and a chemistry minor, matriculating here at Howard University from Jonesboro, Georgia. She aspires to pursue a MD/PhD in neuro-ophthalmology or retinal/vitreous disease as an aspiring ophthalmologist. She is driven to further developing gene therapy for retinal disease to enhance vision without causing sensitivity to light. Her passion in STEM derived from her love in mathematics and science, but continues to grow as she dreams of seeing more minorities in the STEM field. Thaxton wishes to make a difference in peoples’ lives, contribute to her community, and inspire those who follow her as she is aware of the obstacles that comes with being a Black woman in this field. While at Howard University, Salimah hopes to contribute to her community and beyond.

Micah Watkins is a biology major, triple minoring in chemistry, Spanish, and Afro-American studies, from Memphis, Tennessee. After finishing her undergraduate studies, Watkins aims to earn her MD/PhD in the field of obstetrics and gynecology to become a clinically practicing OB/GYN and conduct molecular biology research as it pertains to infertility. Watkins chose to embark upon her educational journey at Howard University because of the university’s sense of community, successful alumni, and devotion to producing leaders in all disciplines. She chose to enter the STEM arena at an elementary age because of her love for learning and discovering knowledge. Since beginning her matriculation into Howard, Watkins has begun undergraduate research with the Thompson Bacterial Genetics Laboratory, and she plans to continue throughout her undergraduate career. She is eager to expand her research horizon so she may find unorthodox solutions to real-world problems in obstetrics and gynecology. 

Kennedi J. White is a Savannah, Georgia native, majoring in Physics and English and minoring in Math. Her goal is to earn a PhD and become an astrophysicist focusing on planetary formation, planetary atmospheres, exoplanets, and cosmology. She aspires to have a career in research and scientific journaling to bridge the scientific knowledge gap between scientists and the public. White decided to matriculate at Howard University for its rigorous, prestigious, and culturally diverse environment.  The university also socially and academically challenges her to become a better person. She aspires to be a role model and conduit to Black women around the world into STEM careers. Kennedi hopes that becoming an astrophysicist will be an inspiration to others to explore all the facets of their interests without sacrificing something they love.

Gabrielle Wood is a chemical engineering major and Spanish minor from Atlanta, Georgia. At Howard, Wood is working to promote sustainability and international awareness on campus. After graduating, she will pursue a doctoral degree in Environmental Engineering. As an active researcher in the field, she will be cognizant of different approaches worldwide to global environmental problems. The passion that she has for STEM and environmental issues, combined with her love and experience in leadership and entrepreneurship are what excites her for the future. She envisions herself as a leading environmental engineer and entrepreneur working on global, diversely created solutions for our Earth’s environmental crises.

Khloe Wright is a computer science major and dance minor from Chicago, Illinois. After her graduate studies, she plans to pursue a career in either software engineering, virtual reality, or cybersecurity. As a Karsh STEM Scholar, Wright hopes to increase intersectional diversity in the STEM field, specifically engineering and computer science, as the environment is low on Black women. Wright chose Howard University because of its reputation for producing Black excellence and its great network for students and alumni. She hopes to give back to her community by providing inner city kids with direct contacts and resources for the STEM field and impart knowledge to cultivate young Black minds.