Shaniya Jarrett holds a Bachelor’s degree in Astrophysics from the University of Colorado, Boulder and is currently pursuing her Master’s degree in Physics through the Fisk-Vanderbilt Masters-to-Ph.D. Bridge program. Prior to returning to graduate school, she worked as a Satellite Test Engineer in the Aerospace Industry. Her current research uses Gravitational Waves to model the universe’s large-scale structure. Outside of her studies, Shaniya is deeply committed to STEM outreach, and has worked with the School for Science and Math at Vanderbilt (SSMV) and the Vanderbilt Collaborative for STEM Education & Outreach (CSEO). Her advocacy extends to improving accessibility for underrepresented minorities in STEM, demonstrated through her roles as an executive board member for the Organization of Black Graduate and Professional Students (OBGAPs) and as an instructor for the Black Girls Becoming Summer Institute.

Angel Bodrick is currently a neuroscience Ph.D. student at Meharry Medical College. After receiving a BS in cellular and molecular biology at Hampton University in 2019 she joined RASR Laboratory in August 2022 to further her interest in Alzheimer’s Disease research and improving racial disparities. Her current research project focuses on using quantitative proteomics to establish the molecular signature of AD in AA/Black adults. Angel plans to bring her research expertise from the laboratory and engage in the community to further decrease disparities in African Americans. Angel lives by the motto “grow through what you go through.” She enjoys cooking, spending time with loved ones, playing her instruments, and working as an EMT in her downtime.

Hannah Dattilo received her Bachelor’s of Science in Physics from Oglethorpe University in 2020 and Master’s of Science in Physics from the Fisk-Vanderbilt Master’s-to-PhD program in 2022. She is currently pursuing a PhD in Electrical Engineering from Vanderbilt University. Her research focuses on the effects of radiation on microelectronic and photonic devices, which has important implications for sending instruments to space. Outside of research, she volunteers at Dyer Observatory, enjoys Nashville’s many local hikes, and attends as many community events as she can.