Dr. Lori Ana Valentín is an analytical chemist and management coach for leaders in STEM. An experienced forensic chemist, Lori Ana holds a doctorate in analytical chemistry from Binghamton University and received specialized leadership training from the New York State Police and the American Chemical Society. She is a Career Consultant with the American Chemical Society and has experience working in government, higher education, and industry. She now consults full time with STEM organizations, providing technical professionals with career coaching and professional development. She lives in Albany, NY with her son Isaac, fiance Renaldo, and their two pets.

Fradely Delacruz is the Founder & Principal Research Scientist of Luziaries, a multidivisional research and data practice operating across social science, market and business research, and research infrastructure design. She specializes in building systems rooted in research and cultural intelligence that bridge academia, industry, and creative sectors. With training in Sociology, Community Organizing, and Computational Social Science, she builds research that treats cultural knowledge as rigorous data, and holds the communities behind that data as the primary stakeholders, not just the subject matter. She is currently advancing her expertise in data science and analytics to develop ethical, culturally grounded computational practices that inform business, policy, and culture with a dedicated focus on Latin and Caribbean communities, particularly Afro-Latinos and Afro-Caribbeans, across both technical and culturally driven industries

Shardé Dean is a Microbiologist and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Partnerships Manager at Thermo Fisher Scientific, where she leads strategic initiatives that advance STEM education and global health equity. She began her career in microbial ecology research before moving into industry where she focused on antimicrobial stewardship, working at the intersection of science and public health to support responsible antibiotic use and improve patient outcomes. Building on her scientific foundation, Shardé transitioned into molecular genetics as a Field Application Scientist, where she partnered with researchers and laboratories to design and implement qPCR/dPCR-based, solutions. In this role, she became known for her ability to translate complex scientific concepts into practical, accessible insights for diverse audiences. In 2024, Shardé pivoted into Corporate Social Responsibility to align her technical expertise with her passion for community impact. She now leads partnerships and programs that expand access to STEM for underserved communities, working with organizations such as the Boys & Girls Clubs of America and the Society for Science to deliver engaging, hands-on learning experiences. In addition to her role, Shardé serves as the STEM and Community Development Leader within the African Heritage Business Resource Group at Thermo Fisher, where she drives initiatives that empower communities and amplify representation in STEM. She thrives in spaces where she can simplify complex scientific concepts, making them approachable, engaging, and inspiring for the next generation.

Alex Ashley is a 4th year PhD student studying Solar Energy at Drexel University. He is also an international student from Jamaica and a co-founder of Fate of the Feds, a board game and social experience rooted in Caribbean nostalgia. He is currently engaged in multiple projects simultaneously with world- leading partners, including the National Laboratories of the Rockies, First Solar (the only U.S. company in the global top 10 of solar panel manufacturing) and the University of Delaware Institute of Energy Conversion. In 2023, he was chosen to deliver the student keynote speech at Drexel’s Convocation, where his heartfelt address was widely appreciated and applauded by students and faculty.

Demani Barak Barnes, M.S., is a dynamic scientist and healthcare professional with a background in biotechnology, molecular biology, and process development. A graduate of Johns Hopkins University, Demani has led impactful research in genetic medicine and advanced manufacturing operations within the cell and gene therapy industry. His work spans genetic research on Cystic Fibrosis, adeno-associated virus (AAV) production for gene therapies, and cross-functional leadership in biopharmaceutical manufacturing. Passionate about integrating science with compassionate care, Demani is committed to driving innovation that meaningfully improves patient outcomes while actively advocating for representation and mental wellness among Black STEM professionals.

Amarri Trueheart is an enthusiastic and driven pharmaceutical industry professional with a passion for connecting clinical insight, market access strategy, and patient access. She earned her Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) from Thomas Jefferson University School of Pharmacy in 2024 and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Biology from the New Jersey Institute of Technology. Currently, Amarri works in the market access and health economics and outcomes research (HEOR) consulting space for a leading pharmaceutical solutions agency, where she focuses on developing impactful payer communications and evidence-based value strategies. In addition to her professional role, she is pursuing a Master’s in Pharmaceutical Policy and Outcomes with a concentration in Value Access and Communications from the University of Florida.