Presentations:

• "MY PATH TO ACADEMIA: The Importance of BRINGING YOUR WHOLE SELF TO YOUR RESEARCH" 14th Annual NIH Blueprint and BRAIN Initiative® ENDURE Meeting (2024)
• "Paving Your Path: Prioritizing Your Values" 2024 D-SPAN Annual Meeting (2024)
• "Genetic & Epigenetic Contributions to Brain Development in Children with ADHD" 19th Annual Comprehensive Review of Psychiatry (2024)
• "Why Diversity in Psychiatric Genetics Research Matters" Community Health & Health Behavior Brown Bag Lecture (2024)
• "Navigating Careers in Biomedical Research" CLIMB UP 2024 Research Communication workshop (2024)
• "The Importance of Diversity in Psychiatric Genetic Research" Connecticut Children’s Hospital genetics seminar (2023)
• "The Importance of Diversity in Psychiatric Genetic Research -Enhancing the involvement of African Americans and minoritized groups – A Collaborative Approach" 18th Annual Comprehensive Review of Psychiatry Conference (2023)
• "The Importance of Diversity in Psychiatric Genetic Research -Enhancing the involvement of African Americans and minoritized groups" JSMBS MD-PhD Seminar (2023)
• "Demonstrating the Need for Ancestrally Diverse Data in Genetic Autism Research" GEM Seminar (2023)
• "Why Diversity Matters in Neuropsychiatric Genetics" Buffalo State University Biology Seminar Series (2023)
• "Why Diversity in Psychiatric Genetics Actually Matters" Guest Speaker for COM MLK Commemoration event Jan. 10-12, 2023 (2023)
• "Forging MINDSET, HABITS and Ideas towards career success" University of Technology, Jamaica

Service Activities:

• In November 2024, I am serving as a Recruiter for the ABRCMS (Annual Biomedical Research Conference for Minority Students), an event showcasing exceptional talent among students from underrepresented backgrounds in the biomedical sciences. At this conference, I engage directly with students to promote and recruit for the PhD Program in Biomedical Sciences (PPBS) within the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences. My role involves connecting with prospective students, providing insights into the program, and discussing the academic and research opportunities available within the Jacobs School. Through these interactions, I work to attract and support diverse talent, reinforcing our institution’s commitment to inclusivity and excellence in biomedical research and education.; Recruiter / ABRCMS (2024)
• As a University Representative and Recruiter for the 2024 Institute on Teaching and Mentoring in New Orleans, I represented the university by actively engaging with prospective students and postdoctoral candidates. I attended professional development workshops to further understand the needs and aspirations of emerging scholars, enhancing my ability to connect with them effectively. At the university's recruitment table, I interacted with dozens of attendees, sharing information about university programs, career opportunities, and resources. Through these efforts, I promoted our institution’s commitment to education, research, and professional growth, encouraging interest in joining our academic community.; UB Representative / Recruiter (2024)
• As the Community Health Speaks Event Organizer for the Afghan Women’s Health event, I played a central role in developing and hosting a culturally-sensitive program focused on preventive care for Afghan women in the refugee community. Held on October 16th at the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (JSMBS), this event catered specifically to the health needs of Afghan women who face substantial barriers to accessing healthcare, such as language differences, cultural distinctions, and logistical challenges like transportation and childcare. To prepare, I and my team engaged with Afghan women in the community to ensure that their concerns shaped the event structure. Recognizing the need for supportive services, we provided transportation, childcare, and translation, facilitated by Salima Panahzada, a Dari and Pashto translator. Our women-centered approach also included a halal dinner to foster comfort and cultural familiarity. Dr. Abeer A. Eddib, an OBGYN and Clinical Assistant Professor, delivered an impactful lecture on preventive women’s health, creating a trusted environment for attendees to ask questions and engage in open discussion. The event concluded with an interactive Kahoot game to reinforce the key health messages and offer prizes to encourage participation. The high engagement and positive response highlighted the event’s success in meeting the community’s specific needs. This gathering was co-sponsored by UB’s Office of Inclusive Excellence, the Office of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Community Engagement, the Office of Student Development and Academic Enhancement, and local partners like the Erie County Office of Health Equity and RAHAMA. Together, we addressed health disparities in the Afghan refugee community and reinforced the importance of community-driven health education and culturally responsive care.; Community Health Speaks Event Organizer: Afghan Women's Health (2024)
• As a member of the Committee on Academic Freedom and Responsibility, I contributed to shaping the university's Time, Place, and Manner policies, ensuring they align with the best interests of students across our campus. My role involved providing critical feedback and assisting in the development of responsive and balanced policy recommendations. Our contributions were instrumental in guiding university leadership toward implementing a policy that supports both academic freedom and a respectful, inclusive campus environment.; Committee on Academic Freedom and Responsibility Member (2024–present)
• As an MD-PhD Admission Reviewer and Interviewer, I play an active role in the admissions process for the fall 2024 cohort, carefully assessing applications and interviewing candidates for the MD-PhD program. I have reviewed 12 applications, dedicating 2-3 hours to each to ensure thorough evaluation against established admission criteria. Additionally, I have spent approximately 6 hours collaborating with fellow committee members, discussing each applicant’s strengths and fit for the program. I am also committed to conducting at least five in-person interviews, each lasting about an hour, to gain a comprehensive understanding of each candidate’s academic and research potential. Through this role, I contribute to selecting highly qualified, motivated students for the MD-PhD program, supporting the program's mission to train future physician-scientists.; MD-PhD Admission Reviewer and Interviewer (2024–present)
• As a Community Health Speaks Event Organizer for the "Genomics for the World: Enhancing Global Equity in Genomics Research" event, I coordinated a highly impactful gathering that highlighted the importance of diversity and equity in genomics research. This event featured Alicia R. Martin, Ph.D., an esteemed genetics researcher from the Broad Institute, MIT, and Harvard. Dr. Martin shared her expertise in creating equitable, international research collaborations, particularly through initiatives such as the NeuroGAP-Psychosis research study and the GINGER training program, which build capacity and support genomics research in underrepresented regions, including Ethiopia, Kenya, South Africa, and Uganda. In her presentation, Dr. Martin discussed her work in population and statistical genetics, where she addresses the biases in large-scale genetic studies that have traditionally focused on Eurocentric populations. She presented her strategies for developing statistical methods and community resources that ensure genetic technologies are accessible and beneficial to diverse populations worldwide. By organizing this event, I helped provide a platform for exploring ways to make genomic research more inclusive and to promote equitable health outcomes globally. The event offered a unique opportunity for attendees to engage with groundbreaking work aimed at reducing health disparities and fostering collaborative research across regions with differing resources.; Community Health Speaks Event Organizer: Genomics for the World: Enhancing Global Equity in Genomics Research (2024)
• As a Community Engagement Committee Member for the Department of Psychiatry, I contribute to initiatives strengthening connections between the department and the broader community. In this role, I collaborate with colleagues to develop and support programs aimed at promoting mental health awareness, reducing stigma, and improving access to resources. My responsibilities include attending regular meetings, providing input on community-oriented projects, and helping to organize events and outreach efforts. Through this work, I aim to enhance the department’s impact within the community and support efforts to make mental health services more accessible and inclusive.; Community Engagement Committee Member (2024–present)
• As the Director of the Health Equity Ambassador Program, I oversee the design, scope, and implementation of this community-centered initiative, which aims to empower local stakeholders as advocates for health within their communities. The program seeks to bridge the gap between healthcare advocacy and everyday life, focusing on equipping community leaders—such as barbers, clergy members, and other trusted figures—with the knowledge and tools necessary to promote health equity. Under my leadership, the program is structured to address health disparities through culturally relevant health education and engagement strategies that resonate within underserved communities. By fostering trust and credibility, these ambassadors encourage positive health behaviors and drive behavior change, directly contributing to improved health outcomes. Through comprehensive training and resource support, the program establishes a sustainable network of health advocates who are positioned to have a lasting impact on healthcare access and equity. The Health Equity Ambassador Program serves as a model for community-based health interventions, leveraging local leadership to reduce disparities and enhance long-term health for marginalized populations.; Director of the Health Equity Ambassador Program (2024–present)
• As a Community Health Speaks Event Organizer for the "Medicine for Tomorrow" event, held from December 12th to 14th, I coordinated a dynamic and immersive program aimed at introducing high school students to the fundamentals of medicine. This three-day event, led by local pediatric residents, provided hands-on learning experiences that equipped participants with essential medical skills. The event featured interactive sessions covering core topics: an introduction to basic medical skills with stethoscopes and reflex hammers, practical training on bleeding management techniques like wound packing and wrapping, and an intensive CPR workshop where students practiced resuscitation on mannequins. Each session was designed to deepen students' understanding of critical medical concepts, offering both technical knowledge and real-world skills. This event not only enhanced participants’ medical insights but also inspired their potential futures in healthcare, fostering a supportive learning environment and sparking interest in medical careers. Through careful planning and collaboration with pediatric residents, I ensured that "Medicine for Tomorrow" was a meaningful experience that resonated with the students and encouraged their engagement with the field of medicine.; Community Health Speaks Event Organizer: Medicine for Tomorrow (2023–present)
• Community Health Speaks -The "Learning About Your Genome" series was a comprehensive program aimed at educating individuals about the intricacies of genetics. It covered topics such as the basics of genetics, genetic variations' role in health and disease, and the significance of ancestry in genetic testing. Special sessions were included to help participants identify and combat scientific misinformation and to discuss the nuanced differences between race and ancestry in the context of health. This series empowered participants to make informed decisions regarding their genetic health and understand the ethical considerations surrounding genetic testing.; Workshop Facilitator (2023–present)
• https://www.buffalo.edu/ubnow/stories/2023/10/igniting-hope-recap.html Igniting Hope 2023 Conference -The afternoon keynote topic delved into issues at the core of medical research, such as informed consent and medical mistrust. Moderated by Jamal Williams, assistant professor of psychiatry in the Jacobs School, the session featured David Lacks and Veronica Robinson, the grandson and great granddaughter, respectively, of Henrietta Lacks.; Interviewer (2023)
• As an IMSD Team Associate, I play a key role in supporting the success of students in the IMSD at UB program, which is dedicated to fostering the development and academic success of PhD scholars. I provide mentorship to students, guiding them through the challenges of graduate school and supporting their academic, professional, and personal growth. I also design and implement targeted programming, such as professional development workshops and training sessions, aimed at helping students build essential skills for graduate school and their future careers. My responsibilities include working with IMSD scholars on individual development plans, supporting career mapping, and advising students on research and ethics training, communication skills, and grant writing. Additionally, I assist with the IMSD knowledge base, which outlines key milestones and developmental activities critical for PhD completion and career readiness, and ensure students meet these milestones through regular Student Advisory Group (SAG) meetings. Through this work, I help cultivate a supportive, knowledge-rich environment that empowers students to reach their full potential and successfully navigate the path to earning their PhD.; IMSD Team Associate (2023–present)
• As the Community Health Speaks: Thread Leader, I lead an interdepartmental initiative that brings together faculty and staff from across the university to collaboratively guide the vision and impact of the organization. My responsibilities include organizing and facilitating meetings to ensure alignment and progress toward our collective goals, overseeing the development and execution of programming, and managing the preparation of funding proposals. I also play an active role in fundraising efforts, working to secure resources that support and expand the initiative’s reach and effectiveness in advancing community health across the university and beyond.; Community Health Speaks: Thread Leader (2023–present)
• As part of my role in organizing high-profile events, I have invited distinguished speakers including Alicia R. Martin, PhD (Harvard, MGH, Broad Institute), AZA Allsop, MD-PhD (Yale University), Katherine Eyring, PhD (UCLA), and Qing Cao, PhD (UCLA). These renowned experts drew significant interest and engagement from attendees, enriching our academic community and sparking multiple valuable collaborations. By coordinating these speaker events, I helped facilitate knowledge exchange and fostered networking opportunities that have strengthened our department’s connections within the broader research and academic communities.; Invited distinguished speakers