To equip students to achieve success by implementing an effective & rigorous STEM experiences through an Equity Lens and Culturally Responsive Instruction.
Meet Alena Analeigh McQuarter, a 17-year-old phenomenon and unstoppable young queen rewriting history in STEM and medicine! 👏🏽
At just 13 years old, she made history as the youngest Black student ever accepted into a U.S. medical school (University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine).
Now at 17, this powerhouse has already achieved what most only dream of:
• Graduated high school at 12
• Earned her Bachelor’s in Biomedical Sciences and Master’s in Biological Sciences (both Summa Cum Laude) from Arizona State University by age 15
• Became the youngest person of color to intern at NASA (at just 12)
• Founded The Brown STEM Girl and The Brown STEM Girl Foundation — creating scholarships, mentorship programs, and global opportunities for girls of color in STEM
• Conducting advanced research in cancer immunology, virology, and global health
• Pursuing her PhD in Integrated Biomedical Sciences (focus on infection, immunity & inflammation) at Loma Linda University while on the path to her MD/PhD
• Initiated into Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. as one of the youngest members
From Texas to NASA to the frontiers of medicine — Alena’s journey is a powerful testament to discipline, brilliance, and purpose. She’s not just breaking barriers… she’s building bridges for every young Black girl behind her.
Her story is a powerful one. Keep shining, Queen! 👏🏽
I
am a black woman
tall as a cypress
strong
beyond all definition still
defying place
and time
and circumstance
assailed
impervious
indestructible
Look
on me and be
renewed
- Mari Evans, I Am A Black Woman, 1970
Feels good to be a Sinner. Thank you to the Academy for honoring the “Sinners” cast and crew with FOUR Academy Awards® at the 98th Academy Awards!
@theacademy | #Oscars
Let’s drop the myth: women in STEM don’t face an 'ambition gap': they face systemic barriers. We’re not lacking drive, we’re breaking through doors. It’s time to fix the system, not blame the women. #WomenInSTEM#SystemicChange
@WendellPierce Harold Washington was integral in creating avenues for Blacks to advance into middle class paying jobs. Love you bringing his story to life.✨