Enthusiastic scientist and educator with a background in research, laboratory management, project management, and translating scientific information to the community through education. Eager to expand and enhance my roles as a researcher and professor to make meaningful contributions to my community. A flexible and transformative leader capable of thriving in diverse group settings and independently creating conducive learning and working environments that foster opportunities aligned with organizational goals.

Yessenia’s academic journey began in 2007 at the University of Puerto Rico, Aguadilla Campus, where she earned a degree in Biology with a minor in Genetics. During her undergraduate years, she actively engaged in various research projects, honing her laboratory skills and gaining essential investigative techniques. In 2012, Yessenia transitioned into the science field as a Quality Laboratory Technician at Life Scan LLC, a Johnson & Johnson company. There, she applied her laboratory expertise in a manufacturing setting, contributing to the company’s high standards of excellence. Driven by a passion for education and personal growth, Yessenia made a pivotal career shift to become a science teacher. She taught middle and high school students at a Title I school serving at-risk and economically disadvantaged children. Her dedication to her students’ success was evident through her outstanding achievement of maintaining a 94% passing rate on state Biology assessments year after year. Yessenia’s commitment to education led her to pursue a Master’s in Arts in Educational Management and Leadership, which paved the way for her role as Academic Director in Texas. In this capacity, she mentored teachers and students, shaped curriculum decisions, and addressed the diverse needs of the school community. Her leadership was instrumental in achieving A and B grades for the school during her tenure, demonstrating her ability to drive academic success. During her time as an Academic Director, Yessenia also took on the responsibility of grant writing, implementation, and compliance. Her efforts secured vital funding for the school, enabling the introduction of new curriculum and resources in Math, ELA, and Science, significantly enhancing the educational experience of students. Building on her extensive experience, Yessenia founded Lassalle Educational Services with the mission to make a lasting impact on the education community. Through this initiative, she exported her expertise to schools in Texas, providing professional development, curriculum development, student data management, financial administration, state reporting, periodic assessments, and data analysis services. Yessenia also participated in the Scientific Research and Preparatory Program (SRPP) from the NIH, which empowered underrepresented communities in the science field. Additionally, she contributed to workshops aimed at innovating STEM science education at the University of Puerto Rico, further solidifying her influence in the education sector. Lastly, Yessenia has led numerous professional development workshops for public school teachers across Puerto Rico, empowering hundreds of educators with the tools and strategies needed to enhance their teaching practices.

Dr. Vanessa Lopez Quiles has a Bachelor of Science with a Major in Biology with an emphasis on Biomedical Sciences and a Master's and a Doctorate degree in Business Administration. In addition, she is certified in Proposal Writing and Preparation and Fund Management. Dr. Lopez-Quiles has worked as Research Administrator, Co-Project Director, Administrative Assistant, Research Assistant, Project Coordinator, Grant Co-Director, Project Manager, Collaborator, Internal Evaluator and Consultant. During her undergraduate years and in proposals, she has participated in multiple investigations that allowed her to acquire knowledge and skills. Dr. López-Quiles has worked on all levels of the Grant and contract Cycles. It should be noted that the projects where she has worked have met the goals and objectives of the proposals. In addition, she has handled many proposals of budgets exceeding one million dollars and has managed over 12 million dollars in external funds during the last 7 years. Dr. Lopez-Quiles has extensive experience in managing external funds sponsored by federal, state, foundation and private agencies. Furthermore, she has worked on projects aimed at improving the academic achievement of college students, Develop Highly Qualified Teacher, strengthen the skills and knowledge of university students, ecological restoration, among others.

Steven Morales is a highly experienced Technology Consultant and Strategist with over 10 years in the technology sector. He earned his BS in Computer Engineering from the University of Puerto Rico, Mayagüez, where he specialized in software development. Throughout his career, Steven has brought innovative solutions to a variety of fields, including medical integration, aerospace, education, and technology. Certified in Lean Six Sigma methodologies, Steven is known for optimizing processes and delivering impactful results. His work spans designing and implementing systems that enhance digital presence, streamline operations, and meet the highest standards of efficiency. Steven’s technical expertise extends to supporting research and educational initiatives. By crafting and integrating systems for data analysis, online learning, and secure information management, he ensures projects are executed seamlessly and effectively. His role in aligning technological solutions with the goals of interdisciplinary teams underscores his commitment to advancing collaborative efforts. With a career distinguished by his commitment to advancing technological solutions across various industries, Steven continues to be a vital contributor to teams dedicated to driving innovation and achieving progress.

Eduardo A. Díaz-García is a Scientific Consultant with a passion for empowering underrepresented communities. While he previously served as a Program Manager, leading initiatives like SEEDS, a groundbreaking young entrepreneurship program in Puerto Rico, he is now fully focused on his consulting work. Eduardo has also been a part of the first Scientific Research and Preparatory Program (SRPP) from the NIH, a program specifically designed to empower underrepresented communities in the science field. Currently, Eduardo applies his expertise as a consultant for Bristol Myers Squibb, Puerto Rico's second-largest pharmaceutical manufacturer, where he brings his knowledge in industrial microbiology and quality management to ensure excellence in manufacturing processes. Eduardo's journey began at the University of Puerto Rico in Aguadilla, where his initial interest in Bioinformatics shifted towards a deep passion for Microbiology. He earned his degree in Industrial Microbiology from the University of Puerto Rico in Mayagüez, which led him to a pivotal role as a Quality Laboratory Technician at Life Scan LLC, a Johnson & Johnson company. This experience laid a strong foundation in scientific techniques and quality assurance. Driven by a calling to educate and inspire, Eduardo transitioned into teaching in Dallas, Texas, where he made a significant impact at the Pegasus School of Liberal Arts and Sciences. His leadership and dedication as a science teacher and later as an Operations Manager helped transform the school’s culture, achieving record-low turnover rates and significantly improving state scores. In 2019, Eduardo furthered his commitment to educational leadership by earning a Master’s degree in Educational Management and Leadership from the Inter American University of Puerto Rico. His expertise in federal grants management enabled him to secure and manage numerous grants with zero observations, demonstrating his meticulous attention to detail and strategic oversight. Beyond the classroom, Eduardo served on the West Dallas Steering Committee, advocating for low-income families facing displacement due to rapid real estate development. His efforts ensured that the voices of vulnerable communities were heard in the face of gentrification. Today, after over eight years of impactful work in Dallas, Eduardo has returned to his roots in Puerto Rico, driven by a mission to uplift and empower the next generation in his homeland through his consulting work.