I am a third-year student at Brown University, pursuing a concentration in Social Analysis and Research with a double concentration in Latin American and Caribbean Studies. As a proud QuestBridge Scholar and first-generation Cuban American, I am deeply passionate about humanizing data to properly represent the people it describes. I believe that by integrating quantitative insights with qualitative narratives, we can create policy solutions that truly honor the lived experiences of those often overlooked. My academic journey has fueled my commitment to advancing social and economic justice by using research as a tool to uplift marginalized communities, inform equitable public policy, and challenge exclusionary systems. I am particularly interested in environmental justice, immigrant and undocumented rights, and poverty alleviation—issues where data-driven storytelling can highlight disparities and drive meaningful change. I am excited to continue sharpening my skills in policy research and advocacy to contribute to a more just and inclusive world.

Hi Fellow Laidlaw Scholars, My name is Daïdo, and I am thrilled to get to know you all as we embark on this exciting academic journey together. I am majoring in both Public Health and Health and Human Biology at Brown University, with a strong aspiration to advance the understanding and dissemination of social determinants of health. This summer, I am delving into research that explores stigma and resilience among vulnerable populations, aiming to contribute meaningful insights to this crucial area. Beyond my academic pursuits, I enjoy biking and listening to Frank Ocean. I also love trying new foods with friends and crocheting in my spare time. Looking forward to connecting with you all and sharing our experiences! Best, Daïdo

Hi! My name is Gabi, I am Colombian and Chilean, and I study International and Public Affairs at Brown University. I care deeply about human rights everywhere, and have spent the majority of my university years organizing for labor and immigrant rights, as well as food and housing security. I started and currently lead our school's chapters of Amnesty International and Food Not Bombs. I hope to one day work in international human rights law, or documentary production.

Hello! I am currently a rising sophomore at Brown University, and I intend to concentrate in Computer Science (A.B.) and Religious Studies. I have a deep passion for writing and am considering a future in law. A lot of my work in the past has centered the importance of uplifting youth voices and autonomy within the community and at institutional levels, so I am excited to continue that legacy as a Laidlaw Scholar. 

My name is Candelaria, or Clara for short. I am starting my sophomore year at Brown University, where I am looking to concentrate in Medical Anthropology as a pre-medical student. As a freshman, I started working at Hasbro Children's Hospital as an Advocate with Connect For Health, a program that addresses patients' basic needs, such as food and secure housing, in an effort to alleviate social determinants of poor health. Starting this past summer, I have been conducting community-engaged health research under Dr. Melissa Palma for Tayo, a project of the Filipino Young Leaders Program (FYLPRO), as a Laidlaw Scholar. I am thrilled to continue my nutrition research experience with the added dimension of cultural conversation through our study: "Kain na Tayo: Culturally Tailored Multimedia Heart Healthy Nutrition Education for Filipino Americans." I am always looking for opportunities to connect with researchers, clinicians, and other students who are passionate about positive community impact.

Hello! I'm Cate, a second-year undergraduate student originally from Connecticut in the US, and I study English and Political Science at Brown University (and maybe also French!). I'm interested in immigration, human rights, social movements, US constitutional law, and comparative law, and—as you might have already guessed—I'm considering going into the legal field after undergrad.  In 2025, I'm entering my first summer as a Laidlaw Scholar, and I'm excited to be participating in a research project called "In the Wake of George Floyd." This project is about documenting current and past protests across Rhode Island in the aftermath of the police killing of George Floyd and writing about them in the context of social movements, racism, and police violence in the state of Rhode Island and throughout the country. 

Hello! I've directed the Laidlaw Scholars Program at Brown University since 2023. I care deeply about lifting up the next generation of leaders, change-makers, and engaged scholars to create a more just and equitable world. My PhD is in U.S. History and Gender Studies with a focus on families, childhood and youth. Send me a message if you'd like to connect! My Clifton Strengths are: Achiever, Relator, Strategic, Learner, Individualization