GERS Alumni

	Hector A. Acosta [bio]
	Jermal Chandler [bio]
	Sean Chapparro [bio]
	Shakti Davis [bio]
	Hueathen K. Gardner
	Mariam Gonzales Debbs [bio] OPPS Participant 1999
	Kamisha Hamilton Escoto [bio]
	Ana Forster
	Eric Hill [bio]
	Nancy Wangechi Karuri [bio]
	Curtis "The Legend" Lane [bio]
	Eugene Manley
	Maria Elena Mariner
	Cesar Martinez [bio]
	Margie Morales
	Ronke Olabisi [bio]
	Guillermo Portillo
	Yuri Ramirez [bio]
	Gabriel Rodriguez Rivera [bio]

Michelle Rogers

Brian Roth

Shuntel Williams

Teresa Sayas Caban

2003-2004
GERS
Scholars

MANUEL ALVAREZ

Email: alvarez_hidalgo@yahoo.com

SURE-REU Participant 2002

I was born and raised in the island of Puerto Rico.
I completed my undergraduate studies in Chemical Engineering at the University of Puerto Rico-Mayagüez and graduated in 2003.
There, I did research with Dr. Colucci related to Biodiesel and reforming reactions to produce hydrogen for fuel cells.
I worked during a summer at Madison under the supervision of Dr. Dumesic and decided to continue my graduate studies at UW-Madison in Materials Science and Engineering.
I enjoy watching and playing almost any sport or extreme sport but I can only play basketball and baseball well.
I hope to continue growing as a person (knowledge and spirit) and learning the different cultures that surround me at UW-Madison.

ALEXANDER BLAKE

Email: ablake@wisc.edu

I am originally from Fayetteville, NC.
I graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in May of 2004 with a BS in Biomedical Engineering.
After taking a biomaterials class with one of my professors he got me interested in doing research with his company outside the classroom.
This got me initially interested in doing research in bioinstrumentation and biomaterials.
Before graduating undergrad I grew interested in pursuing a higher degree in Biomedical Engineering with a concentration in Bioinstrumentation.
I am now doing research under the advisement of Dr. Justin Williams with a focus on microfluidic cell environment development.
The GERS program has the framework of my support since I have been here both socially and academically.
Without GERS I would not be able to pursue my PhD very easily and have such great people to give advice and help along the way.
I have a community of fellow graduate students and faculty to help me along each step of the way to graduation.

DANIEL CHEVEREZ

Email: cheverez@wisc.edu

I was born and raised on Bayamón, Puerto Rico.
I completed a B.S. and a M.S. in Electrical Engineering at the University of Puerto Rico-Mayagüez in 1994 and 1997 respectively. I am convinced excellent research and development programs supported by strong educational systems are essential components in the growth and development of any nation.
Since the academic world provides opportunities for research and development as well as teaching, I had always been interested in becoming a faculty member.
With this goal in mind, I pursued my Master of Science degree in Electrical Engineering.
Then, in 1996 my dreams were fulfilled when my career as a faculty member of the University of Puerto Rico (UPR) at Bayamón got started.
Even though I consider myself to have been quite successful, I recognize that the training and experience I could get from pursuing a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering will greatly enhance my capabilities to contribute to research and educational efforts.
With this new goal in mind, I am currently pursuing a PhD in Electrical Engineering under the guidance of Dr. Robert Lorenz. In my spare time, I enjoy to do aerobics at the gym, going to restaurants, and getting to know more about Madison.
I also enjoy meeting other people and learning more about other cultures.
Thanks to GERS I will have the opportunity to complete my academic career in this prestigious university as part of the WEMPEC (Wisconsin Electric Machines and Power Electronics Consortium) group.

JARED COLLINS

Email: jaredcollins@wisc.edu

I am originally from Richmond, CA.
I began my collegiate journey at Contra Costa College (CCC) in San Pablo, CA.
From CCC I transferred to San Jose State University in San Jose, CA, where I received a B.S. in Electrical Engineering and minors in Mathematics and Physics in December of 2003.
During the summer of 2003 I conducted research at the University of Wisconsin at Madison.
I worked in the Electrical & Computer Engineering Department under the guidance of Professor Parameswaran Ramanathan.
It was during this time that I became interested in Biomedical Engineering (BME).
In January 2004 I began pursuing a Ph.D. in BME here at UW-Madison.
My advisor is Professor Ray Vanderby and I look forward to choosing a research project in the very near future.
I really enjoy being a part of the GERS community, where honesty is valued and everyone's opinions are respected.
GERS is composed of a very diverse group of young men and women that work hard and play hard.
I look forward to helping bring the group closer together by exploring and celebrating the unique backgrounds and experiences of each member.
In my free time I like to play basketball, football, exercise, read, and sleep.
Also, I worship every Sabbath at the Madison East Seventh-day Adventist Church.

JAVIER CRUZ

Email: cruz@wisc.edu

Hi, I am Javier Cruz from the beautiful island of Puerto Rico.
Wondering what I am doing here at Wisconsin?? I also sometimes wonder.
But I have to say I am really enjoying it.
I finished my undergraduate studies in Chemical Engineering at the University of Puerto Rico-Mayagüez Campus this past May.
There I had a very organized agenda consisting of studying, research and going to the beach.
In the summer of 2002, I did a summer research at Purdue University where I really got a feeling for graduate studies and how it would be like.
After this summer, I was decided in continuing with graduate studies.
I was able to visit the UW campus, which helped me in the decision of where to start my graduate studies.
I joined the Material Science program mainly because it provides an interdisciplinary education in a variety of important fields of study.
I am incredibly interested in the vast field of polymers.
I am part of the GERS program, which provides incredible help and will be a source of guidance throughout my graduate studies.
Now, I am still in the process of adapting to this new lifestyle but the university is providing great aid by having so many opportunities, things to do, clubs to join, and so many diverse people to meet.

Widalys De Soto (Large image)

WIDALYS DE SOTO

Email: wldesoto@wisc.edu

OPPS Participant 2002

I was born in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
As an undergrad, I attended the University of Puerto Rico-Mayagüez and obtained a BS in Mechanical Engineering in May 2003.
I am now pursuing an MS degree in Mechanical Engineering, with a focus on solar energy under the supervision of Dr. Klein and Dr. Beckman.
I will be working with photovoltaic systems (PV) and will help develop a means to predict the behavior of solar cells and modules at different temperatures, locations on Earth, solar irradiance, temperature, etc.
By doing this, it will be possible to know beforehand how much power, voltage, and current can be produced, using the sun as our power source.
I consider this to be an extremely interesting topic, considering the importance of finding a renewable energy source and its lasting effect on future generations.
The University of Wisconsin-Madison has offered me a whole new world of opportunities and the GERS program has helped me get here, giving me encouragement and support that we all need during moments of transition, such as this, especially when we are leaving our families behind for the first time.

Rachelle Duvall (Large image)

RACHELLE DUVALL

Email: rmduvall@students.wisc.edu

OPPS Participant 1998

I am originally from Albany, NY.
I graduated from the University of Rochester in May 2000 with a BS in Chemical Engineering.
Throughout undergrad, I became very interested in the environmental aspect of engineering, and decided to pursue graduate study in the field of Environmental Engineering directly after undergrad.
I received my Masters Degree in Environmental Engineering in December 2002 and I am continuing on for a PhD in the same field under the advisement of Dr. James J. Schauer.
My research focus is in air pollution control and I study the role of atmospheric aerosols in global climate change.
In my spare time, I enjoy listening to music, running, yoga, and watching movies.
The GERS program has provided me with academic support.
In addition, I have had the opportunity to meet inspiring graduate students and faculty.

Elizabeth Felton (Large image)

ELIZABETH FELTON

Email: felton@cae.wisc.edu

I am originally from Chicago and I graduated from Northwestern University with a Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering.
After graduating I worked for an IT company for two years in Janesville, WI.
Although it was nice to have a break from school and make a little money, I decided that I wanted to go further in engineering and change my focus from chemical to biomedical engineering.
I have been involved with GERS since the Fall of 2000 and received my Master's degree in Biomedical Engineering from UW-Madison in May of 2002.
I did my Master's work in Professor Robert Radwin's lab.
Last summer (2002) I started the combined MD/PhD program.
For that program I complete the first two years of medical school (one down, one to go!) and then I will return to graduate school to finish my PhD.
After that I will complete the last two years of medical school, which is mainly doing clinical rotations at hospitals and clinics all around Wisconsin.
My main research interest is Rehabilitation Engineering and I will likely focus in the area of Neural Engineering (i.e. neuroprosthetics) to help people with brain injury enhance or regain function.
Being in the GERS program has been wonderful.
In addition to providing funding, it is a great way to meet, socialize and network with other minority graduate students.
During our meetings we have time to talk and take a nice break from studying and lab work.
I have made many friends and faculty contacts through GERS.
I know my life here would be a lot different if I wasn't a part of GERS and I am very thankful for the program.

Robert Gladney (Large image)

ROBERT GLADNEY

Email: rlgladney@wisc.edu

I was born in Birmingham, Alabama (the Magic City) and received my B.S. degree in Mechanical Engineering in 2003 from the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB).
As an undergraduate, I was actively involved in several organizations including the ASME, NSBE, and the SAE.
I was also involved in several ministries at Mount Canaan Full Gospel Church, which is my home church.
As a first year graduate student, I am currently pursuing an M.S. degree in Mechanical Engineering.
I am excited to be in the GERS program, as I believe that it will enable me to meet and work with other students who share similar goals, academic backgrounds, and experiences.
My advisor is Dr. Chris Rutland and my research focus is a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) project concerning turbulent flows and internal combustion engines at the Engine Research Center.
I have a strong desire to succeed, am very focused, and seek to impact the lives of others in a positive way.
Some of my hobbies include playing basketball, football, music (trumpet), and reading.

ANTONIO HERNÁNDEZ

Email: ahernand@cae.wisc.edu

I am a Ph.D. student in Mechanical Engineering with research interests in Biomechanics and Robotics.
I was born and raised in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico.
At age 12, I participated in a Summer Program sponsored by the University of Puerto Rico that forever changed my life.
That program opened my eyes to engineering and how its methods could be used to enhance the human condition.
I dreamed of a day when I would use engineering to improve human health! Since, I studied mechanical engineering at U.S. institutions (B.S.M.E. from M.I.T. in 1991, M.S.M.E. from U.C. Berkeley in 1993), worked as an engineer in industry (mostly with Hewlett-Packard Company but also with 3M, Baxter Healthcare, and Abbot Laboratories), and most recently, taught undergraduate-level courses in mechanical engineering at the University of Puerto Rico-Mayagüez.
I am now returning to the root of my interests in engineering with the goal of making significant contributions to the human health field! My Ph.D. advisor is professor Darryl Thelen in the Mechanical Engineering department.
I am thankful to GERS and to the people who run this program for their commitment to students who have demonstrated talent and dedication to their goals.
Through the GERS program, I enjoy a rich, diverse environment that further enhances my personal growth.

Crystal Leach (Large image)

CRYSTAL LEACH

Email: cileach@wisc.edu

OPPS Participant 2000; SURE-REU Participant 2001

I was born in Baltimore, Maryland, but spent a significant part of my life in Shreveport, Louisiana.
I believe the saying goes, "Home is where the heart is."
Since my family is my heart and since I have family in both Shreveport and Baltimore, I usually refer to both cities as home.
I received my Bachelor's degree in physics from Dillard University.
Dillard is a small, private, Historically Black University located in New Orleans, Louisiana.
I am currently a first year graduate student in the Department of Biomedical Engineering (BME).
My BME background and research will primarily focus on vascular biology and vascular mechanics.
I will be conducting research under the mentorship of Dr. Naomi Chesler.
I am studying early enzyme activation of porcine carotid arteries due to hypertension.
The transition from physics to BME has been quite interesting and a little challenging.
However, I am very grateful to the GERS program for providing an outstanding support system.
Through GERS, I have been given the opportunity to network with various faculty and staff as well as interact with other grad students who have similar backgrounds and interests as myself.

Maria Del Carmen Lopez (Large image)

MARIA DEL CARMEN LOPEZ-GARCIA

Email: mlopezgarcia@wisc.edu

OPPS Participant 2001

Most of my life, I have lived in Puerto Rico.
I received my Bachelor's Degree in Chemical Engineering at the University of Puerto Rico- Mayagüez in May 2003.
Now I am here at the University of Wisconsin starting graduate school in Materials Science and Engineering, where I hope to spend the next five years of my life obtaining a doctoral degree.
The GERS program has been very important to me because it gives me security of my funding and liberty of what I might want to research during my years in grad school.
Also, through GERS I have had the opportunity to meet a lot of very admirable people that are in similar situations and serve as role models as well as companions.

Amaury Malave (Large image)

AMAURY MALAVE

Email: amalave@wisc.edu

I was born in Humacao, Puerto Rico on April 12, 1980.
I graduated from the University of Puerto Rico at Mayagüez with a mayor in mechanical engineering.
I am currently working with Pat Farrell studying spray behavior of diesel fuel injectors, the project sponsor in General Motors.
The GERS program is providing me with good counseling.
My goals are to finish a Ph.D and go back to my beloved island and start a coffee plantation.
My hobbies are music and almost every sport.

Zylkia Martin (Large image)

ZYLKIA MARTIN

Email: zylkiamartin@yahoo.com

I was born and raised in the warm island of Puerto Rico.
In May 2003, I received a B.S. degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Puerto Rico-Mayagüez, being part of the biggest class of its history.
During the summer before I came to Madison, I worked for the Department of Education of Puerto Rico as an Inspector Engineer for the rehabilitation of schools.
This experience helped me to acquire some practical knowledge in my field.
I am currently pursuing a Master's Degree in Transportation Engineering at UW-Madison, and I am working on the analysis of bicycle data for the City of Madison, under the supervision of Dr. David Noyce.

RACHEL McKINSEY

Email: mckinsey@wisc.edu

Theodore Roosevelt once quoted, "A man who has never gone to school may steal from a freight car; but if he has a university education, he may steal the whole railroad."
Education is one of the most essential elements of life.
Graduating from Southern University and A&M College in Baton Rouge, Louisiana with a B.S. in Physics has taken a vital part in preparing me for what is to come.
During my undergraduate career, I was told that I should not have to pay for my graduate education.
At the time, I was a partial believer of that statement.
However, programs like GERS makes this belief a reality for me and 17 other minorities here at UW.
When I applied to the University of Wisconsin-Madison Medical Physics program, I was uncertain as to how I would fund my graduate education.
God opened the door for me to receive the AOF/GERS Fellowship.
I am extremely thankful that I received this fellowship since it provides me with the opportunity to focus on my course work 100%.
Many students are not presented with the opportunity to obtain a full scholarship for attendance at a highly ranked research institution as well as have a community outside of their classes who can empathize with being a minority and being away from home.
GERS has become my family away from home. Biweekly, we meet and discuss issues that will impact our lives and future careers.

CARMEN MENDEZ

Email: mendezcr@cae.wisc.edu

SURE-REU Participant 1998

I am originally from Puerto Rico.
I received my Bachelor's Degree in Industrial Engineering at the University of Puerto Rico-Mayagüez in May 1999.
I started working for a consulting firm in New Jersey right after graduation, and after two years I decided to pursue a graduate degree.
I am currently working on a Masters and PhD in Industrial Engineering Human Factors.
Under the advisement of Dr. Michael Smith, I am investigating safety implementations and employee productivity factors.
In my spare time I enjoy reading, writing, and watching movies.
The GERS program offers social and academic support as well as the opportunity to network with other graduate students that are working towards the same goals as you are.
It is a great opportunity.

OMAR DAVID NEGRETE

Email: negrete@wisc.edu

My name is Omar David Negrete and I am from Albuquerque, NM. I received my Bachelors in Electrical Engineering at the University of New Mexico. I choose to pursue engineering because it opens up opportunities to be apart of very exciting research that uses the most recent advancements in technology. My interests now are, Photonics and Biotechnology. Coming to UW was an excellent choice because of the vast number of multidisciplinary research groups that one can collaborate with. UW was also a great choice because of the support I get from GERS. GERS has been great for meeting people from all across the board in terms of research and for support in finding the right resources during your graduate education. My current goals are to work hard towards my Master's and then PhD in Electrical Engineering. My research will involve Optical Maskless Lithography of Oligonucleotides.

JOSE MIGUEL ORTIZ

Email: jortiz@wisc.edu

I was born in Orocovis, a small town located in the very center of the island of Puerto Rico. I finished my Electrical Engineering BS degree in the University of Puerto Rico-Mayagüez Campus, in 1994, in the area of Telecommunications. Then, I obtained a MS degree in Computer Engineering in the area of Remote Sensing in 1998. I worked for 3 1/2 years as a professor in the InterAmerican University of Puerto Rico, and in 2001 started again my second MS degree in Electrical Engineering in the areas of Controls/Power Electronics, under the advice of Dr. Miguel Vélez-Reyes (who was also my adviser in my first MS). During my MS studies I was part of the CPES (Center for Power Electronic Systems) group. Because the University of Madison, Wisconsin, is also part of CPES, that gave me the opportunity to meet Dr. Robert D. Lorenz, who is one of the CPES faculty members in Madison, and now my adviser in my PhD studies in Electrical Engineering in the areas of Power Electronics/Controls.

ANGELICA PEREZ

Email: perezandujar@wisc.edu

After pursuing my bachelor's degree in Theoretical Physics at the University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez, I wanted to pursue a Ph.D. in an area of physics that provided me with the satisfaction of helping others.
The application of physics to the benefit of humans is what
brought me to UW-Madison.
That is why I am currently working toward my Ph.D. in Medical Physics under the supervision of Dr. Paul DeLuca.
GERS is a wonderful program, which not only offers funding and guidance, but also gives us the opportunity to interact with a great variety of people and share many wonderful experiences.

LUIS "FERNANDO" RECALDE

Email: luis@cs.wisc.edu

I was born in Paraguay, South America, and moved to Texas when I was young. I graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a BS in Computer Science. I am starting my graduate studies this year, working on an MS in Computer Science. Graduate school is definitely the right choice after the Bachelors, and Wisconsin is undoubtedly the right school to attend for advanced studies. The GERS program helps you meet people with similar backgrounds, so you feel more at home while away from home. They provide great support by facilitating financial procedures, but most importantly, they make sure you are taken care of and not left behind. They provide all the information and connections required to make the transition into graduate school a breeze, and they get results for you when you have a situation, without making you struggle through it. Thanks GERS!

KATHERINE ROLDAN-PEREZ

Email: roldanperez@wisc.edu

I was born and raised in Puerto Rico in a town called Aguadilla. I graduated in May 2004 from the University of Puerto Rico-Mayagüez with a BS in Mechanical Engineering. Currently, I am a graduate student in the Biomedical Engineering department under the supervision of Prof. Nimmi Ramanujam. My research area involves the use of non-invasive techniques (optical spectroscopy) to identify the presence of cancer cells, particularly for the detection of breast cancer. As a GERS fellow I have found a place where I can develop the knowledge, skills, and relationships necessary to succeed in the professional world.

MARIA ROSA

Email: mrosa@wisc.edu

I am originally from Puerto Rico. In December 2004, I complete a BS degree in Civil Engineering at the University of Puerto Rico - Mayagüez Campus. Right after graduation, I started working as a Structural Engineer for a private firm in my island. Now I am starting a MS degree in Geotechnical Engineering under the guidance of Dr. Tuncer Edil and Dr. Craig Benson. I enjoy listening to music, watching movies, going shopping, spending time with friends, meeting other people and learning about different cultures. Being part of the GERS program is a great opportunity for me because it is providing me with financial guidance and academic support and more important it is a good way to meet and share with other minority graduate students.

BRIAN ROTH

Email: bmroth@students.wisc.edu

I am originally from Seattle, WA and I received my B.S. in Ecological Biology from the University of Washington.
I received my Master's Degree in May 2001 from the University of Wisconsin.
I am currently a PhD student in the Limnology and Marine Science department studying under Dr. James Kitchell.
My current research revolves around studying the response of the ecosystem (particularly native predatory fishes) to the removal of two exotic (nonnative) species from one lake in northern Wisconsin.
Most of my personal interests are outdoors, and I do a lot of fishing and camping during the summer (and winter, in terms of fishing) months.
Being from out west, I also enjoy hiking and mountain biking, but I can't say that there are too many mountains to hike or bike out here.
But the fishing is great.
Although I am relatively new to the program, GERS has been great, and I appreciate all their effort to create a tight-knit community of like-minded students.

Michael Santiago Cintrón (Large image)

MICHAEL SANTIAGO CINTRÓN

Email: michaelsantiagocintron@yahoo.com

OPPS Participant 2000; SURE-REU Participant 2000,2001

I was born and raised in Bayamón, Puerto Rico. I recently graduated from the University of Puerto Rico, Río Piedras campus, where I received a B.S. in chemistry.
I first visited the city of Madison in the summer of 2000.
I had the opportunity of working with Dr. Art Ellis and Dr. Judith Burstyn; my summer experience was so positive that I decided to pursue a PhD in chemistry here.

STEPHANIE SCHMIDT

Email: snschmidt@wisc.edu

I am originally from a small town located in northeastern Wisconsin.
I received my B.A. in Biology from Grinnell College (Grinnell, Iowa) in 2003.
After graduating from Grinnell, I did research with Dr. Jake Vander Zanden at the UW - Center for Limnology for a summer before heading off to graduate school at Penn State.
However, dissatisfied, I left Penn State after only a semester and returned to Madison in June of 2004 to begin work towards a Ph.D. in Limnology and Marine Science, once again, with Dr. Vander Zanden.
My research interests include stable isotope ecology, freshwater ecology, invasive species, and food webs.
My thesis project involves reconstructing the historical food web of the Great Lakes using stable isotope techniques.
By examining how the food web has changed with each new wave of species invasion over the last century, we can gain insight into future ecosystem restoration efforts and management practices.
When not immersed in my research, I enjoy playing competitive volleyball, spending time with family/friends, and spending quality time with the great outdoors.
While my involvement with the GERS program has only just begun, I have already benefited from the resources made available to me.
The best way to describe GERS is as follows: GERS doesn't just inform you of the resources and opportunities out there…it BRINGS the resources and opportunities to your front door!

Folasade Sobande (Large image)

FOLASADE SOBANDE

Email: fsobande@wisc.edu

Well, my name for most people who don't know is a Yoruba name, which means use wealth (not necessarily money) as your crown. I think my family is my biggest source of wealth. I was born in Lagos State, Nigeria but grew up in Kwara State till I was 15 and then moved to Minnesota where I finished my high school. I received my Bachelors of Science in Industrial Engineering from University of Wisconsin-Madison in December 2002. I am currently a first year grad student pursuing a MS Degree in Industrial Engineering. My specialization is in quality engineering under the advisement of Professor Pascale Carayon. My research project focuses on "Medication Error Reduction, Technologies and Human Factors. I intend on obtaining my PhD still in Industrial Engineering and focusing on Human Computer Interaction and Engineering management. I try to balance my life with schoolwork and social activities. I am a very open-minded person and will try almost any activity once (maybe not skydiving).

DARILIS SUAREZ

Email: dsuarez@wisc.edu

I was born and raised in Puerto Rico. I obtained a Bachelors Degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Puerto Rico at Mayagüez. I am currently enrolled in the Materials Science Program having as a goal to obtain a PhD. My area of interest is in biomaterials/biomedical applications. Being a GERS and a NASA fellow has given me both a financial security and the freedom to choose my own research path.

Federico Tavarez (Large image)

FEDERICO TAVAREZ

Email: tavarez@cae.wisc.edu

I am originally from Puerto Rico.
After obtaining a Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering from University of Puerto Rico-Mayagüez in May 1997, I worked as a Structural Engineer for the US Army Corps of Engineers Research and Development Center, in Vicksburg, Mississippi.
In August 1999, I came to Madison, WI to pursue my graduate studies.
After finishing my Master's Degree in Civil Engineering in the summer 2001, I started my PhD program in the Department of Engineering Physics.
I am currently working under the advisement of Dr. Michael Plesha, using the Discrete Element Method to model the behavior of concrete members subjected to impact.
The GERS program has provided me financial aid in both my Master's and PhD programs.

ANGLINIA WASHINGTON

Email: awashington@wisc.edu

I am originally from Selma, AL ("Selma Lord Selma").
I proudly received my BS in Mathematics and Computer Science at Alabama A&M University, May 2004.
Currently I am pursuing my Master's in Biostatistics.
I have participated in many summer research programs including the Summer Research Program in Biostatistics (SRPB) and the Summer Institute for Biostatistics Training (SIBs) here at UW Madison.
As a first year graduate student I am looking forward to my involvement in the GERS community.

Shuntel Williams (Large image)

SHUNTEL WILLIAMS

Email: skwilliams2@wisc.edu

SURE-REU Participant 2001

Determination, dedication, and organization are what I believe to be the keys to success in any situation.
Growing up in New Jersey, taught me that implementing these three points could enable me to achieve anything.
I had the opportunity to attend Clark Atlanta University in Atlanta, GA, where I obtained a B.S. in Electrical Engineering.
During the matriculation of my undergraduate studies I was an avid member of various activities and organizations such as NSBE and IEEE.
I am currently in a M.S. program in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering here at UW-Madison.
My area of research focuses on the use of ionized gases (plasmas) for materials processing in the field of microelectronics.
Outside of my coursework, I enjoy partaking in extra-curricular activities such as swimming, reading, shopping, and going to the gym.
GERS is an excellent program for social activities and academic enlightenment.
GERS has personally given me that needed balance between education and relaxation.

Josue Yambo (Large image)

JOSUE YAMBO

Email: josueyambo@hotmail.com

OPPS Participant 2002

I was born and raised in Utuado, Puerto Rico sometime ago.
I recently earned a B.S. degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Puerto Rico-Mayagüez.
I am currently working toward my MS Degree in Transportation Engineering under the guidance of Dr. David Noyce.
My research focus is in incorporating road safety into pavement management.
The purpose of this research is trying to maximize the pavement surface friction for road safety improvements.
Although my research and classes keeps me very busy, I enjoy spending time with my girlfriend, reading, playing computer games, drawing, running (currently I am not doing much of this) and attending church.
GERS is an extraordinary program that gives me great support and the opportunity to be integrated into a new community of other graduate students and faculty.

SEAN YOUNGER

Email: sjyounger@wisc.edu

I have lived in many places but my family has spent the most time in northern Virginia, so I call it home.
I earned my Bachelor's Degree in mechanical engineering at Columbia University in New York City in Spring 2003.
I'm currently a first-year Master's student in mechanical engineering here at the University of Wisconsin.
My research is conducted in the Engine Research Center under Professor Jaal Ghandhi.
Academically, I'm interested in combustion and energy conversion as it relates to automotive internal combustion systems.
My project involves the combination of spark-ignition (gas) and compression-ignition (diesel) characteristics into a single engine type, called a Homogeneous Charge Compression Ignition (HCCI) engine, which benefits from the good aspects of both.
After my Master's research and thesis are complete, I hope to be able to stay for my PhD after which I would like to continue in research as a professor of mechanical engineering.
Outside of school, I enjoy music, film, food, dance, and driving.
In addition to providing financial support, the GERS program has allowed me to meet a supportive group of students who have backgrounds, interests, and goals similar to my own.
This has made my transition to graduate school both easier and more rewarding.

TERESA ZAYAS-CABAN

Email: tzayascaban@students.wisc.edu

SURE-REU Participant 2000

I was born in Troy, NY, while my parents were pursuing graduate studies, and raised in Puerto Rico.
I initially began my undergraduate work at the University of Puerto Rico-Mayagüez and ultimately transferred to the University of Missouri-Columbia after spending a year there as an exchange student.
I earned a B.S. in Industrial Engineering in May 2001 from the University of Missouri-Columbia.
I am currently a doctorate student in Industrial Engineering under the advisement of Dr. Patricia F. Brennan.
My research falls in the areas of health systems and human factors.
When I conclude my graduate studies, I intend to join academia as a faculty member and researcher.
Outside of the lab, I enjoy reading, listening to music, dancing, and being with my friends and family.

GERS
ALUMNI

DANA L. BARTON

I am originally from Ann Arbor Michigan. I graduated from Eastern
Michigan Univeristy, where I earned a B.S. in Biology & Earth Science
along with a Minor in Chemistry. I took a year off and worked for a
Limnology professor at the University of Michigan. From there I went to
the University of Wisconsin-Madison and earned an M.S. in Environmental
Chemisty and Technology. While at UW, the GERS family helped me out
tremendously. I moved back to Michigan after I graduated. I am currently
working for Innovative Environmental Solutions, Inc.
(Innovative). Innovative performs Phase I Environmental Site Assessement
(ESA), Phase II ESA and Building Material Surveys. I am a Project
Scientist in the Phase I ESA Group. I enjoy hanging out at home and
playing with my six ferrets.

KALA FLEMING

Email: kkfleming@students.wisc.edu

SURE- REU Participant 2002

I was born in St. John's Antigua, a small 108 square mile island in the Caribbean.
I began my post high school, academic career at the University of the Virgin Islands in St. Thomas, in 1995.
As an undergraduate student in Chemistry, even though I enjoyed the field immensely, I yearned for a field of study that would be more "hands on" and result in a more practical use of my knowledge.
That yearning led to an interest in Environmental Engineering.
The interest was further encouraged after my experiences with Chemical Engineering research and an internship in the chemical industry.
These experiences, while interesting, were not ultimately satisfying.
As a result, I went on to pursue graduate studies in Environmental Engineering at the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1998.
As a Master's student, my research looked at the effects of UV light in the formation of disinfection by-products in drinking water.
I am currently continuing PhD research in the same department, focusing on nitrification and biostability in pilot-scale, chloraminated drinking water distribution systems.
The community fostered by the GERS program is priceless.

Terrence Hooker (Large image)

TERRENCE HOOKER

Email: tchooker@students.wisc.edu

I was born and raised in Milwaukee, WI.
I first came to Madison in 1997 and spent the next five years earning my Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering.
I am a second year Master's student and am working with Professor Jay Martin.
My research is concerning design improvements on the interface between people with quadriplegia, and similar disabilities, with the wheelchairs and other control systems that they use.
Outside from school, I enjoy playing music.
I spent five years in the UW Jazz Big Band (trombone), and several semesters in other university ensembles.
Currently, the only regular playing I do is on Sunday mornings at Fountain of Life Church, where I am a member of the music team.
GERS is a great program that has provided me with a graduate school community, in addition to financial support.

Kennard Love (Large image)

KENNARD LOVE

Email: klove@cs.wisc.edu

SURE-REU Participant 2000

I was born in New Orleans and lived there for 15 years, but I currently live in Georgia.
I completed my undergraduate work at Clark Atlanta University and received a Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science.
I am currently working on a PhD in Computer Science.
Outside of my graduate studies, I enjoy bowling and music.
A lot of good that came out of my first year of graduate school is because of the people that I have met in the GERS program.
My transition into graduate school has been much easier since I have met other students that understand some of my struggles in adjusting to a new setting.

MARLANN PATTERSON

Email: mpatters@cae.engr.wisc.edu

I received my BS in Physics from the University of Florida - Gainesville.
I am currently pursuing a PhD in the Materials Science Program under the supervision of Professor Amy E. Wendt.
I study ion energy distributions in plasmas used in manufacturing processes.
In particular, I am interested in substrate bias conditions that enable control of the ion energy distributions.
Science has always been one of my loves.
Additionally, I am a big fan of my family and two dogs.
This is my first year in GERS, though one of my last as a graduate student.
So far, I've really enjoyed getting to know people in the GERS community.

Luis Rodriguez (Large image)

LUIS RODRIGUEZ

Email: larodriguez@students.wisc.edu

I was born in Guadalajara, Jalisco, which is Mexico's second largest city.
I lived there for eight years and then my family moved to California.
My first day in the U.S, I remember feeling very scared not knowing what my future would be like in a foreign land.
Late at night as I struggled to finish my English homework, I would have never imagined that one day I would be pursuing a doctoral degree in engineering.
I received my Bachelor's degree from the University of California-San Diego in Mechanical Engineering and I am currently pursuing a PhD in Robotics.
My interests lie in improving health-care delivery and helping people overcome their disabilities with electromechanical aids.
I am extremely excited to have this wonderful opportunity and I look forward to making a contribution to this innovative field of robotics.

MICHELL ROGERS

I graduated from UW-Madison in August 2002 with a PhD in Industrial Engineering.
My project, under the advisement of Professor Barrett Caldwell, investigated the socio-technical impact of an electronic medical record on the work activities and processes in a small clinic.
The GERS program offered me the opportunity to interact with other graduate students, faculty in a variety of departments, and professionals from across the country.
Professor Douglass Henderson and Kelly Burton are definitely overworked and underpaid.
I am currently a Research Scientist at the Veterans Administration (VA) Midwest Patient Safety Center of Inquiry.
I conduct research on the implementation of technology in the health care settings.
I have designed and conducted usability analyses for the Bar Coded Medication Administration (BCMA) System and the Computerized Patient Record System (CPRS) as well as made recommendations to national workgroups based on findings.
I am currently investigating identification errors in surgical procedures.