HPS 2027 Committee
Meet the students organizing the event!
Meet the students organizing the event!
Directors of the event
Sean is a recent graduate from the University of New Mexico (May 2026), receiving his Bachelors of science in Biology with minors in Chemistry and Psychology. He is currently a graduate student with the UNM Health Sciences Center, earning a post-baccalaureate certificate in Pre-Health Sciences. Sean one day hopes to study at the UNM School of Medicine and obtain an M.D in order to serve the population of New Mexico. As Executive Co-Director his goals are to expand the impact HPS has on underserved students around the state and build stronger relationships with UNM HSC. Sean works as a Community Support Worker for UNM Psychiatric Center and a Research Assistant with UNM Emergency Medicine. Outside work and school, he enjoys any activities outdoors, running, film photography, and being with family.
Cecilia is a pre-dental senior pursuing a Biochemistry major and Family and Child Studies minor at UNM. She first became involved with HPS as a symposium volunteer two years ago and was inspired to take on a larger role in the event. As this year's executive Co-Director for HPS, Cecilia hopes to expand healthcare resources and opportunities, especially for underserved students throughout New Mexico, bridging the gap between their aspirations and the support they need to pursue careers in healthcare. In addition to HPS, Cecilia serves as the President of UNM's Pre-Dental Society and works at an MRI clinic that specializes in open MRIs for patients who experience claustrophobia and anxiety during scans. She enjoys making a positive impact and giving back to the community, driving her work with HPS to help students explore pathways into healthcare. After dental school, Cecilia plans to become a dentist specializing in pediatrics and help improve access to basic dental care in underserved communities. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with loved ones, especially her four-legged best friend, Badger!
Responsible for organizing the luncheon held during the Health Professions Symposium
Gabrielle is a second year Biochemistry major with a minor in Honors. She is on the Premed track with a plan to attend UNM medical school after graduation in Spring of 2029. Her passion lies in emergency medicine, specifically an emergency medicine physician or a trauma surgeon, and is taking steps to reach this goal. These steps include getting registered as an EMT-B in the state of New Mexico and doing emergency medicine research as a research student through UNMH. Outside of education you can find her watching reality TV, medical dramas, or cuddling her cat. Her first year with HPS was last year and she is so excited to continue helping in a new leadership role.
Angelina is a junior majoring in Biology with a minor in Chemistry. She currently volunteers at UNMH Pediatric Emergency Room and is a member of the Pre-Medical Society. Her goal is to attend medical school and become a surgeon here in New Mexico. She is extremely excited to be involved with HPS this year!
Eleanor is a freshman pursuing her bachelor's degree in biology at the University of New Mexico. In the next few semesters, she wants to complete a minor in business or sociology because of her interest in management and the community. Last year, she completed the EMT basic dual credit program through UNM and volunteered around Albuquerque, which increased her motivation to get into healthcare. Recently, she has been involved with the pre-med society at UNM, and she looks forward to gaining new connections through volunteer work, shadowing, or hands-on experiences. For now, she is a full-time student and works part-time as a manager at Jamba Juice. Eventually, she plans to become a physician assistant in dermatology to fulfill her healthcare goals.
Madelynn is a third-year Pre-med student, majoring in Biology with minors in Chemistry and Honors. Her goal is to become a surgeon who prioritizes patient care and giving back to the community. She engages in various extracurriculars such as being the Secretary of the Pre-Med Society, working as an Assistant Director of the Children's Choir at the Cathedral of St. John, and volunteering throughout Albuquerque. In her free time she is an avid movie and concert goer, traveler, and outdoors enthusiast.
Coordinates with UNM HSC to secure rooms and ballrooms for the day of the event. Responsible for setting up catering for the day of the event
Xavier Larason is a fourth-year student at the University of New Mexico pursuing a joint BS/MS in Chemical and Biological Engineering with a minor in Chemistry. He conducts research in Dr. Davorka Gulisija's computational population genetics lab at UNM and in Dr. Lori Sussel's lab at CU Anschutz, where he combines wet-lab and bioinformatics work to study pancreatic islet biology.
Xavier plans to pursue an MD/PhD and hopes to one day lead his own research group in a translational, clinical setting, where discoveries in the lab can directly shape patient care. He is especially passionate about regenerative medicine and stem cell-derived islet therapy for diabetes, and he is committed to improving health equity for underserved communities across New Mexico. Growing up with parents who are nurses showed him firsthand how much access to quality care matters, and he hopes to bring that perspective to both his research and his future practice.
In his free time, Xavier enjoys trail running, movies, and spending time with family.
After serving on the Facilities subcommittee for HPS 2025 and 2026, he is excited to lead the Facilities subcommittee for this year's Health Professions Symposium. HPS has given him the chance to connect with students from across the health professions who share his drive to improve the wellbeing of New Mexicans, and he is grateful to help create a space where future healthcare providers can explore their paths.
Maiya is a third-year student majoring in Biology with minors in Chemistry and Psychology. She is a UNM Regents Scholar and hopes to attend medical school and pursue a career in medicine, with interests in pediatric emergency medicine and orthopedics. Outside of school, she works in a lab in the biology department, focused on trauma effects on the vasculature. She is also on the colleigate archery team, enjoys exploring the outdoors, and spending time with family.
Allison is a third-year student majoring in Biochemistry and a first-generation Latina pre-med student. She is currently involved in both research and clinical work. In the future, she hopes to attend medical school and pursue a career in pediatric neurology or pediatric emergency medicine.
Aaron is a senior majoring in biology and minoring in chemistry. He is currently applying to dental school and hopes to earn a DDS/DMD after undergrad. He's excited to be a part of the HPS team again for the 26-27 school year. Aaron is passionate about helping his community and is grateful to be involved in the organization of an event that provides so many educational opportunities about healthcare for students across the state.
Maintains the budget, accounts, financial transactions, and financial records, helps innovate and refine finances to be more efficient for years to come
Tina is studying Biochemistry with a minor in Psychology. She plans to become a Pediatrics Emergency Medicine physician. She has been involved in HPS for 2 years now and hopes to help grow this wonderful organization that helps students all across the state with similar goals in healthcare.
Vincent is fourth year student pursuing his bachelors degree in biology with a minor in chemistry. His career goal is to be a physician. He joined HPS to create new connections, and learn of the wonders of medicine. Outside of HPS he is the conductor for the University of New Mexico Spirit Marching Band, and a clinical study aid for UNMH.
Joshua is a senior studying Biochemistry at the University of New Mexico. After graduation, he plans to attend dental school and hopes to specialize in dental anesthesiology. Outside of academics, Joshua enjoys volunteering in his community and staying active. In his free time, he enjoys playing basketball and following sports.
My is a third-year Biology major with a minor in Chemistry. She hopes to attend medical school and pursue a career in OB-GYN or family medicine. This is her first year being involved with HPS, and she is excited to contribute to the organization, meet new people, and become more involved in the community.
Joshua is a senior studying Biochemistry at the University of New Mexico. After graduation, he plans to attend dental school and hopes to specialize in dental anesthesiology. Outside of academics, Joshua enjoys volunteering in his community and staying active. In his free time, he enjoys playing basketball and following sports.
Seelush is an international student from Nepal and is a sophomore double majoring in Biochemistry and International Studies. She hopes to work in Global Health Research and Policy. She serves as the UNM ACS Vice President, UNM NSA Vice President, and GWC UNM Organizational Officer. Outside of HPS and school, she enjoys singing, photography, and doing Sudoku!
Isabella is a third year, majoring in Medical Laboratory Sciences with a minor in Psychology. She is deciding between going to medical school to become an anesthesiologist or attend a CAA masters program. When she’s not studying for her classes or working at the community center and COPH, she can be found volunteering, doing crafts, or going on hikes.
Composed of College and High School subteams, each with a Team Lead. Promotes registration and spreads the word in the months prior to the event
Andrew is a senior at UNM studying biochemistry with the plan to apply for medical school and pursue a career in intensive care or emergency care medicine. Outside of school, Andrew competes at the national level on the UNM men’s club volleyball who travel across the states playing other colleges.
Olivia is a sophomore majoring in pre-health. She is also apart of the Circle K International group and pre-anesthesia assistant society. She has the hopes of attaining a masters to become an Anesthesia Assistant following her graduation at UNM to return all that she has learned to the community. She has attended the past three HPS event’s as both an atendee and a high school committee member!
Alina is a second-year Population Health Major from Anchorage, Alaska hoping to attend medical school after graduation. She is a member of the UNM pre-med society and is currently pursuing her Certificate in Honors Interdisciplinary Arts. In her free time, she likes to go to local concerts, rock climb and sew.
Chayanne is a sophomore majoring in Nursing and a member of UNM’s Honors College, pursuing a Certificate in Interdisciplinary Liberal Arts. She currently serves as the Secretary of the Filipino Student Organization (FSO), where she aims to help others find their space and celebrate her culture with the community. Outside of school, she enjoys giving back by volunteering with organizations including the Parkinson’s Foundation. She's also currently working toward her goal of finding a career in advanced practice nursing. Lastly, Chayanne previously attended 2 HPS events during high school, where she found clarity on her path to nursing. With that, she's more than excited to support other students across NM in discovering their own direction in healthcare too!
Denise Huerta is a sophomore studying Biology and Spanish, with a minor in Chemistry. She hopes to become a physician in New Mexico and specialize in pediatrics or OB/GYN. Denise is currently a hospice volunteer and loves to be involved in the community. Outside of school she loves to go to dance classes, hot yoga, concerts, and spend time with loved ones. She has attended HPS as a high schooler and a college volunteer, and is now excited to be apart of the team that makes it happen!
Aubrey is a first year majoring in population health. In the future, she hopes to attend medical school and practice family medicine in rural communities. For now, she is excited to be a part of the HPS high school outreach committee!
Olivia is a freshman majoring in biochemistry on the pre-pharmacy track with aspirations of becoming a hospital pharmacist. In addition to her involvement in HPS, she is a member of the Pre-Pharmacy Society. In her free time, she enjoys cycling, hiking, playing indoor soccer, and photography. She is very excited to join the HPS College Outreach subcommittee for her first year!
Jordynn is a second-year student majoring in Biology and minoring in Chemistry with the goal of attending medical school and becoming a dermatologist. She hopes to attend UNM School of Medicine and pursue a career in healthcare. Besides HPS, she volunteers at UNM Hospital and Presbyterian Hospital and is an EMT-Basic. Outside of school, Jordynn enjoys spending time with her dog, relaxing, and hanging out with friends and family! She looks forward to getting involved and making the most of her experience in HPS!
Makenna is a sophomore studying biochemistry with a minor in population health. She is currently on the pre-med route and hopes to attend the UNM SOM after she graduates! Outside of HPS, she is involved in the ASBMB chapter here on campus and was an NSO leader this past summer. She enjoys playing sand volleyball and soccer as well as reading and spending time with friends. Makenna is excited to be a part of this years college outreach committee!
Maggie Kelly-Karney is a sophomore at the University of New Mexico studying Psychology and Chemistry on a pre-medical path. She is passionate about pursuing a career in medicine and is particularly interested in neuroanatomy, brain function, and the ways research can improve patient care. Through her involvement with the Health Professions Symposium Planning Committee, Maggie hopes to help others learn more about the healthcare field and the opportunities within the Pre-med track. Outside of the symposium committee, she is an active member of both AMSA and Pre-med Society, and enjoys baking sourdough in her free time.
Emily is a senior majoring in Biology with a minor in Chemistry. She aspires to attend medical school and pursue a career in pediatrics. In addition to HPS, Emily has been involved in two research labs, the Pre-Medical Society, and the Honors Path makers Club. Outside of academics, she enjoys traveling, swimming, and baking.
Yasmeen is a Second year pre nursing major. She is currently applying for the UNM nursing program.She plans to become a pediatric nurse once she graduates and hopefully become a nurse practitioner down the line. Outside of HPS Yasmeen like to attend church, try new coffee shops, and hang out with her loved ones.
Communicates diligently with all workshop/table presenters, and with any and all new presenters
Jenn is a Senior at UNM pursuing a dual degree in B.S. Biochemistry & Psychology. She has been involved in HPS for four years and has loved helping plan and coordinate New Mexico’s largest healthcare event to make a positive impact in her community. Beyond HPS, Jenn serves as the President of the UNM Pre-Medical Society and Clinical Study Aide for the UNM Emergency Medicine Research Team. She aspires to become a Pediatric Emergency Medicine physician, committed to improving access to care and supporting underserved communities.
Taryn is a sophomore Pre-EMS major intending to start paramedic school Fall 2027. She plans to pursue working as a 911 paramedic and is considering medical school or PA school. She is excited to be a part of the HPS planning committee this year!
Alex Do is a freshman at the University of New Mexico majoring in Biology. He plans to attend medical school in the future and is interested in pediatrics and anesthesiology. He spends his weekends volunteering at Presbyterian and shadows physicians when opportunities arise. He is also a member of the Pre-Med Society and the Asian-American Student Association at UNM. Outside of school, Alex enjoys weightlifting and spending time with friends. Having attended HPS events in the past, he is excited to contribute as a member of the Program Committee and help other students explore careers in healthcare.
Tatyana is a Biochemistry senior minoring in Mathematics and aiming for medical school to eventually specialize in Orthopedics. While not falling off the walls at Stone Age or working as a Pharmacy Tech, she can be found crafting, sewing, or grilling steaks to avoid the weekly workload.
Megan is a junior studying Biology and Chemistry, with plans to attend medical school after completing her Bachelor's Degree. In addition to serving on the Health Care Professions Symposium Committee, she acts as the secretary for the UNM chapter of the American Medical Student Association. Having shadowed in cardiology, pediatric emergency medicine, and breast radiology, Megan aspires to specialize in cardiology or cardiovascular surgery following her medical training.
Max is a sophomore at UNM pursuing a degree in biology with a minor in chemistry. This is his first year involved with HPS as a member, and he is excited to help plan an event with such a positive effect on the community. He currently volunteers in the Clark lab and as an EMT-B. He has aspirations to attend medical school and become a future emergency medicine physician. He hopes to make HPS a fantastic event this year that inspires all attendees.
Helps determine new ways to get the word out and gain publicity, manages social media accounts and posts regularly to promote the event
Brianna is a 4th year student with a double major in Biology & Psychology. Along with a double minor in Chemistry & Spanish. She has been involved in biochemistry, cancer, & clinical research. She is very passionate about research and is interested in either pursuing a biomedical research PhD, or an MD/PhD. She is also a dancer, & enjoys weight lifting.
Ibrahim is a first-year Biology major at the University of New Mexico with a minor in Chemistry. He is currently on the pre-med track with aspirations to go to med school. In his free time, Ibrahim photographs the UNM athletics and is excited to take his photography to HPS to help represent it as best as possible!
Lily Dolinski is a senior studying applied mathematics with minors in chemistry and studio art for pre-med. She is an assistant director in ASUNM, a volunteer and researcher at Bosque Trails Hospice, and she hopes to apply for medical school in spring of 2027. In her freetime, she loves doing pottery, going to the gym, and visiting the beach.
Saveena Aurora is a freshman studying biology. She aspires to pursue a career in biomedical engineering. She is particularly passionate about regenerative engineering. She is excited to be a part of the 2027 HPS committee and can't wait to see what this year has to offer!
Jasmin Herrera is a fourth-year student at the University of New Mexico. She is currently pursuing a Double-Degree major in Biology and Psychology with a minor in Chemistry and a concentration in Basics to Addictions Counseling. Her major goal is to go to medical school and become a future physician. She is currently learning skills in a developmental biology lab focusing on neural crest cells research. She also loves to play basketball and go running in her free time. Her goal in HPS is to reach people through publicity and present them with various healthcare opportunities.
Works to identify, meet, and secure new sponsorships, keeps clear records of all sponsors and what they have donated
Cynthia is a psychology major in her senior year. She’s involved within the research community at UNM, including the El Puente Research Fellowship and neuroscience labs. She aims to stay involved with neuroscience in healthcare to continue seeking methods to improve quality of life in neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental disorders.
Arianna is a sophomore majoring in biology. Her career goal is to become a physician assistant, with hopes of specializing in orthopedics. She is passionate about healthcare and looks forward to being apart of the Sponership team!
Mohammad is a sophomore studying Biology. He plans on going to medical school and becoming a family doctor. He is also Co President of Muslim Pre-Meds and enjoys playing cards.
Hi, I’m Matt! I am a Biology student pursuing a pre-dental pathway and currently working in the dental field. I am passionate about healthcare, service, and finding opportunities to connect with others who share an interest in the health professions. Throughout college, I have stayed involved in organizations centered around pre-dental education, global health, volunteering, faith, and campus leadership, all of which have helped shape my interest in serving others and becoming a future healthcare professional. Outside of school and dentistry, I love lifting, staying active, playing and watching sports, and especially hockey. I am excited to be involved with the Health Professions Symposium because it brings together students with many different goals and backgrounds within healthcare. I look forward to helping create an environment where students can connect, learn from one another, and feel even more excited about the paths they are pursuing.
Kelsie is a freshman at UNM studying biology with a minor in chemistry. She's an active member of UNM's Pre-Dental Society, aiming to attend dental school following the completion of her undergraduate degree to ultimately specialize in endodontics. She is looking forward to serving in the Sponsorship subcommittee!
Maintains and updates the website regularly, helps other teams create forms, flyers, brochures, and posters for sponsorship and recruitment purposes
Mohammed is a junior dual degreeing in Health Medicine and Human Values and Psychology with a minor in Chemistry working towards Medical School. In addition to HPS, He is the Vice President of Medical Society, and the Vice President of the Muslim Student Association. In his free time he enjoys playing volleyball and soccer. This is his third year in HPS and he hopes to start off the second decade of HPS wonderfully!
Aymeen Raad, is a second-year biochemistry major at the University of New Mexico and aspires to pursue the PharmD program at UNM. Currently employed as a pharmacy technician at Walgreens, Aymeen enjoys trying new foods and playing video games.
Madelyn is a junior with a double major in biochemistry and psychology. She is currently a general chemistry lab TA and also does clinical research at UNMH. Madelyn is hoping to become a pediatric neurologist after attending medical school, and loves working with kids.
Rayan is a sophomore studying biochemistry. He is passionate about medicine and wants to become a physician in the future. This is his second year of involvement in HPS and he is excited about this opportunity.
Coordinates efforts for outreach and on-site registration, helping both attendees and presenters to sign up for the event
Rihanna is a Junior at UNM pursuing a degree in Biology with a minor in Chemistry. This is her third year involved in HPS, and she has loved being a part of organizing the largest healthcare education event enabling students all across New Mexico to learn about different professions in healthcare! She aspires to become a physician, and is interested in women's health.
Azriela is a sophomore double majoring in Psychology and Africana Studies with a minor in Chemistry. After graduating, she plans to attend medical school with the intention of becoming a psychiatrist. Currently, she is a member of UNM's Black Student Union, NAACP, and Pre Medical Society.
Nang is currently a junior majoring in Medical Laboratory Science at the University of New Mexico. She works as a research assistant in the UNM Emergency Department and the Department of Family and Community Medicine. She hopes to attend medical school in the future and pursue a career as a EM physician
Tristan Neskahi is a freshman from Las Cruces in the Combined BA/MD Program majoring in Health, Medicine, and Human Values. After attending medical school, he hopes to become an Emergency Medicine Physician. Outside of school, Tristan loves trying new coffee shops (his favorite in ABQ is La Luz!), traveling, and staying engaged with the news. He’s super excited to serve on the HPS committee and volunteer coordination subcommittee this academic year!
Teanu Mason, who goes by Tookie, is a 3rd year Biochemistry major with a minor in management on a pre-dental track. In additions to her role in HPS, she is also the President of Global Medical Brigade-UNM Chapter and the UNM Pre-Dental Society Historian. Tookie looks forward to playing a part in the success of HPS this year!
Alan Do is a freshman majoring in Biology on the pre-med track. His goals in the future is to be accepted by the UNM medical school and pursue a career in pediatrics. In his free time he plays basketball, pickleball, cooks, hangs out with friends, watches sports, and volunteers when possible. A fun fact about Alan is that he has a twin brother named "Alex". To tell the difference between the two is that Alan is objectively more handsome.