As the University of Wisconsin–Madison celebrates the graduating Class of 2025, we honor a group of exceptional scholars whose academic journeys have been defined by curiosity, courage, and commitment to community impact. These students—from the Division of Diversity, Equity & Educational Achievement (DDEEA)—presented their original research at the 2025 National Conference on Undergraduate Research (NCUR), where they stood out as thought leaders and changemakers.
From investigating environmental toxins and health disparities to advancing sustainable engineering and ethical data science, DDEEA scholars tackled some of today’s most pressing challenges with insight and innovation. Their work is not only academically rigorous, but it’s deeply personal, rooted in lived experience, and driven by a desire to uplift underrepresented voices and communities.
Meet our graduating DDEEA scholars and learn more about their research. Each profile tells a story of transformation: of students who found their voice through research, discovered new career paths, and forged connections that will shape their futures. As they graduate and step into roles as scientists, engineers, healthcare professionals, and advocates, they carry forward a legacy of excellence and equity.
Mushtaq Ali
Biological Systems Engineer
ing | Certificate for Biology in Engineering for Engineering Majors | College of Agricultural & Life Sciences (ALS) Leadership | CeO & McNair Scholar | NCUR 2025 Presenter
Research Focus: Sustainable Engineering and Community Solutions
Mushtaq Ali’s research bridges engineering and sustainability, focusing on innovative solutions that serve both people and the planet. At NCUR, she presented nationally recognized work that applies biological systems engineering to real-world environmental challenges. The experience opened doors to graduate programs and deepened her academic network. “I’m incredibly grateful for the support—it made all the difference,” she says. Mushtaq will begin her master’s program at Cornell University this fall, continuing her journey as a leader in sustainable innovation.
Lily Ho
Kinesiology | CeO Scholar | NCUR 2025 Presenter
Research Focus: Medical Science & Public Health Communication
For Lily Ho, presenting at NCUR was more than an academic milestone—it was a personal breakthrough. Initially hesitant, she emerged from the experience with newfound confidence and a deeper understanding of how research can shape public health. Her project explored the intersection of medical science and effective communication, emphasizing the importance of making health information accessible and actionable. “Seeing the range of ideas and innovation reignited my drive to pursue research in healthcare,” she shares. Lily now envisions a future where she bridges clinical care and research to improve health outcomes.
Emili Robles
Computer Sciences; Data Science | Certificate in Digital Studies | CeO & McNair Scholar | NCUR 2025 Presenter
Research Focus: Storytelling Through Data Visualization
At the intersection of technology, ethics, and equity, Emili Robles is using data to tell powerful stories. Her NCUR presentation explored how data visualization can drive social change, particularly in the realms of digital equity and community health. “This was my first time ever presenting research—it was surreal,” she recalls. The experience helped her clarify her graduate school goals and affirmed her passion for socially conscious tech. Now heading into a full-time role as a Software Engineer, Emili remains committed to using data as a tool for advocacy and innovation.
Jehona Zeneli
Biological Systems Engineering | Certificate for Biology in Engineering for Engineering Majors; Certificate in Science Communication | CeO & McNair Scholar | NCUR 2025 Presenter
Research Focus: Historical Deposition of PFAS in Southern Wisconsin
Jehona Zeneli’s research tackles one of today’s most urgent environmental health issues: PFAS contamination. At NCUR 2025, she presented her study on the historical deposition of these toxic chemicals in Southern Wisconsin, highlighting their long-term impact on public health and the environment. Her work sparked meaningful dialogue around environmental justice and the role of young scientists in community advocacy. “It proved this generation is still passionate about scientific research,” she reflects. Jehona’s research not only informs policy—it empowers communities to demand safer, healthier futures.
Jeremyah Williams
Sociology | Certificate in Integrated Studies in Science, Engineering and Society | PEOPLE Scholar | NextGenPop Scholar | NCUR 2025 Presenter
Research Focus: Persistent Anger and Mental Health in Wisconsin Communities
Jeremyah Williams’ research delves into the emotional and psychological toll of chronic stress in marginalized communities. His NCUR presentation examined how persistent anger correlates with mental health disparities in Wisconsin, offering a sociological lens on public health. Through workshops and interdisciplinary dialogue, Jeremyah refined his research and solidified his commitment to addressing health inequities. “I left inspired and better equipped to carry forward work that addresses health inequities,” he says. His work is a call to action for more inclusive and community-informed mental health research.
Mai Nhia Yang
Nursing | Certificate in Global Health | School of Nursing Honors Research Program | Midwest Nursing Research Society Conference | CeO Scholar| NCUR 2025 Presenter
Research Focus: Recruitment and Retention of Asian American Women in Health Research
Under the guidance of Dr. Jingxi Sheng, Mai Nhia Yang has led a pioneering feasibility study aimed at improving the inclusion of Asian American women in biospecimen-based health research. Grounded in Kimberlé Crenshaw’s Intersectionality framework, her research integrates culturally responsive strategies—such as racially concordant research teams and flexible participation options—to address longstanding barriers to participation. Her approach has achieved record-setting retention and completion rates, offering a powerful model for inclusive clinical research practices. By centering cultural relevance and equity, Mai Nhia’s work is reshaping how health data is collected and who gets represented in it.
As we celebrate the Class of 2025, we also look ahead to the next generation of scholars ready to discover, to challenge, and to change the world.
