For Community College
Meet the Board
Ashley Hurjak
Founder, Chairman of Research
Ashley Hurjak is an accomplished student at Loyola Marymount University, pursuing a double major in Biochemistry and Applied Physics. She has interned twice at NASA, contributing to projects involving launcher and rocket design. Ashley has made significant research contributions, including studies on the vaginal microbiome and the impact of tire-wear particles on regeneration in planaria. Additionally, she has researched the female wage gap in various fields of STEM and global sex trafficking issues and legislative and judicial efforts to end the practice.
She is the host of "TheEdge" podcast, discussing societal and emotional challenges faced by young adults, and the author of the novel "Triumph Over Trials," which explores insecurities and confidence struggles among teenagers. Ashley is also preparing to speak at a TEDx conference on how to restore confidence. Her notable awards include the Archer Rise Scholar Award, Best Stock Portfolio at the NASA International Space Academy, and the President's Volunteer Service Award.
Brian Sawaya
Head of Fundraising
Brian Sawaya is a second year student at De Anza and Foothill College. He currently is passionate about prosthetic and wearable technology with hopes of transferring to UC Berkeley or UC Davis. He has a passion project where he is researching low cost prosthetics.
Krisha Gupta
Head of Scientific Research
Krisha Gupta is a dedicated student at Vibgyor High in Bengaluru, currently in grade 11. With a profound interest in research and molecular biology, Krisha aspires to become a molecular biologist specializing in gene therapy.
Krisha has gained valuable experience through various internships across multiple sectors. Her roles at BioArtelier, Plotch, and By the Youth have honed her skills in outreach and research. In each position, she has demonstrated a commitment to advancing organizational goals through effective communication and strategic initiatives.
Currently, Krisha is engaged in a significant outreach project at the National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS) under the mentorship of Dr. Aarti Ramesh. This project focuses on raising awareness about antimicrobial resistance, reflecting her dedication to addressing critical global health issues through research and education.
Shaun Milton
Head of Communications
Shaun Milton is a dedicated Grade 11 student at Vibgyor, with a strong passion for mechanical engineering and a specific interest in the automobile industry. His academic pursuits are driven by a fascination with complex systems and a desire to innovate within automotive technology.
With a solid foundation in mathematics and science, Shaun actively participates in projects and activities that refine his technical skills and expand his knowledge. He aspires to leverage his expertise to advance vehicle design and engineering, aiming to contribute to the future of transportation. Shaun is committed to continuous learning and looks forward to opportunities that will enable him to make a meaningful impact in the field of mechanical engineering.
Umme Zainab Ahmad
Treasurer
Umme is currently pursuing her Associate's for Transfer in mathematics/science. She hopes to transfer to a 4-year institution in
Fall 2025 to study chemical engineering with an emphasis on biotechnology.
Umme is very fascinated by science and that is why she is exploring the realm of
academic research this summer. Umme is also very excited about making a large-scale impact in healthcare by creating medical devices and medications that help to cure, or, better yet, prevent disease. In her free time, Umme enjoys painting, travelling, working out and watching movies.
Alexis Forman
Chairman of Arts
Alexis Forman, 18, is a young violinist who currently lives and studies in Los Angeles, California. Playing violin since the age of three, Alexis was part of the Suzuki School in her hometown of Las Vegas for over seven years, studying under Mary Straub. A proud Las Vegas Youth Orchestra member for the 2018-2019 and 2019-2020 seasons, Alexis represented the young music community in Nevada with precision. At age 14, Alexis was invited to study at the Colburn School of the Arts in the Community School program, which enthusiastically took her to the artistic hub of Los Angeles, California. At Colburn, she studied with professors Margaret Batjer and Henry Gronnier. Leveraging her musical leadership abilities, Alexis also honorably served at the Assistant Concertmaster of the Colburn Sinfonietta, one of the three advanced orchestras in the Colburn Community School. In addition to her position in the Sinfonietta, Alexis was the violinist in an advanced piano trio for the past three years. With her eyes set on professional life in the field of music, Alexis will be attending the New England Conservatory of Music in the fall, majoring in violin performance under the teaching of Professor Ayano Ninomiya.
Mission Statement
“The Scholar Angels Foundation is dedicated to empowering low-income community college and high school students by providing financial support to pursue higher education and research opportunities. Our goal is to break down financial barriers and foster academic excellence, ensuring that every student has the chance to achieve their fullest potential.”
Ashley Hurjak, founder
Vision
To create a world where financial limitations do not hinder educational aspirations, enabling all students to become leaders, innovators, and changemakers in their communities.
The Edge with Ashley Hurjak
Get to know our founder, Ashley, and hear about our students’ experiences here at The Scholar Angels Inc.
Contact the Scholar Angels Inc. Today!
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