Dr. Lexi Hwang is an Associate Professor in the College of Education at California State University, Los Angeles. The primary goal of her research program is to transform K-postsecondary STEM education to minimize the leak in the STEM pipeline. Her research intends to diversify and increase the participation of underrepresented students in STEM by promoting educational opportunities and equal access.
Dr. Leo Hong is an Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Loyola Marymount University. Dr. Hong’s research spans a wide range of scientific areas, particularly focusing on the use of computer modeling and simulations (CMS) for chemical and materials process modeling. Currently, Dr. Hong is dedicated to transforming STEM education for underrepresented groups, with a particular emphasis on supporting female, Hispanic, and Black students. He integrates CMS techniques into educational practices to enhance learning outcomes.
Dr. Jing Zhao is an Associate Professor of Food Science at San Diego State University. Her research focuses on the functionalities and flavor impacts of food proteins. Dr. Zhao’s research interests include agricultural by-products utilization (rice bran), novel protein development and characterizations (insect and algae proteins), utilization of plant and algae proteins in alternative meat products, and flavor characterization of protein-rich foods.
Dr. Changqi Liu is an Associate Professor of Food Science at San Diego State University. His research interests include food chemistry, food allergy, sustainable foods, and functional foods. Dr. Liu is committed to engaging and motivating diverse student populations. He serves as a faculty mentor in SDSU’s Faculty-Student Mentoring Program and participates in several educational projects that provide experiential learning opportunities.