MAPSS

Meet our Executive Board

President: Johnny Garcia, Biochemistry

Jonathan is a First-generation Biochemistry major. As a third-year Pre-Med student, he is building a solid foundation by taking Pre-Med courses, volunteering, caring for his brothers and father, and working two jobs simultaneously. His identity as a Chicano is really important to him, and he hopes to attend medical school to serve his community and add diversity to the field of medicine.

Vice-President: Ayanna McAlister, Biology

As a third-year Biology Pre-med student striving for a career in the medical field, Ayanna McAlister is passionate and dedicated to helping students on the path to health professional careers. Her motivation and agility alone have kept her spearheading her goals, and this is due to her culture/ethnic background and identity. As a Black Woman, Ayanna has many talents that shape who she is. But knowing that she can make a difference in the progression of Black Women in healthcare has always been a priority. Ayanna aspires to attend Medical school and study to become an OB/GYN. This has been her career goal since childhood, especially after noticing the bias within the healthcare industry towards non-Black women and Black birth rates.

Treasurer: Alyssa Avellaneda, Kinesiology, Concentration: Allied Health

As a third-year Kinesiology, Health Promotion major, Alyssa Avellaneda is dedicated and committed to leading students in exploring and uncovering their career paths in health professions. Her inspiration comes from her personal quest to achieve her aspirations of being an aesthetic nurse. This journey is shaped by her cultural heritage and identity along with her drive, flexibility, and commitment propelling her toward accomplishing objectives. Noticing a scarcity of women, specifically Hispanic women, opting for a biology major and overall STEM majors on university campuses.

Secretary #1: Matthew Chang, Liberal Studies

Matthew Chang is a passionate and goal-driven third-year Liberal Studies major on the Pre-Med track, aspiring to pursue a career in medicine. Through his interdisciplinary studies, he has developed a deep understanding of healthcare, and the complexities involved. This broad academic background allows Matthew to approach medical challenges with critical thinking and innovation, preparing him for the rigors of medical school. Committed to improving health outcomes and advocating for equitable care, Matthew aims to make a meaningful impact both in his community and in the broader healthcare field.

Secretary #2: Jeidi Carrion-Fajardo, Nursing

Jeidi Carrion-Fajardo is a passionate and hardworking student who has shown immense dedication to student success. As a fifth-year nursing student, she aspires to become an ICU nurse while exploring various healthcare careers. Her commitment extends beyond her studies as Jeidi is highly involved in clubs and organizations on campus, where she actively advocates for student needs. Jeidi is determined to make a positive impact in the healthcare field and within underserved communities. She not only seeks to further her education but also aims to empower others through outreach and support initiatives. Her unwavering dedication to both her fellow students and the broader community reflects her belief in the importance of compassionate care and equitable health services for all.

Historian: Annabella Chavez, Biochemistry

Annabella Chavez is a dedicated Biochemistry major with a profound passion for science and research. Her curiosity drives her to explore the intricate world of biochemistry, where she seeks innovative solutions to complex challenges in healthcare. As a fourth-year, she is particularly interested in the intersection of biochemistry and clinical research, aiming to uncover breakthroughs that can improve patient outcomes and enhance treatment methods. Annabella’s goal is to leverage her expertise and experience in her graduate studies, ultimately becoming a Clinical Laboratory Scientist. In this role, she aspires to play a crucial part in diagnosing diseases and developing effective therapies, making a meaningful impact in the field of healthcare.

Public Relations: Samantha Coronado, Biology

Samantha Coronado is a passionate first-year biology student with a goal of becoming a physician assistant specializing in emergency medicine. Her dedication lies in providing healthcare services to marginalized communities and supporting minority groups within the healthcare sector. As a recently certified emergency medical technician, Samantha is focused on addressing disparities in healthcare access and quality of care. Coming from a first-generation college background, she is driven to contribute towards building a fair and inclusive healthcare system. Her unwavering determination is a testament to her commitment to making a positive impact in the field of medicine and working towards a more equitable society. Samantha's vision is to excel in her career and advocate for those in need and bring about positive change in healthcare for all individuals.
 

Event Coordinator: Malak Darijbara, Public Health

Malak is a first-generation Public Health major and a dedicated second-year pre-PA student with a strong passion for healthcare. She aspires to become an oncology physician assistant, aiming to bridge the gap between underserved communities by providing accessible and inclusive healthcare. With a background in public health, Malak is focused on combining her clinical role with advocacy to ensure that quality care reaches those who need it most. She looks forward to increasing the representation of Muslim women in the medical field and inspiring other Muslim women to pursue their passions in healthcare.

Advisor: Brittiny Dennis

Meet our Executive Board

President: Haley Potter, Psychology, Concentration: Biopsychology

Haley is a biopsychology major and transferred to CSUSB from RCC in the Fall of 2021. She is also an outstanding Pre-health Student Advisor for HPAC, with a wealth of information regarding the needs of CSUSB students, especially those from economically challenged, disenfranchised backgrounds. Haley hopes to attend dental school and center her work around the experiences of underserved communities.

Vice President: Mark Adams, Biology

Mark is a Marine Veteran currently working on his degree in Biology. Originally from Northern California, then moved to the Inland Empire, where he lives with his wife and three dogs. Mark is dedicated and passionate about community service. He is currently a volunteer at Loma Linda University Health in Murrieta and a mentor for the University of California Riverside Future Physician Leaders Program.

VP of Public Relations: Manuel Madrigal, Biology

Manuel Madrigal is a biology major and transferred to CSUSB from Chaffey College in the Fall of 2020. He was a Peer Lab Leader for Anatomy and Physiology I (BIOL 4630) during the Fall 2022 semester and is currently a Peer Lab Leader for both  Anatomy and Physiology II (BIOL 4640) and Comparative Animal Physiology II (BIOL 3640). Manuel is entering the master’s program here at CSUSB, starting in the Fall of 2023, under the mentorship of Dr. Owerkowicz to continue his research in comparative cardiovascular physiology. Once completing the master’s program, Manuel is interested in pursuing the MD/PhD pathway. As heart disease remains the leading cause of death, Manuel hopes to not only help treat patients but also be involved in basic or clinical research that can help potentially lead to new therapies. 

Director of Recruitment: Ayanna McAlister, Biology 

As a third-year Biology Pre-med student striving for a career in the medical field, Ayanna McAlister is passionate and dedicated to helping students on the path to health professional careers. Her motivation and agility alone have kept her spearheading her goals, and this is due to her culture/ethnic background and identity. As a Black Woman, Ayanna has many talents that shape who she is. But knowing that she can make a difference in the progression of Black Women in healthcare has always been a priority. Ayanna aspires to attend Medical school and study to become an OB/GYN. This has been her career goal since childhood, especially after noticing the bias within the healthcare industry towards non-Black women and Black birth rates.

Historian: Jahdai Hernandez, Kinesiology, Concentration: Allied Health

She has been an academic peer advisor since the fall of 2021 and has a lot of information on the resources offered here at CSUSB. Her ultimate career goal is to become a sports dietician and help college athletes maximize their athletic performance through nutrition.

Treasurer: Jonathan Garcia, Biochemistry

Jonathan is a First-Gen Chicano Biochemistry major. As a Pre-Med student, he is building a solid foundation by taking Pre-Med courses, volunteering, caring for his brothers and father, and working two jobs simultaneously. He hopes to attend medical school to serve his community and add diversity to the field of medicine.

Secretary: Robert Bravo, Biology

Robert is a Biology major in his third year at CSUSB. He is also a former CSUSB Orientation Leader and current Student Mentor, where he learned valuable skills to help guide his peers to success along with himself on their journey to graduation. Robert strives to attend Medical School and eventually become a pediatrician.

Secretary: Luvina Ron, Chemistry

Luvina Ron is a Chemistry major and has been conducting undergraduate research in Dr. Zhang’s laboratory for over a year. She is a part of the Centers of Research Excellence in Science and Technology (CREST) program. This program is funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF). Luvina won the College of Natural Sciences’ “Best Poster Presentation” for CSUSB’s 11th Annual “Meeting of the Minds.” She hopes her passion for science will one day contribute to helping others. Luvina is a first-generation college student and a mother of two amazing boys. Her belief in life-long learning will guide her to where she is meant to be. Luvina plans on pursuing medical school in hopes of being of service to less privileged patients.

Advisor: Dr. Crystal Otubuah