The Vanderbilt Vanguard is a student-run, online-based STEM newspaper that aims to create an inclusive forum surrounding STEM-related topics and their application to the world. Our goal is to share students’ perspectives and experiences with science on a personal, professional, and global scale.

Current student staff (Spring 2021):

Minna Apostolova: Editor-In-Chief

Major: Biochemistry and Scientific Computing 

Hometown: Tulsa, OK

STEM Area of Interest: Cancer Biology, Immunology, Bioinformatics

Fun fact: I will talk about musical theater and movie scores for hours.

Benjamin Wong: Managing Editor

Major: Human & Organizational Development, Molecular & Cellular Biology

Hometown: Jericho, NY

STEM Area of Interest: Gene-editing, sustainability, nanoparticles

Fun fact: I’m a Class V white-water rafter!

Cassidy Johnson: Associate Editor

Major: Molecular & Cellular Biology

Hometown: Apopka, FL

STEM Area of Interest: Microbiology, scientific communication

Fun fact: I love to blog and watch all things Disney!

Shannon Yan: Digital Editor

Major: Computer Science and Math

Hometown: Livermore, CA

STEM Area of Interest: Computer Science, Data Privacy, Intellectual Property

Fun fact: I like to cross-stitch and embroider!

Adrian Florea: Consultant (2020 Co-Editor-in-Chief)

Major: Mechanical Engineering & Communication of Science and Technology 

Hometown: Mt. Prospect, IL

STEM Area of Interest: Medical Robots, Astronomy, Computer Science 

Fun fact: Can recite all 236 episodes of Friends at any moment.