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.