Alena Analeigh

Phenom. Prodigy. Whiz kid.

These are just a few words that capture Alena Analeigh McQuarter, who embarked on her college journey at the age of 12. Currently a senior majoring in Biological Sciences Biomedical and a minor in Global Health, Alena is set to graduate with a Bachelor's degree in December 2023 and a Master's degree in May 2024.

At 13, Alena made history by becoming the youngest Black person in U.S. history to gain acceptance into medical school.

Driven by audacious dreams, Alena holds the distinction of being the youngest girl of color to intern at NASA. She's also amplifying her voice by launching platforms such as The Brown STEM Girl™, The Brown STEM Girl Foundation™, and Brainiac World Media™.

Through Brown STEM Girl™, Alena has been honored with eight proclamations, designating April 30th as "Brown STEM Girl™ STEM in the City Day" to celebrate Women of Color in STEM. This day also aims to engage girls of color, aged 10-17, in STEM activities across the United States.

Alena's achievements are vast. She's been recognized as a 2022 Times Kid of the Year Top 20 Finalist, a 2022 Global Child Prodigy in the realm of science, and the HBCU STEM Queen in association with Olay and Ebony Magazine. As a coveted brand collaborator, she has forged partnerships with organizations like Mattel and LEGO and serves as a Brand Ambassador for Keke Palmer's non-profit, Saving Our Daughters.

Alena's educational journey is as diverse as her accolades. She has experienced traditional schooling, homeschooling, and world schooling, which took her to Amman, the capital of Jordan, a city located in the Middle East.

Her professional trajectory is already in motion. Alena conducted ovarian cancer research at the Webb Labb, University of Maryland, in alliance with the American Cancer Society. She's also a pivotal member of the Student Outbreak Response Team at Arizona State University.

While Alena's intellectual prowess is evident, it's her warmth, serene spirit, and gracious nature that truly set her apart. With unwavering determination, Alena is blazing trails and shattering barriers for other brown STEM girls, mirroring her own journey.