MEET THE TEAM
Research Assistant
Chloe DiStaso
Chloe is a junior double majoring in Integrative Conservation and Environmental Science & Policy. Her research focuses on environmental database management and Indigenous food systems. She is a Geographic Information System (GIS) assistant at William and Mary's Institute for Integrative Conservation and has had several additional laboratory assistant roles with other research teams. She is also involved with Citizens’ Climate Lobby environmental group on campus. Personally, Chloe is a member of William and Mary’s Syndicate Hip Hop Dance Team; is involved in the Jewish campus organization, Hillel; and participates in William and Mary’s knitting club.
Research Assistant
Tara Kamalakantha
​Tara is a freshman, double majoring in Public Health and Public Policy. She is committed to advancing equity and efficiency in healthcare. She joined the lab in fall 2024, where she has been investigating the impact of pulse consumption on cardiometabolic health outcomes. Outside the lab, Tara enjoys learning arias and practicing Indian classical music. She is also a passionate advocate for inclusive healthcare policy as a Fellow at Grassroots Democrats HQ.
Research Assistant
Brenna Keam
Brenna is a senior on the pre-medical track, majoring in Neuroscience and minoring in Public Health. She joined the lab in the fall of 2024 as part of the Indigenous Food Sovereignty (IFS) project. On campus, she is a member of a social sorority and serves as a peer advisor. Brenna hopes to combine her interests in public health, nutrition, and clinical medicine in her future career.
Research Assistant
Bryan Kim
Bryan is a senior, majoring in Kinesiology & Health Sciences with a concentration in Public Health. He joined the lab in fall 2024, conducting research as part of the Indigenous Food Sovereignty (IFS) project. Outside of research, he takes an active role in nonprofit initiatives as an executive member of FIND, Inc. and the Korea Zero Foundation. After graduating, Bryan will pursue a career in healthcare consulting, where he plans to utilize insights on public health, sustainability, and policy from his research experience.
Research Assistant
Dakota Kinsel
Dakota is a junior on the pre-medical track, majoring in Chemistry and minoring in Music. She joined the lab in fall 2024, working on the Indigenous Food Sovereignty (IFS) project. Outside of research, Dakota is a member of the William & Mary Symphony Orchestra, Gallery Players Chamber Orchestra, and serves as President of the American Indian Student Association at William & Mary.
Research Assistant
Sarah Lozina
Sarah is a sophomore Monroe Scholar majoring in Neuroscience and Data Science. On campus, she is involved in neurological research, Tribe Innovation, her social sorority, and Best Buddies. With an interest in exploring the intersections of neuroscience, data science, and public health, she aims to pursue research opportunities in these areas.
Associate Program Manager
Andie Meddaugh
Andie graduated from the University of Rochester in 2021 with a Bachelor's of Science in Brain and Cognitive Sciences and dual minors in Psychology and Bioethics. She brings a wealth of prior experience in science and administrative management. Outside of the lab, she has a love for reading, writing, cinema, art, and animals.
Research Assistant
Catherine Zavela
Catherine is a sophomore double majoring in Kinesiology (with a concentration in Human Nutrition) and Psychology. Her research focuses on the health, environmental impacts, and cost of pulse consumption. Outside of her academic pursuits, she is an active part of the William & Mary equestrian and softball teams.