Sandra Nip

Sandra Nip is an accounting major from Shelton, CT. She has a wide range of musical interests and finds joy in playing instruments such as the clarinet, piano, and vibraphone. In her free time, Sandra loves to bake for her friends and family and crochet. Her passion for crochet led her to start her own crochet business, StitchesbySandra. On campus, she is involved in the business connections learning community, Asian mentoring program, and was an associate at Ascend, a pan-Asian business council.

As a Werth Innovator, Sandra looks forward to learning more about networking, entrepreneurial ventures, collaborating with more mentors and peers, as well as turning passions into meaningful projects.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandranip/

Laura Park

Laura Park is a computer science and cognitive science dual degree major from Glastonbury, CT. She is interested in diving deep into her passions of technology, language, music, and dance in UConn’s diverse community. Currently, Laura serves as the founding social chair of UConn’s Undergraduate Linguistics Society (ULS). She is also a part of the UConn Wind Ensemble where she plays the oboe.

As a Werth Innovator, Laura looks forward to challenging herself to develop something that will add value to the lives of others.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-park-uconn/

Princesse Ashley Hyppolite

Princesse Ashley Hyppolite is a management and engineering for manufacturing major from Middletown, CT. With a background in student leadership, she aims to explore her interests in consulting, product strategy, and building scalable solutions that create meaningful impact. Outside of academics, Princesse enjoys creating faith-based content, making art, playing chess, reading, and skiing.

As a Werth Innovator, Princesse looks forward to collaborating with others who are passionate about innovation and positive change.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/princesse-ashley-hyppolite/

Naina Khan

Naina Khan is an international business and marketing major from Milford, CT. On campus, she enjoys interacting with the community and is part of various organizations such as the outreach committee in SUBOG and the external relations committee for Women in Business. Outside of campus commitments, Naina is usually updating her Goodreads with thoughts on whatever classic she’s reading, watching day-in-the-life videos from YouTubers across different fields, or indulging in her deep love for fashion.

As a Werth Innovator, Naina looks forward to exploring how marketing, data and creativity work together in beauty. She’s eager to dig into skincare trends and business analytics, to create campaigns addressing colorism and representation.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/naina-khan/

Alyssa Kapouralos

Alyssa Kapouralos is a political science major from Manhasset, NY. She aims to strengthen her dedication to service at UConn through various volunteering initiatives. Currently, Alyssa is taking on the role of North Residential Campus Senator, representing her school spirit through the Husky Ambassador program. She is also a member of UConn’s Best Buddies club.

As a Werth Innovator, Alyssa to learn more about governmental institutions and how they affect everyday life in order to explore solutions and endless possibilities for progression.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alyssa-kapouralos-a85b4b388/

Rin Wolfe

Rin Wolfe is a marketing major with a minor in personal brand entrepreneurship from San Diego, California. She is especially passionate about fashion and mental health support, with a long-term goal of blending both fields to create her own business focused on promoting self-expression and well-being. In her free time, Rin enjoys listening to music, vintage shopping, and spending time with loved ones.

As a Werth Innovator, Rin hopes to connect and collaborate with peers to help create a happier experience for students on campus and beyond.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rin-wolfe-90aa47353/

Jenevera Abena Addai Mensah

Jenevera Mensah is currently undecided with a minor in political science from Accra, Ghana. Jenevera is motivated by the belief that meaningful change begins with small, intentional actions and that supporting others- one person at a time- can lead to lasting impact. She is currently Treasurer for Towers Hall Council, where she helps manage funds. Outside of academic and leadership pursuits, Jenevera enjoys doing hair and braiding, an interest that reflects her creativity, attention to detail, and appreciation for cultural expression.

As a Werth Innovator, Jenevera hopes to explore entrepreneurial pathways, develop practical business skills and learn how to transform ideas into solutions.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenevera-mensah-0bbb98353/

Brianna Flores

Brianna Flores is pursuing a mechanical engineering major with a concentration in Aerospace from Vernon, CT. She is a member of UConn’s hip-hop dance team, Encore, and the K-pop team, Seoular. This semester, Brianna looks forward to beginning undergraduate research in Dr. Luyi Sun’s lab which focuses on the creation of new multifunctional nanostructured materials for various applications. In addition, she has accepted the position of programming intern for the Asian American Cultural Center (AsACC).

As a Werth Innovator, Brianna looks forward to bringing energy and creativity to all programs she takes part in at UConn and hopes to grow as a professional through the Werth Innovators program.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianna-flores-18102a318/

Jordan Ng  

Jordan Ng is a sophomore majoring in animal science on the pre-veterinary track. As a Werth Innovator, Jordan enjoys connecting with her peers and brainstorming new ideas. Jordan currently works as a student administration assistant for the Werth Institute which allows her to meet with current and future Werth Innovators and use it to help improve the programs! Jordan is the Chair of the Leadership Board.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordanng07/ 

Raaga Pulya  

Raaga Pulya is a senior majoring in physiology and neurobiology. As a Werth Innovator, she enjoys collaborating with other students from diverse backgrounds and exploring interdisciplinary approaches to problem solving. Her role on board is to support the UConn Gives campaign for the Werth Institute!   

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/raaga-pulya

Samantha Wisniewski  

Sam Wisniewski is a sophomore majoring in fine arts and marketing. She thoroughly enjoyed her time as a Werth Innovator with quality mentoring she received from her peers, advisors, and personally-assigned mentor. She’s excited to continue working as a social coordinator on the leadership board next year and help Werth Innovators network and bond.  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-wisniewski 

Maleekha Fong  

Maleekha Fong is a sophomore majoring in psychology with a minor in cognitive science. One thing she enjoys about being a Werth Innovator is the mentoring. She has learned from many wonderful people who gave her equally wonderful advice. She is excited to be one of the social coordinators on the leadership board, working along side the rest of the leadership board.    

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maleekhafong/  

Dino Capilupi 

Dino Capilupi is a junior majoring in finance. One of the things he enjoys most about being a Werth Innovator is being surrounded by driven, like-minded individuals who are always pushing each other to think bigger and take action on new ideas. On the leadership board, he focuses on alumni engagement by connecting past and present Werth Innovators together.   

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dino-capilupi/  

Tiana Harley 

Tiana Harley is a sophomore studying communications and analytics and information management. One thing she enjoys about being a Werth Innovator is the connections she gets to make with other students and alumni. She is works as one of the social coordinators on the leadership board.  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tianaharley/  

Arkesh Ramesh Kumar  

Arkesh Ramesh Kumar is a sophomore majoring in physiology and neurobiology. One thing he truly enjoys about being a Werth Innovator is the opportunity to push others forward — learning new things and growing together as one unit. Arkesh works as Skills Workshop lead on the leadership board.  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arkesh-ramesh-kumar/  

Kitan Arole   

Kitan Arole is a sophomore majoring in journalism and political science. She is passionate about entrepreneurship, comminications, and turning ideas into impactful projects. She became a Werth Innovator during her first year at UConn where she founded her own clothing business, RunGal. Kitan’s role on the leadership board is to support the UConn Gives campaign for the Werth Institute.  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kitan-arole/  

Kitan Arole

Kitan is double majoring in Journalism and Political Science at UConn, with dreams of becoming a political correspondent or pursuing a career in law. Inspired by her Nigerian heritage, she is passionate about problem-solving and community impact.

As a Werth Innovator, Kitan is excited to meet new people, explore entrepreneurship, and challenge herself to grow her skills and ideas.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kitan-arole/

Maleekha Fong

Maleekha is a Psychology major at UConn with aspirations of becoming a psychiatrist. Passionate about mental health and creativity, she enjoys fashion, crocheting, and writing as outlets for self-expression.

Through the Werth Program, Maleekha looks forward to learning about networking and entrepreneurship while continuing her journey of personal and professional growth.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maleekhafong/

Jennifer Gearin

Jennifer, a Physics and Linguistics/Psychology major with a minor in Astrophysics, grew up in Merritt Island, FL, inspired by the space industry. Beyond academics, she enjoys figure skating, painting, and learning new languages.

Through the Werth Innovators program, Jennifer aims to expand access to resources for adolescents and is excited to gain new skills while collaborating with a supportive community.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-gearin/

Suhaana Jadia

Suhaana Jadia is pursuing dual degrees in Finance, with a focus on Corporate Finance, and Economics at the University of Connecticut. Passionate about analyzing market trends and understanding business strategies, she developed her interest in these fields through her high school coursework.

As a Werth Innovator, Suhaana looks forward to connecting with fellow students, diving deeper into entrepreneurship, and turning ideas into reality.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suhaana-jadia/

Jordan Ng

Jordan Ng, an Animal Science major from Greenwich, CT, blends her love for nature and animals with her passion for education and advocacy. Whether teaching about animal welfare or promoting mental health awareness, she is committed to fostering understanding in her community.

As a Werth Innovator, Jordan is eager to personalize her summer internship to align with her goals and connect with mentors who can offer valuable insights on her interests.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordanng07/

Maryanne Pepin

Maryanne Pepin is pursuing a degree in Finance, driven by her passion for financial literacy and helping others understand personal finance. She combines her academic interests with community service, volunteering at her local library and thrift store.

As a Werth Innovator, Maryanne is excited to explore her passions, apply her skills, and create solutions that make a meaningful impact.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryanne-pepin/

Hannah van Rijnswou

Hannah van Rijnswou is a Psychology major at UConn, planning to pursue a dual degree in Criminal Studies. She is the President of BuckShip Hall Council and founder of InkWellness, a global creative writing initiative promoting healing through self-expression. Passionate about addressing trauma to prevent criminal behavior, she enjoys vintage fashion, writing, collecting vinyl, and antiquing.

Through the Werth Innovators program, Hannah looks forward to dedicating time to her passions and applying her learning beyond the classroom.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hvanrijnswou/

Samantha Wisniewski

Sam Wisniewski, a Fine Arts major specializing in Painting and Drawing, combines her passion for creativity with community impact. As a commissioned artist and vendor of handmade crochet products, Sam has used her talents to serve others, including donating her art to local organizations.

Through the Werth Innovators program, Sam aims to explore new ways art can make a difference, connect with fellow artists, and gain insights into unique career paths. In her free time, she enjoys playing piano, hiking, cooking, and spending quality time with her family.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-wisniewski-49207b332/

Juliana Algeri  

Juliana is a sophomore from Holtsville Long Island, NY, pursuing an individualized major in strategic communications and well-being. As a proud member of the Honors Program, she serves on the board of ARSA (Argentinean Student Association) where she connects with her roots and uplifts her community. She enjoys singing, dancing, photography, and crafting projects that bring both joy and meaning to her life. 

As a Werth Innovator, Juliana is motivated by a vision of a bright future and embraces every opportunity to grow.   

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliana-algeri-49a502323/ 

Dino Capilupi 

Dino is a junior from Brookfield, CT, majoring in economics. Currently interning with Charles Schwab to gain hands-on experience in the financial services, he is proactive in his intentions of pursuing a career in financial advising or wealth management. Outside of school, Dino enjoys traveling, exercising, golfing, and hanging out with friends.   

As a Werth Innovator, Dino looks forward to putting his entrepreneurial mindset to the test with like-minded individuals.  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dino-capilupi/  

Sophia Doumas 

Sophia is a sophomore planning on majoring in evolutionary and ecological biology with a potential minor in writing. She enjoys testing her creative limits and is fearless when it comes to new experiences and challenges. Her diverse range of interests include sports/fitness, music, academics, and casual baking.  

As a Werth Innovator, Sophia looks forward to fostering community and connection as well as promoting action for wildlife conservation as a lifetime nature lover.  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophia-doumas-492b57317/  

Isabella D’Attilo  

Isabella is a sophomore from Norwalk, CT, studying marketing with an interest in management and entrepreneurship. She is treasurer of UConn’s marketing society. Bella enjoys exercise, spending time with loved ones, cooking, and working as much as she can outside of her studies.  

As a Werth Innovator, Bella is eager to learn from others as well as collaborate with her peers, connect, interact, and gain more valuable insight in the field of entrepreneurship.  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabelladattilo/  

Arkesh Ramesh Kumar  

Arkesh is a sophomore from Lexington, MA, studying physiology and neurobiology with a deep passion for medicine and addressing healthcare disparities. As co-founder of Assets for Aspirers, a non- profit focused on providing educational resources to underprivileged students in India and Boston, he hopes to empower others by tackling the root causes of educational and healthcare inequities.  

As a Werth Innovator, Arkesh will continue to find creative ways to provide underrepresented communities with access to opportunities they deserve.  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arkesh-ramesh-kumar/  

Tiana Harley 

Tiana is a rising sophomore from Portland, CT, with an academic interest in communication, business management, and entrepreneurship. As an active member of Delta Zeta and UConn’s Women in Business organization, she continues to build meaningful connections and deepen her understanding of collaboration and professional growth.  

As a Werth Innovator, Tiana is eager to learn from experienced mentors, work alongside other driven students, and gain the skills needed to turn ideas into meaningful impact  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tianaharley/  

Brandon Nagle  

Brandon Nagle is a Junior from Woodstock, CT, majoring in accounting. He is the founder of Applewood Exterior Cleaning as well as Aurify AI, a company that helps small businesses grow through automated marketing and AI-powered appointment-setting systems. He is passionate about building solutions that solve everyday problems and make work more efficient.  

As a Werth Innovator, Brandon is eager to learn from others, expand his knowledge, and continue growing his businesses.  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandon-nagle12/  

Ragan Medeles  

Ragan is a sophomore from Evans, CO, majoring in molecular and cellular biology. Aside from her academic passions of optometry and biology, she also has a large interest in music whether it is attending concerts or collecting physical media and analyzing music videos.  

As a Werth innovator, she is eager to pursue her ideas relating to her variety of passions, in hopes of creating something helpful, useful, and worthwhile.  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ragan-medeles-b87b25359/  

Joshua Kuteesa  

Joshua is a sophomore from Brockton, MA, majoring in finance. As an out-of-state student, Joshua came to UConn feeling led toward the campus life and the countless opportunities for him to explore.  

As a Werth Innovator, Joshua looks forward to utilizing the opportunities and relationships Werth Institute provides as a stepping stool for new ways to innovate and collaborate for his foreseeable career.  

Ayana Walters 

Ayana is a sophomore from Washington, D.C., majoring in economics with a focus on pre-law studies. She is actively involved in many organizations on campus, including the real estate society and women and minorities in economics society. Through many internships in the government sector, including positions with the NSA and the U.S. Patent and Trademark office, she has gained many valuable experiences.  

As a Werth innovator, Ayana is eager to explore her passion for the intersection between economics and legal systems.  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ayana-walters-241996331/  

Heaven Buckham
Heaven joined the First-Year Female cohort last fall. She is working towards a dual degree in the business school as a Management Information Systems major and in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences as a Psychology major. Outside of class, Heaven is a tour guide within the Lodewick visitors center, a business academic senator, and the Vice President’s Chief of Staff in the Undergraduate Student government.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heaven-angel-buckham/

Tania Cruz
Tania joined UConn’s Werth Innovators as a member of the First-Year Female cohort last fall. She is a double major in Political Science and Economics with a Pre-Law track and a double minor in American Sign Language and Crime and Justice. Apart from academics, Tania is involved in the women’s club ice hockey team as well as the law and society club.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taniaacruz/

Claire Dobbins
Claire joined the F3 cohort during the fall of her first year at UConn. She is majoring in History and Economics, works for the UConn Archives and Special Collections, and is a member of the UConn Fed Challenge Team. Her interests include oral history preservation, financial markets, and entrepreneurship. She is also passionate about art and design, and has worked as a professional calligrapher. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, hiking, and playing the piano.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/claire-dobbins-059037203/

Rachel Harris
Rachel joined the First-Year Female cohort last fall. She is majoring in Materials Science & Engineering. This summer, she plans on working to improve access to horses and horseback riding. When she isn’t busy studying or working, she enjoys hiking, horseback riding, and skiing.

Karla Perez
Karla joined UConn’s Werth Innovators as a member of the First-Year Female cohort last fall. She is majoring in communications and journalism. Apart from academics, Karla is also involved in The Daily Campus and the UConn Dance Company.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karla-perez-a03833271/