#student – Page 6 – Hunt Institute for Engineering & Humanity

September 14, 2018March 23, 2022

Sienna Dugan ’20, Hunt Institute Associate

Sienna Dugan ’20 joins the Hunt Institute as an Associate, bringing with her a passion to provide resources to countries and regions that lack medical care.

Sienna Dugan is a Medical Coordinator of One World Surgery, formerly an Epidemiologist for the Texas Department of State Health Services, and an Epidemiologist for the Tarrant County Public Health department. Previously, Sienna worked in the Hunt Institute as an Undergraduate Research Analyst. She continues to volunteer to support other Undergraduate Research Analyst as a mentor.

In the late summer of 2021, Sienna began her role as a Medical Coordinator of One World Surgery on location in Honduras. One World Surgery works to transform lives by providing access to high-quality surgical care globally. OWS funds and operates a world-class surgery center located on the ranch of our partner, Nuestros Pequeños Hermanos™ which is home to over 500 abandoned and disadvantaged children. At OWS are dedicated to helping patients lacking the resources and access to receive world-class surgical care, as well as empowering hundreds of physicians, nurses and volunteers in the US contribute to make a positive impact in global health.

Since 2012, Sienna volunteered on multiple medical mission trips to China, El Salvador, Guatemala, and Ethiopia as well as her hometown, Los Angles, California working alongside medical professionals to help save the lives of children with no other options. At an early age, Sienna and her family started to host kids in their home as they were in the US receiving life saving surgeries. Whether it was holding her phone over the operating table so Dr. Gopi Manam could finish stitching up the hole in two year old Selina Hewiot’s beating heart when the power went out in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, or talking her family into hosting 3 year old named Erica from Guatemala with, not a cleft palate, but a double cleft face and hydrocephalus tumor because no one else would take her into their home and care for her during her extensive surgeries, her experiences have shaped her into a caring and compassionate advocate for social justice.

When asked what motivates her to do impact work she replied, “I believe the best way to lift yourself up is to lift up those around you. I can’t think of anything more rewarding than being able to work in a field where my job is helping others accomplish their dreams.”

Sienna Dugan ’20 is alumna of Southern Methodist University and the Hunt Institute. While a student at SMU, she worked as a Research Analyst in the Hunt Institute to develop an international poverty alleviation program in order to help promote a resilient humanity and was influential in piloting the program by working on a research project that promoted health in the refugee camps in Rwanda titled Assessment of Rwanda Refugee Camps in the Context of the Villagization Process. She co-authored Bridging the Gap in Diagnostics a broader impact report on the subject of a low-cost and portable point-of-care device for humanitarian and health applications. In addition, she served as the Philanthropy Chair of her sorority, Pi Beta Phi, as well as spending time on a water reallocation program designed to benefit the underprivileged community of the Piuris people, a Native American Pueblo in Taos, New Mexico. Sienna holds a Bachelor of Arts in Health and Society and a minor in Global Development and Psychology. She was an Engaged Learning Fellow and a recipient of the Caroline M. Jones Scholarship, the Cowels Scholarship, and the Opportunity Scholarship.

To read more about the Hunt Institute’s work to develop future-focused solutions to some of the world’s biggest problems, please click here. For the latest news on the Hunt Institute, follow our social media accounts on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram. We invite you to listen to our Podcast called Sages & Seekers. If you are considering engaging with the institute, you can donate, or sign-up for our newsletter by emailing huntinstitute@smu.edu.

September 14, 2018March 2, 2022

Cydney Kay Snyder ’19

Photo of Cydney Kay Snyder Class of 2019
Research Analyst, STEM Education
Majors: Human Rights, Public Policy, Political Science
Minor: Economics
Cornerstone Scholar
Honors College
Engaged Learning Fellow

Cydney Snyder graduated from Southern Methodist University with bachelor’s degrees in Human Rights, Public Policy, and Political Science. She is also a Cornerstone Scholar, an Engaged Learning fellow, and a member of SMU’s honors program.

Cydney is from Celina, Texas – a small, rural community, an hour outside of Dallas. While she worked on education research projects throughout her time at SMU, Cydney became passionate about STEM education after watching her brother struggle through the college application process. She has developed a STEM camp for rural communities, using place-based pedagogy. Cydney hopes that this camp provides students in rural communities more exposure to STEM as well as educates students on the applications of STEM in their everyday communities.

Outside of the Hunt Institute, Cydney had many leadership positions on campus. She served as the treasurer of the SMU Human Rights Council, and is the Vice President of Philanthropy for Alpha Chi Omega, and served as an Orientation Leader this past summer.

After graduating from SMU, Cydney earned a Master’s of Education from the University of Missouri-Saint Louis and is currently working as a Teaching Fellow at Ewing Marion Kauffman School.

September 14, 2018March 2, 2022

Tristan Knotts ’20

Class of 2020
Project Manager
Majors: Computer Science, Mathematics
Lyle Scholar
SEAS Award
Lyle Senator
Lyle Ambassador

Tristan Knotts graduated from Southern Methodist University, majoring in Computer Science and Mathematics. He was a Lyle Scholar, SEAS Award recipient, and a member of the Lyle Ambassadors program, the face of the Lyle School of Engineering and Lyle’s primary recruiting organization. Tristan has held many key roles within the organizations he is involved, including Lyle Senator within SMU’s 104th Student Senate, the captain of his intramural football team, and Treasurer of the Cyber Security Club.

In summer of 2018, Tristan, worked at AT&T, a global leader in technology, media, and communications, as a software developer and project lead, designing and developing a software application. At AT&T, he gained valuable insight into the technology and communications industry, as well as experience in an innovative corporate environment. He was given a key role within a new project that allowed him to complete most of the project development lifecycle and saving AT&T operation costs of hundreds of thousands of dollars over the next few years.

In the summer of 2017, Tristan, worked at the defense contractor Raytheon, as a cybersecurity intern, designing application frameworks, and conducting software testing. Tristan also worked at SMU’s Caruth Institute for Engineering Education for two weeks, teaching high school students the fundamentals of engineering, and drone piloting.

At the Hunt Institute, Tristan worked as a project manager, where he oversaw student-driven projects through the project lifecycle. He was drawn to the institute by its inspiring mission to help others and provide solutions to real-world humanitarian and environmental issues. He enjoys the opportunity to make an impact on the global community, and hopefully inspire others to make a difference.

“Upon first walking into the Hunt Institute I could see the passion, integrity, and innovation the team expressed daily. The projects taken on by the Hunt Institute are highly innovative and all have the potential for positive impact, making it rewarding to participate. The institute’s encouraging and supportive environment inspires me to work to help others and give back whenever I can. I look forward to working with the institute throughout my college career to make a difference in the community.”

After graduating from SMU, Tristan has been working as a Business Analyst at Deloitte Consulting.

September 14, 2018March 2, 2022

Andrea Dac Chau Nguyen ’20

Class of 2020

Research Analyst, Blockchain

Majors: Markets and Culture, Anthropology

Minors: History, Human Rights

Dedman College Scholar

Dean’s Scholar

Honor Roll

President of Career Development Ambassadors

Andrea graduated from Southern Methodist University with B.A. degrees in Markets and Culture and Anthropology and Minors in History and Human Rights. She was also an SMU Dedman College Scholar and President of the Career Development Ambassadors.

She lives in Allen, Texas and is passionate about how blockchain technologies are applied in social impact spaces. Andrea conducted research for the Hunt Institute on the history of blockchain technology and its cross-industry usage, with the goal of contributing vital information to Dallas nonprofits and start-ups interested in beginning their own blockchain applications.

While at SMU, she worked in various locations on- and off-campus, with experience working as an intern at the International Rescue Committee, with the SMU student newspaper, tutoring on-campus, and engaging in interdisciplinary research in sociology and political science. After graduating from SMU, she is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Transportation Technology and Policy at the University of California, Davis.

January 26, 2018March 2, 2022

Silvia Rivera ’18

Silvia Rivera ’18

Student Analyst

Senior, SMU Class of 2018
Cox School of Business, General Business
Dedman College of Humanities and Sciences, International Studies and Spanish
President’s Scholar
Cox BBA Scholar
McLane Scholar
Research on artisan entrepreneurship and inclusive economic development

“My motivation is closely tied to my personal beliefs and life experiences. Like a perfectly functioning ecosystem, I believe that everyone and everything in this life is (somehow) connected. Growing up, a string of small opportunities opened up the world for me. The idea of giving back by creating even the smallest opportunity for someone else to improve their life, and thereby the lives of others through those they touch, is what drives me.” – Silvia Rivera

Silvia graduated from Southern Methodist University with a B.B.A in General Business and B.A.s in International Studies and Spanish. She was also an SMU President’s Scholar and Cox BBA Scholar. As a child, she immigrated to the U.S. with her family from Chiapas, Mexico and is passionate about breaking down complex issues and empowering underrepresented individuals.

At the Hunt Institute, Sylvia conducted research on artisanal entrepreneurship and empowering female artisans and assisted with the Hunt Institute’s Inclusive Economy Consortium.

While at SMY, Silvia build professional experience and developed her business acumen through case competitions, leadership workshops and summer internships, most recently serving as an Advisory intern for global professional service firm EY in Dallas, TX and Bogotá, Colombia.

Currently, Sylvia is attending Boston College where she is pursuing a Masters in Education in Early Childhood Education.

Contributors to this blog post:

Written by: Kim Strelke

Edited by: Silvia Rivera & Maggie Inhofe

Photo by: Alissa Llort

January 26, 2018March 2, 2022

Maggie Inhofe ’18

Maggie Inhofe ’18

Student Fellow

Masters in Design & Innovation, SMU 2018
- Student Senate Scholar, 2018
- Maguire Public Service Fellowship, 2017
Bachelor of Arts in Architecture, Yale University, 2015
- Harvey Geiger Fellowship, 2015
- William F. Buckley, Jr. Fellowship, 2014
- Duncan Robinson Scholar of British Art, 2013

“I came to the Hunt Institute because I believe in design that is beautiful, helpful and accessible. There are pockets in our world, both here in Dallas and across the globe, that lack design fueled by intentionality and integrity. My hope is that the work done here can inspire solutions that can be adopted anywhere, by anyone, to make this world as it ought to be.” – Maggie Inhofe

Maggie studied Design + Innovation at SMU, a new degree that aims to teach human-centered design to students from every discipline. She first fell in love with the field of design through studying the built environment, but now enjoys studying systems and using iterative design processes on all types of projects. She came to the Hunt Institute for Engineering and Humanity because of their commitment to disrupt patterns of local and global poverty.

Maggie was a part of the Evie team in 2016 and also worked on a student housing project in Taos, NM. She was awarded the Maguire Public Service Fellowship to study modular building systems for compressed earth block houses.

After graduating from SMU, Maggie has been working as a Design Strategist for Fidelity Investments.

Contributors to this blog post:

Written by: Kim Strelke

Edited by: Maggie Inhofe

Photo by: Alissa Llort

January 26, 2018March 2, 2022

DeAngelo Garner ’18

DeAngelo Garner ’18

Student Intern

SMU Class of ’18
Bachelor of Arts in Corporate Communications & Public Affairs
Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations
Minor in Spanish
Student Director, Rotunda Academic Scholars Program
President, Voices of Inspiration Gospel Choir
Resident Assistant, SMU Service House
Social Media & Email Chair, SMU Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA)

“It has been incredibly impactful to see the effects of my efforts within the Hunt Institute as a student. Having my hands in projects based in South and West Dallas that directly impact the lives of local residents has been an encouraging learning experience.” – DeAngelo Garner

DeAngelo Garner is a North Texas native and graduated from SMU studying organizational communications, public relations and Spanish. His drive for social impact concerning personal wellness and access and equity was reflected through his extracurricular work on campus.

During his time at SMU, he worked closely with the Office of the Provost to analyze and facilitate initiatives to help with minority retention on campus. He also worked as an Ambassador in the Meadows School of the Arts, as well as the President of the Voices of Inspiration Gospel Choir. Many of his passions have been aligned through his collaboration with various local nonprofit organizations involved in the idea creation of solutions to address community concerns within the food deserts of South and West Dallas.

His work experience and personal goals led him to the Hunt Institute, which gives him the opportunity to engage in various initiatives aimed at improving numerous qualities of human life within underprivileged communities. At the Institute, he worked to update various social media channels for many of their partner organizations. He also managed these partner organizations’ online subscriptions and worked to update the Institute’s documentation concerning its organizational structure.

When not discussing the importance of advocacy and self-care, DeAngelo enjoys playing tennis or reading a book near an open window.

Contributors to this blog post:

Written by: Kim Strelke

Edited by: DeAngelo Garner & Maggie Inhofe

Photo by: Alissa Llort

January 26, 2018March 2, 2022

Kim Strelke ’17

Kim Strelke ’17

Student Intern

SMU Class of ’17
Bachelor of Arts in Corporate Communications & Public Affairs
Bachelor of Arts in Strategic Communications & Public Relations
Minor in Journalism
University Honors Program member
Second Century Scholar

“I never knew how much a small group of people could accomplish until I came to the Hunt Institute. It is amazing to see all of our diverse talents come together to try to tackle problems of poverty in such a unique way. As a Dallas native, the people of Dallas are near and dear to my heart, so I am passionate about doing my part in trying to make an impact on our community.” – Kim Strelke

Kim graduate from Southern Methodist University double majoring in Corporate Communications and Public Affairs with specializations in both Organizational Communication and Public Relations. She also earned a minor in Journalism.

During the summer of 2017, Kim spent six weeks studying and working in London, England, where she interned at Stylus Media Group within their Decoded Fashion branch on the marketing team. The team worked to promote their upcoming Decoded Fashion and Beauty Summit in New York in November 2017. She used social media, website, blog posts, and email blasts to promote the event and garner media and community partnerships.

Kim has previously worked with the Hunt Institute as a researcher for food deserts. She was drawn to the Hunt Institute because of its social awareness. Ultimately, she wants to see Dallas become a more stable city, where all families and citizens have opportunity and necessities. The work the Hunt Institute does focuses on coming up with viable solutions for local communities, and Kim has enjoyed being a part of that solution.

Contributors to this blog post:

Edited by: Kim Strelke & Maggie Inhofe

Photo by: Alissa Llort

January 26, 2018March 2, 2022

Alejandro Dominguez ’20

Alejandro Dominguez Garcia ’20

Solar Energy Project Lead

SMU Class of ’20
Mechanical Engineer major
Business Administration and French minor
Engineering intern at Quantum Utility Generation
SMU Multicultural Award of Excellence
Honor Roll
Second Century Scholar
National Society of Collegiate Scholars
Hilltop Scholar
President of National Society of Hispanic Engineers

“As a mechanical engineering student of the 21st century, technology seems to be growing exponentially; however, most engineers focus on the advancements of technology and not of the human race. I am motivated to help fill this gap and make technological advancements affordable so that humanity as a whole can grow and everyone can live better lives.” – Alejandro Dominguez Garcia

Alejandro graduated from Southern Methodist University with a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering and Minor in Business Administration and French. He was also an SMU Hilltop Scholar, Second Century Scholar, and President of the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers.

He was born in Mexico City, Mexico and moved to the United States with his family as a child. He is passionate about the aerospace and energy industry and how to use these fields to help the progression of humanity. Alejandro conducted research for the Hunt Institute on 3D printed Hydroponic and Aeroponic systems that increased efficiency and lowered the cost of Urban Farming.

While at SMU, he built professional experience through summer internships, most recently serving as an Mechanical Engineering Intern for the energy and utilities company Quantum Utility Generation in Houston, TX.

After graduating from SMU, Alejandro has been working as a Mechanical Engineer at BP.

Contributors to this post:

Written by: Kim Strelke

Edited by: Alejandro Dominguez Garcia & Maggie Inhofe

Photo by: Alissa Llort

January 26, 2018March 2, 2022

Wendy Alyea ’18

Wendy Alyea ’18

Student Analyst

Environmental Engineering Graduate Student in SMU 4+1 program
Engineering Fellows Scholar
Provost Scholar
Chi Epsilon American Society of Civil Engineers
Student Project Lead for the Taos Project: Site Evaluation
Member of the Evie Project Phase II: Optimization in Growing
Research in environmental assessments and alternative growing systems

“Learning about the impacts of human industrialization and fragility of many environments, I wanted to promote human interaction with nature without the effect of damaging the environment. I get to incorporate my skills as an environmental engineer and my passion for site evaluation and habitat restoration into my projects at the Hunt Institute.” -Wendy Alyea

Wendy Alyea graduated from SMU studying for a Master in Environmental Engineering through the SMU 4+1 program. She received previous degrees in May 2017, a B.S. in Environmental Engineering and a B.A. in Chemistry, with completion of her undergraduate studies at SMU. During undergrad, she studied classics for a semester abroad at Trinity College Dublin in Ireland. Her graduate degree will be completed in May 2018.

Wendy began working with the Hunt Institute in fall of 2013 in conjunction with an Engaged Learning project on aquaponics. When the mentor for her Engaged Learning project left for sabbatical, Dr. Eva Csaky volunteered to become her new mentor. Through this partnership, Wendy produced a paper on waste optimization alternatives, an instruction manual for aquaponics, gardening, and composting, and a case study on aquaponics system failure. She worked on the Evie Phase I and II projects and the community garden.

Wendy was also the student lead on site evaluation for the Taos project at the SMU-in-Taos campus. This involved an environmental assessment to determine the impact of material collection at one site on campus and construction of an earthen brick structure at the second site.

Wendy interned for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 6 office in the water enforcement division and at MWH Global, now a part of Stantec, in the water and wastewater design branch in Dallas, TX. Between Fall 2016 to Spring 2017, Wendy also completed a senior design project to determine grit removal technology for the Village Creek Water Reclamation Facility in Fort Worth, TX.

Contributors to this post:

Written by: Kim Strelke

Edited by: Wendy Alyea & Maggie Inhofe

Photo by: Alissa Llort