Office of Graduate Affairs

Akanksha is a mission-driven professional with an enthusiasm for social development. Hailing from the northeast of India, her journey has been defined by relentless dedication to making a positive impact on society. Akanksha has worked with various nonprofits across India, aiming to address core social issues surrounding menstruation, livelihood, and dignity. Having a strong interest in issues pertaining to gender development, impact investing and CSR, she aims to build a strong society for the upcoming generations. Alongside her academics, she has served as the Student Advisor and Support Coordinator at the Heller Student Association. 

Modesta holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from Zenith University in Ghana and a Master of Arts in Gender, Peace, and Security from the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Centre, Ghana. Currently, she is in the process of launching a new podcast called "Heller Voices for Social Policy." Modesta is a multifaceted individual, serving as a businesswoman, politician, and co-founder of "West African Women for Peace" (WAW for Peace), a non-profit organization dedicated to mentorship, raising awareness, promoting financial literacy, advocacy for peace, and engaging in activities such as walks for peace, mediation, and negotiation.

Rajesh blends his diverse professional background with his academic journey. With four years of hands-on experience in startups, customer service, and operations, Rajesh brings a plethora of insights to the table. At the International Business School, he is also the president of the IMC Club, a senator within the MBA program, and a part of multiple club bodies. Rajesh thinks of fostering inclusivity and equal opportunities for everyone. Beyond the books, he's a gearhead with a rooted passion for motorsports and Formula 1. He is also a national champion in the Mahindra AQ competition.

Xiaohang brings a vibrant energy and a rich tapestry of experience in finance. With an 11-year track record in auditing, financial management, and investment, Xiaohang is passionate about fostering a collaborative environment and enhancing the student experience. Their commitment to service is evident through active participation in student activities and a readiness to lend their expertise for the betterment of the community. Xiaohang embodies the spirit of leadership with a focus on transparency, responsible stewardship of funds, and the pursuit of excellence in every facet of their role.

Selma Doğmaç is a PhD student at the department of Near Eastern and Judaic Studies. She received her BA in theology at Marmara University, Istanbul. Selma earned double MA degrees in the History of Religions department at Ibn Haldun University in Istanbul and the Jewish Studies Department at the University of Haifa in Israel. Her MA thesis, titled "Jeremiah in Islamic Tradition," discussed various interpretations of Muslim scholars on the Biblical prophet Jeremiah in Jewish sources. Selma's research focuses on Jews in Muslim lands, Biblical prophets in Islamic tradition, Jewish-Muslim relations in Medieval periods, and Medieval literary works of Muslims and Jews.

Born in Ghana, Samuel received his undergraduate education at the University of Ghana, where he studied Geography and Resource Development. Before Heller, he worked with the Institute of Statistical, Social and Economic Research as a research assistant and with Lead for Ghana as a project supervisor, using research and development projects to drive change. Outside school and work, he enjoys playing the piano and bass guitar. Samuel’s life principle is that the best life is the one lived to serve others.

Quentin Cox is a Social Policy doctoral student at Brandeis University. His research focuses on how historically Black institutions can leverage policy to reduce the racial wealth gap. He is a Racial Justice x Technology Policy Ph.D. Fellow at the Institute for Economic and Racial Equity at the Heller School for Social Policy and Management.
 
Quentin earned a Bachelor of Science in Management from the United States Air Force Academy and a Master of Divinity with a concentration in Religion and Economic Justice from Vanderbilt University. While at Vanderbilt, he earned graduate certificates in “African American Diaspora Studies” and “Black Church Studies.” Additionally, he was awarded both the distinguished Umphrey Lee Dean’s Award and the Divinity Student Government Association Service Award.
 
Quentin served as an Air Force officer and is a former retail executive. He is also the founder of the Center for Urban Economic Justice (CUEJ), a non-profit organization committed to closing the racial wealth gap by building Black economic power and dismantling the “Road to Zero Wealth.” In this capacity, he leverages his military and corporate leadership experiences along with his academic scholarship to guide the CUEJ’s work.

Sayan is a third-year graduate student in the Molecular Cell Biology Program. From his earliest days at Brandeis, Sayan's passion for community engagement and advocacy was evident. Through GSA Senate, Sayan strives for an environment where all his peers can access highest quality support and resources. He is committed towards not just racial and gender diversity but also diversity in thoughts where everyone can freely express themselves. Understanding the unique challenges of international students, Sayan is particularly focused towards an inclusive environment beyond academic excellence where everyone can feel that they truly belong.

Jiaxuan is the president of the International Business School  Student Association, and also a first-year MA/MSBA student.  She dedicate her time and passion to strive for student's rights and equalities, and she is hoping to create a better interactive platform for the student community where everyone's ideas will be heard and equal rights will be ensured.

Sneha is a doctoral student in anthropology at Brandeis University. Her work focuses on women’s mobility, sacred sites and urban space in India. Previously trained as a lawyer, she worked as a legal researcher focusing on various facets of urban governance. She created and hosts the Feminist City podcast series which looks at cities from a feminist perspective.  

Sneha is deeply committed to building connections and community. Through the GSA Senate, she hopes to assist graduate students find resources and support they need to navigate and thrive in University, and to help make graduate school feel like a welcoming space, especially for international students. In her spare time, she loves spending time with her cats, learning embroidery and having chai with her friends.

Lois is a second-year student in Sustainable International Development at the
Heller School for Social Policy and Management. She is deeply committed to
advocating for social change and sustainable development, focusing particularly on
youth empowerment, women's advancement, and environmental management. Lois has
effectively designed and executed community empowerment initiatives in Ghana and
the West African region to foster inclusive growth and self-sufficiency. She earned her
Bachelor of Science in Natural Resource Management from the Kwame Nkrumah
University of Science and Technology in Ghana and is presently serving as the Co-chair
of the Heller Student Association.