We are the CMERI Research Team!
Our team is based at the University of Michigan and is comprised of hard-working and talented graduate and undergraduate students led by primary investigator, Victoria Vezaldenos. We are motivated by our curiosity to learn more about ethnic-racial identity development and our shared commitments to diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice. Together we are brainstorming innovative research ideas, connecting with Multiracial student organizations across the U.S., and processing loads of data. We operate within the CASA lab and work closely with their research staff to achieve our common goals. Read more about our team members below!
Victoria Vezaldenos is a Doctoral student at the University of Michigan in the Combined Program for Education and Psychology and is leading the Critical Multiracial Ethnic-Racial Identity Project with the support of her Ford Predoctoral Fellowship. She is a first-generation college student from Manteca, CA. She majored in Psychology and minored in Education Studies at UCLA before earning an M.A. in Education Studies and M.S. in Psychology from the University of Michigan. As a Biracial (Mexican and White) woman herself, this work is not only contributing to a gap in the field, but also is a way of exploring her own lived experiences.
Brooklin Flaugher is an undergraduate student at the University of Michigan majoring in Cellular, Molecular, and Developmental Biology with a minor in Religion. As an Asian American, she looks forward to being involved in and contributing to an area of research that is exciting and interesting to her while also having the opportunity to build new connections. Outside of her studies, Brooklin enjoys spending time with her family and friends and visiting local cafes.
Yasmeena Jones is a Junior from Baltimore, Maryland, double majoring in Psychology and Sociology of Health and Medicine. She intends to pursue a Masters Degree in Public Health. As a Biracial and Muslim student the work in this lab can add some insight into her own life while contributing to needed research and policies in the academic field. In her free time she enjoys spending time with her friends, family, and especially her cat.
Ella Estabrook is an undergraduate student at the University of California, Davis, majoring in Sociology and minoring in Public Health. As a mixed-race student, Ella is excited about contributing to a field she is passionate about and expanding our understanding of Multiracial identities. She is grateful for the opportunity to be involved in research connected to her personal experiences and background, while working alongside such a great team.
Maia Ling Timmons is an undergraduate at the University of Michigan-Dearborn studying Behavioral and Biological Sciences. As a transracial adoptee, Maia is excited for the opportunity to further her understanding of how race has influenced her role in her society. In her free time she enjoys cooking, going to the gym and petting the cats.
KayLynn Young is an undergraduate student at the University of Michigan majoring in Public Health Sciences. Growing up in a predominantly white area, KayLynn has a strong interest in understanding the dynamics of privilege and identity and examining how these factors influence research outcomes. With a passion for uncovering health disparities and inequities in healthcare, KayLynn plans to attend medical school after completing her degree. In her free time, she enjoys long walks outdoors accompanied by her dog and a good book.
Elizabeth Fajardo is an undergraduate student at the University of Michigan studying Biology, Health, and Society. As a Biracial student, she is eager to explore how a Multiracial identity shapes individual experiences and is excited to learn more about it through this research. She is grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the recognition of Multiracial individuals and aspires to advocate for greater representation and support in a career in healthcare and beyond.
Durva is an undergraduate student at the University of Michigan majoring in Neuroscience with plans to pursue a career as a PA in the future. As a future healthcare professional, Durva is eager to contribute to the project, exploring how diverse identities influence health outcomes and healthcare practices. Durva aims to integrate this research into her current and future work in patient care, all while advocating for greater diversity and inclusion in healthcare. In her free time, Durva enjoys exploring new restaurants in downtown Ann Arbor and spending time with friends.
Hayden O’Neal is an undergraduate student at the University of Michigan studying Psychology with a minor in Community Action and Social Change, as well as a minor in Music. She intends to pursue a Masters Degree in Social Work. As a Biracial student she is passionate about learning about the Multiracial experience. In her free time, she loves playing clarinet, dancing, and spending time at Lake Michigan.
Former Research Assistants
Interested in joining our research team? Fill out the interest form below!
No research experience necessary. Remote work OK.