SACS Student Council
The Student Council of the School of Applied Computational Sciences (SACS) serves as the primary advocate and liaison for graduate students, dedicated to fostering a supportive community through academic, professional and well-being initiatives.
Council Goals
- Represent the interests, needs and concerns of all Master of Science and doctoral students within the School of Applied Computational Sciences.
- Act as a liaison between students and faculty, administration and external organizations.
- Promote academic success by organizing workshops, seminars and study groups.
- Advocate for resources and support systems that improve the learning environment for graduate students.
- Provide opportunities for students to enhance their professional skills through networking events, mentorship programs and industry connections.
- Promote collaboration and research opportunities.
- Create a sense of community among students through social events, peer support programs and collaborative projects.
- Promote mental health awareness and provide resources for stress management, work-life balance and overall well-being.
Mission Statement
The Student Council of the School of Applied Computational Sciences (SACS) is committed to supporting graduate students in their academic, professional, and personal growth. We work to create a welcoming and inclusive community that encourages teamwork, creativity and excellence in computational sciences. Our mission is to be a voice for students, promoting their well-being and success both within the academic environment and in their future careers.
SACS Student Council Officers 2025 – 2026

Chair
Pamela Djan
Ph.D. Biomedical Data Science Candidate, 3rd Year

Vice Chair
Mikaela Nixon
Ph.D. Biomedical Data Science Candidate, 3rd Year

Secretary
Malini Senthilkumar
Ph.D. Biomedical Data Science Candidate, 3rd Year
Public Relations Officer
Naija Thomas
Ph.D. Biomedical Data Science Candidate
Public Relations Officer
Victoria Franklin
Ph.D. Biomedical Data Science Student

Treasurer
Loni Taylor
Ph.D. Biomedical Data Science Candidate
Professional Development Chair
Laure Bien Aime
Ph.D. Biomedical Data Science Candidate

Academic Affairs Chair
Cyruss Tsurgeon
Ph.D. Biomedical Data Science Candidate
Well-Being / Mental Health Chair
Judith Dike
M.S. Biomedical Data Science

Pre-Alumni Rep / SOGS Member-at-Large
Brian Strong
M.S. Data Science
Meharry-Vanderbilt Student Alliance Leadership
David Lockett
Ph.D. Data Science Student

Courtney Quarterman
Ph.D. Data Science Student

Sarika Argawal
(Support) Ph.D. Data Science Student
Class Representatives

Dodji A. Kuwonu
Ph.D. Data Science Student
Michael J. Paul
Ph.D. Data Science Student
Available Roles
Social Events Chair, Alumni Chair
Faculty Advisors

Todd Gary
Associate Dean, External Research and Development Partnerships
Assistant Professor, Biomedical Data Science

