MEET BGSA EXCO 2024/2025

BGSA is a registered graduate student organization that serves as a support group to many graduate and professional students. We foster an academic, professional, and social environment for our members. We also serve as an aid in advocating the needs and concerns of black graduate and professional students. BGSA wants you to get involved so you will have the opportunity to expand your network and support from students who look like you!

Jorge Martinez Del'Angel

Jorge is a second year PhD student in Agricultural & Biological Engineering studying landfill waste reuse. He is originally from Alabama and did his undergrad and masters at Florida A&M University. Whenever he is able, he enjoys to grill, go to the beach, and go on adventures.

Jorge currently serve as the BGSA President

Traven Levar Cargill

I’m a PhD Student in Biological Sciences with focuses in Biology Education and Cell & Molecular Biology. I seek to make a difference in the lives of those I come in contact with – be that academically, professionally or in passing. Additionally, I’m an international student from The Bahamas who enjoys time with family and friends, good weather and just about anything considered fun.

I currently serve as BGSA Vice-President

Gabriel Steven Harris

My name is Gabriel Harris and I am currently a second year PhD student in the Basic Medical Sciences department. My work focuses on using nanoparticles as a vehicle for drug delivery to treat arthritis. One of my favorite hobbies is exploring new areas.

I currently serve as the Treasurer.

Isa Kamau Salaam

A young professional dedicated to creating solutions to agricultural issues. As a scholar, Isa studies agricultural economics in hopes of making a positive impact in the agricultural industry. 

Isa currently serve as BGSA Secretary.

Mojisola Morufat Adisa

I am from Nigeria and hold both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Chemistry. Currently, I am pursuing an interdisciplinary doctorate in Nutrition Science. My research focuses on understanding the mechanisms of lipid metabolism in the small intestine, with the goal of finding treatment options for tackling obesity and cardiovascular diseases. Outside of academics, I enjoy window shopping, spending time alone studying the Bible, and listening to music. I also love sleeping and often prefer it over watching movies.

I currently serve as BGSA Historian

Tobiloba Emmanuel Awoyemi

I am a PhD student in the Department of Chemistry, specializing in analytical chemistry. I earned a BSc and MSc in Analytical Chemistry from the University of Ibadan, Nigeria. My current research focuses on developing and optimizing surface chemistry techniques, particularly in the preparation and characterization of monolayers on solid substrates. With a keen interest in spectroscopy and surface analysis methods, I aim to advance the understanding of molecular interactions at interfaces. Beyond research, I am passionate about contributing to academic communities and mentoring fellow students. I am actively involved in departmental activities and organizations. I serve as the Membership Chair for the Black Graduate Student Association (BGSA). I work alongside a fantastic team to create engaging programs that foster inclusion and professional development for Black graduate students.

I currently serve as BGSA Membership Chair

Angel Renee Cox

Angel is a 3rd year PhD student in Counseling Psychology. Her research focuses on the mental health of Black populations and holistic methods of healing. She is passionate about DEI efforts and increasing participation in BGSA.

Angel currently serve as the Social Chair

Imani Adams

Imani is a 4th year PhD student in Engineering Education with a focus on K-12 Engineering Education. Prior to coming back for her PhD Imani worked 10 years in industry. Imani received her MS in Mechanical Engineering from The Ohio State University and her BS in Mechanical Engineering from North Carolina Agriculture and Technical State University. She is a proud HBCU graduate, AGGIE PRIDE! Imani’s previous leadership roles include Black Graduate Student Association President (23-24) and Academic and Professional Development Chair (Sp. 23).

Imani currently serve as the Undergraduate Outreach Chair. 

Comfort Temitope Aje

I am a second year PhD student in mathematics education. My research interests focus on preservice teachers’ knowledge in algebra. I am from Osun State, Nigeria. I am a lover of nature

I currently serve as the Academic and Professional Development Co-Chair

Chizaram Ugboh

I am a 2nd-year mechanical engineering master’s student at Purdue University. I am originally from the Baltimore-Washington area and earned my Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Maryland – Baltimore County. My research at Purdue focuses on molecular dynamics modeling of the effects of Raloxifene on the Estrogen Receptor Alpha (ERα) Protein’s Deformation. In my spare time I enjoy traveling to historic places, cooking and gardening.

I currently serve as BGSA Co-Chair of the Academic & Professional Development.

Emmanuel A. Babalola

Emmanuel Babalola is a fourth year Ph.D. student specializing in Learning, Design, and Technology within the Curriculum and Instruction field. Emmanuel earned his MSc in Physics and Astronomy (sp: Solid Earth Geophysics) from the University of Nigerian, Nsukka and his B.S. Ed in Physics from Adeyemi College of Education, Ondo, Nigeria.

His research at Purdue focuses on developing a holistic mentoring framework for foreign graduate students. This research explores the interplay of academic mentoring and graduate program completion self-efficacy. 

Emmanuel currently serve as BGSA Webmaster.