Meet Our Bridge Leaders

2023-24 LSAMP Bridge Leaders

Joan “Jo” Castaneda

My name is Joan Castaneda but I go by Jo, and I am from Guanajuato, Mexico! I am a neuroscience major and a first-generation college student. Some of my hobbies are exercising, reading, hiking, and I am involved with the Palouse Discovery Center. I love to learn about people and conversate with them about their academic goals, life interests, or anything that comes up! In the future I hope to advocate for other first generation college students in whatever way I can and have a profession in the medical field!

Email address: joan.castaneda@wsu.edu

Kimberly Velasco

Hi, My name is Kimberly Velasco but you can call me Kim. I am currently a senior studying biology with a focus in basic health sciences and a minor in business on the pre-dental track. I am originally from California and moved to Selah, Washington a few years ago. Some of my hobbies are running, swimming and overall staying active. In my free time, I love spending time with my family and friends. I am currently in Yarn Club and in Pre-Dental Club. I am working as a dental assistant and enjoying every new experience in the dental field. I chose dentistry because I learned from a young age that dentistry is a luxury. As a first-generation student coming from a migrant family, I noticed my family neglecting their oral health. I want to serve underrepresented and underfunded communities.

Email address: kimberly.velasco@wsu.edu