Meet Our Bridge Leaders
2023-24 LSAMP Bridge Leaders
Joan “Jo” Castaneda
![Jo Castaneda, bridge leader for LSAMP starting in spring 2024.](https://s3.wp.wsu.edu/uploads/sites/2366/2024/02/lsamp-bridge-leaders-2024-25_jo-castaneda_1200w1200h-198x198.jpg)
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
![Kimberly Velasco, bridge leader for LSAMP starting in fall 2022.](https://s3.wp.wsu.edu/uploads/sites/2366/2023/07/bridge-leaders_2023-24_Kimberly-Velasco_photo_ALR-Enh_1697w1920h-e1690243519897-198x198.jpg)
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