Alena Analeigh, a 14-year-old child prodigy, is making significant strides in cancer research in Baltimore. Despite her young age, she is a junior at Arizona State University and holds the distinction of being the youngest African American ever accepted into medical school. Alena’s passion for medicine and research led her to pursue studies in biosciences, where she focuses on laboratory work.
Currently interning at the University of Maryland School of Medicine as part of the American Cancer Society Diversity in Cancer Research program, Alena is studying ovarian cancer and natural drug treatments. Under the mentorship of Dr. Tonya Webb, she is exploring the effects of compounds found in licorice, green tea, and ginseng on cancer cells and the immune system. Alena’s dedication to diversity in STEM fields is evident through her foundation, “Brown STEM Girl,” which aims to inspire girls of color to pursue their passions in science.