Navigating higher education and professional spaces can be challenging without guidance, something I wish I had more of from earlier on. The knowledge I have acquired through my own journey showed me that while opportunities exist, for minorities, access is low. I am passionate about upward mobility and increasing access to opportunities for black women to thrive academically and professionally. Serving through Imara Roose allows me to equip women of color with guidance and the tools to excel, all through a supportive and nurturing community of excellence. 

 

Tonia Sofoluke is a biomedical science professional with data analytic, research, and clinical health experience in various sectors. She has experience in clinical research, working to improve health outcomes for marginalized populations. She also has experience in Human Systems Engineering through her work with the Department of Defense, where she worked on various projects to ensure the aeromedical safety and readiness of Naval aviators. She holds a B.S. degree in Family Science from the University of Maryland, and a M.S. degree in Biomedical Sciences from Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine. 

 

Tonia is a Maryland native with proud Nigerian roots, as evidenced by her leadership roles in the African Student Association and African Student Progressive Action Committee as a student at the University of Maryland. She hopes to continue to serve as a vessel to impact young women of color through service and mentorship. 

 

Currently, Tonia works for a not-for-profit organization that operates Federally Funded Research and Development Centers for the U.S. Government, where she serves as a Health Program Analyst in the Public Health and Innovation Department. Through her role, Tonia works with government sponsors under the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to promote the health and well-being of Americans and to modernize healthcare.