Meet the 2025 MSTEPP Scholars
The Minnesota Surgical Training in Excellence, Posters, & Presentations (MSTEPP) Scholar Internship offers undergraduate students from Tuskegee University, Norfolk State University, and Virginia State University a paid, immersive summer experience at the University of Minnesota’s Twin Cities campus.
Created for undergraduates interested in a surgical career, the program includes clinical and surgical observation, faculty-mentored projects, and educational seminars led by experts across the Twin Cities community.
Get to know the ten students in this year’s cohort and learn what drives their interest in medicine, their career ambitions, and how they enjoy spending their free time!
Sheneika Allen
“My name is Sheneika Allen, originally from Westmoreland, Jamaica, and currently residing in Stamford, Connecticut. I am a rising senior at Norfolk State University, pursuing a major in Biology Pre-Professional with a Pre-Med track. I am honored to be a recipient of the Greater Fairfield County Foundation Scholarship and the Dominion Engineering Endowed Scholarship. Additionally, I am a proud Spring 2025 Initiate of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated. In my free time, I enjoy painting, cooking, and engaging in community service initiatives.
Kye Nash
“My name is Kye Nash and I am from Dallas, Texas. I am currently a Pre-Med Biology and Nutritional Science double major attending the illustrious Tuskegee University. In my time here, I have earned a multitude of awards such as appearance on the Dean's List each semester in college, and the Eminent Scholars Award. My favorite hobby is fishing, and watching anime.”
Nilajah Buchanan
“My name is Nilajah Buchanan, and I am a junior biology major with a minor in psychology from Huntsville, AL. I am a pre-med student at Tuskegee University, a PERSIST scholar, and the Chair of the STEM Club. In my free time, I love reading, playing soccer, and listening to music.”
Kennedy Morris
“My name is Kennedy Morris, a junior Biology major at Tuskegee University, from Memphis, Tennessee. I am proud to be a University Merit Scholar and a recipient of the prestigious George Washington Carver Scholarship Award. In addition to my academic pursuits, I run a thriving on-campus nail business specializing in Gel-X.”
Joi Axem
“My name is Joi Axem, and I am a junior biology major at Tuskegee University from Miami, Florida. I aspire to attend medical school and plan to pursue a career as a breast oncologist. I have conducted research for two consecutive summers at UAB Heersink School of Medicine, focusing on both cardiovascular disease and therapeutic treatments for cancer patients with neuropathy. Outside of academics, I enjoy rollerblading as a way to stay active and clear my mind.”
Adrina Doherty
“My name is Adrina Doherty, and I am from Atlanta, Georgia, but my family is from Sierra Leone, West Africa. I’m currently a student at Tuskegee University, where I’m majoring in biology with a minor in psychology, and I’m in my junior year. I’ve been honored as an honor roll student, recognizing my academic efforts. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy playing tennis and doing arts and crafts, which helps me stay balanced and creative. I’m passionate about making a positive impact, especially in the lives of children, as I work toward my goal of becoming a pediatrician.”
Jerome Lyles Jr.
“My name is Jerome Lyles, I am from Augusta, GA. I currently attend Tuskegee University, class of 2026. I am a biology major on the premed path. I have received honors and been on the Dean’s list freshman and sophomore years. Some hobbies I have are cooking and listening to music.”
Renee Goodson
“My name is Reneé Goodson, and I am from Newport News, Virginia. I am currently a sophomore attending Norfolk State University. As a student, I am actively involved in campus life and have taken on the role of Treasurer on the Executive Board for the Exercise Science Club. This position is ideal for me as it enables me to contribute to the club’s mission of promoting health and wellness among students. My hobbies, such as working out, reading, roller skating, and yoga, along with my studies, help me maintain a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.”
Maneiqua Marshall
“My name is Maneiqua Marshall, and I am from Nassau, The Bahamas, where I was born and raised. I am a rising junior at Virginia State University, majoring in Biology with a minor in Spanish. After my freshman year, I was recognized as one of the most outstanding students in the Department of Biology. Outside of academics, I enjoy adventurous activities like zip-lining, go-karting, and traveling.”
Sarah Timothy
“My name is Sarah, and I'm from Circle Pines, Minnesota. I'm currently a junior at Virginia State University, majoring in Biology with a concentration in Bioinformatics and a minor in Chemistry. Recently, I was honored to receive the Your Joy Of Life Inspires AAA Scholarship from Bold.org. Outside of academics, I'm a huge movie fan. Lately, I've been enjoying films directed by Yorgos Lanthimos. I also consider myself a thespian at heart. I love watching live musicals whenever I can. When I was younger, I participated in one-act plays, full productions, and musicals, and that passion has stayed with me over the years.”
