Mission

Our mission at DFC is to promote educational equity and champion diversity in STEM fields, fostering greater employment opportunities for minority communities while driving advancements in health and medicine for the benefit of all. Through mentorship and guidance, we strive to inspire and empower underserved communities—particularly children—to explore and excel in STEM, building a more inclusive and innovative future.

Commitment to Diversity

At the core of DFC is a commitment to fostering a culture of belonging, where individuals from all backgrounds feel welcomed, supported, and confident in their pursuit of higher education and beyond.

Vision Statement

Through mentorship, we strive to equip students with the confidence and clarity needed to pursue their aspirations in STEM fields. By connecting students with professionals in their areas of interest, we aim to provide practical guidance and actionable steps that support their journey toward success in education and beyond.

OUR CORE VALUES

Curiosity, Justice, Grit, Personal Growth

Grit

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Personal Growth

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Curiosity

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Justice

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Grit 〰️ Personal Growth 〰️ Curiosity 〰️ Justice 〰️

Meet our Leadership

Mateo Hernandez

Zuri Reid, B.S.

Diana Hernandez, B.S., M.S.

  • Co-Founder, Co-Chair

    I graduated from Spring Hill College with a BS in Biology and earned my MS in Microbiology from the University of Florida. Zuri and I met through our work in Clinical Research at Washington University in St. Louis. Although we came from different backgrounds, we quickly connected over shared struggles and the lack of diversity we had witnessed in STEM fields. I’ve always had a passion for paying it forward and sparking curiosity in others. My hope is for DFC to serve as a space for practical guidance and real motivation—a place where students feel supported, inspired, and empowered in their educational journeys.

  • Co-Founder

    I graduated from Boston University with a BA in Chemistry, and I am currently completing my Master’s in Medical Sciences, expected May 2025. I work as a Clinical Research Coordinator at Siteman Cancer Center and have a strong passion for both science and education. From tutoring peers in chemistry and physics to exploring STEM outreach, I’m committed to making science more accessible. My goal is to bridge the gap in STEM education and mentorship for underserved communities.

  • Co-Chair, Executive Director

    Currently a sophomore in high school, I’m passionate about empowering my peers to pursue their goals and aspirations across all career paths. At DFC, my goal is to help ensure students receive the guidance and support they need to succeed in their future endeavors. I also aim to provide fellow leadership members and volunteers with a student perspective to help guide the design of resources at DFC.

Volunteer!

Interested in volunteering? Sign up to be a mentor, give a talk, and more. There are so many ways to help out! Fill out some info and we will be in touch shortly. We can’t wait to hear from you!