Executive Board

  • Heldana Markos

    CO-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

    Heldana Markos is a fourth year student at Cornell University studying Electrical and Computer Engineering. She has always been very passionate about education and has seen firsthand what a life changing difference a good education can make. She joined AEC with the disire to make quality education more accessible to people of all backgrounds. Outside of school and work, she loves to read and cook.

  • Yosabet Markos

    CO-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

    Yosabet Markos is a second-year student at the University of Colorado Boulder, where she is pursuing a degree in Biomedical Engineering. She joined Aspire during high school and continues to support its mission of expanding access to educational opportunities for all students. Passionate about the transformative power of education, Yosabet is committed to helping her peers reach their full potential. In her free time, she enjoys reading, crocheting, baking, and playing tennis.

Advisory Board

  • Ananya Talanki

    FOUNDER

    Ananya Talanki is a graduate of Emory University, where she earned her degree in Neuroscience and Behavioral Biology. She co-founded Aspire with the vision of creating more equitable access to academic resources for students from all backgrounds. Passionate about bridging educational disparities, Ananya brings a deep commitment to community impact, mentorship, and long-term systems change. Outside of her work in education and advocacy, she enjoys dancing and cooking with her siblings.

  • Akshita Kakumanu

    BOARD MEMBER

    Akshita Kakumanu is a third-year student in the 2+3 Occupational Therapy program at Creighton University. She is passionate about service, equity, and community engagement. Akshita was drawn to Aspire by her belief that equal opportunity begins with awareness and advocacy. Through her work with ASPIRE, she hopes to help empower students by expanding access to the resources they need to succeed. Outside of her academic and advocacy work, Akshita enjoys creating art and practicing dance.

  • Jireth Galeana

    BOARD MEMBER

    Jireth Galeana is a recent graduate of Creighton University with a strong passion for service and healthcare. She joined Aspire to help students gain access to the resources and support they need to pursue their academic and professional goals. With interests in journaling, music, and community outreach, Jireth brings both empathy and energy to her work. She plans to pursue a career in the medical field, where she hopes to continue advocating for equity and education.

  • Viravee Vashisht

    BOARD MEMBER

    Viravee Vashisht is a rising senior at the University of Colorado Boulder. She joined Aspire after witnessing firsthand the disparities that exist between schools and school districts, fueling her commitment to educational equity. Viravee believes that meaningful change begins with awareness and that every student deserves the tools and opportunities to succeed. Through her work with ASPIRE, she is dedicated to supporting her peers and creating a lasting impact in her community.