Sir John Templeton Memorial ScholarsInspiring New Ways to Uncover Human Potential

Kriston Clarke

Master of Public Health
Johns Hopkins University, USA

Research Interests and Ongoing Work:

My research focuses on the intersection of community health, social determinants of health and adolescent and young adult well-being. My current role as a research assistant has allowed me to explore diverse topics that align with the commitment to promoting human flourishing through science and innovation.”

Evolving Research/Questions

I am currently developing research questions that include:

• How do greening initiatives in urban areas impact adolescent mental health and physical well-being?
• How can community-based healthcare services better align with the needs and priorities of underserved populations to promote health equity?

Practical Applications

Through these projects, I aim to bridge gaps in health equity by addressing environmental, social and economic determinants of health. My work is guided by a passion for community-centred solutions and the application of innovative research methods to improve public health outcomes.

Leandra Moonsammy

Doctorate in Mathematics
University of Georgia, USA

Research Interests and Ongoing Work:

I am embarking on an exciting journey that combines my passion for applied mathematics with real-world problem solving. My undergraduate degree in Mathematics and my master’s degree in data science have given me a strong foundation to pursue research that bridges theoretical mathematics with practical applications.”

Evolving Research/Questions: 

As I progress through my doctoral program, I will be taking qualifying examinations in areas such as numerical analysis, probability, complex analysis, algebra and topology. These examinations will deepen my expertise and prepare me for specialized research.

Practical Applications:

Looking ahead, I aim to position myself as a mathematician who can bridge the gap between theoretical development and practical implementations. By maintaining a strong focus on mathematical foundations while considering real-world applications, I hope to contribute to both the theoretical advancement of applied mathematics and its practical application across various fields.

Fredericka Saunders

Doctorate in Education: Institutional Effectiveness
North Dakota State University, USA

Research Interests and Ongoing Work:

My research focuses on understanding the experiences of marginalized groups in higher education, including faculty, staff and students.  Using institutional ethnography and feminist standpoint theory, I study how institutions’ policies, practices and systems shape the daily lives of individuals and make informed recommendations based on the finding.

Evolving Research/Questions:

Some of my current research questions include:

• Women Faculty in Higher Education
  • What are the processes, policies, procedures and discourses that coordinate the daily work of women faculty members?
  • What challenges do women faculty members in higher education face in the pursuit of work-life balance?
• International Graduate Student Mothers
  • What challenges do international graduate student mothers face in balancing their academic and family responsibilities in the United States?
  • How are power, privilege and gender implicated in the coordination of the work of international graduate student mothers?

Practical Applications:

I aim to offer recommendations to improve diversity, equity and inclusion in any organisation. This research also provides me with valuable practice and experience that I can apply to future research in The Bahamas, allowing me to address local educational challenges and support the growth of inclusive and effective institutions.