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Vanessa Roaché

3x

Nominee

1x

Finalist

Bio

Hi, I’m Vanessa! I’m a Biomedical Engineering student, founder of my university’s National Society of Black Engineers chapter, and an aspiring social-impact entrepreneur. My journey began in my father’s garage, where curiosity about how things work turned into a lifelong passion for science, innovation, and service. Throughout college, I’ve combined technical training with leadership and community-building—competing in business and engineering competitions, hosting K–12 STEM camps, and mentoring students from underrepresented backgrounds. Whether through nonprofit work, student organizations or tech ventures, I strive to create spaces where others feel supported, seen, and empowered to pursue higher education. As I approach graduation, I’m preparing to pursue an MBA to strengthen my ability to build and scale mission-driven ventures. My long-term goal is to design and support organizations that expand access to education, healthcare innovation, and economic opportunity—especially in communities that have historically been overlooked. I believe learning is most meaningful when it’s shared, and success is most powerful when it’s used to lift others. Wherever my feet land, I’m committed to opening doors, challenging systems, and building pathways for the next generation.

Education

California Baptist University

Bachelor's degree program
2020 - 2026
  • Majors:
    • Biochemical Engineering
    • Biotechnology

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Doctoral degree program (PhD, MD, JD, etc.)

  • Graduate schools of interest:

  • Transfer schools of interest:

  • Majors of interest:

    • Biotechnology
    • Business Administration, Management and Operations
    • Social and Philosophical Foundations of Education
    • Sociology
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Technology

    • Dream career goals:

      My dream career is to build institutions that outlast me—organizations rooted in innovation, equity, and service. Through entrepreneurship and leadership, I want to leave behind systems that expand opportunity for generations.

    • Product Management Extern

      Extern
      2026 – Present3 months
    • Product Systems Validation Engineer Intern

      Cummins
      2025 – 2025
    • Project Coordinator

      Change the Cycle
      2025 – Present1 year
    • Chapter Founder & President

      National Society of Black Engineers
      2021 – 20254 years

    Sports

    Cheerleading

    Junior Varsity
    2017 – 20181 year

    Swimming

    Varsity
    2016 – 20182 years

    Research

    • Biological/Biosystems Engineering

      SpaceWear Solutions (Capstone) — Team researcher and project manager
      2025 – 2025

    Arts

    • Lancer Media Group- CBU University Org.

      Graphic Art
      2023 – 2024

    Public services

    • Volunteering

      National Society of Black Engineers — Chapter Founder at CBU and President
      2021 – 2025
    • Volunteering

      Change the Cycle — Project Coordinator
      2025 – 2026
    • Volunteering

      Adventist Health Care — Volunteer- ER
      2020 – 2020

    Future Interests

    Advocacy

    Volunteering

    Philanthropy

    Entrepreneurship

    Josh Gibson MD Grant
    Josh Gibson MD Scholarship