About Us
LinkMind bridges the gap between research and policy to drive meaningful change in public health. We are a student-run, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization spanning multiple states nationwide, driven by our shared passion for fostering a healthier and more equitable society. One of the most overlooked areas in cancer prevention is studying the environmental conditions in our communities and leveraging policy to address the risks they create. Data shows that these risks are not evenly distributed—low-income communities and communities of color disproportionately bear the consequences of environmental degradation and pollution. LinkMind works to change that. We conduct original research, participate in community events, and translate our scientific findings into policy recommendations that promote public health and sustainability. We invite you to join us and follow along as we work to make our world healthier, cleaner, and more just! If you are a student, contact us to find out how you can become a part of LinkMind today!
Our Team
Renee Ma
Co-President, Class of 2027 at New Trier High School, Chicago, IL
Hi! I'm Renee, a junior passionate about public health, carcinogen policy, and cancer prevention. In my free time, I'm likely in the lab doing research or competing in policy debate. I also like to play the piano and hang out with my family and friends!
Irene Zhang
Co-President, Class of 2027 at The Seven Hills School, Cincinnati, OH
Growing up, I have always been conscious about how my actions could help the environment, whether it be saving energy, reducing waste, or prompting others to live more sustainable lives. As I learned more about the inequitable distribution of environmental consequences imposed onto underprivileged communities, I felt driven to expand beyond individual contributions and address these disparities through research and public policy. LinkMind gives me the platform to collaborate with others in transforming this awareness into tangible impact, and I believe our work will not only benefit the world around us, but also those burdened by environmental injustices.
Kevin Liu
Chief Communications Officer, Class of 2029 at Adlai E. Stevenson High School, Lincolnshire, IL
I’m Kevin, a freshman interested in sustainability and public health. I participate in Congressional Debate and art, where I can learn a lot about these efforts while communicating my opinions! With LinkMind, I hope to contribute to a shared purpose: advancing awareness in public health and sustainability.
Charleigh Hayes
Research, Survey, and Events Coordinator, Class of 2027 at The Seven Hills School, Cincinnati, OH
I’m Charleigh Hayes, and I am a junior at Seven Hills in Cincinnati, Ohio. I’m passionate about environmentalism because I believe protecting nature is essential for future generations to thrive. I want to help create solutions that balance human needs with the preservation of ecosystems. Joining LinkMind gives me the chance to learn, collaborate, and contribute to meaningful change that supports both people and the planet.
Zahabia Shahpurwala
Legislative/Outreach Officer, Class of 2028 at The Seven Hills School, Cincinnati, OH
Growing up, the environment remained central to me in all aspects of life. At home, my family strived to live sustainably, and at school, I was always deeply passionate about the sciences and the natural world. From cutting down on my use of plastics to learning more about the effects of chemicals such as pesticides, I have never stopped doing my best for the environment and my community. LinkMind’s research led by youth is pivotal in further enlightening the general public about environmental issues and in working towards solutions for a better tomorrow. I am excited to continue to work for the world around me through LinkMind!
Hasika Avanigadda
Financial Officer, Class of 2028 at The Seven Hills School, Cincinnati, OH
Hello! I'm Hasika, a sophomore who loves learning, traveling, and staying active. Ever since the COVID-19 epidemic, I've been drawn to public health issues and their connection to the environment. The epidemic opened my eyes to the unjust obstacles certain communities face during times of crisis. Through Link Mind, I hope to raise awareness about the burdens underprivileged communities face and advocate for more sustainable practices. I believe we must take action now to improve public health and preserve our globe for future generations.
Sophie Xu
Team Member, Class of 2029 at William G. Enloe High School, Raleigh, NC
I’ve always noticed how, as I grew up, the environment only seemed to decrease in health, and being so young, my abilities to change that were restricted. I could only discover more things every year that passed, waiting for me to have the opportunity to help solve some of the problems I’ve seen, finally. I hope that working with LinkMind can help me create a bond with people who share my interest in these areas, and raise awareness about the issues surrounding us and how we can mitigate those conflicts.
Claire Gu
Team Member, Class of 2030 at Western Albemarle High School, Crozet, VA
When I was a little kid, I noticed how people’s actions have led to the destruction of the environment! I’ve tried my best to use ways of saving energy because of my fear of contributing to a poor climate! My mom introduced me to LinkMind, and I’m glad I can finally make a bigger difference in trying to protect the environment from going into shambles and enlighten people about the importance of their actions!
Former Members
Cathy Ding
Founder, Class of 2026 at William Mason High School, Mason, OH
As a little kid, I had a curiosity about natural history, which led me to learn about the Earth today. The more I read, I felt the less I knew, but I stumbled upon a few notable books that explained what people could do in this climate crisis. Together with other LinkMind founders, we found that community work is the most effective way to move us towards a greener, energy-efficient future. I’ll be attending the University of Chicago for an environmental science and innovators program this July. I'm excited to see what we can do better with LinkMind!
Rana Haverson
Founder, Class of 2026 at Maggie L Walker Governor’s School, Richmond, VA
I have been focused on the environmental crisis and passionate about addressing it for as far back as I can remember. Recently, as an environmental science student, I had the opportunity to learn in a more structured way about the natural world, public policy, and the socioeconomic impacts of energy-related issues that face our world today. Together with LinkMind, I am working to reduce the environmental strain of residential energy use and improve efficiency in buildings and homes.
Civa Haverson
Founder, Class of 2026 at Maggie L Walker Governor’s School, Richmond, VA
I grew up deeply concerned about the changes that humans were making to the earth, but until I had the opportunity to join the like-minded team at LinkMind, I couldn’t see a way to make a difference. Since then, I’ve helped promote education that drives real change, focusing on promoting greener alternatives that preserve quality of life. I am passionate about using this organization as a megaphone to spread awareness. I believe that most people want to become more energy efficient, with the right education and resources.