Vindhya Kathuria

What Did You Work On: I assisted the WNY Women’s Foundation with researching, creating and assessing workforce development programs that prepare women in East Buffalo for jobs in family-sustaining healthcare fields. These programs not only seek to tackle the employment gap, but also to increase access to healthcare in marginalized communities. Additionally, I prepared project proposals, developed surveys to measure program success, and wrote grant applications.

Summer Takeaway: This summer I learned of the importance of developing programs that are person-centered and prioritize long-term sustainability. It is not enough to just provide women with an education, you must simultaneously provide them with holistic support services such as trauma-informed care, childcare, transportation, emergency scholarships, medical support, etc. so that they don’t just survive but thrive.

Career Goals: I am interested in working within the fields of DEI and social impact consulting.

Shout Out: A huge shout-out to my supervisors Brandy and Carol for their contagious passion and drive, it's impossible not to feel inspired and energized while working with them!