Two Data Science Students Among Inaugural Community Data Fellows Cohort

October 31, 2023
UVa Rotunda and Lawn sunset scene

Two graduate students in the University of Virginia’s School of Data Science were selected to join the Community Data Fellowship program, a collaboration between the School and the UVA Equity Center’s Democratization of Data Initiative.

The program, in its first year, will focus on building capacity for community-engaged and equity-centered data science projects over the academic year, with fellows partnering with local organizations who want to use data to support justice and equity.

Image
Ethan Assefa

Ethan Assefa is pursuing a master’s degree in data science. He previously completed a master’s degree in public health at Boston University and graduated from UVA in 2020 with a bachelor’s degree in psychology. He previously studied health equity in medical outcomes and told The Equity Center that he hopes to use this fellowship as a chance to enhance his understanding of equity in other areas.

Image
Silas Hayes

Silas Hayes is also working on a master’s degree in data science after completing a bachelor’s degree at UVA, majoring in statistics and government. He says he is eager to use data to help address social problems and develop better policies.