Marissa Hardwrict
Community Partnerships and Practice Manager
Marissa Hardwrict, PhD, is a transformative leader in higher education, with over 17 years of experience designing, implementing, and leading impactful educational programs, professional development initiatives, and community-engaged research collaborations. She specializes in fostering equitable learning environments, building strategic partnerships, and advancing workforce development for underrepresented populations. Previously, Dr. Hardwrict served as education specialist and […]
Gerard Mejia
Data Coordinator
Gerard Mejia is the Data Coordinator for the Confluence Collaborative for Community Engagement at WashU. Gerard’s diverse experience in legal settings, political campaigns, and nonprofits has shaped him into a dedicated and passionate advocate for his community. Despite Gerard’s short time in St. Louis, he is committed to making a stronger and equitable St. Louis. […]
Katie Houck
Associate Director
Katie Houck is the associate director of the Confluence Collaborative for Community Engagement at WashU. With extensive experience in nonprofit management, community-engaged higher education, and program development, Katie is dedicated to creating programs and resources that support mutually beneficial, sustainable partnerships and is a passionate advocate for community engagement and equity. Prior to WashU, Katie […]
Erica L. Bumpers
Research Development Associate
Erica L. Bumpers, PhD, is a visionary educator, field researcher, and strategic innovator with over two decades of experience transforming educational systems and advancing equity in marginalized communities. As the Research Development Associate with the Confluence Collaborative at WashU, she leads cutting-edge research initiatives that bridge data, policy, and practice to improve life outcomes for […]
Bettina F. Drake
Director
Michael F. Neidorff Professor of Surgery
Bettina Drake, PhD, MPH, a distinguished cancer epidemiologist and professor of Surgery at WashU Medicine and Siteman Cancer Center, serves as the director of the Confluence Collaborative for Community Engagement. As a recognized expert in reducing cancer disparities, Dr. Drake’s research focuses on cancer prevention through nutritional and community-based approaches. She co-leads the Prostate Cancer […]