MEET THE STUDENT STAFF

Hi! My name is Alea LeBlanc, and I am a Biology student at the University of Colorado, working toward my goal of becoming a Physician Assistant. I have a deep passion for healthcare and hands-on learning, always looking for ways to grow in the medical and scientific fields. Outside of academics, soccer has been a huge part of my life—I love the energy, teamwork, and fun that comes with the game, whether I’m playing or coaching. I thrive in fast-paced environments, enjoy connecting with others, and bring enthusiasm to everything I do. 

Ashley (Ash) Bedore is the office's Data and Evaluation Graduate Assistant. They enjoy handling and analyzing student data, providing backend support to improve the UPP and CUPS applications, and contributing to furthering EOPI students' success. This coming summer, they will co-facilitate the CUPS Health Equity course. Ash is also a graduate student finishing their MA program in the Sociology Department at the University of Colorado Denver, with a concentration in Health & Society. As an LGBTQ-disabled person, they are passionate about filling the gaps in social research at the intersection of their own identities. In their free time, Ash adores anything involving making music, supporting local music and art scenes, exploring the beautiful mountains of Colorado, community involvement, and working on their creative projects.

Hello! I’m Coley Pope, a Cohort Lead for the CU Pre-Health Scholars Program (CUPS) and a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) with eight years of healthcare experience. I hold three associate degrees—Physical Therapy, Sociology, and Psychology—as well as a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science. Currently, I’m working to pursue a master’s degree in Physician Assistant Studies.

Throughout my career, I have collaborated with numerous healthcare teams and worked alongside a variety of healthcare professionals. These experiences have provided me with a multifaceted view on how the CUPS program can support and guide our students through their own healthcare journeys. In the past, I have enjoyed mentoring via shadowing opportunities and onboarding new healthcare students which is what ultimately inspired me to join the CUPS program.

Outside of work, I love expanding my horizons through travel, immersing myself in new cultures, and spending time in nature. Some of my hobbies include hiking, skiing and off-roading. I also LOVE dogs!                                

Information Comming

Hi! My name is Kim-Phung (Kimmy) Van and I am a learning assistant for the CU Pre-Health Scholars program and a part of the EOPI team! I am a first-generation student currently studying Psychology with double minors in Spanish and Chemistry at the University of Colorado Denver. I am deeply committed to creating a welcoming, supportive, and empowering educational environment where everyone can thrive CUPS offered me many opportunities that supported me in my transition into college, which ignited my desire to be able to give back to the program and express my infinite gratitude. 

Hi! My name is Matilda, and I'm an international student in my first year at CU Denver, majoring in Biology on a pre-med track. I am the pre-health cohorts lead for the 7th grade and part of the EOPI team. I am incredibly committed to helping students thrive and exposing them to different research and STEAM opportunities and careers. Outside of this, I enjoy being outside and giving back to the community.

Hello! My name is Matthew Kleyman, a learning assistant for the CU Pre-Health Scholars Program and a member of the EOPI team. I am currently a student at the University of Colorado Denver on the Pre-Medicine track majoring in biochemistry and double minoring in biology and chemistry. As a former CUPS scholar, I am now able to give back to the program and allow for further growth and development for our students. In my free time, I enjoy hanging out with friends, reading, and going on adventures.

Hi! My name is Na’Kia Napue, and I am the High School Program Coordinator for the CU Pre-Health Scholars Program. I am a Junior at the University of Colorado Denver, majoring in Psychology and minoring in Criminal Justice. Having been a previous CU-Pre Health-Scholar, I am dedicated to facilitating an environment in which youth can flourish and explore STEAM careers. In my free time, I enjoy reading, roller skating, playing board games, and baking with my mother!

Hi! My name is Rachel Smolka, and I am the sophomore cohort lead for the CU Pre-Health Scholars Program (CUPS). I’m in my first year at the University of Colorado Denver, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Public Health.  I’m originally from Arizona and have been loving exploring Colorado. Outside of academics, I love hiking, baking, and watching Netflix series. I’m very grateful to have the opportunity to contribute to a life-changing program!

Hello! My name is Samantha Ramirez, a Student Assistant for the Middle School Pathway Programming at the Office of Educational Outreach and Pathway Initiatives. Currently, I'm in my second year at the University of Colorado Denver, pursuing a pre-med track. Although born in Denver, I spent the initial five years of my life in a small little town in Mexico called La Garita, Jalisco. Beyond the realm of academics, I have a passion for volunteering, exploring the outdoors, and baking!

Hi! My name is Samia Sharmin Diba, and I am the 6th-grade cohort lead for the CU Pre-Health Scholars Program (CUPS). I am currently pursuing my master’s in Computer Science at the University of Colorado Denver.
As I have worked in social service initiatives in my undergrade, I am loving my experience with CUPS, where I get to support young scholars in exploring STEAM education and preparing for future academic success.
As someone new to Colorado, I’m enjoying discovering all that the state has to offer while contributing to this inspiring program! Beyond my studies, I enjoy watching K-dramas, experimenting with new recipes, and keeping things organized. I also love spending time with my friends.