Our Team

Dr. Shy Brown is a STEM leader, nonprofit executive, entrepreneur, and biochemist with 9+ years of experience advancing mission-driven initiatives across nonprofit, corporate, education, and community sectors. She is also the owner of The Brown Way, a consulting agency focused on advancing strategic initiatives for business owners, nonprofits, corporations, and academic institutions.

With a B.S. in Biology from Jackson State University and an M.S. and Ph.D. in Biological Sciences from Tennessee State University, her scientific contributions in academic and industry spans exercise science, sports physiology, bioinformatics, immunology, and cancer biology. Passionate about creating opportunities for the next generation, Dr. Shy combines her scientific background with her experience in mentorship, strategic partnerships, and workforce development to help youth and college students recognize their strengths, build confidence, explore career possibilities, and navigate their educational and professional journeys.

Dr. Keisha Smith Wade is currently a Program Manager and Scientist for a non-profit responsible for managing the process of scientific peer-review projects for state and non-profit organizations. Dr. Smith Wade is a trained neuroscientist with more than 10 years of experience with basic, translational, and clinical research and expertise in mood disorders and substance use disorders. Her mission is to continue to mentor, encourage, and engage people of color in the sciences. 

Dr. Smith Wade is a graduate from Meharry Medical College with a doctorate in biomedical sciences/neuroscience and completed her bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Memphis. Dr. Smith Wade was a NIDA T32 Postdoctoral Fellow at Yale University, in the Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging and Psychiatry in Addiction Neuroimaging.

Bernadeth is an organized and accomplished Executive Assistant with 8 years of experience and a seasoned Project/Program Manager with 6 years under her belt. She excels in team management, project coordination, ensuring timely task completion, client reporting, and stepping in for colleagues when needed. Bernadeth also has skills in graphic design, SEO, and web design. She looks forward to working with Building Bridges, Inc. because their innovative approach to empowering young girls through STEM education and leadership programs resonates with her passion for fostering inclusive and transformative community initiatives.

A dedicated solo parent for 14 years, Bernadeth finds joy in organizing and designing. She loves crafts, journaling, and anything related to planners. Her main passion is photography. Additionally, she enjoys tutoring kids and creating activities for them. She pursued a Bachelor of Science in Hotel Management.

Dr. Danielle Liubicich is a dedicated educator and relentless optimist whose work has focused on increasing student success in STEM programs.  Danielle has over 15 years experience in higher education serving in a variety of faculty and administrator roles at 2- and 4-year institutions in CA and IL.  Currently she is the Director of the Math and Science Learning Center at UIC, which is a welcoming space that provides equitable academic support for all students enrolled in introductory-level courses.  She is also a learning community facilitator for an Inclusive Education Scholars Program for educators on campus.

Her educational background includes a BS in Biology from Fairfield University, BSc in Developmental Biology from the Universitty of Chicago, and PhD in Integrative Biology from the University of California Berkeley.  Outside of her work in STEM education, she enjoys being outdoors and supporting athletes as a certified paratriathlon and triathlon coach.

Dr. Stephanie Adams is an award-winning STEM educator and curriculum developer. Throughout her career, she has also had the privilege to serve as a mentor to many educators, and has been hailed as a “problem-solver” by colleagues. Her career in STEM education started over thirty years ago, at which point she attended Illinois Institute of Technology (Chicago, IL) to study Chemical Engineering. Her love for science and her knack for teaching led her to complete her Bachelor of Arts in Education with a specialization in math and science. Dr. Adams went on to obtain a Master of Education in Administration and Supervision and a Doctorate of Education in Curriculum and Instruction.

Throughout her educational career, Dr. Adams has instructed K-12, public and private students in math and science. After retiring from one of the largest public school districts in the country in 2023, Dr. Adams has embarked on a journey to bring quality STEM instruction to students of all backgrounds and in all locations, whether from direct instruction, through evidence-based curriculum or by ensuring the presence of quality STEM-educators in the classroom.

Vidhi, is a second-year student at the University of Chicago studying Neuroscience and Economics. I am passionate about making STEM education more accessible to underrepresented communities by drawing on my background in pre-medicine and healthcare to connect students with meaningful learning experiences that spark curiosity, encourage exploration, and inspire them to envision futures in STEM!

Shaniya Straight is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Biological Sciences with a specialization in Global and Public Health at the University of Chicago. At Building Bridges Inc., she supports STEM education by enhancing STEM curriculum, evaluating program impact, and developing recommendations to improve varying aspects of the program.

On campus, Shaniya demonstrates strong leadership as the Community Service Chair of the Minority Association of Pre-Medicine Students, where she manages community service events during the school year and makes contact with other organizations on and off campus. Dedicated to serving the community, she also volunteers with the South Side Free Clinic, focusing on providing care and comfort to patients in need.

Shaniya is deeply passionate about medicine, advocacy, and community empowerment. In her spare time, she also enjoys singing, dancing, and performing on campus. Upon graduation in June 2027, she aims to build a career in healthcare as a physician.