Alexia Velazquez

Innovation Fellow

Though Alexia refers to South Bend as her second home, she is originally from the northern suburbs of Dallas, Texas. Alexia first came to South Bend to attend Saint Mary’s College, from which she graduated in May of 2022 with a Bachelor’s of Science in Biology and minor in math/computer science–and, during her senior year, she dual-enrolled in Saint Mary’s Master’s of Science in Data Science program.

Alexia became passionate about public health while working on her senior comprehensive project which looked at the effects of phagocytosis after exposure to different vaping flavors and brands. Alexia also held leadership positions in various clubs on campus, such as First Generation and Belles Against Violence/Belles Supporting Belles–both of which raise awareness for issues facing first-generation college students, and help support those that have experienced sexual assault and relationship violence.

Alexia knew after graduation that she wanted to give back to the community that she had called home for the last four years. At enFocus, she hopes to use her experiences to aid in social impact initiatives and public health issues.

When she does manage to find time for things she enjoys, you can find Alexia hammocking around the Saint Mary’s campus, longboarding with friends to Notre Dame, catching a movie, or even showing her support for Notre Dame Hockey at Compton Arena!