Brenda Koumondji holds a bachelor’s degree in sociology from the University of Northern Iowa and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in sociology at Brandeis University. Her research interests focus on women’s health, health disparities, and the social and structural factors shaping health outcomes globally. Her undergraduate research on breast cancer disparities among Black women in Iowa received the 2025 Mary Ann Bolton Undergraduate Research Award – First Place. As a research assistant with Into Women’s Hands, Brenda is passionate about advancing research that centers women’s experiences and promotes greater health equity.