Program Director

Senta Georgia, PhD
Principal Investigator, Center for Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles; Associate Professor, Pediatrics, Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, USC

Dr. Georgia’s research involves the regeneration of insulin-producing, pancreatic beta cells as a potential therapeutic for patients with type 1 diabetes. As Director for the USC COMPASS program, Dr. Georgia oversees the organization of the mentorship and administrative team, providing guidance and setting priorities to ensure the program’s success.

Program Co-Director

Francesca Mariani, PhD
Associate Professor, Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Integrative Anatomical Sciences

A leading scientist in the field of stem cell and developmental biology, Dr. Mariani and her team focus on the role of stem cells in large-scale cartilage and bone regeneration. She is a sought-after educator who has created independent cutting-edge research opportunities in her lab for students from the high school to PhD levels. She guides students through the USC COMPASS curriculum, coordinates training workshops, and provides mentorship for the research teams.

Diversity and Outreach Coordinator and Program Administrator

Disha Mahendro, EdD
Director of Diversity Initiatives and Community Relations, USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences

Ms. Mahendro works across campus units to bring diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives to many programs, including the COMPASS program. She also provides on-campus COMPASS Scholar support at the University Park Campus regarding program schedules, course registration, deadlines, event coordination and other logistics.

Program Assistant

Ricky Cortez
Mr. Cortez is based at the Keck School of Medicine and provides support for COMPASS workshops and events at USC’s Health Sciences Campus, offers administrative assistance for COMPASS mentors and advisors, and coordinates student outreach and patient advocacy programs for COMPASS Scholars.