2025 First-Year Women Werth Innovators

Kitan Arole

Kitan is double majoring in Journalism and Political Science at UConn, with dreams of becoming a political correspondent or pursuing a career in law. Inspired by her Nigerian heritage, she is passionate about problem-solving and community impact.

As a Werth Innovator, Kitan is excited to meet new people, explore entrepreneurship, and challenge herself to grow her skills and ideas.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kitan-arole/


Maleekha Fong

Maleekha is a Psychology major at UConn with aspirations of becoming a psychiatrist. Passionate about mental health and creativity, she enjoys fashion, crocheting, and writing as outlets for self-expression.

Through the Werth Program, Maleekha looks forward to learning about networking and entrepreneurship while continuing her journey of personal and professional growth.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maleekhafong/


Jennifer Gearin

Jennifer, a Physics and Linguistics/Psychology major with a minor in Astrophysics, grew up in Merritt Island, FL, inspired by the space industry. Beyond academics, she enjoys figure skating, painting, and learning new languages.

Through the Werth Innovators program, Jennifer aims to expand access to resources for adolescents and is excited to gain new skills while collaborating with a supportive community.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-gearin/


Suhaana Jadia

Suhaana Jadia is pursuing dual degrees in Finance, with a focus on Corporate Finance, and Economics at the University of Connecticut. Passionate about analyzing market trends and understanding business strategies, she developed her interest in these fields through her high school coursework.

As a Werth Innovator, Suhaana looks forward to connecting with fellow students, diving deeper into entrepreneurship, and turning ideas into reality.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suhaana-jadia/


Jordan Ng

Jordan Ng, an Animal Science major from Greenwich, CT, blends her love for nature and animals with her passion for education and advocacy. Whether teaching about animal welfare or promoting mental health awareness, she is committed to fostering understanding in her community.

As a Werth Innovator, Jordan is eager to personalize her summer internship to align with her goals and connect with mentors who can offer valuable insights on her interests.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordanng07/


Maryanne Pepin

Maryanne Pepin is pursuing a degree in Finance, driven by her passion for financial literacy and helping others understand personal finance. She combines her academic interests with community service, volunteering at her local library and thrift store.

As a Werth Innovator, Maryanne is excited to explore her passions, apply her skills, and create solutions that make a meaningful impact.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryanne-pepin/


Hannah van Rijnswou

Hannah van Rijnswou is a Psychology major at UConn, planning to pursue a dual degree in Criminal Studies. She is the President of BuckShip Hall Council and founder of InkWellness, a global creative writing initiative promoting healing through self-expression. Passionate about addressing trauma to prevent criminal behavior, she enjoys vintage fashion, writing, collecting vinyl, and antiquing.

Through the Werth Innovators program, Hannah looks forward to dedicating time to her passions and applying her learning beyond the classroom.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hvanrijnswou/


Samantha Wisniewski

Sam Wisniewski, a Fine Arts major specializing in Painting and Drawing, combines her passion for creativity with community impact. As a commissioned artist and vendor of handmade crochet products, Sam has used her talents to serve others, including donating her art to local organizations.

Through the Werth Innovators program, Sam aims to explore new ways art can make a difference, connect with fellow artists, and gain insights into unique career paths. In her free time, she enjoys playing piano, hiking, cooking, and spending quality time with her family.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-wisniewski-49207b332/



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