Vision Statement
Graduates of Northwestern’s Master of Science in Data Science will feel a sense of comradery with their classmates and a deep understanding of the Data Science field in practice.
The MSDS Student Leadership Council
The Master of Science in Data Science (MSDS) at Northwestern University is one of the fastest growing and most established Data Science programs in the United States. The purpose of MSDS Student Leadership Council (SLC) is to help foster relationships among students in the program, alumni, and world-renowned industry professionals. The MSDS SLC creates opportunities and events that allow students and alumni of the program to grow their knowledge of Data Science and their professional networks. Visit our SPS Graduate Program Events page to learn more about past and upcoming events.
Applications for SLC positions are now closed.
For more information about the MSDS Student Leadership Council and student events and opportunities, please see the FAQs or CONTACT SLC below.
SLC MEMBERSSLC FAQs contact SLC
Mission Statement
The MSDS Student Leadership Council strives to serve the program by broadening awareness of Data Science in practice and building a sense of community in the graduate program.
2024–2025 MSDS Student Leadership Council Members
PRESIDENTApoorv Saraogee
Apoorv has a research background in biomedical engineering and is currently pursuing a thesis in the MSDS program related to neuroimaging. He has worked in both industry and academic roles. In his free time, he enjoys traveling, playing with his cat and spending time with family.
VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS
Sherly Lande
Sherly, a Process Engineer with a robust background in chemical engineering, passionately integrates data science to innovate impactful and unconventional solutions. Her enthusiasm for data-driven technologies propels her exploration at the nexus of Data Science and Chemical Engineering, striving for groundbreaking advancements. Beyond her professional pursuits, Sherly indulges in linguistics, proficiently singing in Latin, Spanish, and French. She cherishes family travels and dedicates time to scholarly study of wisdom literature.
COMMUNICATIONS CHAIR
Sheila Acar
Sheila is currently a research histologist for the Mouse Histology Core at Northwestern University’s Cancer Center. In her role, she collaborates with researchers and performs histological processes on animal tissues for analysis. In her free time, she enjoys collecting and playing board games, discovering coffee shops, making floral arrangements, and traveling.
EVENT COORDINATOR CHAIR
Gopika Nair
Gopika is an MSDS student and a Recruiting Partner at GEICO. She received her bachelor’s degree in Business Economics from the University of California Irvine and has gained diverse experience across industries such as technology, healthcare, and financial services. Her passion for data storytelling stems from a desire to enhance business decision-making through technical insights. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, dancing, and spending time with her Yorkie.
ALUMNI CHAIR
Vani Dhir
Vani currently works as a Product Manager at TD Bank, where she focuses on delivering impactful experiences to credit card customers through innovative features and enhancements. Her role involves leveraging customer insights and market trends to drive the development of strategic solutions that enhance user satisfaction and loyalty. She completed her Master’s in Data Science in 2022. Outside of work, Vani enjoys exploring literature, staying active through hiking, and traveling to unique destinations with her husband.
INCLUSION, DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND ACCOUNTABILITY (IDEA) COORDINATOR
Jimena Navarro
Born and raised in Panama City, Panama, Jimena earned a BBA in Marketing from Loyola University Chicago in 2018. She has worked at a financial consulting firm for six years, advancing from Data Analyst to Business Intelligence Director. Self-taught in coding and analytics, Jimena is enthusiastic about exploring machine learning and AI. A passionate hiker, she has an annual tradition of climbing Panama’s highest peak, Volcán Barú, with her father.
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Bailey Scoville
Bailey has a background in food and beverage marketing and an MBA from the University of Utah. She is pursuing the MSDS program full-time as a remote student in Utah. Outside of school and work, Bailey enjoys trying new restaurants with her husband and friends, spending time with her dog Indy, cake decorating, and traveling.
Email | LinkedIn
ANALYTICS COORDINATOR
James Kwok
James is currently pursuing a Master’s in Data Science at Northwestern University, specializing in Artificial Intelligence. Building on his strong foundation in actuarial science, James has developed expertise in quantitative analysis, data visualization, and process automation through his role as a Benefits Business Analyst at a pension fund. Beyond his academic and professional pursuits, James enjoys snowboarding, scuba diving, and playing soccer, showcasing his adventurous and active lifestyle.
Email | LinkedIn
STUDENT LIAISON
Joseph Cohen
Joseph is the Student Liaison specializing in AI in the MSDS program. With experience in data science roles at multiple tech startups, he combines academic rigor with practical expertise. Outside of work, Joseph enjoys making music, particularly playing guitar, and staying active through sports and running. In 2024, he competed in four national tournaments across the US, including ice hockey, baseball, and football.
Email | LinkedIn
Contact the MSDS Student Leadership Council
We love hearing from you! Do you have questions or feedback for us? Please feel free to contact us via the form below. A member of the council will respond to your inquiry shortly.