FAMU School of the Environment Students Earn National Recognition in 2026 Mastercard x AUC Data Science Initiative
Two FAMU teams place among the nation’s top competitors, earning $15,800
Tallahassee, Fla.— Students from the Florida A&M University (FAMU) School of the Environment (SOE) earned top honors after securing second- and third-place finishes in the 2026 Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth x Atlanta University Center Consortium Data Science Initiative Challenge, a national competition focused on using data science to address real-world community and economic challenges.
The FAMU team competed against more than 100 teams representing historically Black colleges and universities across the country and advanced through multiple rounds before the final round held May 2 in Atlanta.
The competition challenged students to use data to explore how economic conditions shape healthcare access and to develop small-business solutions to improve community outcomes.
“Having two teams place among the top competitors in a national data science challenge speaks to the strength of our students, the quality of mentorship within the School of the Environment, and FAMU’s growing leadership in interdisciplinary research and innovation,” said Victor Ibeanusi, Ph.D., dean of the FAMU SOE. “These students demonstrated not only technical excellence but also the ability to apply data science in ways that directly impact communities and improve lives.”
Out of 106 HBCU teams nationwide, FAMU advanced seven teams to the competition midpoint in April, with four reaching the finals and two ultimately earning national awards.
Ladies of Logic earn second place
The team Ladies of Logic earned second place and a $10,000 award. Team members included Christianah Adegboyega and Eman Elkholy of FAMU, alongside Mary Okumodi of Spelman College. Their project focused on leveraging data science and strategic analysis to develop solutions centered on inclusive growth and sustainable economic opportunity.
“The data challenge brought together exceptional scholars with innovative project ideas, making the experience unforgettable,” said Adegboyega. “It rekindled my love for data science—the curiosity, the challenge, and the drive to create impactful solutions.”
Hubert Hirwa, Ph.D., assistant director for the FAMU Sustainability Institute, served as the faculty research mentor for the Ladies of Logic team. His expertise in solving environmental challenges using geospatial data, machine learning techniques, and advanced statistics helped guide students through the challenge.
“Working with such a talented, exceptional, and driven group of students was truly inspiring,” said Hirwa. “Their creativity, academic rigor and teamwork reflected the very best of what data science education can achieve.”
The FAMU Eagles team posing with their big check. (Photo special to FAMU)
Team FAMU Eagles earn third place
The FAMU Eagles team earned third place and a $5,800 award. Team members included Declama Ernsuze, Doaa Medany, and Rahmah Alhashim. Medany said the experience reinforced the power of data science as a tool for solving societal and environmental challenges through innovative business and workforce development strategies.
“Our project focused on developing data-driven solutions to improve inclusive growth and address real community challenges…” said Medany. “One of the most valuable parts of this experience was presenting in front of professionals and judges from business, finance, and industry who have led truly impactful projects. Their feedback and perspectives were incredibly motivating and insightful.”
Throughout the eight-week initiative, students participated in workshops, networking opportunities, and presentations with leaders in business, finance, entrepreneurship, and technology. Sessions explored topics such as startup development, innovation, venture growth, and transforming data into scalable solutions for community impact.
Advancing FAMU’s Data Science and Innovation Momentum
The students’ national recognition comes as FAMU continues expanding its focus on artificial intelligence, analytics, and interdisciplinary data science education. Earlier this year, the university highlighted its growing AI and Data Science Cluster, an initiative designed to strengthen research collaboration, workforce readiness, ethical AI integration, and innovation across disciplines.
Almando Morain, Ph.D., program associate for the FAMU Office of International Agricultural Programs, served as a faculty mentor for team FAMU Eagles. An environmental scientist with expertise in data analysis, predictive modeling, and sustainability research, Morain provided guidance that helped students connect data-driven insights to real-world community and environmental challenges.
“Achievements such as these demonstrate how FAMU students are applying innovation, analytics, and interdisciplinary research to create solutions with measurable community impact,” said Morain.
Media Contact:
Rachel James-Terry
Senior Director of Strategic Communications
rachel.jamesterry@famu.edu
Deidre Williams
Director of Communications, Academic Affairs
deidre.williams@famu.edu
