Meet the Team

  • Matt Mande

    President

    I’m a sophomore studying Economics and Philosophy-Neuroscience-Psychology. My interests include existential risks and global well-being. I’m also fascinated by Eastern perspectives on consciousness and partake in both mindfulness practice and research here at WashU. If you would like to speak with me about EAWashU, concepts within EA, or anything else you can find a time to meet with me using my Calendly or email me at m.mande@wustl.edu.

  • Ramya Samudrala

    I'm a freshman studying Computer Science at WashU. My interests within EA include discussions on topics regarding economic/societal intervention, especially in areas concerning global poverty, and the mitigation of global risk factors such as climate change. In my free time, I enjoy biking, reading, listening to music, and learning about random things on the internet. Please feel free to reach out to me at r.k.samudrala@wustl.edu, if you have any concerns or want to chat about anything!

  • Maggie Guadian

    Hi! I am a sophomore studying Economics and Computer science with a minor in psychology. My interests in EA include climate change and AI governance. In my free time I enjoy reading, spending time outside, and spending time with friends and family! Feel free to contact me at gaudian@wustl.edu!

  • Noam Karger

    I’m a First Year studying Mechanical Engineering. My interests include anything related to cars, environmental engineering and Jewish learning. I love rock climbing, playing baseball and driving. EA’s methods and goals align with my desire to do good efficiently in our world and I’ve really appreciated all that this club has given me. Feel free to reach out to me at k.noam@wustl.edu if you wanna talk!

  • Lily Zarr

    I'm a freshman majoring in linguistics and minoring in Spanish. I am interested in government and legal interventions, as well as figuring out how to get things done most efficiently, both in EA and my personal life. In my free time, I enjoy reading science fiction and hanging out with friends. Feel free to chat with me at l.m.zarr@wustledu.

  • Ann Lu

    Hi! I am a freshman at WashU, majoring in Economics and Mathematics with a minor in Finance. My academic interests include AI technology and longtermism. Outside of my studies, I enjoy playing squash, singing, and expressing my creativity through nail art. I love engaging in conversations about technology, future-focused philosophies, or just sharing hobbies. Feel free to contact me at hanyi.l@wustl.edu for a chat or to discuss any common interests!

  • Liam Taylor

    I am a freshman planning to major in Finance and Data Science with a minor in psychology. Within EA, I am particularly interested in AI governance and global priorities research and developing a critical, yet creative mindset to address issues effectively. Outside of classes, I enjoy staying active by playing soccer, golf, and pickleball. I always love meeting new people, so feel free to reach out to me at l.e.taylor@wustl.edu if you would like to talk about anything!

  • Mikey Lerman

    My name is Mikey Lerman, and I am a sophomore studying computer science and economics. I joined effective altruism because I am very interested in moral philosophy, notably the works of Peter Singer. I found the Effective Altruism community a great place to discuss these topics with analytical and caring people. In my free time, I love watching movies, playing guitar, and listening to music!

  • Benji Olshin

    Hi! I’m Benji, a Junior at WashU studying Economics and Cognitive Neuroscience with a minor in Global Health. I’m interested in applying behavioral insights to international development/public policy in the areas of health and climate. I love practicing gymnastics, listening to podcasts, and cooking with my roommates. I aspire to live a life filled with exploration, connection, and impact. I’d love to chat EA! Feel free to reach out at benjamin.olshin@wustl.edu.

  • Reed Trende

    Strategic Advisor

    I am a 3rd year PhD student studying immunology at WashU. My research focuses on mRNA vaccines against emerging viruses. Outside lab and EA activities, I enjoy running, experiencing the outdoors, and listening to lots of diverse podcasts. Within EA, I'm most knowledgeable about biosecurity, as that is closest to the work I do day-to-day. However, my interests within EA are broad, spanning from philosophy to community building to improving institutional decision-making. Please schedule a meeting with me on Calendly if you would like to chat.

  • Annie Xiao

    Hi! I am a sophomore at WashU studying Math & Economics with a minor in Finance. I’m interested in global health and climate change in my classes and EA. In my free time, I love spending my time outdoors, exploring St. Louis’ neighborhoods and visiting National Parks. Feel free to contact me at annie.x@wustl.edu about anything within EA or just if you want to chat!

  • Jacob Woessner

    I am a research coordinator in the WUSM Psychiatry Department. My research is primarily focused on linking genetics, brain function, and behavior. Within EA, I am primarily interested in global health, biosecurity, and well-being measurement. In my free time, I enjoy reading and podcasts. I also enjoy meeting new people, so if you would like to speak to me about anything, please contact me at jacobw@wustl.edu

  • Jon Bogard

    Advisor

    I am an Assistant Professor of Organizational Behavior. I study human judgment and decision-making, with an emphasis on perceptions of risk as well as social, moral, and political psychology. I'm both personally and professionally interested in effective altruism. I'm eager to connect with students who are excited to talk about research or EA, so please reach out!

People