Fayetteville State University junior Iyana Marie Beachem is one of 25 students from around the country honored by the AT&T Dream in Black Rising Future Maker Class of 2022.

Beachem is majoring in Interdisciplinary Studies with a concentration in Race and Public Health as well as a double minor in Chemistry and Data Science. After graduation, she plans to attend medical school with the goal of being a pediatric medical scientist, conducting research to eliminate health disparities and bring attention to the necessity of primary care.

In addition to her studies, Beachem currently serves as a maternal and children’s rights activist, working to increase civic awareness of youth both on and off campus.

She served as a research assistant with the Women’s Rights and Empowerment Network, creating educational materials for the Black Momnibus Act of 2021. For the past two years, she worked with First Focus on Children to advocate for the inclusion of children in Federal level policy and budget coalitions. This year, she is also working with FSU faculty to conduct green chemistry research for common chemistry labs, with the goal of increasing accessibility of STEM to young students of color.

The AT&T Dream in Black Future Makers program honors 25 students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities who are making a positive impact on their communities and campuses.

“With this recognition, I have even more assurance that I am exactly where I need to be and that, prayerfully, I will continue to be surrounded by the right people and opportunities to successfully fulfill the purpose laid before me,” said Beachem in a press release. “I am most looking forward to the opportunities this will bring. The mentorship, coaching, and my fellow cohort members are amazing, and I know that the possibilities are endless. I just have to stay focused, follow my purpose, and not be afraid of the word ‘no.’”

Honorees each receive $5,000, professional workshop opportunities, mentoring sessions with AT&T executives, a 5G-enabled mobile phone with one year of AT&T service and other gifts.

The program’s goal is to provide access to technology and resources that connect students with career opportunities.