Athena Nagel (she/her) joined Imerman Angels during May of 2022 as a rotation student through Northwestern University’s Genetic Counseling program. After completing her graduate degree, she joined IA as an official staff member in October of 2023. She had previously watched her aunt experience stage 4 breast cancer and became passionate about providing support and resources to all cancer fighters, survivors, previvors, and caregivers.

Prior to her time at Imerman Angels, Athena attended Indiana University, where she completed her degree in molecular genetics and cellular biology. She also spent one year studying biochemistry and medical sciences at Oxford University. After working as a genetic counseling assistant for a year, she then attended Northwestern University’s genetic counseling program, where she was trained in both medical genetics and psychosocial counseling. Athena is passionate about providing support and care for all individuals through their cancer journey and believes in the importance of cultural humbleness and diversity in healthcare.

Athena has been involved in organizations such as Music and Memory, the American Medical Woman’s Society, and various environmental and conservation organizations. In her free time, she enjoys playing board games, playing the piano, and spending time with her two cats.