About Us

2024-2025 W+iPA Coordinator

Nikki Pallat (she/her)

Hi! I'm a fourth year physics grad student studying neutrinos with the MicroBoone and SBND experiments. I'm originally from New Jersey and went to undergrad in Connecticut before coming out here to the Midwest to come to the U! I love to cook, especially for other people, so feel free to invite yourself over to join me for a meal anytime :)


Feel free to contact me at palla110@umn.edu

2024-2025 W+iPA Officers

Sarah McHale (she/her)

I’m a 6th year graduate student studying Physics Education Research! I started my PhD at UW-Madison working on neutrino physics and transferred to the U of M midway through my 3rd year. I am passionate about making the field of physics more equitable and inclusive, and my research focuses on the cultural impacts of holistically incorporating coding into physics courses.


Outside of grad school, I spend my time gardening, running, and playing clarinet in the Seward Community Band! If you ever need to de-stress with some sweet pets, my cat and dog volunteer their services!



Alyssa Bragg (she/her)

I am a third year graduate student in condensed matter experiment. I’m from Chicago and now love exploring downtown Minneapolis whenever I get the chance! In my free time, I enjoy biking, skiing and running, unless I’m staying indoors to play Animal Crossing. I also spoil my cat, Luna, with daily treats. 

Lexi Leali (they/them)

I am a third year graduate student studying gravitational waves. I grew up in Omaha, NE, and did my undergrad at UIowa. I love living in Minneapolis and taking advantage of the lakes. When I'm not doing physics I enjoy walking, running, reading, and playing Stardew Valley. I have two bunnies: Hopscotch and Lady, and a cat: Nancy Drew, and they are my favorite topic of conversation! 

Ally Keen (she/her)

I'm a third year astrophysics graduate student studying gravitationally lensed transients. I grew up in Florida before moving north to Minnesota for college. When the weather is nice, I enjoy walking near the river and nearby lakes, and when the weather is less nice, I like to stay indoors reading and baking. 

Cooper Nesmith (she/her)

I’m a second year physics graduate student studying theoretical astrophysics. I’m originally from Minneapolis but did my undergrad on the east coast at Tufts University. In my free time I enjoy bouldering, video games, and swimming in the lakes!