Isabella Viola Yao Gomes

Isabella Viola Yao Gomes is a fourth-year medical student at the WashU School of Medicine, specializing in Ophthalmology. She holds a BA in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology from Princeton University, an MA in Science, Health, and Environmental Reporting from Columbia University, and an MPH in Epidemiology and Biostatistics from Johns Hopkins University. Her diverse academic background and professional experience have uniquely positioned her to make significant contributions to the fields of medicine, public health, and advocacy.

“Isabella’s unique background enriches her approach to community service,” said Dr. Erin Sieck, Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences at WashU School of Medicine, who nominated Gomes. “She has effectively leveraged her diverse skills and experiences not only to serve her community but also to empower others in their efforts to serve more authentically and efficiently.”

Before entering medical school, Isabella worked as a Coronavirus Coverage Reporter for the Baltimore Sun and as a Senior Research Assistant at Johns Hopkins University. In those roles, she modeled infectious disease dynamics for organizations such as the CDC and the Gates Foundation. Her journalistic achievements earned her two grants from the Pulitzer Center on Crisis Reporting and the National Association of LGBTQ Journalists’ Excellence in Journalism Award, reflecting her commitment to amplifying underrepresented voices and addressing critical health issues.

At WashU, Isabella has further distinguished herself as a leader and innovator. As Class President, she has worked tirelessly to represent her peers and enhance the medical student experience. She also co-founded the WashU Free Eye Service (WUFES), a program providing vital eye care to underserved populations in St. Louis. Her dedication to advancing ophthalmology research is exemplified through her work with Dr. Shiming Chen on CRX-associated retinopathies, for which she was awarded the prestigious Research to Prevent Blindness/Janssen Medical Student Eye Research Fellowship.

In addition to her academic and clinical pursuits, Isabella is deeply committed to advocacy. She has addressed critical issues such as human trafficking, LGBTQ rights, and healthcare inequity, striving to create a more just and inclusive society. Her multifaceted contributions to medicine, research, and community service underscore her passion for improving lives through innovative solutions and compassionate care.“She has inspired fellow students and community members alike to engage meaningfully with their surroundings,” Sieck explained. “Her emphasis on building trust and fostering genuine relationships within communities has enhanced collective efforts toward social justice and equitable healthcare access.”