Let’s give a warm welcome to Angelica and Vanika!
Meet the newest faces of 10KFS!
Get ready to meet two extraordinary women. Angelica Trevino Orozco, a medical doctor from Mexico, brings her background in medicine and research, while Vanika Chary, MBA, offers expertise in research project management. We sat down with them to uncover their journeys, passions, and new roles.
Angelica:
1.- What can you tell us about yourself? (your background, family, education, interests and anything else you'd like to share)
I was born on a small island in the South of Mexico, obtained my Medical Doctor degree in Mexico and worked as a General Physician for a few years before moving to the USA. I worked in Clinical Research for four years in Texas, and then moved to Minnesota in 2022 with my husband and our cat.
2.- When and how did you begin to work with the study?
I began working for 10KFS in April 2024. I investigated the study before applying for the job and the more I read about the study the more I thought that the 10,000 Families study is a great study to be involved in since it’s focused on Families and their environments rather than just one type of person.
3.- Could you tell us about your role?
My role at 10KFS as a Research Study Coordinator is to clarify any possible concerns and questions the participants might have about the study either in English or Spanish. I’m in charge of the administrative aspects of our Community Advisory Board which we consider a platform for communities to learn from each other, dialogue, and work towards a healthier Minnesota. Besides that, I also help recruit more families during our outreach events, give support to our staff and participants during our Saturday’s Health visits and manage the logistics of our study wristbands.
4.- What is your vision for your role?
To help bring more families into the study and also help Spanish speaking families better understand what the 10,000 Families study is about. I love when a family understands the great and vital contribution they are making by being part of this study and it makes me happy that I contributed in changing their perspective of what a research study is really about and how it benefits all of us for the future to come.
5.- What's the greatest part about your job?
I get to interact with different types of communities of Minnesota that I was not aware of before moving to this state. Being able to exchange ideas and experiences with communities I wouldn't have exposure to otherwise if I was not involved in this study has definitely been a wonderful experience.
6.- What would you say to someone who may be interested in joining our study / or may have doubts about joining? (why is it important, etc.)
I would say don’t be afraid of being part of a research study, the contribution that you are giving to future generations could help resolve issues that we are currently not aware of.
7.- Do you have any last things you want our audience to know?
The 10,000 Families study is always looking for ways to improve our work and also include more different types of communities into the study. We are always receptive to any feedback our participants or the public may have so don’t be a stranger and send us an email or give us a call if you have any questions and we will be happy to help.
8.- What's a fun fact about yourself?
Upon moving to the Twin Cities, my husband and I started chasing Northern Lights and have been able to observe some amazing auroras near the Twin Cities.
Vanika:
1.- What can you tell us about yourself? (Your background, family, education, interests, and anything else you'd like to share)
Hi, I’m Vanika (pronounced “Va-nee-ka”) Chary, and I’m absolutely thrilled to call Minnesota my home! After spending some wonderful years in the Midwest, I’ve made this beautiful state my home, and the incredible people and vibrant community here have left a lasting impact on me. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to serve Minnesotans through my role in the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Minnesota Medical School.
2.- When and how did you begin to work with the study?
My journey with the University of Minnesota started three years ago in the School of Public Health, and in January 2025, I had the exciting opportunity to step into my current role as a Research Project Manager for the 10,000 Families Study (10KFS). It’s been an incredible experience so far!
Before finding my passion in clinical research, I gained valuable insights working in the airline, insurance, and banking industries. From the moment I immersed myself in clinical research, I knew I had found my true calling. I’m deeply passionate about making a meaningful impact on public health and improving local communities. I’ve had the privilege to contribute to the PLUS research program for three years, which focuses on preventing lower urinary tract symptoms in women and young girls. I was also involved in the groundbreaking All of Us research national program, a pioneering initiative to understand the health needs of diverse populations across the United States.
3.- Could you tell us about your role?
As a Research Project Manager for the 10,000 Families Study (10KFS), I’m fortunate to be involved in a variety of exciting and essential responsibilities. I work to ensure the study runs smoothly by overseeing regulatory and compliance, developing key documents, and managing study procedures. I also support the Radon Testing Campaign and assist with health visits for participants, ensuring that every aspect of the study is carefully managed to create meaningful results. Each day brings new opportunities to contribute to this important research!
4.- What is your vision for your role?
My vision for my role is to continually support the growth and success of the 10KFS by fostering strong research practices that benefit Minnesota’s communities. I’m driven by the importance of understanding cancer, its causes, and the impact of genetics and environmental factors. By contributing to this vital research, I aim to make a real, lasting difference in understanding cancer prevention and improving the overall health of the population.
5.- What's the greatest part about your job?
I’m able to leverage my previous experience while engaging with multiple facets of research. It’s an incredible feeling to see the work we’re doing come together and directly impact people’s lives. The most rewarding aspect is being part of a dedicated team that’s helping to uncover important insights that could shape the future of healthcare. It’s inspiring to know that the long-term cohort study, which started in 2017, continues work in the fight against cancer.
6.- What would you say to someone who may be interested in joining our study or may have doubts about joining? (Why is it important, etc.)
To anyone considering joining our study, I’d say that your participation is incredibly important and impactful. The 10KFS is so much more than just a study—it’s an opportunity to be a part of something transformative that could shape the future of healthcare, specifically for Minnesotans. By helping us better understand cancer and other diseases, you’re playing a crucial role in advancing research that will lead to a healthier future for our communities.
7. What's a fun fact about yourself?
A fun fact about me: I absolutely love stargazing! There’s something truly magical about watching the stars and catching astronomical events—it never fails to fill me with awe and inspiration. Outside of work, I also volunteer with causes that support children and local communities. I believe that giving back and making a difference in the lives of others is one of the most rewarding ways to spend my time.
