People

Caitlyn Yantis, Ph.D. - Principal Investigator

I am an Assistant Professor at Villanova University and director of the Racial Identity, Diversity, and Equity Lab.

My research examines how race and racism operate at individual, interpersonal, and structural levels, with the ultimate goal of informing efforts to mitigate racial inequity and interracial tension. Feel free to browse the Research page for more information on my current projects!

When not in the lab or classroom, I enjoy taking long walks with my dog Coco, listening to podcasts and playing board/card games.

Graduate Researchers

Sam Di Carlo

I am a second-year student in the Master of Psychology program and a graduate assistant in the RIDE lab.

My main areas of research interest include power and privilege, stereotyping and prejudice, implicit biases, intergroup relations, discrimination, and broadly social justice issues. After Villanova, I hope to pursue my doctorate in Social Psychology and become a professor. Outside of school, I enjoy reading, watching psychological thrillers, and going to concerts!

*Masters Thesis Student

*Mamie Phipps Clark Diversity Research Grant (Psi Chi, 2025)

*Clara Mayo Grant (Spring 2025)

Nick Ashenfelter

I am a second year graduate student in the Masters of Psychology program here at Villanova University.

I am fascinated by sex—or rather, people that aren't having it—and plan to use my experience in the RIDE lab to complete research as a social psychologist. I am also curious about political polarization and how politically charged experiences form and influence one’s identity. In my free time I enjoy mousekeeping, audiobooks, and thrifting.

*Summer Graduate Research Fellowship Award 2025

Bronagh Power-Cassidy

I am currently a second year in the Psychology MS program here, and a graduate researcher in the RIDE lab here at Villanova University.

My research interests include intergroup conflict and collaboration as well as individual motivation and decision making. Outside of these academic interests, I enjoy playing basketball, and hope to pursue a career as a sports psychologist.

Jillian Umstead

My name is Jillian and I’m a second year Master’s student in the Psychology program. I graduated from Northwestern University in 2024 with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology

I’m interested in the intersection of close relationships and social identity, and my research focuses on how different types of couples are stereotyped. Outside of school, I love reading, crocheting, and listening to podcasts!

Olivia Allred

I am a first-year student in the M.S. Psychology program and a graduate assistant in the RIDE Lab here at Villanova.

My primary research interests surround how white identity, implicit racial bias, and civic engagement practices form and function within white women, especially in interactions with women of color. After my time at Villanova, I plan to pursue a Ph.D. in social psychology where I can further apply these concepts to develop methods of increasing allyship and social activism in white women. In my free time, I enjoy being in nature, going to the movies, and trying new foods!

Lily Boone

I am a first-year student in the M.S. Psychology program here at Villanova.

My research interests currently include intergroup relations, stereotyping, personality, and how we can use neuropsychological methods to address these aspects. I plan to pursue a PhD in Clinical Psychology. In my free time, I enjoy exercising, listening to music, and spending time with my dog!

Undergraduate Researchers

Nayanna Fluellen

I’m a fourth-year Psychology student at Villanova University, minoring in Japanese Language & Culture.

I have an interest in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and how the intersectionality of identities impacts individuals' reactions to their environments. I plan to pursue graduate studies after completing my undergraduate degree, aiming to work in a workforce, healthcare, or university setting that prioritizes DEI initiatives.

Kyoko Duke

I am a fourth-year B.A. Psychology student on a pre-law track at Villanova University.

I have aspirations of becoming an attorney. Currently, I am an undergraduate Research Assistant at the RIDE Lab. I'm interested in exploring psychological concepts related to implicit biases, the mental processes behind discrimination, and how these factors influence social dynamics. In my free time, I like to read, work out, and dance.

Keoni Andrews

I am a third-year Psychology student here at Villanova University.

I have a strong interest in psychological research and social justice. I’m determined to utilize experience within the RIDE Lab to help me explore my research interests. I plan on continuing my psychological education through graduate school. I spend my free time reading, watching YouTube, and journaling.

Emma Kronenberg

I am a junior pursuing an Honors B.S. in Psychology and Humanities with a Peace and Justice minor.

I am excited to study interracial relations and apply it to the spaces which I occupy and hope to occupy. I am looking towards a career in education, healthcare, or social work, and in the meantime, I work in the Office of Undergraduate Admission, am President of Villanova Rays of Sunshine, enjoy word games and puzzles, and love spending time with friends and family.

Arthur Martin

I am a fourth-year B.S. Psychology major with minors in Cognitive Science and French and Francophone Studies at Villanova University.

I’m an undergraduate research assistant with experience in social and developmental psychological research and am currently aiming towards a PhD and career in either Clinical Psychology or Clinical Neuropsychology. I’m passionate about psychopathology, behavioral health, and am eager to study the intersectionality between psychology and race. I intend to employ cross-culturally relevant approaches in neurological assessments and address disparities in treatment and diagnosis for individuals from underrepresented populations and marginalized communities. My main hobbies include listening to music, exercising, and watching movies

*Villanova Undergraduate Research Fellow (VURF; 2025)

Skyler Johansen

I am a junior majoring in Psychology B.S. with minors in Disabilities Studies and Cognitive Science.

I am interested in researching interracial relations throughout the U.S. and am excited to apply it to my future career. Currently on campus, I am involved in Blue Key, NOVAdance, and Special Olympics. I love going to the beach, concerts, and spending time with my friends and family.

Caitlyn Baker

I am currently a junior at Villanova University pursuing a B.A. in Psychology with minors in Criminology and Counseling.

My studies have allowed me to explore both the scientific and applied sides of human behavior, from understanding patterns of thought and emotion to examining how systems of justice and care impact individuals and communities. I am preparing to continue my education in graduate school with the goal of becoming a Clinical Mental Health Counselor. I am particularly motivated to support people navigating trauma, life transitions, and mental health challenges, while working to reduce barriers that prevent many from accessing quality care. In addition to my academic interests, I enjoy reading, listening to music, and running, which help me maintain balance and perspective.