Jon Stojan
Image credit: Bingdi Chunyu
In the age of data-driven innovation, few individuals exemplify the transformative power of analytics like Bingdi Chunyu. With an impeccable academic record and a career dedicated to promoting inclusivity and equity, Bingdi is redefining the potential of data science in addressing systemic disparities in underserved communities.
From Academic Brilliance to Data-Driven Advocacy
Bingdi’s journey began with her pursuit of a Master of Business Analytics at Fordham University, where she excelled academically as a research assistant, contributing to multiple machine learning projects. She was recognized as one of the Global Analytics Competition finalist for her outstanding achievements, and was consistently included on the Dean’s List for academic excellence. Her achievements set her apart, leading to her selection as one of only three summer interns at SiriusXM, a rare opportunity reserved for the most promising talent.
Image credit: Bingdi Chunyu
At SiriusXM, Bingdi focused on building predictive model to analyze campaign influence across diverse audience segments. Her work revealed critical insights: the Asian community felt less represented due to a lack of culturally specific radio content, which uncovered disparities in how different ethnic communities engaged with SiriusXM’s campaigns, highlighting gaps in representation and inclusivity. This pivotal discovery sparked Bingdi’s mission to leverage data-driven solutions to enhance inclusivity for underrepresented groups.
Empathy in Action: Volunteering at APEX for Youth
Following her tenure at SiriusXM, Bingdi turned her attention to education, volunteering with APEX for Youth, an organization empowering underserved Asian and immigrant youth in NYC to unlock a world of possibility. Partnered with an 11th-grade Asian student from a public school in Sunset Park, where 94% of students are POC, Bingdi gained firsthand insight into the challenges facing students in under-resourced educational systems. She witnessed the lack of personalized education resources for POC students, further cementing her commitment to using data science to address inequities.
Bridging the Gap in Healthcare for POC Communities
Image credit: Bingdi Chunyu
Bingdi’s next chapter brought her to the Michael J. Fox Foundation as a Senior Data Scientist, where she undertook the critical task of increasing the representation of POC in Parkinson’s disease research through the PPMI (Parkinson’s Progression Markers Initiative) program. As one of the most comprehensive studies in Parkinson’s research, PPMI is pivotal for identifying biomarkers and developing treatments that improve patient outcomes. However, the underrepresentation of POC in genetic samples posed a significant challenge to ensuring equitable healthcare solutions for all. Recognizing this gap, Bingdi spearheaded a targeted outreach strategy using a data-driven approach by partnering with a global healthcare database to identify key healthcare professionals (HCPs) serving POC populations. Cross-referencing U.S. Census data to evaluate POC representation in targeted areas, she designed and implemented campaigns aimed at increasing participation of underserved communities in Parkinson’s genetic studies.
Her efforts transformed PPMI’s approach to diversity, equity, and inclusion, leading to a nearly 30% increase in Hispanic audience participation since 2023. Importantly, her work institutionalized POC inclusion as a main KPI for PPMI, ensuring that diverse populations remain a priority in the program’s expansion. This contribution extends beyond the Foundation, addressing systemic disparities in healthcare and advancing genetic research that benefits the United States by fostering more inclusive medical innovation. By ensuring equitable representation in critical research, Bingdi’s work strengthens the country’s ability to deliver effective treatments to all communities, thereby promoting health equity and innovation on a national scale.
CAPY: A Product to Drive Equity and Conflict Resolution
Bingdi’s passion for data science and inclusion culminated in the creation of CAPY: Conflict Aid Pro for You—a digital platform designed to support conflict-avoidant autism individuals. CAPY offers real-life scenarios, fast-response guidance, journaling tools, and expert help, empowering users to navigate challenging interactions with confidence. CAPY’s core mission aligns with Bingdi’s overarching goal: to create tools that address disparities and promote personal empowerment in underserved communities.
The Future: SensoryGuardian
Looking ahead, Bingdi envisions expanding CAPY into SensoryGuardian, a groundbreaking app designed to support autistic individuals and their caregivers by monitoring and managing sensory triggers. SensoryGuardian will integrate wearable technology and AI-powered analytics to enhance inclusivity in education, healthcare, and community spaces. This innovative product reflects Bingdi’s commitment to using data science as a force for societal good, particularly for POC communities.
A Legacy of Impact
From transforming advertising inclusivity at SiriusXM to championing POC representation in medical research and developing products that empower underserved groups, Bingdi Chunyu is a shining example of how data science can bridge gaps and foster equity. Bingdi’s vision for a more inclusive world continues to grow, setting a new standard for innovation and empathy in technology.