Nexellence Institute
At the core of our mission lies a resolute dedication to advancing education and training in social and economic research methods, as well as advanced data analytics skills, which are essential for the 21st-century workforce. Our institute shines as a guiding light, offering distinctive opportunities that empower youth and young adults of all abilities.
Through this multifaceted program, students embark on a transformative journey that immerses them in the realms of social and economic research, advanced data analytical skills, coding and programming methods, as well as the cultivation of essential social-emotional and life skills. Our curriculum is intentionally interconnected, allowing students to not only excel academically but also develop into well-rounded individuals equipped for success in both their educational journey and life beyond the classroom.
We firmly hold the belief that research is more than just a skill; it is a profound way of life. With unwavering commitment, we strive to nurture critical and creative thinking and the ability to handle data from an early age, shaping the leaders and innovators of tomorrow. Welcome to Nexellence Institute, where knowledge, curiosity, and possibility converge to shape brighter futures.
Mission
Nexellence Institute is dedicated to empowering youth and young adults with ALL abilities by offering innovative education and training in social and economic research methods, advanced data analytics, and AI fundamentals. Our mission is to create a transformative environment that encourages career exploration and development within the realm of advanced research, data analytics, and AI. Through personalized pathways, we facilitate seamless transitions to postsecondary education and competitive integrated employment, fostering inclusivity and excellence in every step of the journey.
Vision
At Nexellence Institute, we envision a world where every individual, regardless of their background or ability, can access exemplary education and employment opportunities. Our vision is to be the guiding light that empowers youth and young adults with ALL abilities, propelling them toward impactful roles in advanced research, data analytics, and AI fields. Through our innovative programs, we aim to create a global community that values diversity, embraces inclusivity, and thrives on the strengths of every individual.
Elevate Your Excellence
Unleashing Potential at Nexellence Institute
Our core mission is to illuminate pathways toward innovative education and training in social and economic research methods and advanced data analytics, tailored to the distinctive strengths and needs of youth and young adults with ALL abilities. We understand that learning advanced research and data analytic methods is foundational for success across various professions. We are devoted to catalyzing career exploration and development prospects within the expansive sphere of advanced research and data analytics, guiding our participants seamlessly into postsecondary education and competitive integrated employment.
At Nexellence Institute, we are dedicated to empowering and uplifting individuals with ALL abilities as they embark on their journey of growth, knowledge, and professional achievement. We believe that by instilling the values of critical thinking, research as a way of life, and strong data analytical skills, individuals can excel in diverse career paths, contributing their unique perspectives to the world.
Get to Know the Educators Behind the Scenes
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Dr. Michelle Yin
Founder & Curriculum Architect Nexellence InstituteAssociate Professor, Northwestern University
Dr. Michelle Yin
Founder & Curriculum Architect | Nexellence Institute
Associate Professor, Northwestern University
Dr. Michelle Yin is the founder and visionary behind Nexellence Institute, where she leads the development of inclusive, research-based curriculum designed to help bright, curious, and differently-wired students learn, grow, and thrive. As an economist and professor, she brings over 20 years of experience in building innovative, student-driven programs that center the needs, voices, and potential of diverse learners.
Dr. Yin’s expertise lies in Universal Design for Learning (UDL), gifted and twice-exceptional (2e) education, social-emotional development, and applied research methods. She is also the founding architect of Northwestern’s dual master’s degree program with The Chinese University of Hong Kong—a globally recognized model for interdisciplinary, student-centered education. This experience, alongside her work leading international and domestic evaluation efforts, uniquely positions her to guide Nexellence in blending academic rigor with creativity, equity, and global relevance.
Across her career, Dr. Yin has collaborated with government agencies, NGOs, and international organizations to design, evaluate, and scale effective educational interventions. Her work connects policy and practice, with a focus on empowering students—especially those who learn differently—to chart their own path.
At Nexellence, Dr. Yin brings this passion home. She leads with the belief that every child deserves to be seen, supported, and celebrated—not only for their academic potential, but for who they are. Through Nexellence, she is creating the kind of educational experience she has long researched—and always believed was possible.
Francine Catalla
Program Implementation Specialist
Ruhan Circi, Ph.D.
Academic Advisor
Dahlia Shaewitz
Academic Advisor
Gizem Toska
Academic Advisor
Gizem Toska
Academic Advisor
Dr. Gizem Toska is a counseling psychologist and educator with a strong background in psychological research, social-emotional learning, and talent development. She brings a deep commitment to fostering academic and personal growth in diverse learners. She holds dual BA degrees in Psychology and Guidance & Psychological Counseling from Boğaziçi University, where she graduated as valedictorian, and earned her Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from the University of Florida.
Dr. Toska has held several university faculty positions where she has lectured on topics including counseling theories, social-emotional development, group counseling, and mindfulness-based practices for learners of all ages. Her teaching and leadership have consistently emphasized student-centered learning, inclusive practices, and the development of core academic and emotional competencies—areas particularly relevant to supporting gifted and twice-exceptional students. Since 2024, she has been working with Dr. Yin to support the development of the Nexellence curriculum, with a particular focus on social-emotional learning and skill development for learners with diverse learning needs. Her experience makes her especially well-suited to teach research methods in a way that is both rigorous and responsive to the strengths and challenges of gifted and twice-exceptional learners.
Meghan Hussey Lim
Inclusive Education Specialist
SEL & UDL Advocate
Meghan Hussey Lim is an inclusive education leader with over a decade of global experience designing programs that help all learners—especially those who learn differently—access meaningful, engaging, and empowering education. Her work centers on building systems that reflect the principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and Social-Emotional Learning (SEL), ensuring every student has the tools and support to thrive.
Meghan Hussey Lim
Inclusive Education Specialist
SEL & UDL Advocate
Meghan Hussey Lim is an inclusive education leader with over a decade of global experience designing programs that help all learners—especially those who learn differently—access meaningful, engaging, and empowering education. Her work centers on building systems that reflect the principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and Social-Emotional Learning (SEL), ensuring every student has the tools and support to thrive.
Before joining Nexellence, Meghan served as the Inclusive Education Advisor at USAID, where she led the agency-wide effort to embed UDL across its global education programs. She has also worked extensively with Special Olympics on youth and education initiatives and has conducted fieldwork and research on inclusive development in Asia, Africa, and Europe. As a Fulbright Scholar at Beijing Normal University, she explored educational approaches for autistic youth in China.
Meghan holds a B.A. from the University of Pennsylvania and an M.Sc. in International Development from Trinity College Dublin, where she was a George J. Mitchell Scholar. She brings to Nexellence a deep commitment to equity, a passion for innovation, and a global perspective on what it means to build learning environments where every student is seen, supported, and inspired.
She currently lives in the Washington, D.C. area with her husband.
Michelle Yin, Ph.D.
Scientific Founder
Dr. Yin is the Scientific Founder at Nexellence Institutes, where she provides intellectual leadership in program design and strategic planning. Her role is pivotal in ensuring the delivery of high-quality services and enriching the educational experience for our students. Dr. Yin's expertise and visionary approach are instrumental in maintaining and enhancing the institute's academic excellence.
Francine Catalla
Program Implementation Specialist
Francine Catalla is an expert in program management with significant experience in intervention implementation for youth, especially those impacted by the justice system. Her expertise includes managing large-scale projects, providing technical assistance, and employing innovative strategies to enhance program delivery and outcomes. Francine, a committed mentor and first-generation college graduate, is dedicated to fostering career readiness and empowering young individuals to succeed.
Ruhan Circi, Ph.D.
Academic Advisor
Dr. Ruhan serves as the Academic Advisor at Nexellence Institute, bringing her extensive expertise in AI, data science, and research methodology to the forefront of curriculum design. Her profound knowledge in these areas is crucial in developing innovative technological solutions aimed at enhancing student learning experiences.
Dahlia Shaewitz
Academic Advisor
Ms. Shaewitz, serving as an Academic Advisor at Nexellence Institute, specializes in professional coaching. Her expertise is integral to providing students with targeted training focused on professional development and soft skills. Ms. Shaewitz's guidance and mentorship enrich the students' academic journey, preparing them for the professional world with confidence and competence.
Exploring Diverse Career Pathways and Focus Areas
Nexellence Institute not only equips transition-age youth and young adults of ALL abilities with vital research and analytical skills but also unlocks a realm of diverse career opportunities. As they embark on this learning odyssey, we provide them with a comprehensive introduction to these dynamic career pathways:
• Consulting and Advisory Services:
Our participants acquire the prowess to excel in consulting roles, providing invaluable guidance to organizations, governments, and businesses rooted in data-driven research.
• Management and Strategy:
Armed with analytical acumen, participants flourish in management and strategy positions, shaping effective business plans and steering organizational expansion.
• Nonprofit and Social Impact:
Participants channel their skills toward the nonprofit sector, utilizing research insights to drive positive change within communities.
• Data Analysis and Visualization:
Proficiency in research methods and coding empowers participants in data analysis and visualization roles, enabling organizations to make informed decisions.
• Public Policy and Government:
A fulfilling career in public policy and government beckons participants who aspire to influence policy-making, drive systemic change, and tackle socio-economic challenges head-on.
• Entrepreneurship and Innovation:
Bolstered by research-driven insights, participants embark on entrepreneurial ventures, crafting innovative solutions and products that address real-world challenges.
To learn more, please contact us at: info@nexellence.org
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