Blakely Lockhart is a doctoral candidate in the Translational Biology, Medicine, and Health Program at Virginia Tech, where her research examines how nutritional exposures and caregiving environments shape neurodevelopmental trajectories, with an emphasis on translational research and populations historically underrepresented in biomedical science. Prior to joining Virginia Tech, she received her B.S. in neuroscience with minors in leadership and biology from Christopher Newport University. Lockhart demonstrates leadership and service as President of the Roanoke Graduate Student Association, representing graduate students across the Virginia Tech campus. Additionally, she was a 2025 Early Career Policy Ambassador for the Society for Neuroscience, where she participated in science policy, communication, and outreach efforts that connect research with public understanding and decision-making. Through scholarship, leadership, service, and advocacy, her work reflects a sustained commitment to local, state, and nationwide impact.