Nikita Muthuuri

Class of 2025-2026

Undergraduate University: University of Nairobi Graduate program: University of Notre Dame, 2022
Medicine & Surgery

Capstone Project Abstract:

The student is partnering with Ascend Learning, a national leader in education technology and workforce development solutions. Ascend supports professional education, credentialing, and compliance for healthcare providers across the U.S., including Magnet-designated hospitals recognized for nursing excellence.

This project addresses one of the healthcare system’s persistent challenges—healthcare worker retention—by exploring how learning solutions can create clear career growth pathways for healthcare workers within the same organization. The student is engaging healthcare administrators and frontline staff to understand workforce development needs, evaluate strategies for professional advancement, and design an implementation plan that aligns employee career development with organizational goals. The project aims to strengthen healthcare teams and ultimately improve patient care outcomes.

Why did you choose ESTEEM?

I chose ESTEEM to deepen my ability to tackle real-world global health challenges through entrepreneurship. I’m excited by its hands-on approach, strong mentorship, and diverse cohort—all of which will equip me with skills to build technology-driven solutions that create meaningful social impact.

What do you hope to do after ESTEEM?

After ESTEEM, I’m excited to apply my clinical background and entrepreneurial training in the health tech and med tech space—tackling global health challenges at scale through innovative, technology-driven solutions.

I’m passionate about building and scaling products that strengthen health systems, improve healthcare outcomes, and expand access to care, particularly for underserved communities.

As an African woman in STEM, I look forward to bringing a unique perspective to the development and commercialization of technologies that transform patient care and create lasting social impact.

What do you like to do in your free time?

I enjoy exploring new coffee shops, traveling to experience different cultures, and engaging in conversations that spark creativity and new ideas.