About Us

Stella Mach is a data science executive with over a decade of experience in data, analytics, and technology across the finance, marketing, and consulting industries. She is recognized for leading technical teams, driving enterprise-scale initiatives, and delivering data-driven recommendations to help C-suite executives reach strategic goals. Her work has shaped nationwide initiatives and guided data-driven strategies for $2.1 trillion of assets under advisement. Stella most recently served as Lead Quantitative Analyst at Meketa Investment Group, where she led technical teams to develop advanced data, modeling, and business intelligence solutions for institutional investment portfolios. Her prior work includes serving as Senior Data Scientist for the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2020 Integrated Communications Campaign, developing econometric and machine learning models to strengthen financial reporting quality for U.S. public companies, and designing statistical models to support the U.S. Treasury’s federal debt collection efforts. She holds an M.S. in Economics from the University of Bonn and dual B.A. degrees in Economics and Foreign Affairs (cum laude) from the University of Virginia.

Catherine Fu brings more than nine years of distinguished litigation paralegal experience  supporting attorneys in complex cases. She recently made a dynamic career transition into healthcare and now leads a home healthcare agency while expanding her entrepreneurial expertise. She is deeply passionate about Branch Four’s mission and believes that supporting local journalism and combating misinformation are vital to building healthy communities, strengthening democracy, and ensuring equitable access to reliable, relevant news. Catherine obtained a B.A. in Foreign Affairs and Cognitive Science from the University of Virginia and is based in Northern Virginia. 

Erin Nester, a Certified Public Accountant with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting, is a Manager at The Carlyle Group, where she supports the firm’s Global Private Equity platform. Her career is built on expertise in financial management, strategic operations, and driving excellence within a dynamic global investment environment. Beyond her professional work, Erin has been active in community service, volunteering at local food pantries and supporting animal conservation initiatives. She is passionate about local journalism and the fight against misinformation, recognizing the essential role accurate, accessible reporting plays in strengthening communities. Through her role on Branch Four’s board, Erin is committed to advancing this mission and making a lasting impact.

Alex Yang is a Data Scientist at Stripe, where he develops forecasting models that support financial planning and business performance assessment. Throughout his career, he has applied advanced analytical methods and predictive modeling to inform strategic decision-making and generate meaningful insights. He is deeply committed to advancing local journalism by leveraging data-driven research and knowledge discovery. Alex holds a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from Vanderbilt University. 

Winnie Yang is a passionate advocate for informed civic engagement with a background in education and community-building. A former public school teacher of 5 years, she now provides administrative support for a small business in the electrical industry. She earned a Bachelor’s in Linguistics and a Master’s in Education from the University of Virginia, equipping her with strong skills in communication, critical thinking, and data-driven decision-making. Winnie serves on the inaugural board of the QuestBridge Alumni Association’s Washington, DC Regional Club, where she helps develop initiatives supporting first-generation college graduates. As a board member of Branch Four, she brings her dedication to empowering communities and fostering informed dialogue to advance the organization’s mission of combating misinformation through evidence-based reporting.