Dr. Gurtina Besla is a theoretical astrophysicist studying the evolution of our Milky Way and neighboring galaxies in order to constrain the distribution of dark matter about our Galaxy.  She is a world expert in the study of the closest example of an interacting pair of low mass galaxies, the LMC and SMC. Readily seen by the naked eye in the southern hemisphere, the LMC and SMC are our Milky Way Galaxy's largest satellite galaxies. Dr. Besla's research on these galaxies has overturned conventional wisdom, illustrating that the LMC and SMC are likely recent interlopers in our neighborhood rather than long term companions to our Galaxy.  Dr. Besla is committed to creating a supportive community for under-represented minority students pursuing degrees in physics and astronomy by developing the TIMESTEP program, which offers professional advice and mentorship to help students navigate academia and pursue careers in academia or industry.