Our Story

Dr. Hatice Gonca Usta is an Associate Professor with deep expertise in statistics, measurement, and data analysis. She earned her undergraduate degree in Primary Mathematics Education from Baskent University and her master's and doctoral degrees in Measurement and Evaluation from Ankara University. She later transitioned into industry and worked as a Data Engineer in the United States, applying advanced statistical knowledge to large-scale data pipelines and analytics systems. Her background uniquely combines academic research, statistical modeling, and production-level data engineering.

Huricihan Taskonak is an accomplished finance expert currently working as a Costing Analyst at PepsiCo. She has an academic background in mathematics and earned her MBA from Yildiz Technical University. During her time in Turkey, she held managerial positions at UIP (Universal & Paramount Pictures) and ECE Turkey. At PepsiCo, she also leads the E-commerce Organizational Health team and actively volunteers for PAYDA.

A 1990 graduate of Istanbul Technical University, Nimet Kara worked for 23 years in engineering and management on construction projects in Istanbul for major companies such as Sabanci Holding, Suzer, and Eczacibasi Holding. After leaving Turkey, she devoted her time to volunteering at churches and temples in Sweden and Singapore. She is currently active with the Plano Volunteer Group and supports students as a volunteer for PAYDA.

Ipek Imren Rudd was born in Ankara, Turkey and raised in Dallas, Texas. She is a graduate of L.V. Berkner High School in Richardson, Texas and attended Texas A&M University – College Station, where she earned her Bachelor of Business Administration in Management and Marketing and a Certificate of International Business. While being a stay-at-home mom, Ipek earned an additional Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Maryland. She served various volunteer positions including Treasurer of multiple Spouses' Clubs and was a Girl Scout Leader and soccer coach. In 2023 Ipek completed her Master of Science in Accounting from Southern Methodist University and currently works as a Tax Specialist at CAPTRUST Financial Advisors.

Aylin Gomez is a commercial photographer and business professional with a strong passion for community building and cultural engagement. She works as a freelance photographer specializing in events, weddings, portrait, and newborn photography. She has worked as a newborn photographer with Mom 365. Prior to focusing on photography, Aylin built a successful career in finance and insurance at ESBANK in Istanbul and Farmers Insurance in Dallas. Aylin has actively volunteered with various Turkish associations and has served as President of TURANT. She continues to contribute as a member of the TURANT Membership Committee and volunteers as Treasurer for TAVPA. Aylin holds a Bachelor of Science in Finance from Istanbul University, an MBA in Finance from Virginia Tech, and completed her commercial photography studies at Collin College.