Mia Hines is a Ph.D. student in Computer Science and Engineering at Washington University in St. Louis, where she uses research as a vehicle for social good. Her work spans data science, machine learning, and human-computer interaction, often grounded in community-informed issues—like studying extreme heat in U.S. prisons or creating accessible coding opportunities for middle school students. Before grad school, she conducted research at institutions like MIT and Brown, and was recognized with multiple fellowships and awards for her academic and community leadership. Mia's journey into tech began at Kode With Klossy in 2017, a program she credits with giving her the confidence and direction to pursue computer science. Unlike traditional classrooms, Kode With Klossy introduced her to coding through a lens of equity and creativity—prioritizing real-world relevance, bias awareness, and self-expression from day one. Later, as an instructor assistant at a Code-A-Bration in St. Louis, Mia mentored young scholars like Parker, who designed a color-detection AI to support a colorblind friend—an experience that reminded her of the power of purpose-driven tech. Mia now applies the same community-first mindset to her research and teaching. From coding clubs to curriculum development, she’s committed to ensuring that the next generation sees tech not just as a skillset, but as a way to reimagine what’s possible—and who gets to build it.