Our Story
Why we started Veniora
Veniora was born out of a shared frustration—and a vision for better.
For years, across research labs, hospitals, and industry settings, we kept seeing the same pattern: women’s health wasn’t being prioritized. Conditions unique to or disproportionately affecting women were often underfunded, poorly understood, or simply left out of major studies. We saw countless stories of people not being heard, dismissed, or misdiagnosed—not because the science didn’t exist, but because it hadn’t been invested in.
We knew that couldn’t continue.
Veniora was created to challenge that gap and fill it—with evidence, equity, and energy. We’re here to push for research that actually reflects the people it aims to help. To support education that empowers people to make informed decisions about their health. And to advocate for a future where women’s health is no longer an afterthought, but a driving force in science, medicine, and policy.
This isn’t just about medicine—it’s about equity. It’s about making sure the science moves forward for everyone. And we’re just getting started.
Where The Name Comes From
Veniora comes from the Latin roots venire — “to come” — and meliora — “better.” Together, it symbolizes the arrival of something better: better research, better health, and a better future for women. It’s a name that reflects our mission, our momentum, and our belief that change is coming—because we’re building it.
Meet the Team
Leadership
Veniora is led by passionate individuals who combine research expertise, advocacy experience, and a deep commitment to transforming women’s health. Our leadership drives the organization’s vision, strategy, and daily operations with purpose and care.
Founder & President
Nicole Bens, M.S.
Ph.D. researcher in Biomedical Engineering and Physiology at Mayo Clinic, with a background in medical imaging, neuroscience, and translational research. Currently working in Magnetic Resonance Elastography (MRE) research with a focus on women’s health applications. Passionate about bridging science, advocacy, and education to push women’s health forward. Leads Veniora’s strategic vision, partnerships, and development.
Vice President
Anastasia Sobolina, M.S., M.A.
Human Resources leader at Northeastern University, with a background in academic operations, computer science, and international policy. Brings an interdisciplinary approach to organizational strategy, systems design, and leadership development. Passionate about building mission-driven teams and driving impact at scale. Leads Veniora’s internal operations, partnerships, and long-term strategic growth.
Treasurer / Financial Strategy
TBD - Open Seat / In Recruitment
We are currently in the process of recruiting a Treasurer to lead Veniora’s financial operations and ensure sustainable growth. Ideal candidates bring experience in nonprofit finance, budgeting, or accounting, and are passionate about driving impact in women’s health.
Webmaster - Platform Management
TBD - Open Seat / In Recruitment
We are currently in the process of recruiting a Webmaster to lead Veniora’s digital presence and platform management. Ideal candidates bring experience in web development, UX design, or digital strategy, and are excited to build accessible, engaging tools that support women’s health education.
Social Media Manager
TBD - Open Seat / In Recruitment
We are currently in the process of recruiting a Social Media Manager to shape and grow Veniora’s online voice. Ideal candidates bring experience in content creation, brand strategy, or digital communications, and are passionate about building an inclusive, informed community around women’s health.
Education Coordinator & Content Strategist
TBD - Open Seat / In Recruitment
We are currently in the process of recruiting an Education Coordinator to lead the development of accessible, evidence-based health content. Ideal candidates have experience in health communication, curriculum design, or content strategy, and are driven to make science and education more inclusive and impactful.
Advisory Board
Our Advisory Board brings together respected leaders in research, healthcare, and innovation. They provide insight, mentorship, and guidance as we grow Veniora’s reach and deepen our impact in the women’s health space.
Professor Mayo Clinic
Marina Walther-Antonio, Ph.D.
Microbiome scientist at Mayo Clinic, with a background in biology, microbiology, and environmental sciences. Her research bridges evolutionary ecology and clinical medicine, with a focus on gynecologic cancers, endometriosis, and pregnancy health. Leads a translational research program that uses genomic and ecological tools to redefine diagnostics in women’s health. Committed to innovation, equity, and impact. Supports Veniora’s scientific vision and translational research initiatives.
Professor Wellesley College
Marc Tetel, Ph.D.
Professor of Neuroscience at Wellesley College with a background in neuroendocrinology, breast cancer, and the gut-brain axis. His NIH-funded research explores how steroid hormones influence metabolism, behavior, and the microbiome, with a strong focus on sex differences and women’s health. Currently collaborating with Mayo Clinic and Argonne National Lab on microbiome interactions in the female reproductive tract. Passionate about advancing science that directly improves women’s lives. Supports Veniora’s scientific direction and translational research strategy.
Board-Certified OB-GYN Mayo Clinic
Adela Cope, M.D.
Bio to be added soon
Leader in Science, Strategy, Advocacy
Open Seat
This position is reserved for a forward-thinking expert passionate about women’s health. We're looking for individuals who can bring fresh perspective, scientific depth, or strategic leadership to support Veniora’s mission.