Jessenia Laguna-Torres, MS BS
Jessenia Laguna-Torres, MS, BS, is a former neuropathologist, dedicated homeschool mom, and passionate science educator based in Massachusetts. She is the founder of Hands-On Creation, a Christ-centered science program that integrates hands-on experiments with biblical truth to inspire curiosity and wonder in students of all ages. With a B.S. in Biology from the University of Puerto Rico and an M.S. in Neuropathology from Boston University, Jessenia has conducted advanced research in neurodegenerative disease and brain pathology, working with human, non-human primate, and rodent tissues. Her scientific career has included histology, microscopy, and animal handling techniques, as well as collaboration with research labs in both academic and medical institutions.
Throughout her career, Jessenia has traveled internationally for specialized training and scientific conferences, experiences that have enriched her global perspective and deepened her understanding of neuroscience. Her unique combination of rigorous academic training and practical homeschooling experience allows her to make complex scientific concepts accessible and meaningful, particularly within faith-based educational contexts.
Through Hands-On Creation, Jessenia aims to cultivate a generation of students who view science not as a contradiction to faith, but as a way to explore and glorify the Creator. Her mission is further amplified through her work teaching homeschool co-ops, developing science curricula, and mentoring young learners in biology, chemistry, and general science. With her dedication to hands-on, faith-integrated learning, Jessenia continues to empower students to explore the natural world with curiosity, confidence, and wonder.
• Grant Seeking Essentials Certificate
• Boston University School of Medicine- M.S.
• University of Puerto Rico, Río Piedras- B.S.
• HSALDA
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a combination of rigorous scientific training, a deep curiosity about the human brain, and a commitment to making knowledge meaningful in real life. Becoming a mother and founding Hands-On Creation allowed me to merge my passion for science with education, empowering both students and homeschool parents to explore the world with curiosity, faith, and purpose.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would advise young women, especially mothers, to pursue nontraditional paths that integrate professional expertise with faith, service, and family. Visibility matters—not for recognition, but to inspire others—so remember, you don’t have to give up your education or professional identity to follow a calling outside your degree, like homeschooling or alternative careers.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is helping homeschool moms overcome feelings of inadequacy, whether it’s doubting their ability to create rigorous lesson plans or worrying they aren’t meeting educational standards. The opportunity lies in encouraging them that they can excel in both teaching and motherhood, and that every role they embrace has value and impact.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are integrity, curiosity, and faith—approaching both science and education with honesty, wonder, and purpose. I am committed to nurturing lifelong learning, critical thinking, and courage in students, while affirming homeschool mothers in their dual roles as educators and guides.