The Roots of Leadership

Abstract

This article describes an author’s journey from a childhood marked by empathy and familial responsibilities to becoming a notable scientist and leader. The author reflects on her academic struggles and successes, highlighting pivotal moments such as her decision to transfer to Goucher College and her transformative experience at MIT. Her career trajectory includes significant roles in academia, administration, and the biotech industry, where she navigated challenges and leveraged her skills to achieve notable accomplishments. The article emphasizes the importance of persistence, the impact of mentors, and the value of diversity in STEM fields. It concludes with the author’s current focus on addressing unconscious biases in scientific communities and her commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion.