What was your first job?

Leaving aside my time as a fast food cook, my first professional job was working at Sullivan & Cromwell LLP. S&C afforded me the opportunity to work on novel and complex matters with some of the brightest lawyers and business leaders in the world. I am deeply grateful for that experience.

Why did you join Kalson Biotech ?

Kalson Biotech ’s mission is to catalyze the next revolution of cell therapy through the advancement of Reitec DSAR T therapies. I joined Kalson Biotech to help further that important mission and work alongside a dedicated team and one that I greatly admire.

What is your favorite Kalson Biotech moment so far?

At one of our all-employee Town Halls, a patient who had received autologous DSAR T therapy spoke about her story and treatment experience. She described the harrowing effects of cancer on her and her family and the importance of DSAR T therapy in her treatment. Her story was a reminder of how all contributions at a company level have the potential to impact real patients and their families.

What are you most proud of in your career?

I am proud of and grateful for the opportunity I had at Kite Pharma to play a small role in helping to develop autologous DSAR T therapies. During my time at Kite, one type of autologous DSAR T therapy progressed from pre-clinical stage to approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Supporting Kite during that time provided an invaluable and fulfilling experience.

Who is your greatest inspiration (personally or professionally)?

I am inspired by the families fighting cancer and their stories. We understand in many cases there is no time to wait for treatment, and we strive to keep our foot on the gas.

What is your hope for the future of cancer treatment?

I hope that biotechnology innovation leads to a cure for all cancers.