Q: Can you describe the work you do at UChicago Medicine? 

I’m the Assistant Director for Adult Oncology Clinical Research Operations. I support research operations for the clinical trial portfolio in the Section of Hematology/Oncology, with direct support for our hematologic malignancy programs. Each day is different, and even after so many years in research, I’m still learning constantly! I help the team assess trials for site feasibility so we can offer the best options to our patients and their families. I oversee the process from identifying a study to opening it for enrollment, managing front-line staff and coordinating with other programs so that everything happens in parallel and trials activate on time.

Q: How long have you been with the University of Chicago, and what drew you here?

I joined the University in July 2015, so that’s 11 years and counting! I grew up on the South Side of Chicago and have always admired UChicago’s presence in the community. South Siders often must leave their neighborhoods to meet basic needs, and UChicago allows residents to stay close to home and receive quality, cutting-edge care.

Q: How has your role changed since you started?

I started as an entry-level Research Assistant. I embraced every opportunity to learn and accepted the challenges that came my way, and over time I went from supporting teams to leading them. Both the trials we offer patients and our research operations have grown more complex, and each role has pushed me to keep pace and ensure our team stays at the forefront.

Q: What are some highlights of working at UChicago and on the Clinical Research Operations team?

There are so many! I’ve loved the people I’ve met, both patients and colleagues. I’m honored to have made a real impact, and I truly believe the work we do has saved lives and will continue to. Our team is relentless, our passion is unmatched, and watching everyone advocate for our patients inspires me. It’s been amazing to see treatments go from investigational products to FDA-approved standards of care. So many people have gotten a second chance at life, and I’m forever grateful for the small role I’ve played.

Q: You have had a great impact on the University. How has the University impacted you?

UChicago has supported my professional and personal growth, and I found not just a job but a career I’m proud of. I’ve achieved so many wonderful accomplishments: teaching continuing education and graduate-level courses, earning professional certifications, and speaking at my first national conference this year. I’ve been mentored by incredible people here, and it brings me great joy and pride that they believe in me and trust my leadership and vision for our teams.

Q: Can you share a bit about a project or initiative you are currently working on?

Our amazing team is preparing to open the AbbVie Foundation Cancer Pavilion in April 2027. I’ve toured the building ahead of its opening, and I can’t wait to welcome patients into this new, innovative space. The new cancer center was just an idea when I started in 2015, so seeing the building standing and teams getting ready is truly amazing.

Q: Beyond your role, how else do you like to spend your time?

Family comes first. I have a 3-year-old daughter who is the joy of my life, and being her mom is my greatest blessing. My husband and I love planning activities and making memories with her, and we’re lucky to live close to family so we can celebrate holidays, birthdays or random weekends together. I really love cooking, especially for the holidays. You can also find me on the Peloton leaderboard (Tunde and Rebecca are my favorites) or, more recently, in a Pilates class. And I’ll never turn down a nap or a good book!

Q: Is there anything you’d like to share with the UChicago community, such as a fun fact about yourself or something you’re currently working on?

Like so many others, I love going to concerts. Beyoncé and Ari Lennox are two of my favorite artists I’ve seen live. I was also in the French Honor Society in high school, and I’m thinking it’s time to dust off those skills and revisit the language. I’d love to teach my daughter a few things, too! I’m also working on some personal and professional development goals that will bring me closer to the woman I want to be and the example I want to set for my daughter.