I am a Senior Quality Compliance Specialist within the CDMO sector of Charles River Laboratories. My primary focus is audit management, inspection, readiness, and risk/change management. Our site in Rockville specializes in the production of adeno-associated virus (AAV), lentivirus, adenovirus, and retrovirus for gene and gene-modified cell therapies.
1) What did you want to be when you grow up? How’d you get from there to here?
My journey into science started with curiosity—and the right people noticing my talents and nurturing it. I was fortunate to have a community that encouraged my interest in STEM. From sixth through eighth grade, I participated in The University of Richmond’s Math Science Investigators program, a summer enrichment program that immersed me in advanced math and science courses. It was my first real glimpse into what a future in science could look like.
In ninth grade, that same program gave me an opportunity that would shape my career: I was paired with a graduate student (mentorship) studying neuroscience and invited to support their research. Stepping into a university lab for the first time—and performing my first rodent brain extraction and dissection—was both intense and inspiring. It was in that moment I realized I didn’t just enjoy science in theory; I loved the discipline, precision, and discovery that happen at the bench.
I went on to earn my Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences from James Madison University. Shortly after graduating, I began working in plasma-derived therapeutics, where I was introduced to GMP environments and the critical link between science and patient safety. That experience sparked a deeper interest in quality and compliance—understanding not only how therapies are developed, but how they are consistently and safely delivered to patients.
Over the past seven years, I’ve worked across the Quality Unit, primarily in compliance roles supporting CDMOs in oral solid dose manufacturing, cell and gene therapies, and sterile injectables. Each role has expanded my perspective on the complexity of biomanufacturing and reinforced why I chose this path: science is not just about discovery—it’s about responsibility, and ultimately improving lives.
At my core, I’m still driven by the same curiosity that led me into the lab as a teenager—now paired with a deep appreciation for the systems and teams that transform scientific innovation into life-changing therapies.
2) How are you helping to build a more connected community?
I help build a more connected community by prioritizing knowledge-sharing and meaningful engagement across the biotech industry. I believe our field grows stronger when we openly exchange lessons learned, create space for thoughtful dialogue, and support one another’s development.
Mentorship is especially important to me. Programs and mentors played a defining role in my own journey, and I’m intentional about paying that forward—whether through guiding early-career professionals, participating in industry conversations, or contributing to forums that bring leaders together. For me, connection is about access, visibility, and making sure the next generation of scientists and quality professionals feels both prepared and supported.
3) What are currently buzzing about? Anything and everything…
Right now, I’m especially energized by the advancement of AI and its integration into GMP environments. We’re at a pivotal point where artificial intelligence has moved from concept to practical application, and this shift has the potential to fundamentally strengthen how we approach quality and operational excellence.
I’m particularly excited about the role AI can play in data analytics. Our industry generates an immense amount of data, and the ability to translate that data into meaningful insights—more efficiently and intelligently—can elevate decision-making, enhance oversight, and strengthen overall system performance.
4) If you could travel back in time – what early career advice would you give yourself?
If I could travel back in time, I’d tell myself to stay open to new ideas and new ways of thinking—even when they challenge what feels comfortable. Some of the most meaningful growth happens in the gray areas, where you’re learning to balance principles with perspective.
Early in my career in compliance, I approached everything with a rigid mindset. I wanted clear lines, definitive answers, and strict interpretations. Over time, I’ve learned that while structure is essential, flexibility is just as important. The ability to keep learning, adapt your thinking, and remaining intellectually humble will carry you further than simply having the “right” answer.
If I were shouting career advice from the rooftops today, it would be this: stay curious, stay teachable, and never stop expanding how you think.
5) If you could have any superpower what would it be
If I could have any superpower, it would be the ability to clone and be in multiple places at. There is always an initiative I want to support, another person I want to show up for, and family time.
In reality, I’m working on mastering the real superpower—balancing ambition, family, and a little humor along the way!
