Today’s guest is a first-generation university graduate, the Assistant Vice President for Research and Economic Development at Jackson State University, the first Black Chair of the Board of Directors for AUTM, a Ph.D. holder, and a mother of two. Almesha is a trailblazer in the technology transfer field and a true asset to the industry. Her unwavering commitment to innovation and entrepreneurship, especially among underrepresented populations, has earned her recognition and accolades from numerous organizations.During this episode, Almesha Campbell talks about her educational and career background, the people in her life who have influenced and motivated her to be the best version of herself, her goals of enhancing equity, diversity, and inclusion far beyond the borders of her university, and the strategic initiatives that she will be focusing on at AUTM in the coming year.In This Episode:[00:40] Introducing Almesha Campbell, the Chair of the Board of Directors for AUTM.[01:42] What Almesha aims to achieve while holding her current position. [03:34] An overview of Almesha’s career journey to date. [05:26] The mentors who have played an influential role in Almesha’s life. [11:33] The problem with having a lack of diversity at the leadership level. [15:52] Exploring the programs that foster innovation and entrepreneurship at Jackson State University and beyond. [23:15] Advice for establishing successful innovation-focused university-based programs.[26:59] Lessons that Almesha learned from her mother and grandmother that have shaped her into the person she is today and how she is passing those lessons on to those around her.[31:57] Why the underrated skill of listening is foundational to enhancing diversity, equity, and inclusion. [34:05] Barriers to enhancing diversity, equity, and inclusion and Almesha’s thoughts on how those can be broken down. [37:25] Four key strategic initiatives that Almesha plans to bring to life at AUTM in the coming year.Resources:Almesha Campbell on LinkedIn

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