To Whom Much Is Given, Much Is Required: The Responsibility of Opportunity
In this episode of 'Innovating Forward: A NACME Leaders Podcast,' host Emely Evangelista sits down with Dr. Elise Grace, the Global Vaccines Business Operations Director at Merck Company. Dr. Grace shares her inspiring journey from her Brooklyn roots to her distinguished career in STEM. With a background including roles in strategic alliances, supply chain management, and vaccine manufacturing, Dr. Grace offers invaluable insights into her career path and the importance of education, mentorship, and community.
She discusses her early misconceptions about engineering, the pivotal role of NACME in her education, and how her experiences at Brooklyn Tech High School and Drexel University shaped her career. Dr. Grace also dives into the significance of co-op programs, the challenges of pursuing advanced degrees while working, and the importance of authenticity and community in professional settings. She emphasizes the value of mentors, the necessity of being curious and asking questions, and the importance of giving back. This episode is packed with advice for recent graduates and those navigating their careers, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in STEM and career development.
Creators and Guests
Host
Emely Evangelista
Emely Evangelista is the Alumni Coordinator at NACME, where she’s dedicated to strengthening the alumni community. Her work involves reconnecting with graduates, organizing networking events, and hosting the 'Innovating Forward 'podcast, which features insightful conversations with professionals in engineering and computer science. Previously, Emely served as a Communications Intern at the National Hispanic Medical Association (NHMA), where she contributed to public health campaigns aimed at the Hispanic community. Her role included website management, creating graphics and media plans, and analyzing campaign effectiveness. Emely is a Brooklyn native, and holds a degree in Cultural Anthropology and International Affairs from George Washington University. She brings a unique blend of energy, and community spirit to everything she does.
Guest
Dr. Elise Grace
Dr. Elise Grace is the Global Vaccines Business Operations Director at Merck & Co. where she oversees operations for global marketing franchises. Her role involves standardizing and developing marketing tools and processes, creating value-added digital tools and resources, and continuously improving speed and efficiency in operations. Previously, she served as the Strategic Alliances Director, supporting institutional business and localization operations. Dr. Grace has experience in Supply Chain Management, External Manufacturing operations, Vaccine Manufacturing, Technology Transfer, Project Management, and various roles within Merck's Manufacturing Division. She was also a part of the ERVEBO® Vaccine Technical Product Transfer Acceleration Team in Burgwedel, Germany. She holds a Doctor of Engineering in Engineering Management, an MBA in Marketing, and a BS in Mechanical Engineering. Dr. Grace is also actively involved in employee resource groups and serves as the Global Strategy and Operations Co-Chair of the League of Employees of African Descent (LEAD) at Merck. She is also the National Action Council for Minorities in Engineering (NACME) Board Liaison. Dr. Grace is actively involved in employee resource groups and is passionate about talent development. and mentoring. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, spending time with family, and working out.
