Exotic forms of intelligence
My original career aspiration was to become a marine biologist
After many trips to Hawaii with my family as a child, I decided I wanted to study dolphin and whale intelligence.
As a University of Pennsylvania college student, I studied cognitive science and the philosophy of mind with a focus on exotic cognition and sensory systems across the animal kingdom. I was inaugurated into the University Scholars Program and served as a research intern at the world renowned Kewalo Basin Marine Laboratory, now known as The Dolphin Institute. I worked closely with bottlenosed dolphins on pioneering research on dolphin communication, perception, and theory of mind.
My curiosity about the minds of dolphins and whales never dimmed. But in my final year of college, I had a chance conversation with a neurologist—and I felt a shift. Reflecting on my academic interests and my deep investment in volunteerism in the inner-city of West Philadelphia, I realized that I could transform my fascination with the mind and brain into a medical career, one where I could touch human lives and help others in need.
In my personal life, I appreciate the gifts and challenges of neurodivergent orientations. We all have different ways of learning, behaving, and perceiving the world, which "echoes" the need for multifaceted approaches to mind and brain health.
My father has always been a supersized influence in my life.
A warrior spirit, he took up running in his 40s and went on to complete five marathons after the age of fifty. He loved running along the Illinois Des Plaines River trails and feeling the tread of the leaves beneath his feet. He excelled as one of the nation’s most powerful employment attorneys and negotiators. He served as a generous mentor to countless colleagues and a legacy leader of his law firm, as well as my most inspirational life coach. Outside of his formal endeavors, he was a lifelong Chicago Cubs fan, reader, hiker, art and music aficianado, and he cultivated our family traditions and heritage.
My Dad
My father was diagnosed with a glioblastoma in 2014. He passed away in 2015. His memory is a blessing.
My personal hobbies and family trail
Family life can be an adventurous trail and often not the tranquil, serene and straightforward path we may envision.
Outside of my professional role, I am heavily invested in the upbringing of my two boys and love being a mom. I am also an exercise enthusiast and my workout routine has included hot yoga, cycling, and triathlon training. My additional hobbies include playing instrumental jazz and piano, horticulture, botanicals, hiking and following the Chicago Cubs.