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SCbio Connects Students And Industry Leaders to Support A Thriving Life Sciences Workforce

SOUTH CAROLINA – September 24, 2024 – SCbio addressed workforce challenges by partnering with life sciences leaders at its inaugural event, Academia & Industry: Bridging the Gap.

On September 17, over 35 attendees, including students and industry executives, gathered at Main Street Labs to discuss barriers to success, gain valuable insights and build meaningful connections to support their transition post-graduation.

During roundtable discussions, students engaged directly with influential executives and explored potential career pathways in the life sciences sector. They focused on the skill sets needed for a successful shift into their career, covering topics such as effective communication, teamwork and industry-specific knowledge. This interactive session allowed students to understand what employers value most and how they can better prepare themselves for the future.

“I enjoyed networking with larger companies and industry professionals that aren’t always accessible on campus,” said Katie Palmer, a student at Clemson University. “This event has been incredibly beneficial, allowing me to establish a more personal connection with industry leaders, rather than just shaking hands at a career fair.”

Life sciences executives left the event with resumes and a revitalized sense of hope for the future of workforce. SCbio will continue to host this event in other regions to support connections between students and industry leaders while shaping a thriving life sciences ecosystem across the state.

Thank you to all featured guests:

Cytiva:

Taini Coriano-Navarro | Senior Manager QA Contamination Control & Sterility Assurance

Edward Teck | Project Manager

Greenwood Genetic Center: 

Dr. Heather Flanagan-Steet | Director of Functional Studies

Dr. Richard Steet | Director of Research

Poly-Med: 

Dave Shalaby | President & CEO

Joey Thames | Recruiting, Outreach & Development Lead

Rymedi: 

David Stefanich | President & CEO

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Paige Durham

SCbio is pleased to welcome Paige Durham to the team as communications coordinator to creatively and effectively communicate the value of the life science association’s programs and initiatives.

Durham will be responsible for developing and distributing high-quality content across multiple communications channels to build, advance and grow South Carolina’s life sciences industry, a key business sector for economic prosperity for the Palmetto State.

“SCbio is excited to welcome Paige to our team as our new communications coordinator. Paige brings fresh ideas and a strong background in communications that will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen our engagement with our audience,” said SCbio President and CEO James Chappell. “We are confident that her skills and experience will be crucial in advancing our communication strategies and supporting our mission.”

Before joining SCbio, Durham was the Membership and Communications Manager at the South Carolina Pharmacy Association (SCPhA), where she used her photography, design and writing skills to create content tailored to pharmacy professionals. Durham’s effective communication skills guaranteed the delivery of brand-specific material that captured the eye of her audience.

During her time at SCPhA, Durham created and edited the Palmetto Pharmacist Journal, using her creative vision to showcase members, educational institutions and industry news. Her communications efforts successfully gained new followers for the organization over the course of a year, increasing brand visibility and promoting the pharmacy profession.

Durham holds a Bachelor of Science in hospitality and tourism management and a Bachelor of Science in business administration from the College of Charleston.

Tamia Sumpter

Tamia is a driven senior undergraduate Bioengineering student currently enrolled at Clemson University. With a strong foundation in her field, she has honed her skills through hands-on experience in research and development at Eli Lilly & Company. During her time in the ADME department, Tamia contributed significantly by working on siRNAs and their applications in finding In Vitro-In Vivo Correlation (IVIVC). Looking ahead, Tamia has set her sights on a promising career in law. She aspires to specialize in Intellectual Property Law, with a particular focus on serving as in-house counsel for leading medical device or pharmaceutical companies. Her enthusiasm for this role is palpable as she prepares to embark on her legal journey! She is also a proud member of the Omicron Phi chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., PEER Mentor for Clemson PEER/WiSE, and currently serves as the President of Clemson Bioengineering Organization (CBO). With her unique blend of scientific knowledge and legal interests, Tamia is poised to make a meaningful impact in the healthcare and life sciences industries.