As we begin our celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, we’re excited to celebrate the work of phenomenal inventors across the innovation ecosystem. Read below as NAI Fellow Dr. Katrina Mealey, Regents Professor at NAI Member Institution Washington State University, shares with us the words she uses to describe herself, the importance of diverse perspectives, and advice that she would give herself or young innovators. An inventor in veterinary medicine, Dr. Mealey’s work has led to discoveries that are used globally in preventing adverse drug reactions in dogs and cats.
Q: What words would you use to describe yourself?
A: Perseverance is probably the best word to describe myself–from finishing a research experiment, writing a research publication or grant proposal, to running a marathon.
Q: What do you feel is the importance of having diverse perspectives in creating innovations that benefit society?
A: Having diverse perspectives is essential for innovators to move their technology to the marketplace–it is the only way to fully understand the needs of potential customers.
Q: What advice would you give your younger self, or young innovators, pursuing a career in research and/or innovation?
A: Be bold–ask questions and take chances. Focus less on what your peers/classmates might think of you than what you can learn from every opportunity, be it in the classroom, a laboratory, or study session.
Dr. Katrina Mealey was inducted as an NAI Fellow in 2016. To read more about Dr. Mealey and her work, visit: https://vetmed.wsu.edu/our-team/wsu-profile/kmealey/