DEI Special Edition Spring / Summer 2024
Danielle Mitchell, A Warrior in the Fight for DEI in the Clinical Research Industry
by Myra Fonville
OVERVIEW: In the past, I ’ ve spoken to Danielle Mitchell several times; howev- er, it wasn ’ t until I had the opportunity to interview her that I felt I REALLY got to know her. As many of you know, Danielle is the Founder and CEO of Black Women in Clinical Research (BWICR). Founded in 2019, BWICR has grown from an idea to an organization with over 16,000 followers and a leader with over 22,000 followers. In this article you will learn about Danielle the Warrior!
What prompted you to start Black Women in Clinical Research (BWICR)? The pivotal moment came during an Investigator meeting, where I found myself in a room filled with hundreds of professionals, only to realize that there were just two Black Women present, including myself. This eye - opening encounter raised important questions and highlighted the urgent need for a network that specifically addresses the underrepresentation and challenges not only faced by Black Women in the industry but also those whom it benefits. Were you surprised by the response you received? Yes, I was indeed surprised by the response I received. The sheer volume of feedback and the depth of insight shared truly caught me off guard. It ex- ceeded my expectations and provided valuable perspectives that I hadn't considered before. It's always humbling and invigorating to see such engage- ment and contribution from others. What was your primary goal when you started the group? When I first started the group, my primary goal was to create a supportive community where like - minded individuals could come together to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and collaborate on projects related to our shared
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