Description

The WVU Committee of Retired Faculty and OLLI will host Fueling Innovation: WVU’s Office of Technology Transfer and the Future of Tech Commercialization in WV, a presentation by Dr. Erienne Olesh, on Wednesday, April 2, at 2:30 p.m. on Zoom. Dr. Olesh will provide an overview of WVU’s new approach to innovation and commercialization, the programs offered by the office, and its impact on local and regional communities. She will also discuss the imperative to continue growing the innovation pipeline in the U.S. and the impact that technology has on our economy and improving lives. About the Speaker: Erienne Olesh currently serves as the Executive Director of Innovation and Commercialization. This office oversees intellectual property management for WVU, licensing and commercialization of technology, NSF I-Corps programming, the Morris L. Hayhurst Launch Lab, SBIR/STTR coaching and startup assistance, and other strategic functions related to innovation and economic development. Previously, Olesh helped establish and launch Vantage Ventures which focuses on scaling startup companies, attracting investments, and working across state agencies for economic growth. She has experience in IP strategy, funding, corporate partnerships, and economic development. Olesh completed a PhD in Neuroscience, focused on neural networks, spinal and motor integration, and neural reorganization, particularly relating to clinical rehabilitation and motor control. She received her PhD in Neuroscience from the Rockefeller Neurosciences Institute and an MBA from West Virginia University. Fueling Innovation is free and open to the public. Register at https://olliatwvu.wufoo.com/forms/m27whi10bzq1cz/ to receive the Zoom link on the morning of April 2.