As part of International Women's Day 2025, Dr. Kristen Hege, Independent Board Member, Mersana, Adaptimmune, and Kelonia; Former Clinical Professor of Medicine in Hematology, UC San Francisco; SVP Early Clinical Development, Hematology, Oncology and Cell Therapy, Bristol Myers Squibb will present a lecture titled "Leadership (and Life) Lessons from the Pacific Crest Trail" from 2-3 PM.

Kristen Hege retired from her biopharma executive role at Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS) and her academic hematology practice at UC San Francisco in 2023 to pursue her lifelong dream of thru hiking the 2,650-mile Pacific Crest Trail from Mexico to Canada.

In this unique presentation, she reflects on her pioneering 25-year history with research and development of CAR-T cells, from the dawn of this breakthrough field at Cell Genesys, a startup Bay Area biotech company in the 1990s, to Celgene, and ultimately BMS where she led the development of Abecma, the first BCMA targeted CAR-T cell approved for multiple myeloma. She will also share her Pacific Crest Trail story and reflections on leadership lessons learned from this grand adventure that should resonate with all who pursue high-risk endeavors in science and medicine. Finally, she will reflect on her efforts to turn her PCT adventure into a philanthropic effort to support and advance the next generation of women physicians and scientists working on cellular immunotherapy.

We strive to host inclusive, accessible events that enable all individuals, including individuals with disabilities, to engage fully. To request an accommodation or for inquiries about accessibility, please contact R.E. Díaz, PhD robertoefrain.diaz@ucsf.edu as soon as possible. People of all genders are welcome.

Hosted by: Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center Office of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility, Gender Equity Committee and the UCSF Chancellor's Committee on the Status of Women.