Author: [AUTHOR] Published on 7/1/2023 12:00:00 AM

Shayna Killam, PharmD, Postdoctoral Fellow, University of Montana, Missoula, MT

What was your favorite part of attending the Annual Meeting?
My favorite part about attending the Annual Meeting was engaging with all the incredibly intelligent, kind, and inspiring ASCPT members. I was additionally impressed by the diversity of participants and research topics. I met people from all over the world and developed meaningful, solid connections. I am excited to explore what collaborative projects we can pursue together.

Who has inspired you in your career?
I am consistently inspired by the impressive, career-driven women in my live, just a few include: my mentor Dr. Erica Woodahl, my research partners Drs. Karen Brown and Tianna Leitch, and my mom, Dr. Jaime Leonard. Additionally, as a queer woman, I am so proud of and inspired by the countless other queer people I have met who push past societal stigma and barriers to achieve their dreams. Representation matters!

When you aren't working, how do you spend your free time?
I live in Montana, the most beautiful state in the country (in my humble opinion), so I spend a lot of time outdoors. I enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, and sitting by the lake. My family and I spend many summer weekends camping or visiting National Parks. There is just so much beauty right here in our backyard.

What was your childhood dream job?
I think most people would not be surprised to hear that ever since I was 6 years old, I wanted to grow up to be a scientist. I was raised in a very small, rural community with limited resources. However, I had passionate educators who encouraged me to follow my interests. It is incredibly important to embolden young people to follow their dreams, even if the path may be difficult. My elementary teachers still reach out to tell me how proud they are.

Shayna has been a member of ASCPT since 2020.