On today’s episode of Danforth Dialogues, Dr. Valerie Montgomery Rice sits down with Dr. Albert Bourla, Chairman and CEO of Pfizer. Join us as we unpack the story behind the decision to invest billions in developing the MRNA vaccine for COVID-19. Dr. Bourla sheds light on the challenges faced, from overcoming skepticism about untested technology to rallying a diverse team in the face of a global crisis.

In this thought-provoking conversation, we delve into the intricacies of leadership during a pandemic, the critical role of partnerships with organizations like the NIH, and the profound impact on human lives. Dr. Bourla shares firsthand experiences, revealing the behind-the-scenes efforts that led to the successful development of the vaccine. We also explore the broader implications for the future of healthcare, the importance of combating vaccine misinformation, and the commitment to inclusivity in clinical trials and global vaccine distribution.

Stay tuned for a deep dive into the lessons learned, the challenges faced, and the visionary outlook on the intersection of science, leadership, and the collective pursuit of a healthier world.

CREDITS
Theme Music 🎵OLD FIRE MUSIC from Pond5.com
Produced by ChatWithLeadersMedia.com

On today’s episode of Danforth Dialogues, Dr. Valerie Montgomery Rice sits down with Dr. Albert Bourla, Chairman and CEO of Pfizer. Join us as we unpack the story behind the decision to invest billions in developing the MRNA vaccine for COVID-19. Dr. Bourla sheds light on the challenges faced, from overcoming skepticism about untested technology to rallying a diverse team in the face of a global crisis. In this thought-provoking conversation, we delve into the intricacies of leadership during a pandemic, the critical role of partnerships with organizations like the NIH, and the profound impact on human lives. Dr. Bourla shares firsthand experiences, revealing the behind-the-scenes efforts that led to the successful development of the vaccine. We also explore the broader implications for the future of healthcare, the importance of combating vaccine misinformation, and the commitment to inclusivity in clinical trials and global vaccine distribution. Stay tuned for a deep dive into the lessons learned, the challenges faced, and the visionary outlook on the intersection of science, leadership, and the collective pursuit of a healthier world.
CREDITS
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">Theme Music 🎵OLD FIRE MUSIC from Pond5.com</li>
<li aria-level="1">Produced by <a href="https://chatwithleaders.com">ChatWithLeadersMedia.com</a></li>
</ul>

COVID-19 turned life upside down for all of humanity literally leaving no one untouched or unimpacted. At the onset of the pandemic, Morehouse School of Medicine President and CEO, Dr. Valerie Montgomery Rice, and her leadership team recognized that the health crisis would be the ultimate teaching opportunity for MSM’s students and staff. The school returned to on-campus instruction early in the pandemic because as future healthcare professionals, they felt the students should model behavior that will prepare them to be on the frontlines of any future public health crisis. Morehouse School of Medicine implemented rigorous testing and contract tracing programs which, over the course of the pandemic, kept the school’s positivity rate under 1 percent until the emergence of the omicron variant. The school also launched a community vaccination program and hosted a “Civil Rights Leaders” vaccination event to inspire Black Americans to get the shots.

Given its unique role as a public health resource focused on underserved and minority communities, Morehouse School of Medicine has garnered some valuable leadership insights over the past two years in the battle to stem the impact of COVID-19. Coupled with her own extensive experience as a medical professional, public health expert, and academic executive, Dr. Valerie Montgomery Rice wants to share these lessons learned with both the school’s students and the wider educational and business community in hopes they might offer help to others.

COVID-19 turned life upside down for all of humanity literally leaving no one untouched or unimpacted. At the onset of the pandemic, Morehouse School of Medicine President and CEO, Dr. Valerie Montgomery Rice, and her leadership team recognized that the health crisis would be the ultimate teaching opportunity for MSM&rsquo;s students and staff. The school returned to on-campus instruction early in the pandemic because as future healthcare professionals, they felt the students should model behavior that will prepare them to be on the frontlines of any future public health crisis. Morehouse School of Medicine implemented rigorous testing and contract tracing programs which, over the course of the pandemic, kept the school&rsquo;s positivity rate under 1 percent until the emergence of the omicron variant. The school also launched a community vaccination program and hosted a &ldquo;Civil Rights Leaders&rdquo; vaccination event to inspire Black Americans to get the shots.
Given its unique role as a public health resource focused on underserved and minority communities, Morehouse School of Medicine has garnered some valuable leadership insights over the past two years in the battle to stem the impact of COVID-19. Coupled with her own extensive experience as a medical professional, public health expert, and academic executive, Dr. Valerie Montgomery Rice wants to share these lessons learned with both the school&rsquo;s students and the wider educational and business community in hopes they might offer help to others.

Leadership Lessons From The Frontlines Of The Pandemic

Danforth Dialogues with Valerie Montgomery Rice, MD, FACOG

Danforth Dialogues with  Valerie Montgomery Rice, MD, FACOG

A Conversation on Leadership With Dr. Albert Bourla, CEO of Pfizer

From Crisis to Courage: Navigating Partnerships and Driving Change in Drug Development

This month on Danforth Dialogues, we are honored to welcome Dr. Regina Benjamin, the 18th United States Surgeon General who served during the Obama administration. A trailblazer in public health and health equity, Dr. Benjamin brings decades of experience and national leadership to the conversation.

A native of Alabama, Dr. Benjamin began her medical journey at Morehouse School of Medicine as a member of the second entering class when it was a two-year institution. She went on to earn her medical degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and later received an MBA from Tulane University. Dr. Benjamin opened a solo practice in Bayou La Batre, Alabama, which she later transformed into a nonprofit rural health clinic that has earned national acclaim for its service to underserved communities.

Dr. Benjamin’s contributions to the field extend far beyond her clinical work. She has served on the boards of Morehouse School of Medicine, Florida A&M University, and Tulane University. In 1995, she made history as the first African American woman and the youngest person elected to the American Medical Association’s board of trustees. Her many honors include a MacArthur Genius Fellowship, a papal medal from Pope Benedict XVI, and recognition as one of Reader’s Digest’s 100 most trusted people in America. We are especially proud to have Dr. Benjamin as our 2025 commencement speaker.

Tune in to this inspiring conversation with Dr. Regina Benjamin as she reflects on her remarkable journey, groundbreaking achievements, and enduring connection to Morehouse School of Medicine.

Resources Related To This Episode


Visit https://www.msm.edu/

Credits


Produced by ChatWithLeadersMedia.com 


Theme Music Old Fire Music from Pond5.com

This month on Danforth Dialogues, we are honored to welcome Dr. Regina Benjamin, the 18th United States Surgeon General who served during the Obama administration. A trailblazer in public health and health equity, Dr. Benjamin brings decades of experience and national leadership to the conversation.
A native of Alabama, Dr. Benjamin began her medical journey at Morehouse School of Medicine as a member of the second entering class when it was a two-year institution. She went on to earn her medical degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and later received an MBA from Tulane University. Dr. Benjamin opened a solo practice in Bayou La Batre, Alabama, which she later transformed into a nonprofit rural health clinic that has earned national acclaim for its service to underserved communities.
Dr. Benjamin&rsquo;s contributions to the field extend far beyond her clinical work. She has served on the boards of Morehouse School of Medicine, Florida A&amp;M University, and Tulane University. In 1995, she made history as the first African American woman and the youngest person elected to the American Medical Association&rsquo;s board of trustees. Her many honors include a MacArthur Genius Fellowship, a papal medal from Pope Benedict XVI, and recognition as one of Reader&rsquo;s Digest&rsquo;s 100 most trusted people in America. We are especially proud to have Dr. Benjamin as our 2025 commencement speaker.
Tune in to this inspiring conversation with Dr. Regina Benjamin as she reflects on her remarkable journey, groundbreaking achievements, and enduring connection to Morehouse School of Medicine.
Resources Related To This Episode
<ul>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
Visit <a href="https://www.msm.edu/">https://www.msm.edu/</a>
</li>
</ul>
Credits
<ul>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
Produced by <a href="https://chatwithleadersmedia.com">ChatWithLeadersMedia.com </a>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<a href="https://chatwithleadersmedia.com"></a>Theme Music&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pond5.com/artist/oldfiremusic">Old Fire Music</a> from Pond5.com
</li>
</ul>

From Bayou to Beltway: Dr. Regina Benjamin’s Trailblazing Journey in Public Health

On this episode of Danforth Dialogues, Dr. Valerie Montgomery Rice sits down with the acclaimed actor and keynote speaker, Courtney B. Vance. Known for his Tony, Emmy, and NAACP Image Awards, Vance shares deeply personal stories and profound insights from his journey in life and career.

Vance reflects on growing up in 1960s Detroit, where he witnessed both the vibrancy of his community and the challenges of systemic change. His journey led him to Harvard, Yale, Broadway and beyond. Through it all, he credits his parents’ influence and his determination to make the most of every opportunity.

In this episode, you’ll hear Mr. Vance open up about navigating personal tragedy, including the loss of his father and godson to suicide, and the transformative power of therapy and faith. He discusses his path to acting, the importance of curiosity and persistence, and the encounters that shaped his career. Vance’s message to young people is clear: embrace the unknown, work hard, and remain open to the opportunities that God presents.

Join us for this inspiring episode as Courtney B. Vance shares his life lessons and a message of hope and perseverance for future leaders.


Resources Related To This Episode


Visit https://www.msm.edu/


Learn more and buy The Invisible Ache at https://theinvisibleache.com/

Credits


Produced by ChatWithLeadersMedia.com 


Theme Music Old Fire Music from Pond5.com

On this episode of Danforth Dialogues, Dr. Valerie Montgomery Rice sits down with the acclaimed actor and keynote speaker, Courtney B. Vance. Known for his Tony, Emmy, and NAACP Image Awards, Vance shares deeply personal stories and profound insights from his journey in life and career.
Vance reflects on growing up in 1960s Detroit, where he witnessed both the vibrancy of his community and the challenges of systemic change. His journey led him to Harvard, Yale, Broadway and beyond. Through it all, he credits his parents&rsquo; influence and his determination to make the most of every opportunity.
In this episode, you&rsquo;ll hear Mr. Vance open up about navigating personal tragedy, including the loss of his father and godson to suicide, and the transformative power of therapy and faith. He discusses his path to acting, the importance of curiosity and persistence, and the encounters that shaped his career. Vance&rsquo;s message to young people is clear: embrace the unknown, work hard, and remain open to the opportunities that God presents.
Join us for this inspiring episode as Courtney B. Vance shares his life lessons and a message of hope and perseverance for future leaders.
 Resources Related To This Episode
<ul>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
Visit <a href="https://www.msm.edu/">https://www.msm.edu/</a>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
Learn more and buy The Invisible Ache at https://theinvisibleache.com/
</li>
</ul>
Credits
<ul>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
Produced by <a href="https://chatwithleadersmedia.com">ChatWithLeadersMedia.com </a>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<a href="https://chatwithleadersmedia.com"></a>Theme Music&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pond5.com/artist/oldfiremusic">Old Fire Music</a> from Pond5.com
</li>
</ul>

Black Men and the Power of a Healthy Well-Being with Courtney B. Vance

Join us for a special episode of Danforth Dialogues as we reflect on an extraordinary year of transformative leadership under the visionary guidance of Dr. Valerie Montgomery Rice. Hosted by Dr. Creshema Murray, Vice President and Chief of Staff at Morehouse School of Medicine, this 2024 Year in Review takes listeners on a journey through some of the most powerful conversations from Season Two.

This episode highlights critical lessons in equity, representation, collaboration, and leadership from remarkable guests such as Carole B. Tomé, CEO of UPS; Xavier Becerra, U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services; Joy Ann Reid, political analyst and host of The ReidOut; and many more. From fostering diversity in corporate boardrooms to addressing social determinants of health and meeting communities where they are, these conversations offer profound insights that will inspire leaders in every field. Tune in for a reflective journey that celebrates progress, challenges us to do more, and sets the stage for the future of leadership.

Resources Related To This Episode


Morehouse School of Medicine:https://www.msm.edu

Credits


Produced by ChatWithLeadersMedia.com 


Theme Music Old Fire Music from Pond5.com

Join us for a special episode of&nbsp;Danforth Dialogues as we reflect on an extraordinary year of transformative leadership under the visionary guidance of Dr. Valerie Montgomery Rice. Hosted by Dr. Creshema Murray, Vice President and Chief of Staff at Morehouse School of Medicine, this 2024 Year in Review takes listeners on a journey through some of the most powerful conversations from Season Two.
This episode highlights critical lessons in equity, representation, collaboration, and leadership from remarkable guests such as Carole B. Tom&eacute;, CEO of UPS; Xavier Becerra, U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services; Joy Ann Reid, political analyst and host of The ReidOut; and many more. From fostering diversity in corporate boardrooms to addressing social determinants of health and meeting communities where they are, these conversations offer profound insights that will inspire leaders in every field. Tune in for a reflective journey that celebrates progress, challenges us to do more, and sets the stage for the future of leadership.
Resources Related To This Episode
<ul>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
Morehouse School of Medicine:<a href="https://www.msm.edu"> https://www.msm.edu</a>
</li>
</ul>
Credits
<ul>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
Produced by <a href="https://chatwithleadersmedia.com">ChatWithLeadersMedia.com </a>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<a href="https://chatwithleadersmedia.com"></a>Theme Music&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pond5.com/artist/oldfiremusic">Old Fire Music</a> from Pond5.com
</li>
</ul>

A compelling 2025 Year in Review with Dr. Creshema Murray, highlighting transformative leadership, equity, and collaboration through inspiring conversations with trailblazers from diverse fields.

From Crisis to Courage: Navigating Partnerships and Driving Change in Drug Development

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Danforth Dialogues with Valerie Montgomery Rice, MD, FACOG

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