Meg Reed is a United WE Ambassador and a Clinical Research Associate. She shares her personal story and her involvement with the Ambassadors program.
How did you learn about United WE and the Ambassadors program?
Through LinkedIn. I was looking for ways to get involved in the community and was happy to find United WE.
Why did you decide to become a United WE Ambassador?
I was very excited to become a United WE Ambassador because having a career in clinical research it's a combination of two things I care deeply about, advancing women and the value of research. United WE values data to increase awareness, facilitate informed conversations, and drive incremental change.
Can you tell us about your role and what led you to the field of clinical research?
What led me to clinical research is the same thing that led me to become a United WE Ambassador. After college I worked in hospitals and I experienced being paid less than male counterparts, given less opportunity, and I saw how pregnant women or women with families were treated unfairly for life circumstances (leaving early to pick up a sick child, caring for a parent, unable to find childcare, etc). I also spoke with co-workers who had to leave the workforce after having children because of the cost of childcare and they made less than their spouses.
My plan to apply to a Doctor of Physical Therapy program no longer seemed like the best fit for me. These experiences really changed my career trajectory. I wanted a career that would make me feel supported when I am ready to have children and offered opportunities for growth or to scale back if needed. After connecting with people in the field and doing my own research, I am so happy to have my career. It is large, but not really talked about. I'm a Clinical Research Associate for Neurology & Rare Disease. I work with pharmaceutical companies to manage the hospitals and clinics performing their studies. The main aspects of my job are to ensure patient safety, data integrity, and compliance with local and federal regulations. I really enjoy my career because I get to help people - from a product being FDA approved and going to market or new data creating meaningful conversations and awareness.
What is your educational background?
I have a bachelors in Kinesiology from Washburn University. I am a very proud first generation college graduate!
Do you have a spouse/partner, kids, or pets?
I am currently engaged and we have a golden retriever named Mango.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I recently joined Woodside Gym and enjoy trying all the work out classes. I love walking my dog, and going to KC Current games. I’d like to try pickleball and tennis soon too!
What does women’s empowerment mean to you?
Personally I think women’s empowerment means getting educated and using my voice with intention. I’ve had situations where I’ve been too scared to speak up when I saw unfair actions towards women in the workplace or other settings, because of possible retaliation that might happen to me. I regret those moments and I want my future kids to know what I stand for and to see me involved. I also want them to know their voice matters too. Change is incremental and I hope to make the world a better place for my kids and to give the next generation the tools and resources to carry the baton.