ABOUT US
NPA is building a team of scientists, entrepreneurs and lobbyists who will be laser focused on accelerating the integration of neuroplastic treatments, and a focus on recovery and regaining function, into the healthcare system. If you are interested in joining our mission, please reach out to sherry.odom@npallies.org – we’re always on the lookout for great talent.
LEADERSHIP
Sherry Odom
Founder and Executive Director
Sherry oversees NPA’s global strategy, working with industry leaders and company executives to ensure NPA is effective at implementing programs that deliver mission-focused results. Sherry is a business innovator skilled at building cross-industry partnerships, bridging government and industry interests and leading start-up initiatives in multiple industries on a global level. Sherry was inspired to create NPA after experiencing the life changing benefits that several neuroplastic treatments provided for members of her family. She is a graduate of the University of South Carolina with a Masters Degree in International Studies and Environmental Management and an undergraduate degree in History and Political Science.
Emily Applegate
Strategy Director
Emily uses her unlimited curiosity and persistence to identify and lead new development and investment opportunities for NPA. Emily has been forming cooperative and collaborative relationships with her healthcare professionals for the last 5 years. During this process, she has done extensive research and outreach with doctors, patients, and nonprofits nationwide. Emily was inspired to join NPA after sustaining a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) in a ski accident in 2019 and leverages this experience to help guide her strategy at NPA. She brings over 15 years of strategy and financial leadership experience in startups, venture capital, and impact investing. She graduated with a B.S. in Business Administration from Washington and Lee University and an MBA from Vanderbilt University.
Crystal James
Partnership Innovation Director
Crystal leverages her 20+ years of experience in converting passion into action in both the corporate and not-for-profit segments to help NPA discover and operationalize growth opportunities. An entrepreneur at heart, Crystal helps lead partner incubation companies in fleshing out their growth strategies across their value chain - uncovering hidden revenue potential, determining operational fit, and ensuring customer satisfaction. When not on the Tennis Court, you can find Crystal sharing her passion for clean living (findingclean.org) and helping the world Get Off Your Phone (GOYP.com).
Marketing and Communications Director
Maria Calvo
Maria oversees NPA’s Marketing and Communications functions and is responsible for building NPA’s online presence, managing events, and developing customer engagement opportunities. She has over 15 years of experience working with Fortune 100 companies, including Delta Airlines, Turner Broadcasting, and American Express, and has owned her own boutique digital design firm serving global and start-up companies alike. In addition to leading NPA’s marketing efforts, Maria uses her start-up and corporate communications experience to help guide NPA’s incubation partners in developing effective digital presence and outreach plans for new ventures or expansions. When not at work, you can find Maria tending to a flock of backyard chickens, gardening, and cooking.
ADVISORS
NPA is actively seeking advisors to help guide research and business development initiatives. If you are interested in becoming an advisor and have experience in neuroplasticity, learning disorders, neurodegenerative disease, rehabilitation, spinal cord or brain injury, or cognitive health please contact
SPONSORS
CRI inc.
