Original text

My successes.

Andrea J. Durham, MPH, CCRP saw a lack of diversity in the clinical research field and formed her own business to help change this. As a clinical research professional, she knew effective outcomes required both women and people of color to participate in studies, but it wasn’t until pandemic-related researchers started grasping for diverse participants did she confirm her business concept.

“SCORE workshops helped me learn about how to form my LLC, government contracting and consulting”, said Andrea. “Most importantly I’ve had a SCORE mentor since I started taking clients in business. My mentor, James Lewis, has really helped me stay on track with my own goals. He helped me see how things could work. He also helped me vanquish self-doubt.”

Andrea worked in the field as a hands-on study coordinator, clinical research associate and project manager for years before launching her consulting practice. There is no doubt that she understands how clinical research and all the component processes work. This deep knowledge base is one of the secrets to her success.

“I attribute my success to tacit knowledge, the type of knowledge that can’t be taught in a classroom but instead comes from life and professional experience as well as an inherent desire to grow as a person and professional,” she says.

Whether from experience in the field, education or her interpersonal skills, Andrea feels grateful to those who recognize the vision and mission of her company, the Durham Research Collaborative. The company was named to the Dallas Business Journal 2022 40 Under 40 list and it projects continues success in 2023 and beyond.

My mentors

James D Lewis

Retired from CVS Health as a VP of Information Technology.
Prior positions were in IT for SysteMed...

Read full bio