COLUMBUS, Ohio – Ohio Life Sciences (OLS) is thrilled to announce the addition of Todd Ponsky and Sam Privitera to its Board of Directors following a unanimous vote at this week’s board meeting.
Eddie Pauline, President and CEO of Ohio Life Sciences, extends a heartfelt congratulations to both Mr. Ponsky and Mr. Privitera. “We are incredibly fortunate to have such distinguished individuals join our board. Their expertise and vision will be invaluable in guiding our organization towards new heights in 2024 and beyond,” said Pauline.
Dr. Todd Ponsky holds multiple roles – lnterim Vice President, Innovation Ventures, Professor of Surgery, University of Cincinnati, and pediatric surgeon at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center and Akron Children’s Hospital – and a diverse background in medical science. As the Director of Clinical Growth and Transformation at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, he has pioneered advancements in pediatric surgery, notably being the first to perform single-port surgery in children. Dr. Ponsky has had an extensive academic journey as both a student and professor, and he’s contributed significantly to medical literature with over 125 manuscripts, three textbooks, and multiple chapters. His leadership roles in several prestigious medical societies, coupled with his innovative contributions to pediatric surgery and medical education, notably founding GlobalcastMD, highlight his exceptional fit for the board. “As the number one children’s hospital in the country, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital recognizes the importance of a strong life sciences industry. I am thrilled to support Ohio Life Sciences mission of helping to drive lifesaving innovation and economic growth,” said Ponsky.
Sam Privitera brings a wealth of experience as the Chief Technical Officer at AtriCure, where he oversees Research, Product Development, Operations, and Quality Assurance. AtriCure, known for its innovative technologies in treating Afib and related conditions, benefits from Mr. Privitera’s leadership in managing integrated manufacturing systems and coordinating quality systems. His contributions have been pivotal in developing AtriCure’s groundbreaking medical devices, and his extensive experience in delivering best-in-class products across various clinical areas is complemented by his role on the boards of the Cincinnati Chapter of the American Heart Association and the Advisory Board for the School of Biomedical Engineering at SUNY Buffalo. His engagement in these diverse boards, along with his rich portfolio of over 50 US patents and the development of numerous associates, makes him an excellent fit for the Ohio Life Sciences board. “Ohio Life Sciences is an important resource and advocate for our life sciences industry that Atricure has benefited from. I’m proud to have an opportunity to help guide the strategic direction of the organization,” said Privitera.
Ohio Life Sciences is committed to fostering growth and innovation in the life sciences. The addition of Dr. Ponsky and Mr. Privitera to the board, and the board’s unanimous approval, reflects these individuals’ ability to contribute significantly to the organization’s goals and growing leadership across the state.
About Ohio Life Sciences
OLS is Ohio’s life science industry trade association, representing an industry that includes more than 4,200 businesses statewide. Ohio Life Sciences convenes and advocates on behalf of biotech, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, labs, digital health, gene and cell therapy, agricultural biotechnology, and research and academic institutions throughout Ohio. OLS is the voice representing and advocating for the common interests of our life sciences community.