Her company evolved from a spin-off of the research she was involved in at Rutgers University as a Ph.D. candidate. She chose to research catalysts for energy applications because they have an impact on the quality of life of all human beings. For Calvinho, diversity means appreciating people of different backgrounds and embracing their contributions.

When speaking of her own experience, coming from a working-class family, Calvinho exudes strength and resilience. She says that her upbringing required her to have grit, which is crucial in innovation and entrepreneurship. When coming from non-standard backgrounds, driven scientists and originators like Calvinho prove that there is no linear path or no conformed image and that everyone belongs as long as they have determination and drive.

 

 

“By combining thoughts, ideas, and approaches, we can prevent groupthink and imagine new, uncommon paths. When practices arising from different cultures conflict, it may be challenging and require more work to get a team on the same page. However, the rewards are innumerable. Diversity of thought is what makes a team and its people grow.” –K. Calvinho