Estrigenix Therapeutics, Inc. CEO Victoria Zellmer, Ph.D., recently joined fellow leaders at the inaugural Notre Dame Tech Forum in Chicago to discuss ethical business leadership, innovation, and the importance of creating meaningful impact through technology and science.
Held on October 5, 2026, the event featured a panel titled “A Force for Good: Ethical Business Leadership in the Chicago Tech Ecosystem.” Inspired by the University of Notre Dame’s Mendoza College of Business philosophy, “Grow the Good in Business,” the discussion explored how leaders across industries can use innovation, responsible decision-making, and collaboration to address important societal challenges.
Advancing Women’s Health Through Purpose-Driven Innovation
During the discussion, Dr. Zellmer shared how Estrigenix Therapeutics is working to identify significant gaps in women’s healthcare and translate scientific discoveries into potential new treatment options.
Estrigenix is focused on advancing next-generation therapies designed to address the physical and cognitive effects associated with menopause. Through its research into selective estrogen receptor beta (ERβ) biology, the company aims to develop innovative therapeutic approaches that may help address unmet needs in women’s health.
Dr. Zellmer’s participation highlighted the importance of connecting scientific innovation with a larger purpose. For Estrigenix, that means recognizing where existing treatment options fall short and pursuing research that could meaningfully improve women’s health and quality of life.
Bringing Together Leaders Across Technology, Investment, and Biotechnology
The panel brought together three leaders representing different approaches to responsible innovation:
- Victoria Zellmer, Ph.D., CEO of Estrigenix Therapeutics: Discussed identifying unmet needs in women’s health and translating scientific research into meaningful opportunities for innovation.
- John Lalor, University of Notre Dame: Shared perspectives on machine learning, responsible artificial intelligence, and keeping people at the center of technological advancement.
- Cristin Pacifico Gardner, Vice President and Impact Investor at Builders Vision: Discussed the role of thoughtful investment in supporting solutions to systemic challenges, including sustainability in ocean and food systems.
Moderated by Ashley Hovorka, the conversation emphasized how leaders in different fields can approach innovation with a shared commitment to creating positive, lasting impact.
Attendees also had the opportunity to participate in a question-and-answer session, exchange ideas, and connect with members of the Chicago technology and business community.
Building a Better Future Through Science and Collaboration
The Notre Dame Tech Forum’s focus on ethical leadership closely aligns with Estrigenix’s mission to advance women’s health through scientific discovery.
Developing new therapies requires more than promising research. It takes collaboration, responsible leadership, strategic partnerships, and a long-term commitment to understanding the needs of patients.
As Estrigenix continues advancing its research and development programs, opportunities to participate in conversations like the Notre Dame Tech Forum reinforce the importance of connecting scientific progress with meaningful outcomes.
Estrigenix extends its appreciation to the Notre Dame Tech Forum, the Notre Dame Club of Chicago, and the event organizers for bringing together leaders committed to using business, technology, and innovation as a force for good.
To learn more about Estrigenix Therapeutics and its work to advance the future of women’s health, visit www.estrigenix.com.