Psychiatry Staff Spotlight: Wendy Agudo

As Program Manager, I oversee the administrative and operational backbone of the Center. That means developing strategies for growth, building and managing programs, advancing research studies, and making sure we’re hitting our goals—while ensuring our faculty scientists can focus on what they do best: the science. I like to think of it as keeping all the gears turning smoothly (and on time).

I’ve worked in healthcare for over 10 years across perioperative and nursing services, steadily working my way up from an administrative support role to senior management. I’ve always wanted a career where I could make a meaningful impact while using my strengths to support growth and development across multiple areas of healthcare and development.

Our Center’s work is incredibly unique and innovative, and much of it has had an immediate, real-world impact that’s improved countless lives. What I enjoy most is knowing I’m part of that innovation and positive change—helping important work move from idea to reality.

Professionally, I’m excited to continue expanding the visibility of our Center so more people understand who we are and what we do. I’m also very much looking forward to coordinating our inaugural Symposium, scheduled for autumn 2026 — a big milestone and an exciting challenge.

Leonardo da Vinci, without hesitation. I’ve been a lifelong admirer of his work in art, science, and engineering, and I’ve always wondered what he was like as a person beyond what we know from history. I imagine it would be a very long (and fascinating) coffee.

In the warmer months, gardening and spending time with my animals is my reset button. In the winter, I shift gears and recharge by working on ceramics and crafting—hands-on creativity is my favorite kind of downtime.

Seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland or Alaska. It feels like the perfect mix of awe, adventure, and a little bit of magic.