The Power of Access and Resource | Jason Clark

How do you feel that African Americans influenced the arts?
African Americans have left an indelible mark on the arts through a profound connection to our cultural foundations. Our artistic expressions draw from the deep well of family, struggle, happiness, pain, and liberation, allowing us to authentically and unapologetically be ourselves. Throughout recorded history, African Americans have used various artistic mediums to convey our experiences and emotions, creating a unique narrative that resonates with our community and beyond.
In the face of enduring challenges, African Americans have harnessed our distinctive approach to adversity. We find solace in moments of frustration by channeling our pain into the creation of beauty. This beauty is manifested in myriad forms, from our culinary traditions and music to our clothing, hairstyles, and colloquialisms. The influence of African Americans on the arts is undeniable; we have consistently elevated what others might consider insignificant or disposable, imbuing it with profound value.

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How have the arts impacted your life?
The arts have played an immensely transformative role in my life, offering me a system of balance, escape, peace, and vision. They provide balance by helping me understand who I am, what I think, and what I feel. During challenging times, my love for art and connection with nature serve as a refuge. The tranquility I find in nature and the universe's grandeur provide unparalleled solace.
The arts grant me vision by reminding me that in the vast expanse of existence, my problems are but a small fragment of the broader picture. This perspective instills humility and resilience. Recognizing the interconnection of all aspects of life, from architecture and science to animals and nature, underscores the principles of evolution and creativity. These principles have guided my personal growth, adaptability, and ability to overcome life's challenges.

Tell us about your company.
I am the Founder and President of Xyma Industries, LLC. Xyma Industries is a pioneering biopharmaceutical (biopharma) company with a mission centered on curative and personalized medicine. Our focused expertise lies in biopharmaceuticals, drug discovery, biotechnology, and regenerative medicine, particularly within the realms of cell and gene therapies. Our overarching goal is to harness the capabilities of our research and development teams in Diagnostics Innovation, Cell/Gene Therapy Innovation, and Drug Discovery Innovation to combat diseases that have significantly impacted human quality of life.
Our primary areas of interest include infectious diseases, given their elusive and complex nature. Additionally, we are committed to dedicating our resources to gaining a deeper understanding of serious Central Nervous System disorders, such as Multiple Sclerosis and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, as well as cancers affecting the head, neck, and pancreas.

What motivates you to focus on the healing of others?
My motivation to prioritize the healing of others stems from a deep desire for a brighter future for humanity. I am driven by an insatiable hunger to unravel the mysteries that have long eluded us as a species. My experiences in the fields of research and healthcare have exposed the gaps not only in clinical and technological research but also in the patient-centered aspect of healthcare.
I firmly believe that exposing individuals to innovative technologies, including diagnostic tools, drugs, and other novel therapeutics, is pivotal to shaping the future of humankind. The world possesses the resources and brilliant minds needed to combat many diseases and disorders. My commitment to healing through STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) innovation lies in the belief that it is the cornerstone of increasing life expectancy and reducing health disparities.
Innovation in STEM and medicine represents the path to a future where we can overcome the challenges posed by diseases and disorders. I am unafraid to venture into the unknown, understanding that the true reward lies in the newfound vantage point it offers. Vaccines, for instance, play a pivotal role in medicine, but complete eradication requires a more substantial effort.

What can be done to encourage more African Americans to focus on STEM?
To encourage more African Americans to pursue STEM fields, we must prioritize providing accessible and reliable resources. Access and exposure to these resources are critical in illustrating the fundamental role of STEM knowledge in shaping our world. Recent events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, underscore the life-and-death importance of STEM knowledge in decision-making.
Reliable resources can include:

• Educational Programs: Initiatives that introduce STEM concepts early in education, making them engaging and accessible to young minds.
• Mentorship Programs: Pairing aspiring African American students with STEM professionals who can provide guidance and support.
• Community Outreach: Hosting STEM-focused events, workshops, and seminars to demystify STEM fields and highlight career opportunities.
• Scholarships and Financial Support: Providing financial assistance to African American students pursuing STEM degrees.
• Representation: Ensuring that African American role models and leaders in STEM fields are visible and accessible to inspire future generations.

What would you like your legacy to be?
I aspire to leave a legacy reminiscent of visionary figures like Leonardo Da Vinci, Charles Darwin, George Washington Carver, Ernest Everett Just, or Jennifer Doudna. My aim is to make groundbreaking innovations that transcend specific domains and expand into various realms, ultimately propelling humanity forward for generations to come.
While I may not yearn for individual recognition, I hope that Xyma Industries remains a foundational beacon of scientific innovation, artistry, and culture. I envision museums across the globe showcasing the work of the company, innovative technologies, and inspiring young minds to embrace the limitless possibilities that align with their passions and bring them inner peace. My legacy will be rooted in the belief that nothing is impossible when we wholeheartedly pursue what resonates with our souls, and in doing so, we illuminate a path towards a brighter future for all.

About
A native of Baltimore, MD - Jason received his B.S. in Biology from Salisbury University in 2018. After completing his undergraduate degree, he utilized his acumen and passion for research and science as a researcher at the Naval Medical Research Center (also known as Walter Reed Army Institute of Research) in the Neurotrauma branch under the United States Department of Defense.
He then relocated to Atlanta, GA where he worked in Clinical Research/Clinical Trials at the site level in Investigational Products (drug development). Once he excelled at the site level, he yearned for a more well-rounded knowledge base. This resulted in shifting to the Clinical Research Organization (CRO) level to work in the monitoring & managing of medical device & biotech. clinical trials.
This heavy research background allowed him to understand the 3 levels that clinical trials require to successfully study the efficacy of a drug or device (Sponsor, CRO, & Site.) By creating a company considered to be a sponsor, he has a firm grasp on the stages of Drug Development & phases of a clinical trial required to safely study therapeutics for human benefit.

Website: Xyma (xymaindustries.com)