Nicole (Coley) Leo

Class of 2026-2027

College of the Holy Cross
Chemistry

Capstone Project Abstract

BIO (Biotechnology Innovation Organization) is an organization that supports the biotechnology industry by providing its members access to networking, investing, and business development opportunities. As the industry is changing, BIO is actively creating solutions to provide the most valuable resources to BIO members.

This capstone project focuses on how biotechnology companies currently operate, investigating specifically how they find investors and partnerships. The project will research the value of external support by understanding customer behavior and the overall market. Ultimately, the capstone will address potential areas of growth in BIO's business model as the organization adapts to the changes in the industry.

Why did you choose ESTEEM?

The ESTEEM program presents the perfect bridge between my past experiences and career goals. Using my background in chemistry and statistics, ESTEEM allows me to continue to develop my analytical and problem-solving skills and apply them in a business context. I am extremely grateful for the opportunities that Notre Dame and ESTEEM have provided me, and I am excited to continue to build on these as I take the next steps in my professional career.

What do you hope to do after ESTEEM?

Following ESTEEM, I hope to pursue a career in consulting or finance, likely with a focus on healthcare. In doing this, I will be able to find a position that combines my professional skills with my passion for creating meaningful change.

What do you like to do in your free time?

I love being active! Some of my favorite things are skiing, running, and playing both field hockey and ice hockey. When I'm laying low, I like to listen to country music and watch rom-coms.