Meet Maranda Russell, KCV Operations Manager

We’re thrilled to welcome Maranda Russell (she/her) into her new role as Operations Manager at KCV!

Maranda first joined the team as an intern in July of 2022, and has since played an integral role in advancing KCV’s mission. 

With a multidisciplinary background in the social sciences, Maranda brings a unique and valuable perspective to the world of technology commercialization. She holds a doctorate in communication from the University of Kentucky, as well as a Master of Business Administration, a master’s degree in business informatics and a master’s in legal studies from Northern Kentucky University. 

Her professional focus spans innovation equity, patient self-care communication and the translation of complex ideas across academic, business and legal contexts, making her exceptionally well-positioned to lead KCV’s operational strategy.  

Can you tell us a little about yourself and your journey to becoming KCV's Operations Manager?  

I was completing my Ph.D. in communication just as the COVID-19 pandemic began shutting everything down. Many of the organizations where I might have applied for jobs had instituted hiring freezes. Throughout my doctoral work, I often questioned how long it takes for research innovations to reach widespread use. I had a vague notion that law school might be the next logical step to address that challenge, so I took the shutdown as a sign to apply. While waiting to begin law school the following fall, I also enrolled in an MBA program that I believed would complement my goals. 

I don’t recall whether the KCV internship listing came through my MBA program, law school, or both, but I remember feeling an immediate sense of alignment when I read it. The mission matched my own aspirations and the position called for the very skills I had or was actively developing. 

What inspired you to transition from intern to full-time team member — and now Operations Manager?  

The culture. My MBA coursework emphasized management approaches that prioritize employee value, but in practice I found that many organizations hadn’t embraced those ideas. KCV and KSTC, however, go above and beyond in fostering a culture of support and appreciation. When I expressed interest in shifting from more intellectual property focused assignments to the business side, I was encouraged to explore a variety of tasks. I was always welcomed when I requested to work on a specific project and made to feel like my contributions mattered. That exploration helped me discover the work I’m best suited for while still allowing me to contribute to my original goal of connecting innovation with impact. 

What are you most excited about in your new position?

Having a hand in everything. During my internship, I realized I most enjoyed making it easier for our team and partners to focus on innovation. Now, I get to work across programs, see how all the pieces fit together and use that perspective to streamline processes and ensure our team has what they need to succeed. 

Why do you think supporting innovation and entrepreneurship is important for Kentucky's future?  

If you’re not growing, you’re dying. Innovation and entrepreneurship are catalysts for economic growth, job creation and community resilience. Providing the infrastructure and resources to support innovators means we are investing in Kentucky’s long-term competitiveness and creating opportunities that benefit the entire state. 

Can you share a little-known fact about yourself?

I have an enduring love for soap operas. Right now, I’m working my way through episodes of As the World Turns that originally aired in 1987 and The Bold & the Beautiful from 1991.