Navigating Life with Purpose: A Conversation with Kerry Love

Every day at Greenough Communications, we collaborate with amazing partners who make an impactful difference in the world. Kerry Love, co-founder and CEO of Sunflower Therapeutics,  a biotechnology company founded in 2018 to increase access to vaccines and other new biologic medicines around the world, is one of those partners.  

The book, Lessons In Chemistry, bears an uncanny resemblance to Kerry’s life. Her journey from being a multi-sport athlete (once an avid rower on the college team), and musician to a businesswoman and philanthropist highlights the need for adaptation and balance. Now, as a mother, wife, philanthropist, and business owner, Kerry emphasizes living in the present, maintaining relationships, and practicing forgiveness. Inspired by selfless figures like Mother Teresa, she leads by lifting others up, encouraging excellence, and addressing challenges in male-dominated fields with compassion and strength.

We recently spoke with Kerry about how she seemingly does it all and wanted to share some of her top lessons that apply not only to business, but also life in general.

Life is relational

​​​“Life is about relationships,” said Kerry. Much of our fulfillment, growth, and happiness comes from the connections we build with others. Put simply, we’re humans and thrive on human interactions. Relationships—whether with family, friends, colleagues, or even acquaintances—shape our identity, offer support during trying times, and bring beauty in shared moments.  

On a deeper level, relationships also foster understanding, empathy, and trust. When we actively engage with others, we open ourselves to learning, gaining new perspectives, and enjoying meaningful experiences. This sentiment is increasingly true in a workplace setting. Connections give life purpose beyond individual success or achievement.  

Human beings are naturally social. Our emotional, mental, and even physical well-being is tied to the quality of our interactions with others. Kerry emphasized the importance of leading with compassion, reminding us that we never truly know what someone may be experiencing outside of the office, highlighting the importance of empathy in our interactions.

Kerry said, “Life is so much deeper beyond what you can see or what people are willing to show you.”

Our journey on earth becomes more fulfilling and rewarding when we realize that the core of our existence lies in how we connect with others. Recognizing that life is about understanding that real value comes not only from what we accumulate or achieve alone, but from the bonds we create and nurture. Kerry noted, “Acknowledge people, make eye contact with them, call them by name. Life is not a transaction.”

There’s beauty in finding balance

As a teenager, Kerry juggled multiple passions but learned in college that success requires focus. During her undergraduate career at the University of Virginia, she faced the reality that she couldn’t do everything, especially balancing sports with being a chemist. As limited opportunities for female athletes were available at the time, her love for science prevailed.

Now, as a woman wearing many hats, Kerry stresses the importance of making choices. She embraces the present, builds relationships, and encourages those around her to strive for excellence. Although it’s natural to think ahead, being present to the present is a phrase that Kerry lives by.

“I’m fully enjoying the experience that I'm living right now. That’s actually a really important practice of my own faith.”

She describes these moments as being fully present when driving in the car with her kids, having thought-provoking conversations, or making a meal and enjoying the process of nourishing her family.

Adapt to challenges and lead with compassion

Kerry fosters a culture of lifting others up, making her mark in both a male-dominated industry and the scientific world. Having trained as an organic chemist, Kerry has faced her share of challenges working in environments where females are the minority. She advocates for inclusivity in the workplace, urging conversations about gender dynamics. Drawing from her feminine strengths and emotional intelligence, Kerry stands apart as a businesswoman who values relationships and seeks to make an impact beyond profits.  

Her company, Sunflower Therapeutics, reflects this vision—an impact-focused business aimed at contributing to both the financial empowerment of its staff and the global communities it serves. For Kerry, the goal is not just building a successful company but making meaningful, lasting contributions to people’s lives. Sunflower Therapeutics, a public benefit corporation, is women owned and led, and a vital bridge to increasing access to vaccines and other new biologic medicines through the development of next-generation manufacturing technologies. The organization does its part in supporting better access to healthcare across the globe and believes in doing well by doing good.  

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At Greenough, we’re passionate about impactful storytelling and are proud of our partners. We’re grateful to be a part of bringing their vision to the world each day. Through thoughtful storytelling, we strive to connect with audiences on a deeper level and help create lasting, meaningful change. Kerry's story is a reminder that success in both life and business is driven by relationships, balance, and adaptability. Her journey so far illustrates the importance of embracing challenges with resilience and compassion. Kerry’s focus on being present, fostering meaningful connections, and empowering others has shaped her leadership style and fueled her passion for making a lasting impact. At Sunflower Therapeutics, she exemplifies the belief that success isn’t just about profits, but about empowering people and building a legacy of positive change.  

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