For 25 years, Jon Soderstrom served Yale University, New Haven, and the broader Connecticut ecosystem through his leadership of Yale University's Office of Cooperative Research (OCR). During his tenure, Jon led the spin-out of well-known companies such as Alexion, Arvinas, Achillion, CuraGen, Biohaven, and many others. The immense efforts and successes of these companies have contributed greatly to Connecticut's technological and economic landscape and to the general well-being of people living in Connecticut and geographies far beyond.

After formally retiring from OCR in 2021, and with the sponsorship and collaboration of his many friends and former colleagues, Jon continues his support of STEM and other innovation-based initiatives through the Soderstrom Scholars Fund (SSF).

Jon's educational background includes a PhD in psychology from Northwestern University and a BA in psychology from Hope College. Like Jon, SSF's scholars, sponsors, and other key stakeholders hold a passion for academic endeavor and venture creation and a desire to continually advance Connecticut's innovation ecosystem.