Beware of Black Boxes: Identify Signs of an Ethical Collapse with Theranos Whistleblower Erika Cheung

Theranos was the darling of Silicon Valley. The company boasted a revolutionary blood diagnostic and vision for the future of healthcare that many wanted to believe in. However, in a swift series of events, the company became one of the most highly reported business scandals in American history. Could this outcome have been prevented? Could it have been predicted? In this discussion, we will discuss some of the timeless warning signs of an organizational ethical collapse. Additionally, we’ll discuss some of the challenges that may arise in one’s own journey in the pursuit of ethical decision-making.

Prior to the keynote, Cheung will facilitate a lunch and learn about professional ethics with a select group of graduate students. This is an opportunity to discuss ethical opportunities, challenges, and dilemmas with Ms. Cheung. Space is limited and students are asked to apply to participate in the lunch and learn by filling out a Google form application link in the registration. The deadline to apply is September 11, and we cannot guarantee that all who apply will be accepted. Those who are selected will be notified via email by Rackham no later than September 14 and will be required to RSVP for the event.

Our Speaker: Erika Cheung is most recognized for her role as one of the key whistleblowers in the Theranos scandal reporting to the media and regulators, which has been extensively covered in the media. Erika is currently executive director of Ethics in Entrepreneurship, a 501(c)-3 non-profit focused on embedding ethical questioning, culture, and systems in startups and innovation ecosystems. She additionally works with venture capital firms and cross-border innovation organizations across Asia. She obtained a dual bachelor’s degree in linguistics and molecular and cell biology from the University of California, Berkeley.

Registration is required at https://myumi.ch/4rGe3.

We want to ensure full and equitable participation in our events. If an accommodation would promote your full participation in this event, please follow the registration link to indicate your accommodation requirements. Please let us know as soon as possible in order to have adequate time, preferably one week, to arrange for your requested accommodations or an effective alternative.