Giving Voice: Science, Service, and Leadership with Dr. Patricia A. Prelock

In this episode, Dr. Pollard speaks with Dr. Patricia A. Prelock, Provost and Chief Academic Officer at the University of Arizona, about the personal experiences and intellectual passions that shaped her career as a scientist, clinician, and academic leader. From a formative seventh-grade science fair inspired by her brother with Down syndrome to her internationally recognized work in autism and speech-language pathology, Dr. Prelock reflects on the importance of communication, perspective-taking, and service. The conversation explores leadership, resilience, the future role of artificial intelligence in autism research, and how listening deeply has guided her journey to the University of Arizona. Dr. Prelock is an internationally recognized scholar in autism, interprofessional education, and family-centered care. She has authored over 220 publications, delivered more than 600 invited presentations, and secured over $25 million in research funding. Prior to joining the University of Arizona, she served as Interim President at the University of Vermont and held multiple senior leadership roles in higher education.