Class of 2017 student Florence Doo was named to the Oakland County “40 Under 40” list, making her the youngest member, at 26, and distinguishes her work as founder of her own medical device company, Surgerati.

“I'm feeling incredibly lucky to be considered part of this award group. This is a very meaningful award -- it recognizes not only accomplishments and talent, but also is an affirmation and inspiration to keep making a difference in our community (and the world),” says Doo.  “It motivates me to work harder, to continue pushing the boundaries of what's possible for the future.”

Her nomination was one of 450 reviewed by a panel of 20 judges who were looking at the accomplishments of the individuals, how they give back to the community and their leadership skills. Doo’s ability to combine a medical school education while building a business made her eligible for the nomination as did her leadership roles on a national level with American Medical Women’s Association (AMWA), American Medical Student Association (AMSA) and Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC). 

“I must admit it's been a challenge to juggle both,” says Doo. “In many ways though, I see them together as a single pursuit -- medical innovation to help patients.  I hope to be a future physician-entrepreneur, and my experiences with simultaneously founding my start up and training at OUWB has uniquely shaped the way I view challenges and brainstorm ideas.  I am very fortunate for OUWB's supportive and encouraging environment.”

Along with OUWB’s support, Doo tapped the experts at OU-INC, Oakland University’s business accelerator and incubator that specializes in high-tech development to help her launch her idea. In particular, Amy Butler, executive director of the OU INC, has provided Doo with the tools to develop the business model for Surgerati. According to Butler, OU-INC will continue to assist her with locating and obtaining resources, providing guidance, and helping her to connect in business.  She says that Doo’s ability to merge the demands of her schooling with developing a product is rare, and uniquely Doo. She admires her client’s vision and innovation, describing Doo as an example of how someone recognizes an opportunity to solve a problem or improve on a solution in the environment in which they live.  

“Flo Doo is a passionate and committed entrepreneur,” says Butler. “What makes Flo Doo different is her passion for developing the innovation, finding and leveraging resources and interfacing with subject matter experts to refine the technological solutions.”  

Doo will receive her award at a pre-reception at the state of the county address from Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson. Throughout the year, she will have opportunities to network and attend forums with the “40 Under 40” awardees