Deirdre Hake of Gene Editing Institute Named a DelawareToday Women in Business Honoree

Deirdre Hake, MBA, director of strategy and business development at ChristianaCare’s Gene Editing Institute, was honored as a 2023 DelawareToday Woman in Business in a ceremony at the Chase Center on the Riverfront in Wilmington on Dec. 6, 2023. She was among 35 women who received recognition from the publication for exceptional leadership.

Hake leads the Gene Editing Institute’s operations and strategy and oversees its education program called Gene Editing 360™ with its innovative Learning Lab to inspire students to pursue careers in STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) and learn about the power of genomic science. Since its opening in April 2023, over 350 students in Delaware have participated in an immersive field trip experience at the lab to conduct gene editing experiments.

“I am deeply thankful for the honor of this recognition, but I believe that success is not just about awards — it’s about lifting others as you rise,” says Hake.

“As a businesswoman, my purpose is to inspire and empower, creating a legacy of leadership and resilience in our community. I believe this achievement is a testament to the collective strength and support we share at ChristianaCare.”

Hake’s career spans more than 10 years forging strategic relationships to sustain operations and impact for local and national organizations. An experienced leader with proven fundraising experience, sound financial management and program development skills, Hake is passionate about supporting vibrant and thriving communities.

“I was so pleased to see Deirdre being recognized as not only a leader, but as someone who is having a significant impact on this organization in so many ways,” said Eric Kmiec, Ph.D., director of ChristianaCare’s Gene Editing Institute.

“Coupling the worlds of biotechnology and health care can certainly be challenging, but Deirdre has communicated and advanced the mission of GEI seamlessly. Her foundational work has now set the stage for exciting growth of GEI in research and education. More to come for sure!”

Hake joined ChristianaCare in 2020 and was promoted to director of ChristianaCare’s Office of Philanthropy in 2021. As a leading member of the team, Hake oversaw engagement and impact of key stakeholder groups, including the ChristianaCare Council of Advisors and Leadership Councils. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish from Pennsylvania State University and an MBA from Villanova University. She sits on the boards of directors for the Charter School of Wilmington and Great Dames, Inc.