Akston CEO Todd Zion Appointed to KC Animal Health Corridor Advisory Board

Akston, a biotech built for pets, has announced that Todd Zion, PhD, co-founder, president and CEO, has been appointed to the KC Animal Health Corridor Advisory Board in the Entrepreneur in Residence seat. The appointment recognizes Zion’s leadership in biotechnology and ensures the perspective of a growth-stage Animal Health company to the Corridor’s strategic work.

Established in 2017, the Entrepreneur in Residence board seat ensures emerging and growth-stage Animal Health companies have a meaningful voice alongside established industry leaders. The KC Animal Health Corridor, affiliated with the Kansas City Area Development Council, represents the world’s largest concentration of Animal Health assets and advances collaboration, workforce development, public policy and innovation across the ecosystem.

“Todd brings a powerful combination of scientific depth, entrepreneurial leadership and company-building experience to the KC Animal Health Corridor Advisory Board,” said Corridor president Kimberly Young. “His perspective as a pet biotech founder and CEO aligns closely with the intent of the Entrepreneur in Residence seat and supports the future of the Animal Health industry.”

Prior to Akston, Zion was co-founder, president and CEO of SmartCells, Inc., developer of SmartInsulin, the first clinically tested glucose-responsive insulin, which was acquired by Merck & Co., Inc. He holds a PhD in Chemical Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and completed his undergraduate studies at Cornell University.

“The KC Animal Health Corridor plays an important role in connecting innovators, established leaders and the broader Animal Health ecosystem,” said Zion. “I’m honored to serve in the Entrepreneur in Residence seat and to contribute the perspective of a growth-stage company in support of collaboration, talent development and long-term sustainable industry impact.”

Zion will serve a three-year term on the advisory board, representing the perspective of entrepreneurs while supporting the Corridor’s strategic priorities and mission to reinforce the region’s position as the global hub for Animal Health.