Stories of Leadership: Thomas Fouquet
Thomas Fouquet channeled his science and entrepreneurial knowledge into two successful companies.
After receiving a master's degree in applied mathematics and a Ph.D. in physics, Thomas Fouquet worked as a scientist on fusion energy. Driven by innovative ideas, he then decided to enroll full-time in the M.B.A. program at San Diego State University with a focus on entrepreneurship.
"My experience at SDSU was wonderful," Fouquet, '09, said. "Great professors, strong entrepreneurship program and a beautiful campus with top national sport teams — a true, perfect time."
After graduation, Fouquet co-founded NeurAccel Biosciences, a biotechnology company in La Jolla with the mission to accelerate the cure for brain diseases. Three years later, he co-founded another company, CatchMyWorld. The company is a digital media platform and social network where people connect and share life's moment in the moment live with their friends and anyone in the world, directly from mobile devices.
1. Tell us the highlights of your professional career. What are your proudest achievements?
The first company I co-founded: NeurAccel Biosciences, a biotechnology company in La Jolla. The achievement was to building a strong research program and disruptive technologies to accelerate the cure for brain diseases. Another highlight is my newest company, CatchMyWorld.
2. What’s your favorite college memory?
My graduation ceremony — my family traveled from Europe to attend.
3. Who was your favorite professor and/or what was your favorite class?
I enjoyed my strategic marketing class.
4. If you were to give current SDSU students some advice, what would you say?
Believe in your dreams and keep focusing on your goals and what you want to achieve.
5. What are you currently reading? What’s your favorite book?
I'm currently reading "Getting to YES" by Roger Fisher and William Ury. My favorite book is "The Man Who Laughs" by Victor Hugo.
6. What quality do you value most in friends and colleagues?
Honesty.
7. What is your passion?
Music.
8. What is your motto?
Stay positive.
9. If you won the lottery, what would you do with your winnings?
I would help young entrepreneurs in the early founding of their startups and fund charities to help fulfill their missions
