Michelle Lavagnino, DrPH(c)
Michelle Lavagnino, DrPH(c), is a Senior Long-Term Care Medical Science Liaison at Otsuka Pharmaceutical Companies (U.S.), where she has supported the Northeast region for more than three years. With close to a decade of experience across medical affairs and pharmaceuticals, Michelle previously served for six and a half years as a Long-Term Care Neurology Account Manager, building deep expertise in neurology, psychiatry, and long-term care settings. In her current role, she partners with long-term care facilities, professional associations, pharmacies, and provider groups, serving as a trusted clinical and educational resource to nursing home staff, physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and pharmacists.
Throughout her career, Michelle has demonstrated consistent excellence and leadership, earning three President’s Club awards in recognition of top performance and receiving two promotions during her tenure. She is known for delivering structured, compliant disease-state and product education, facilitating scientific exchange, and supporting cross-functional collaboration across multiple stakeholder groups. Her ability to balance a high-demand, field-based role while maintaining academic rigor reflects her commitment to both professional growth and patient-centered impact.
Michelle holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biology from Hofstra University and a Master’s in Public Health, with her dissertation focused on post-stroke depression. She is currently pursuing a Doctor of Public Health, a program she began virtually in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her background also includes experience in pharmaceutical recruiting, further strengthening her understanding of the industry landscape. A former Division I collegiate softball player, Michelle attributes much of her success to the discipline, resilience, and teamwork developed through athletics. Outside of work, she enjoys beach volleyball in Long Beach, New York, spending time outdoors walking her dogs, and experimenting with sourdough baking, including bread and focaccia.
• SETOW | Self-Leadership & Empowerment The Otsuka Way
• Hofstra University - BS Biology
• SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University - MPH
• President’s Club Award, three-time recipient
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the discipline, resilience, and teamwork I developed through my experience as a Division I collegiate athlete. Athletics instilled in me a strong work ethic, the ability to perform under pressure, and the importance of collaboration toward a shared goal. These foundational skills continue to guide my professional approach, enabling me to navigate complex challenges, remain adaptable in demanding environments, and consistently contribute as a reliable and results-driven team member.