Athira Pharma Appoints Mark Worthington as General Counsel

Rhea-AI Summary

Athira Pharma, Inc. (NASDAQ: ATHA) has appointed Mark Worthington as General Counsel, effective June 1, 2021. Worthington brings extensive legal experience from 24 years at Summit Law Group, particularly in corporate finance and governance. His role is expected to bolster Athira’s strategic business growth, as cited by CEO Leen Kawas. Athira is focused on developing therapies aimed at neurodegenerative disorders, with its lead candidate, ATH-1017, targeting Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.

Positive

• Mark Worthington's extensive experience in corporate finance and governance may enhance the legal strategy and compliance of Athira.
• The appointment is expected to support Athira's business growth and strategic plans.

Negative

• Concerns may arise regarding continuity and experience gaps due to the change in legal leadership.

BOTHELL, Wash., June 01, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Athira Pharma, Inc. (NASDAQ: ATHA), a late clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing small molecules to restore neuronal health and stop neurodegeneration, today announced the appointment of Mark Worthington as the company’s General Counsel, effective June 1.

“We have worked with Mark for many years and are excited he is now joining Athira. He brings a wealth of experience providing legal and strategic business counsel to private and public companies including life science companies,” said Leen Kawas, Ph.D., President and Chief Executive Officer at Athira. “As our General Counsel, Mark will be integrally involved in Athira’s business growth and strategic plans.”

Mr. Worthington commented, “It’s an exciting time to join Athira. I look forward to working with this mission-driven team and supporting future progress as the company continues to advance a novel therapy for neurodegenerative disorders.”

Mr. Worthington was a Partner with Summit Law Group for 24 years, where he has served in various management capacities. He has extensive experience in corporate finance transactions and advising companies with respect to corporate governance and compliance matters. Mr. Worthington received his JD from University of California, Hastings College of the Law and BA from Stanford University.

About Athira Pharma, Inc.
Athira, headquartered in the Seattle area, is a late clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing small molecules to restore neuronal health and stop neurodegeneration. Athira aims to provide rapid cognitive improvement and alter the course of neurological diseases with our novel mechanism of action. Athira is currently advancing its lead therapeutic candidate, ATH-1017, a novel small molecule for Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s dementia. For more information, visit www.athira.com. You can also follow Athira on Facebook, LinkedIn and @athirapharma on Twitter and Instagram.

Investor & Media Contact:
Julie Rathbun
Athira Pharma
Julie.rathbun@athira.com
206-769-9219

FAQ

Who is the new General Counsel of Athira Pharma?

Mark Worthington has been appointed as the new General Counsel of Athira Pharma, effective June 1, 2021.

What experience does Mark Worthington bring to Athira Pharma?

Mark Worthington has 24 years of experience at Summit Law Group, focusing on corporate finance and governance.

What impact will Mark Worthington's appointment have on Athira Pharma?

His appointment is expected to strengthen Athira's business growth and strategic plans.

What is Athira Pharma's main focus?

Athira Pharma focuses on developing therapies for neurodegenerative disorders, with its lead candidate being ATH-1017.