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Erica Sutton

MA, CRC

Clinical Research Coordinator, Clinical Trials

About Erica

“Research is most powerful when it reflects both science and humanity.”

That belief shapes Erica Sutton’s work as a Clinical Research Coordinator at Shepherd Center. With decades of experience in catastrophic care and rehabilitation research, Erica ensures every study meets the highest standards of safety, quality, and compassion.

She oversees drug and device trials across multiple therapeutic areas, including chronic wound care, urologic care, brain injury, spinal cord injury, chronic pain, and multiple sclerosis. Her responsibilities span recruitment, screening, clinical assessments, protocol compliance, and data management. As a Certified Meditation Coach, Erica also integrates mindfulness practices into patient-centered care, bridging holistic approaches with traditional medicine.

Research specialties

  • Pharmaceutical and device trials
  • Chronic wound care
  • Urologic care
  • Brain injury
  • Spinal cord injury
  • Chronic pain
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Mindfulness and meditation

Education & training

  • Medical Technology – Georgia Perimeter College, 2002
  • Medical Assistant, 1997
  • Patient Care Technician, 1996
  • Medical Technology – Tuskegee University, 1993

Certifications

  • National Institutes of Health (NIH) Human Participants Protection Education for Research
  • Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative (CITI)
  • Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
  • Multiple Sclerosis Functional Composite (MSFC) Training
  • International Air Transport Association (IATA) & Department of Transportation (DOT) – Shipping Infectious Substances
  • Certified Meditation Coach (CMC)
  • Reiki Practitioner – Level Two (RP-II)

Why her work matters

Erica’s research also addresses health equity. After nearly three decades working with MS patients, she co-investigated a study exploring racial disparities in MS outcomes, taking an intersectional approach to uncover barriers faced by Black Americans in diagnosis and treatment.

“Catastrophic care has been profoundly meaningful to me because it allows me to support patients and families during some of the most challenging moments of their lives. Being part of their journey has taught me resilience, compassion, and the importance of human connection.”

Beyond Shepherd

Erica volunteers as a monthly facilitator for an online support group that offers African Americans a safe, empowering space to connect and share experiences. She also participates in the National MS Society’s annual 5K and leads community walks with GirlTrek, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting health and longevity among Black women. Outside of work, Erica is passionate about creating spaces that foster wellness and empowerment.

Published research