Genetic Counseling Students

Aciana Franco 

Brigham Young University
B.S., Molecular Biology (2021)

Aciana Franco (she/her/ella) is from Heber City, Utah. During her time as an undergraduate, Aciana conducted bioinformatics research, worked as a summer youth counselor, and volunteered full-time for a year and a half in the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, and Southern California serving Spanish speaking communities. She was also awarded the Student of the Year Award for her time with BYU’s Risk Management Department. Upon graduating, Aciana worked as a paraprofessional in a high school special education classroom where she helped students with complex medical histories or genetic conditions and grew her love for advocacy work. Aciana later took a position as an oncology genetic counseling assistant (GCA) at Intermountain Health where she took charge of an alternative workflow pathway for their clinic. While working as a GCA, Aciana shadowed genetic counselors and continued to volunteer with community groups such as Utah Foster Care and the United Angels advocacy group. She also volunteered regularly in the emergency department at a local children’s hospital. In her free time, Aciana loves to spend time outdoors or playing video games with her partner. Aciana is thrilled to join the Kean University Genetic Counseling Graduate Program Class of 2026 and fulfill her dream of being a genetic counselor!

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Anja Hall 

Christopher Newport University
B.S., Cellular, Molecular, & Physiological Biology (2024), Minors: Psychology; Leadership Studies

Anja Hall is from Norfolk, Virginia. Her diagnosis with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in 7th grade drew her towards prenatal genetic counseling, in which she could help others who also battle reproductive-related diseases. Following her teenage self’s plan to pursue the field, Anja graduated from the Christopher Newport University Honors Program after studying Cellular & Molecular Biology and double minoring in Psychology and Leadership Studies. Anja worked as a restaurant server and as a research assistant in a molecular biology laboratory, where she assisted in developing a uniquely regulated plasmid to be used as a positive control for anti-bioterrorism gene expression studies. Throughout school, she also volunteered as a crisis counselor, youth group counselor, Planned Parenthood ambassador, and student tutor. Anja extensively shadowed various genetic counselors in the prenatal, pediatric, and cancer specialties at Eastern Virginia Medical School, Children's Hospital of the King's Daughters, and Virginia Oncology Associates. Motivated by patients’ stories, she conducted her senior thesis on “Demographic Disparities in Epigenetic Health Risks Fueling Transgenerational Cycles of Oppression.” In her free time, Anja enjoys hiking, weightlifting, drawing, and cozying up with her cats! Anja chose Kean because of the vibrant community and its commitment to being progressive and forward-thinking, two values she believes are essential to being an intersectional genetic counselor. Anja couldn’t be more ecstatic to be chasing her long-time dreams and living near NYC by studying at the Kean University Genetic Counseling Graduate Program!

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Kelci Hill 

Tarleton State University
B.S., Biology (2024), Minor: Psychology

Kelci Hill is from Murrieta, California. She discovered the profession of genetic counseling from a genetics class in her second year of college. Subsequently, she spent time shadowing genetic counselors, volunteering for rare disease organizations, and working as a tutor in college. Advocating and volunteering is a passion of Kelci’s; she volunteered with the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA), Crisis Text Line, and the United Multiple Sulfatase Deficiency (MSD) Foundation. For the United MSD Foundation, Kelci served on the legislative advocacy, newborn screening, and diagnostic laboratory outreach committees. Kelci also volunteered with ENGin, a nonprofit organization which supports teaching of English to Ukrainian medical students. During her undergraduate years, Kelci was a student-athlete with the Tarleton State University softball team. She shared her passion for sports through volunteering with a baseball league for those with special needs in her college town. Kelci also served as a congressperson for the Tarleton State University Student Government Association and was a member of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee. She was involved in a SETBP1 Society Community Outreach Research Study which focused on assessing the behaviors and characteristics of children diagnosed with SETBP1 haploinsufficiency disorders, along with the parental needs thereof. Kelci chose Kean University because of the welcoming atmosphere from both the staff and current students. She cannot wait to step foot on campus and begin working towards becoming a genetic counselor!

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Alisha Jain  

University of Virginia
B.A., Biology (2022)

Alisha Jain is originally from Sterling, Virginia. At the University of Virginia, Alisha volunteered with All Girls STEM Society, working with after-school programs to excite children about science. Additionally, she worked as a math tutor and a biology teaching assistant. These experiences truly propelled her passion for teaching STEM. She has also had many experiences in wet bench research with a focus on genetics. She furthered this interest by interning at HemoShear Therapeutics, a company dedicated to developing treatments for extremely rare metabolic genetic conditions. After discovering genetic counseling, she knew this was the career she wanted – the perfect amalgamation of her interests in science, teaching, and advocacy. She began shadowing and was impressed by the dynamic nature of the career, each patient presenting with a new issue to solve. To prepare, she volunteered as a bilingual counselor for Crisis Text Line and worked as a behavior technician in an early-intervention autism clinic. Although she did not match in her first cycle, she never wavered from her dedication and sought a Genetic Counseling Assistant (GCA) role to improve her application. She worked as a GCA in the Genomic Diagnostic Lab at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. In her free time, she enjoys cooking and Indian dance! Alisha was attracted to Kean for its interdisciplinary courses with students from the counseling department, and had an amazing interview experience in which she felt very welcomed by the faculty. She hopes to focus her future work on South Asian and Spanish speaking patients, helping them understand more about genetic health despite language barriers. She is beyond excited to embark on this journey at Kean University and finally live out her dream of becoming part of this inspiring field!

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Sydnee McIlvaine 

Rutgers University
B.A., Genetics (2024), Minor: Psychology; Certificate: Genetic Counseling

Sydnee McIlvaine is from Millstone Township, New Jersey. She has loved genetics since childhood and learned about the career of genetic counseling as early as middle school. During her undergraduate years at Rutgers University, she was one of three people in her graduating class to earn a Certificate in Genetic Counseling. This program included coursework with genetic counseling master’s students, completing a year of crisis counseling, and shadowing a genetic counselor. Her experience shadowing five genetic counselors from GeneScreen solidified that this was the right career path for her. Sydnee founded the Genetic Counseling Interest Club at Rutgers, with the mission of increasing interest in the profession from a diverse population. Outside of school, Sydnee serves as Secretary on the executive board of the New Jersey chapter of the Huntington’s Disease Society of America. She also worked in a biology lab processing test samples during the height of the pandemic. You will often find her trying out new pet-friendly places with her dog, Reed, whom she raised to be a guide dog through The Seeing Eye, or enjoying the Jersey shore with friends and family. Sydnee cannot wait to start her graduate education at Kean University!

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Ryan Mendel 

The College of New Jersey
B.A., Biology (2021), Minor: Statistics

Ryan Mendel is from Marlton, New Jersey. As an undergraduate, Ryan was involved in research as a member of a molecular biology and genetics lab that studied the impact of post-translational modifications in the model organism C. elegans. She also acted as a tour guide for the biology department for aspiring students and served as a teaching assistant and tutor for the introductory biology course at her college. Ryan was also heavily involved in volunteerism on campus, serving as the Chapter President of the national community service organization Alpha Phi Omega, as well as acting as a crisis counselor for the Crisis Text Line. During her time as an undergraduate, Ryan became passionate about working with individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), working as both a classroom aide in a preschool autism program in her hometown, and as a direct support professional for adults with autism near campus. Upon graduation, Ryan worked at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) in the Mitochondrial Medicine Translational Research Group. During her years at CHOP, she worked to identify potential therapies for patients with Single Large-Scale Mitochondrial DNA Deletion Syndromes (SLSMDS) utilizing a C. elegans model of the disease, as well as train numerous undergraduate students in the art of laboratory research. She was also able to gain invaluable experience meeting patients with rare mitochondrial diseases, and discussing with their caretakers the impact a rare disease diagnosis has on their family. Ryan’s time at CHOP has given her insight on the importance of having a genetic counselor on the care team of individuals with complex diagnoses, and the role of the genetic counselor in both advocacy and furthering the research and funding of these diseases. In her free time, Ryan enjoys running, reading, eating sweets, and binge-watching reality television shows. Ryan was drawn to Kean’s program due to its passionate leadership and dedication to increasing the awareness and diversity of the field of genetic counseling. Ryan is excited to begin her journey as a genetic counselor as part of the Kean University Genetic Counseling Graduate Program Class of 2026!

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Abigayle Nafus   

Pennsylvania State University
B.S., Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (2024)

Abigayle Nafus is from Gilbertsville, Pennsylvania. She first discovered her passion for genetics in a middle school science class. While pursuing her degree at Penn State, she honed her focus on becoming a genetic counselor through her involvement on campus and in the community. For almost three years, she worked in a lab studying inborn errors of purine metabolism and their effects on numerous rare genetic disorders. Abigayle specifically focused on the phenotypic responses of GART gene deficiencies and treatments for ADSL-deficiency, a rare disease that only affects ~80 individuals worldwide. She also spent time volunteering with Life Link-PSU as a mentor to young adults with special needs, served as a teaching assistant to an “Intro to Genetics” course, and was President of Penn State’s Chapter of the American Society for Microbiology. Off campus, Abigayle worked with Centre Safe, the local domestic violence and sexual abuse shelter. Her favorite and most rewarding experiences there included working on a sexual assault response team at the Mount Nittany Medical Center and facilitating weekly support groups for survivors. In her free time, Abi loves to read or do anything creative. She looks forward to joining the welcoming environment at Kean University and cannot wait to contribute to the ever-growing field of genetic counseling.

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Angelina Santini 

East Stroudsburg University
B.S., Biology (2023)

Angelina Santini is from Harmony, New Jersey. During her undergraduate studies, she gained invaluable experience as a public health and research assistant at a wildlife genetics laboratory, where she educated clients about the prevalence of tick-borne diseases. Upon discovering her passion for genetic counseling, Angelina pursued various opportunities to shadow genetic counselors and conducted an independent research study on the evolution of genetic testing. Angelina received the Sigma Xi award for Outstanding Achievement in the Major of Biology for this study. Angelina actively serves as an in-person crisis response advocate for survivors of domestic abuse and sexual assault, for which she uses her counseling skills to aid the safety and support of her clients. As a volunteer for both the Women in STEM Committee and Abilities of Northwest New Jersey, Angelina empowered individuals of all ages to explore possible career paths in science while emphasizing the importance of diversity in the workplace. In her free time, Angelina enjoys spending time with family, getting coffee with her dog, and helping out around her family farm. She is excited to pursue her dreams as a genetic counselor and exercise her personal mantra of “make every patient feel heard, understood, and valued”. She is grateful to be able to grow her experiences with fellow students and staff at Kean University and is looking forward to the journey ahead!

Jade Gmitter  

Michigan State University 
B.S., Biomedical Laboratory Science (2021)

Jade Gmitter is from Berrien Springs, Michigan. While pursuing her degree in biomedical laboratory science with a concentration in medical microbiology, she gained valuable experience working in a toxicology laboratory. Her work involved studying the impact of particulate matter and vapor phase pollutants on the induction or exacerbation of non-small cell lung cancer. Throughout her undergraduate years, Jade volunteered with two student organizations dedicated to combating gendered violence with a focus on assisting survivors of sexual, physical, and verbal abuse: the Sexual Assault Crisis Intervention (SACI) and the Michigan State University Center for Survivors. It was during this time that Jade's interest in genetic counseling began to grow as she worked on the confidential SACI hotline and became a medical advocate. After completing her bachelor's degree, Jade secured a position at Stryker, a prominent medical technology company. Her responsibilities included creating pre-operative surgical plans for robotically assisted total hip and total knee arthroplasty. During her free time, Jade expanded her knowledge of genetic counseling by interviewing and shadowing genetic counselors. Additionally, she attended the Michigan Association of Genetic Counselors Annual Educational Conference and joined GOLDEN Genetics, a group that supports minority individuals interested in careers in genetics. Jade balances her professional pursuits with personal interests, such as going to the beach, cooking, sewing, and spending quality time with friends and family. Her decision to join Kean University's Genetic Counseling Graduate Program stems from the university's diverse population and supportive faculty. Jade is thrilled to be embarking on this new chapter in her life and getting closer to her dream of becoming a genetic counselor!

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Aubrey Lewis  

Loyola University
B.S., Biology (2019)

Aubrey Lewis is from Duxbury, Massachusetts. During her undergraduate years at Loyola University Maryland, she was an intern at a local hospital where she conducted translational cancer research on patients’ tumor tissue. Additionally, she worked with the Fibrous Dysplasia Foundation, where she summarized recent medical and genomic scientific papers pertaining to fibrous dysplasia. Upon completing her degree, Aubrey worked at a pediatric therapy center specializing in autism spectrum disorder and coached gymnastics at a local gymnastics center. Prior to starting her graduate education, Aubrey resided in Fort Worth, Texas, where she was employed as a Genetic Counseling Assistant at the UT Southwestern cancer genetics department. During her time in Texas, she dedicated her free time to volunteering at Dallas Life, a local homeless shelter, and Rays of Light, an organization that offers engaging and educational structured activities for children with special needs and their siblings. In her leisure hours, Aubrey enjoys exploring the outdoors and pursuing her personal goal of hiking New Hampshire's 48 4,000 feet mountains. Aubrey is thrilled to continue her education in the Genetic Counseling Graduate Program at Kean University!

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Parva Mashar 

Michigan State University
B.S., Genomics and Molecular Genetics (2022)

Parva Mashar is from Gujarat, India. After discovering her genetically linked gluten intolerance and supporting her cousin through her genetic disorder diagnosis and treatment, Parva developed a deep interest in studying genetics and advocating for families facing similar challenges. Her passion to become a genetic counselor was solidified when she moved to Michigan and began shadowing cancer genetic counselors. During her undergraduate years, Parva conducted an in-vitro virological essay to compare the pathogenicity of Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia (VHS) strains VHS-Ia and VHS-IVb. This research project won the first prize in the Microbiology and Immunology category at the Undergraduate Research and Arts Forum 2021 (UURAF), hosted by Michigan State University. Additionally, Parva participated in a summer research project focused on vector control, specifically targeting Cuilasita Melanura to prevent the spread of the Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) virus. After completing her undergraduate studies, Parva returned to Ahmedabad, India, where she worked as a patient counseling assistant at Shreeji Women's Hospital. Advocating for patients struggling with aneuploidy and other disorders inspired her to pursue studies in prenatal and pediatric genetic counseling. Parva was a Crisis Counselor for the Crisis Text Line and a Physiotherapy Assistant at Bopal Physiotherapy Center. In the latter role, she provided support to children with impaired motor control, genetic disorders, and other special needs during their therapy sessions. During her free time, Parva enjoys exploring local cafés and boba places, admiring sunsets by the beach, and expressing her creativity through painting. The supportive and accomplished leadership team, inclusive community, and exceptional rotation sites provided Parva with a sense of belonging, making her feel confident in choosing at Kean University Genetic Counseling Graduate Program. She is excited to start her graduate journey at Kean University this fall.

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Chelsea Munger 

Colgate University
B.A., Molecular Biology (2021), Minor: Mathematical Systems Biology

Chelsea Munger is from Lowville, New York. As an undergraduate, Chelsea worked in a molecular biology lab; however, she discovered that the nature of the work left her feeling isolated. A peer introduced her to the field of genetic counseling assuring her that it would be a better fit. Turns out, her peer was right! After graduating, Chelsea took on the role of a Genetic Counseling Assistant at Ferre Genetics Institute and worked as a counselor at Southern Tier Women’s Health Services. She attributes a significant portion of her growth and development as a counselor to the guidance of Luba Djurdjinovic, M.S. and Peg Johnston during her time at these institutions. Chelsea was involved in many theatre productions in high school and continued her love for performance in her undergraduate career by joining dance teams and working as the school’s mascot. In her free time, Chelsea enjoys hiking, watching horror movies, playing card games with friends, and engaging in videogames. Chelsea is eagerly looking forward to expanding her knowledge in the constantly evolving field of genetic counseling and advancing her education as a member of the Kean University Genetic Counseling Graduate Program Class of 2025!

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Jaycie Rickert 

Michigan State University (MSU)
B.A., Health Communication (2021)

Jaycie Rickert is from Mount Clemens, Michigan. During her undergraduate studies, she dedicated her time to tutoring student athletes, interning at Clover Genetics, and shadowing various genetic counselors. While at Michigan State University, she was awarded the Dr. David and Patricia Nix "Miss MSU" Barron Endowed Scholarship from the College of Communication Arts and Sciences in both 2020 and 2021. Additionally, she engaged in multiple research projects alongside her professors, delving into topics such as cancer clinical trials, the opioid epidemic, and COVID-19. Jaycie first learned about the field of genetic counseling during a biology lecture, and she immediately developed a deep affection for its combination of advocacy, teaching, patient care, and genomics. Volunteer work holds a special place in her heart, and she has offered her time to various organizations, including the Muscular Dystrophy Association, Greater Lansing Food Bank, Macomb Foster Closet, and Sparrow Hospital. After completing her studies at MSU, Jaycie gained invaluable experience as a Genetic Counseling Assistant at Children's Hospital of Michigan in Detroit. In this role, she acquired greater understanding of both inpatient and outpatient genetic counseling, while actively undertaking hands-on and behind-the-scenes responsibilities, such as collecting patient samples, handling insurance prior authorizations, tracking test results and attending Medical Genetics Grand Rounds. In her free time, Jaycie loves to hike, nanny, travel, and watch musical theater. She could not be more excited to become a genetic counselor and help contribute to advancements in healthcare. Moreover, she is thrilled at the prospect of learning from the wonderful students and faculty at Kean University.

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Audra Vanroboys 

Miami University
B.S., Biology (2022), Minor: General Business

Audra Vanroboys (she/her) is from Thamesville, Ontario, Canada. She moved to the United States in 2018 to attend Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. As an undergraduate, Audra was a strong student wellness advocate and held positions as Treasurer and Event Leader for the Student Wellness Advocacy Team. Additionally, Audra served as a Public Health Intern for the Arthritis Foundation, for which she created a health education campaign on joint health awareness targeted toward physically active young adults. Audra discovered genetic counseling during her senior year of college, and she sought opportunities to learn more about the career through informational interviews and shadowing experiences. She also supported individuals of all ages through volunteering with the Crisis Text Line, the National Eating Disorder Association (NEDA), and Facing Hereditary Cancer Empowered (FORCE). Passionate about working in a pediatric setting, Audra moved to Boston, MA, upon graduating to work at Boston Children’s Hospital as a Patient Experience Representative in the Developmental Medicine Center. In her free time, Audra loves being outdoors, exercising, reading, and volunteering with youth sports teams. Audra chose Kean University for the supportive faculty, and she could not be more excited to be a part of the Genetic Counseling Graduate Program Class of 2025!

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Leah Westcott 

University of Wisconsin-Madison
B.S., Genetics and Genomics (2021) 

Leah Westcott is from Milwaukee, Wisconsin. As an undergraduate, Leah learned about genetic counseling as a freshman. While attending school, Leah worked as a respite provider for families of children with disabilities. Spending time with the families and gaining invaluable insights solidified her decision to pursue genetic counseling as a career. Motivated by a desire for more patient interaction, Leah moved to St. Louis, Missouri, after graduating to work as a Genetic Counseling Assistant at a pediatric hospital. In her role, Leah shadowed professionals, volunteered in specialty clinics, and worked directly with patients and their families. The field of pediatrics appealed to her, as it combined problem-solving, providing families with education and support, and collaborating with professionals from various disciplines. She aspires to work in the pediatric specialty once she completes her studies at Kean University. Outside of the hospital, Leah dedicated her time as a bereavement support call volunteer and an animal shelter volunteer. These activities allowed her to familiarize herself with the community and its people. In her free time, Leah enjoys discovering new coffee shops and swimming when the weather permits. Leah is looking forward to moving to the east coast and to joining the Kean University Genetic Counseling Graduate Program with the Class of 2025!

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Ashley Zavodnick 

University of Maryland
B.S., Physiology and Neurobiology (2022)
B.S., Psychology (2022) 

Ashley Zavodnick is from Mount Laurel, New Jersey. As an undergraduate, Ashley engaged in research as a member of a genetics lab, studying the neurogenic element of Ftz in Drosophila melanogaster. Additionally, she volunteered for a local hotline and the National Suicide Prevention Line, fulfilled the roles of Teasurer and Recovery Leader for the Food Recovery Network, and tutored children and adults in math and English through the Maryland Mentor Corps. Last summer, Ashley dedicated her time to Camp JCC in Bethesda, Maryland, working closely with young adults who have disabilities, offering support and fostering a safe and inclusive environment. In her free time, Ashley finds joy in baking, hiking, and spending quality time with her cats. Ashley's decision to choose Kean University was influenced by the welcoming faculty and the vast array of opportunities available. Ashley is honored to be joining the Kean University Genetic Counseling Graduate Program as a part of the Class of 2025!

 

Carolina Conti
Genetic Counselor
Bing Cancer Center
OhioHealth
Columbus, OH

Gabriel Koslow
Genetic Counselor
Aortic Disease Center
University of Florida Health
Gainesville, FL

Rebecca Hook
Pending

Carissa Huber
Genetic Counselor
NYU Langone Fertility Center
NYU Langone Health
New York, NY

Claudia Jackson
Pending

Madison Perry
Genetic Counselor
Maternal-Fetal Medicine
Nuvance Health
Poughkeepsie, NY

Corinne Schenone
Genetic Counselor
Division of Genetics
St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital
Paterson, NJ

Dahlia Shaaban
Genetic Counselor
Lexington Oncology
Lexington Medical Center
Columbia, SC

Janel Barbee, M.S.
Genetic Counselor
Smilow Cancer Genetics
Yale New Haven Health
New Haven, CT

Makena Green, M.S.
Genetic Counselor
Division of Medical Genetics and Metabolism
Children’s Specialty Group
Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters
Norfolk, VA

Jessica Hopkins, M.S.
Genetic Counselor
St. Luke's University Health Network 
Maternal Fetal Medicine
Easton, PA

Marissa Jensen, M.S.
Genetic Counselor
New Jersey Perinatal Associates
Livingston, NJ

Megan Keeney, M.S.
Genetic Counselor
Pediatric Genetics
East Tennessee Children’s Hospital
Knoxville, TN

Debra Paul, M.S.
Genetic Counselor
NextGen Genetics
Santa Clara, CA

Amanda Rentas, M.S.
Genetic Counselor
Division of Genetics and Genomic Medicine
Department of Pediatrics
Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Nashville, TN

Morgan Secoy, M.S.
Genetic Counselor
Lehigh Valley Topper Cancer Institute
Lehigh Valley Health Network
East Stroudsburg, PA

Congratulations to our first class.  All students employed prior to graduation!

First Graduates of Kean’s Genetic Counseling Program Have Jobs Waiting - Kean University

Maya Briskin, M.S.
Genetic Counselor
Integrated Genetics
New Brunswick, NJ

Esther Choi, M.S.
Genetic Counselor
New Jersey Perinatal Associates
Livingston, NJ

Jamie Cormier, M.S.
Genetic Counselor
Division of Human Genetics
Department of Pediatrics
Lifespan - Rhode Island Hospital
Providence, RI

Monica Dillon, M.S.
Genetic Counselor
St. Luke’s University Health Network Cancer Center
Bethlehem, PA

Jessica Dowling, M.S.
Oncology Genetic Counselor
Advocate Christ Hospital
Chicago, IL

Rebecca Kelly, M.S.
Laboratory Genetic Counselor
Mayo Clinic
Hematopathology Division
Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology
Remote position