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Since you were named an ASCP Forty Under 40, how does your career look different now vs then?
In 2016, I worked full-time as a Clinical Coordinator for an undergraduate clinical laboratory science program in Phoenix, Arizona. In the year prior, I made the difficult decision of relocating nearly 2,000 miles away from my home in Georgia for this career opportunity to transition into higher education on a full-time basis. Through this opportunity, I was inspired to pursue a degree in medical simulation, thus the start of my journey into simulation-based education (SBE) and interprofessional education (IPE). It was a leap of faith that led me down a career path I would have never imagined into a faculty position at another academic institution in undergraduate and graduate clinical laboratory science.
After gaining several years of professional experience in higher education, I was able to merge my knowledge in laboratory science and expertise in academia into my role as the manager of academic partnerships with the Association of Public Health Laboratories. In addition to my new work opportunities, I became more involved as an engaged member of ASCP in various roles, including past chair of the Council for Laboratory Professionals (CLP) and an appointed member of the Commission for Continuing Professional Development (CCPD). Since being named one of the 40 Under Forty honorees, I have earned two additional degrees (MS in Healthcare Simulation and EdD in Educational Practice and Innovation) and gained the Certified in Public Health (CPH) credential. Furthermore, I have become more actively engaged in promoting the profession through professional volunteerism and work to increase the visibility of the vital contributions of the field of laboratory medicine.
How did this recognition help catapult your career?
This recognition enhanced my visibility as a laboratory professional and broadened my mindset about the possibilities for my career. It allowed me to engage with like-minded professionals across social media platforms, grow a network of colleagues with similar interests, and advocate for the profession. More importantly, this recognition encouraged me to believe in myself and my ability to make an impact on the lives of others. This experience allowed me to expand beyond my comfort zone. It gave me the confidence to consider opportunities that I may not have viewed as being within reach.
Tell us about any significant/notable achievements or breakthroughs in your work since you were named a 40/40.
Some of my most notable achievements include several published articles and webinar presentations, including one where I discussed the importance of sisterhood in leadership and fostering a sense of belonging for women in leadership in collaboration with Today’s Clinical Lab. In 2024, I was the opening keynote speaker for meetings such as the ASCP KnowledgeLab Conference. With record-breaking attendance, I was invited to kick off the 2024 CDC OneLab Summit, a virtual 3-day summit, with an opening session presented to a global audience of laboratory professionals.
I have been recognized with additional awards by ASCP and other organizations for demonstrating my commitment to pathology and laboratory medicine, STEM advocacy, and engagement in leadership and mentorship of emerging laboratory professionals:
Excitedly, I was named to two other 40 Under Forty lists as follows:
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned since being named 40/40?
Through this experience, my biggest lesson learned has been to always believe in yourself and your ability to make a difference. I recall going through this process and saying, “I will never be selected for this, so why bother?” We can sometimes be our worst enemies and sabotage ourselves without even trying. It is easy to fall into the trap of negative thinking, especially when others are speaking against the opportunity. However, I have learned that it is crucial to advocate for myself and to give myself a chance to be considered.
As I reflect, I am most proud of how I have continued to evolve academically and professionally. I still have moments of disbelief and awe about my professional trajectory and milestones achieved, including completing my doctoral degree. I do not take these achievements lightly and am humbled by each opportunity. I love quotes, and one resonates strongly: "Every next level of your life will demand a different version of you.” Since receiving this recognition, every next level of my life required a different version of me, and I was able to rise to the challenge in each situation. As I continue to grow, I hope to contribute to the ongoing work of advocacy and promotion of the profession.