Being named as ASCP 40 Under Forty has significantly transformed my career in two main ways. First, it provided the gentle push I needed to rethink my career path and aspirations. This recognition made me more adventurous and willing to take risks, stepping out of my comfort zone to explore various opportunities and try things that I had previously held back from pursuing.

At the time of receiving the recognition, I was the supervisor of the cytopathology department at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City. Since then, I have managed multiple divisions in a reference laboratory, including fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), cytology, and wet lab divisions, and held managerial positions within the quality department.

Additionally, I completed my doctorate in public health in 2023 while working full-time, leveraging and combining my experience in the laboratory with public health. My research focuses on managing and educating the pathology and laboratory workforce. Currently, I am an assistant professor in the Department of Clinical Laboratory and Medical Imaging Sciences at Rutgers University.

Tell us about any significant/notable achievements or breakthroughs in your work since you were named a 40 Under Forty  

Interestingly, the ASCP 40 Under Forty award has opened doors for me in mysterious ways that I can’t quite pinpoint. All I know is that many good things have happened professionally since then. I started volunteering my time more on committees, serving on various committees within professional organizations such as ASCP and ASC, and also serving as treasurer of our local non-profit church organization.

Since receiving the award, I have been recognized as the Distinguished Alumnus of Clinical Laboratory Science (2016) from the Loma Linda University School of Allied Health Professions for my contributions to the laboratory industry, as well as the Joyce W. Hopp Scholar for my research work in public health (2022), focusing on the wellness of laboratory professionals. The recognition has also given me the opportunity to collaborate on projects and research studies with amazing individuals and professionals within the ASCP and broader clinical laboratory community.

Thank you for the opportunity to reflect on this journey.