Starting a New Chapter in Indiana: Launching Indiana’s First ASCP Chapter After Relocating from Nigeria

When Medical Laboratory Scientist Ogochukwu Ugwunna relocated to Indiana, she initially felt a ‘vacuum’ in her life. She was missing connections and community.   

“I am passionate about two things, healthcare, and welfare. I was hungry for like-minded people, a professional family and community with the same vision and passion,” shares Ogochukwu Ugwunna MSc, BMLS, (ASCPⁱ)^CM, MLSCN.  

Ms. Ugwunna quickly learned that the closest ASCP chapter to her was a four-hour drive away. So, the former national student leader of the Nigerian Medical Laboratory Science Students Association (NIMELSSA) did what any leader would do—she started talking and networking, sharing the idea of forming a chapter with colleagues and other laboratory scientists in her professional community. 

“I had interacted with many colleagues and discovered that there are others, like me, who want to make a positive impact too. That was it for me. ‘I am not alone on this,’ I said to myself. ‘I need to bring all these medical laboratory professionals together. We will work better and stronger together.’ This is why I decided to start the ASCP Indiana Chapter,” Ms. Ugwunna says.  

Starting a new professional organization from the ground up, in a new place while working in a new professional position, sounds like a daunting challenge. But Ms. Ugwunna is confident. She has the advice and support of ASCP’s Council of Laboratory Management and Administration and Member Engagement team.  

“I have the right people around me. They are wonderful in their guidance and assistance she says.  Ms. Ugwunna highlighted guidance from Council Chair, Brittany Teeter, MS, CLS, MLS(ASCP)^CM, Chair-Elect, Cassie Hartgrave, MPH, MLS(ASCP)^CM, members Chandler Ho, MS, MLS(ASCP)^CM, MB, DLM, and Alfonso Ortiz, MLS(ASCP)^CM, as well as the ASCP Membership team. Each one has had an important and positive impact on the chapter development process, noting ASCP staff have been the ‘strongest pillar in this endeavor.’”  

When asked what her plans and goals are for the chapter after launches, Ms. Ugwunna shares, “My goal for the chapter is simple: advocacy and visibility. We have started working already. We just concluded a visit to a high school yesterday, during Lab Week 2026. The interaction with the students, their questions, and their eagerness to learn more reassured me about this endeavor. It's a privilege to do what I am doing, I love my job, and I am grateful for this opportunity.”  

Learn more about ASCP Chapters near you here.