Faculty & Staff Profiles
Assistant Professor, Graduate Program Director, Medical Laboratory Science
Health Sciences Campus
Contact
I am a proud medical laboratory scientist and educator. Over the course of my laboratory career, I worked as both a laboratory generalist and a specialist in Molecular Diagnostics. As a technical specialist in Molecular Diagnostics, I validated and developed assays for a Pharmacogenomics platform, helping physicians make the best choices for patient medication based off their personal genetics. My graduate education is in Biotechnology (focus on Molecular Microbiology) and Education (Curriculum and Instruction), and I am currently completing a doctoral degree in Educational Leadership. I strive to help cultivate the leaders in the MLS profession.
Research Interests
My passion is to increase the recognition of the Medical Laboratory Science profession. My desire for educating others about the importance of the field has led to hosting talks and activities about laboratory science for groups ranging in age from elementary school to college.
Education
- BS in Clinical Laboratory Science and Biological Sciences, Illinois State University
- MA in Curriculum and Instruction, Saint Xavier University
- EdD in Educational Leadership from University of St. Francis
What prompted you to pursue your field?
I pursued a degree in Medical Laboratory Science because I knew I wanted to work in a laboratory setting rather than directly with patients, while impacting the diagnosis and treatment of disease. Becoming a medical laboratory scientist opened the door for exploration in several different scientific disciplines as well as a wonderful career path with a practical degree.
What would you tell a student about why your field is exciting or important?
Medical Laboratory Science is the healthcare profession that impacts patient care many people are not aware exists. We are educated scientists that process, perform, analyze, and interpret tests that help clinicians diagnose, treat, and monitor their patients. Additionally, roughly 70% of medical decisions are based on lab results. We provide information that comprises 94% of objective data in a patient chart.