Master of Science (M.S.)

Genetic Counseling
University of Maryland
1995

Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

General Biological Sciences/Genetics
University of Maryland
1993

Genetic Counseling

Sickle Cell Disease

Health Disparities in Genomic Medicine

Molecules and Cells, Unit II

Central Nervous System Unit IV

Genetics lecture

Pediatric lecture series

OB/GYN lecture series

• Interdisciplinary Health Care Ethics

Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics lecture series

The Natalie Weissberger Paul National Achievement Award Recipient; 2020

Most distinguished honor bestowed by the National Society of Genetic Counselors

Book Chapters

Chapter 10: Health Disparities and Opportunities for Equity in Genetic Counseling in A Guide to Genetic Counseling, 3rd Edition (pp. 319-354)

Since 1998, A Guide to Genetic Counseling has served as the field’s seminal text both in the US and internationally, training generations of genetic counselors to serve patients and deliver high-quality guidance and care. Ongoing developments in the practice of genetic counseling and genetic testing play key roles in expanding the ways that genetic based care can support individuals and families as they make difficult and life altering decisions. This updated version reflects these changes and the increasing body of supporting research.

Chapter 11: Attitudes of Muslims Regarding the new Genetics: Testing, Treatment, and Technology in Genetics and Ethics in Health Care: New Questions in the Age of Genomic Health

This monograph explores current ethical challenges associated with advances in genetics technology and genomic health care from a wide cross-section of cultural, racial, religious, and technical perspectives.

Establishing diversity, equity, inclusion and justice task forces for District of Columbia area cancer centers

Establishing diversity, equity, inclusion and justice task forces for District of Columbia area cancer centers: Lessons learned implementing efforts in oncology

Purpose

To address observed cancer health inequities resulting from historically-embedded structural bias in quality, equity, and access to health care delivery, we organized and coordinated Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice (DEIJ) Task Forces across three cancer centers in the Mid-Atlantic region.

Designing inclusive newborn sequencing research

Designing inclusive newborn sequencing research: insights from parents in underrepresented communities

It is essential that studies of genomic sequencing (GS) in newborns and children include individuals from under-represented racial and ethnic groups (URG) to ensure future applications are equitably implemented. We conducted interviews with parents from URG to better understand their perspectives on GS research, develop strategies to reduce barriers to enrollment, and facilitate research participation.

Assessing barriers to the career ladder and professional development for ethnic minority genetic counselors in the United States

Assessing barriers to the career ladder and professional development for ethnic minority genetic counselors in the United States

Ethnic diversity is not reflected within healthcare professions, including genetic counseling, where lack of growth and membership among minority colleagues extends to upper-level and executive roles. While diversity and inclusion-based topics have been emphasized, studies on potential barriers to career advancement in the field of genetic counseling have not received the same attention. Our study examined the current state of mentorship and sponsorship programs, the presence of diversity and inclusion initiatives, and opportunities for career advancement through the lens of a minority genetic counselor.

Prevalence of Sickle Cell Trait and Rare Hemoglobin Variants in the Metropolitan Washington DC Area

Prevalence of Sickle Cell Trait and Rare Hemoglobin Variants in the Metropolitan Washington DC Area

Letter to the Editor. Journal of Hematology 9(3):93-95

Sickle cell disease (SCD), a group of inherited disorders that affect hemoglobin (Hb), is the most common monogenic disorder and affects millions of people worldwide. In the USA, the number of people with SCD is about 100,000, and additional 3 million people carry sickle cell trait. The impact of hemoglobinopathies on healthcare is considerable and has great social and economic consequences.

Genetic counseling among minority populations in the era of precision medicine

Genetic counseling among minority populations in the era of precision medicine

Precision medicine includes the use of genetic variation to determine the prevention, pathology, management, and treatment of disease, which has the potential to significantly change the practice of healthcare. As such, its success depends on (a) having reliable information about the effects of genetic variation on disease processes; and (b) the patient's understanding of their own genetic makeup such that they can use that information to affect their lifestyle and diet. Given the history of low engagement of under-represented minority populations in both clinical genetic services and genetic research, both of these aspects will be challenged and must be addressed before the benefits of precision medicine will be fully realized. Reflecting on lessons learned in the field of cancer genetic counseling, we present key issues to consider as we look forward to providing genetic counseling to minority communities in the context of precision medicine.