Meet Our Students

2025

Samantha Almeida

Undergrad: New York University, Biology, Minor: Child and Adolescent Mental Health Studies

Samantha Almeida graduated from New York University in 2022 with a BA in Biology and a minor in Child and Adolescent Mental Health Studies. As an undergraduate, she worked as a research assistant in Dr. Rushlow’s lab studying the pioneer factor Zelda and its recruitment mechanism to the transcription sites of Zelda activated genes. She also held several leadership and teaching positions at the Jewish Center on campus, such as Social Media Chair for Keshet where she expanded her advocacy experience by cultivating open and informative programming for Jews who identify within the LGBTQ+ community. Following graduation, Samantha worked as a Behavioral Therapist, providing Applied Behavioral Analysis therapy to children on the spectrum. In her free time, Samantha enjoys musical theater, traveling, and makeup.

Alex Blanco

Undergrad: Florida State University, Biological Sciences, Minors: Chemistry and Psychology

Alex Blanco graduated from Florida State University in 2022 with a B.S. in Biological Sciences and double minors in Chemistry and Psychology. As an undergraduate, Alex’s passion for counseling grew over time throughout her years of leadership with Best Buddies, Dance Marathon, the Panhellenic Community, and as Chapter President of her sorority. She worked as a Freshman Interest Group Leader, teaching students to navigate academic culture and transition to college life. During the summer of 2021, she interned with Northwestern’s Summer Experiential Workshop and with Ascension St. Vincent’s Cancer Genetics Risk Assessment Program in Indianapolis. Post-graduation, she began volunteering with Crisis Text Line and accepted a Genetic Counseling Assistant position with Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center. Alex enjoys traveling, attending concerts, reading, and puzzling

Elizabeth Borto

Undergrad: Marquette University, Biomedical Sciences, Minor: Public Health and Equity

Elizabeth Borto graduated from Marquette University in May 2022 with a B.S. in Biomedical Sciences as well as a minor in Public Health and Equity. As an undergraduate, she worked part-time as a behavioral treatment technician at Autism Intervention Milwaukee, where she offered in-home behavioral therapy to young children with autism spectrum disorder. While studying at Marquette, she also participated in the Genetic Counseling Career Research and Exploration Workshop offered by the Medical College of Wisconsin. After graduating, Elizabeth worked as a clinical research assistant at the Medical College of Wisconsin. There, her team’s primary research focus was understanding more about chronic and acute pain experienced by individuals with sickle cell disease. In her free time, Elizabeth enjoys exploring new music, long walks, and fitness.

Taly Carmona

Undergrad: Hebrew Theological College, Health Sciences and Psychology

Taly Carmona grew up in Costa Rica and came to the U.S. for further education. She graduated from Hebrew Theological College in 2023 with a BA in Health Sciences and Psychology. During college she volunteered to provide respite services to children with lifelong illnesses and was a mentor in a performing arts program for underserved children. As an undergraduate, Taly did a summer internship in genetic counseling at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago. She has been a research assistant at Loyola’s Impact lab researching group interpersonal therapy for college students and the Explain study for Narcolepsy. She intends to use her bilingual skills to advocate for ethnic minorities. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, reading and swimming

Keely Clanton

Undergrad: University of Tampa, Biology, Minor: Chemistry and Psychology

Keely Clanton graduated from the University of Tampa in 2019 with a BS in Biology, and a minor in Chemistry and Psychology. During her time as an undergraduate, she was an orientation leader, a member of the cheerleading team, and volunteered with Best Buddies. As a postgraduate, Keely served as an outreach counselor, focusing on HIV education, with a local behavioral health center, working with diverse patient populations. After her time there, she transitioned into her role as a genetic counseling assistant with the University of Miami Health Systems. In her free time, she enjoys spending time outdoors with her dog, being active, and trying new restaurants

Rachel Cohn

Undergrad: University of Georgia, Biology, Minor: Spanish

Rachel Cohn graduated from the University of Georgia in 2020 with a BS in Biology and a minor in Spanish. As an undergraduate, she served on the executive board of her sorority, volunteered as a counselor for Panhellenic recruitment, interned at the East Georgia Cancer Coalition, and worked one summer as a molecular research assistant at Tel Aviv University's bat laboratory. After graduation, she worked as a molecular technologist in a genetics laboratory. In 2021, she became a clinical research coordinator at Emory University’s Winship Cancer Institute. As a CRC, she worked with patients, oncologists, and researchers across Emory to further cancer research in the pursuit of personalizing treatment options. In her free time, she enjoys staying active, reading, trying new restaurants, and traveling.

Hani Lee

Undergrad: University of Utah, Biology, Minor: Psychology

Hani Lee graduated from the University of Utah in 2022 with an Honors BS in Biology with an emphasis in neurobiology and a minor in Psychology. During college, she was a research assistant in Dr. Charles Murtaugh’s lab investigating the role of a transcription factor Ptf1a in pancreatic cancer development. She also spent time volunteering as a student counselor at Yongin Suicide Prevention Center in South Korea. After graduating, Hani volunteered at Woori Dongjok Center where she helped visually impaired individuals learn independent cooking skills. She also worked as a project researcher at Samsung Genome Institute in Seoul, South Korea, performing tumor dissociation and library preparation for NGS. In her free time, she enjoys doing Pilates, weight training, and playing with her dog.

Franklin Lewis

Undergrad: Clark Honors College, Biology, Minor: Anthropology

Franklin Lewis graduated from the University of Oregon and Clark Honors College in 2019 with a BS in Biology and minor in Anthropology. He completed his undergraduate thesis through Dr. Kirstin Sterner’s Molecular Anthropology Lab, researching gene expression in primates. Recently, Franklin worked as a clinical Genetic Counseling Assistant at the Mayo Clinic. He was a founding member of his department’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion committee and was a junior editor for Dr. Eva Morava-Kozicz’s research team. As a senior writer for the UO’s student newspaper, Franklin initiated an educational science podcast. He also produced a series about rare disease patients of a physical therapy practice. Frank is interested in how advancements in genetics shape society and fostering informed public discourse on genetic issues.

Sofia Marrufo

Undergrad: Morningside University, Biology, Minors: Chemistry and Studio Art

Sofia Marrufo graduated Magna Cummlaude from Morningside University in Sioux City, Iowa in 2020 with a BS in Biology and minors in Chemistry and Studio Art. During her time as an undergraduate, she discovered her passion for Genetics, bioethics, and social justice. She chose to intern with nonprofit organizations dedicated to helping immigrant communities, as well as victims of abuse. She enjoyed participating on several research projects, and did her Capstone Thesis on Insulin Signaling Pathway and the comparison of different methods of treatment for insulin resistance. She volunteered at organizations such as Mary J. Treglia Community House, in Iowa and Su Casa Catholic Workers in Chicago. She loves to interact with people from different backgrounds and circumstances. Sofia was born and raised in Barquisimeto, Venezuela. And she loves traveling and painting.

Noah McLennan

Undergrad: North Central College, Biology, Minors: Chemistry and Mathematics

Noah McLennan graduated from North Central College in 2021 with a BS in Biology and minors in Chemistry and Mathematics. During his undergraduate studies, Noah volunteered for the mobile application, "Be My Eyes," where he guided people with visual impairments through tasks, became a calculus tutor for his fellow students, and worked as a Crisis Counselor for the Crisis Text Line. After graduating, Noah served on the Membership Committee in the Illinois Society of Genetic Professionals (ISGP), where he collaborated with genetic counselors to increase community engagement and recruit new members. Beyond genetic counseling, Noah enjoys baking for his friends and family, playing viola, and taking long nature walks — particularly on the snowiest days.

Madison Moore

Undergrad: Illinois Wesleyan University, Biology, Minor: Hispanic Studies

Madison Moore graduated from Illinois Wesleyan University in 2023 with a BS in Biology and a minor in Hispanic Studies. As an undergraduate, Madison held leadership roles as captain of the university’s softball team, president of the student-athlete advisory committee, and vice president of Illinois Wesleyan’s chapter of the Spanish honors society. She also participated in several other student organizations as well as conducted research in alignment with the Tiny Earth Project, which seeks to student-source antibiotic discovery. While at IWU, Madison continued her passion for advocating for people from underrepresented and disadvantaged backgrounds by completing an interpreter internship at the Community Healthcare Clinic, participating in events with Special Olympics of IL, and working with various other organizations helping disabled youth. In her free time, Madison enjoys trying new restaurants, going to amusement parks, attending sporting events, and spending time with friends and family.

Nelago Tulela Nashandi

Undergrad: Augsburg University, Biology

Nelago Tulela Nashandi is an international student from Namibia. She graduated from Augsburg University (Minneapolis, MN) in 2021 with a BS in Biology. At Augsburg, she worked in residence life and at ACR Homes, an assisted living home for persons with disabilities. Nelago served the student body as Vice-President of the International Student Organization and represented all students on Augsburg's Covid Task Force. She received the Pickens-Opoku Social Justice Award and the Dean of Students Award. Following graduation, Nelago became a lab technician in the forensic department at LabCorp. In her free time, she enjoys hammocking during the beautiful summers of Minnesota and face timing family in Namibia. She’s an avid plant shopper and is always down for exploring coffee shops.

Kate Romano

Undergrad: University of Arkansas, Biology

Kate Romano graduated from the University of Arkansas in 2022 with a BA in Biology. As an undergraduate, she developed her thesis focused on the rare genetic condition and treatment of Hutchinson-Gilford Progeria Syndrome; and conducted her research in the Department of Psychology where she studied the physiological and psychological effects pregnant couples experience transitioning into parenthood. After graduating, Kate became a genetic counseling assistant in UT Southwestern's Cancer Genetics Department and volunteered with a multitude of advocacy groups such as the Special Olympics, HDSA, Planned Parenthood, and Crisis Textline. From her career in competitive soccer and playing for the Olympic Development team, Kate still enjoys playing soccer in her free time. She also enjoys trying out new restaurants, reading, live music, and stand-up comedy.

Sarah Rutzick

Undergrad: University of California, Los Angeles, Human Biology and Society, Minor: Spanish

Sarah Rutzick graduated from the University of California, Los Angeles in 2021 with a BS in Human Biology and Society and a Spanish minor. As an undergraduate, she volunteered as a Crisis Counselor with Crisis Text Line, as a Medical Genetics Volunteer with Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, and as a tutor with Front Lines Tutoring. Additionally, she worked part-time as a Community Counselor with Clearview Treatment Center, a mental health treatment center for women with psychiatric conditions. After graduating, she worked as a Genetic Counseling Assistant with Igenomix, which provides reproductive genetic testing and counseling services, and volunteered with the Association for X and Y Chromosome Variations. In her free time, she enjoys golfing, listening to podcasts, attending group fitness classes, and exploring new restaurants.

Savannah Ryan

Undergrad: Loyola University Chicago, Biology

Savannah Ryan graduated from Loyola University Chicago in 2021 with a BS in Biology. As an undergraduate, she was a volunteer for her community in tutoring and mentoring at Chicago Public Schools as well as an active crisis counselor for Crisis Text Line. She spent time as a research assistant in Dr. Jennifer Mierisch’s laboratory studying the molecular basis for genes causing infertility in Drosophila. After graduation, Savannah worked at Argonne National Laboratory on a project aimed at building a prediction model for cancer drug response based on genomic data. Following this fulfilling project, she transitioned into a role as a dialysis technician, responsible for running dialysis treatments and providing patient education. In her free time, you can find Savannah caring for her many houseplants, hiking, or painting.

Erin Shusterich

Undergrad: University of California, San Diego, Physiology and Neuroscience, Minor: History

Erin Shusterich graduated from the University of California, San Diego in 2019 with a BS in Physiology and Neuroscience and a History minor. While in school, she worked at an Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center conducting geriatric memory screening. After graduating, Erin moved to Denver and earned certification in Applied Behavior Analysis Therapies to aid autistic children. Erin later became trained in over fifty restraint, self-defense, and hand-cuff maneuvers while working with detained and incarcerated youth. Most recently she certified as a Neuro-Technician utilizing electro-magnetic brain stimulation to treat psychological and neurological disorders. Her main ambition is to continue bridging traditional medical-sciences and psychological care. Erin enjoys farmers’ markets in the fall, skiing in the winter, hiking in the spring, and paddleboarding in the summer.

Anna Grace Smith

Undergrad: Butler University, Music, Minor: Biology

Anna Grace Smith graduated from Butler University in 2021 with a major in music and a minor in biology. After graduation, she worked at Northwestern Medicine as their first genetic counseling assistant for the cancer and prenatal teams. She continues to play violin for the Northwestern Medical Orchestra, at weddings or the occasional gig, and when leading her family in holiday music. She is excited to continue living in Chicago to take her niece to the Lincoln Park Zoo and stay near the famous Wiener’s Circle. She loves taking walks by the lake, traveling, spending time with friends, and is thrilled to be a part of Northwestern University’s Class of 2025 for the Genetic Counseling graduate program.

Tori Tate

Undergrad: University of Missouri, Biology, Minor: Psychology; Certificate: Multicultural Studies

Tori Tate graduated from the University of Missouri in 2017 with a BS in Biology, minor in psychology and a Certificate in Multicultural Studies. After graduating, she worked as a Clinical Research Coordinator over five years at Washington University School of Medicine (WUSM) focusing on neuroimaging and biomarker collection for Alzheimer’s disease and pediatric genetic conditions. She furthered her career and passion for genetics by completing John Hopkin’s Genetic Assistant Certificate and becoming a Genetic Assistant. She also volunteered for Immigrant Home English Learning Program (IHELP) as an English teacher and served as a DEI and Well-Being committee member at WUSM. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, trying new restaurants, and long walks.

Emiko Waight

Undergrad: The Ohio State University, Evolution, Ecology, and Organismal Biology
Graduate: University of Utah, Biology

Emiko Waight graduated from The Ohio State University in 2017 with a BS in Evolution, Ecology, and Organismal Biology. She graduated from the University of Utah in 2019 with an MS in biology. Her undergraduate research focused on polyploidy in Penstemon plants, while her graduate thesis research focused on host-parasite interactions. After graduate school, she worked at the Omaha Zoo for one year researching the population genetics of Madagascar Lemurs, and then worked at the University of Nebraska Medical Center for three years researching HIV. In her free time, she enjoys creating lino-cut art of insects, hiking, reading, and hanging out with her husband and their dog.

Rebecca Wondimu

Undergrad: Arizona State University, Biological Sciences; Certificate: Evolutionary Medicine

Rebecca Wondimu graduated from Arizona State University in 2021 with a BS in Biological Sciences (genetics, and cell and developmental biology) and a certificate in Evolutionary Medicine. As an undergraduate, she was a global peer mentor for incoming international students at ASU and a teaching assistant for a program that prepared ESL students to pass the TOEFL exam. After graduation she worked as a Genetic Counseling Assistant and scribe at Phoenix Children's Hospital in the genetics department. She continued her advocacy as an ESL tutor for adult refugees and by volunteering with a crisis text line. In her free time, she enjoys trying new restaurants, learning languages, watching K-dramas, and baking.

2026

Stephanie Alsay

Undergrad: Florida International University, Liberal Studies

Stephanie Alsay was born and raised in the Philippines. She graduated Summa Cum Laude from Florida International University in 2020 with a BA in Liberal Studies. Her upbringing shaped her global identity and passion for diversity of both patients and providers in clinical genetics. As a postgraduate, Stephanie has traveled all over the US helping hospitals implement their electronic health record. As an implementation manager, Stephanie's desire to play a more integral role in healthcare led her to the University of Miami, where she supported geneticists and genetic counselors. She has volunteered with Crisis Text Line, the Lupus Foundation, and the Williams Syndrome Association. During her downtime, Stephanie indulges her adventurous spirit through scuba diving, culinary exploration, and the serenity of yoga.

Mirela Birta

Undergrad: Business Administration

Mirela Birta was born and raised in Romania. She came to the U.S. in 2001 after receiving a BA in Business Administration. She completed her prerequisites at Oakton Community College, Harper College, and Northwestern School of Professional Studies. While taking the prerequisites, she interned with the Lurie Cancer Center in Neurosurgery. Mirela has volunteered at orphanages in Romania, working with children with disabilities. Her mother's legacy in helping others catalyzed her founding of the Spera Foundation. This organization grants scholarships to disadvantaged Romanian children. She also co-founded the Romanian United Foundation, where she teaches math to elementary school students. Mirela serves on the Symposium Committee of the Illinois Society of Genetic Professionals. In her leisure, she enjoys power walks and spending time with her family and friends.

Allie Casey

Undergrad: Arizona State University, Biological Sciences (Genetics, Cell and Developmental Biology), Minor: Spanish

Allie Casey graduated from Barrett, the Honors College at Arizona State University, in 2024 with a BS in Biological Sciences (Genetics, Cell and Developmental Biology) and a Minor in Spanish. At ASU, she worked as a Student Success Coach, supporting hundreds of students in navigating college life through academics, finances, personal struggles, and more. Additionally, she was a Devils' Advocate tour guide for three years and served on the executive board as a senior, where she trained two hundred tour guides to share their stories with prospective students and families. In 2023, she furthered her passion for genetics by interning with Columbia University through their Pre-Genetic Counselor Experiential Practicum. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, crocheting, watching "New Girl" on repeat, and hanging out with friends.

Kylee Chenault

Undergrad: Indiana University, Community Health, Minors: Gerontology and Social Sciences and Medicine

Kylee Chenault graduated from Indiana University in 2023 with a BS in Community Health with double minors in Gerontology and Social Sciences and Medicine. During her undergraduate studies, she interned on the crisis line at Middle Way House, a shelter for survivors of domestic violence, sexual violence, and human trafficking and participated in public health research, analyzing social media and mpox. She also volunteered for Indiana University Dance Marathon, a student-led philanthropy that fundraises for Riley Hospital for Children. After graduating, Kylee continued involvement with Riley by working as a genetic counseling assistant for their inpatient genetics team. There, she was an integral part of their whole genome sequencing project. In her free time, she enjoys reading, traveling, live music, and trying new foods.

Kuri Cho

Undergrad: Boston College, Biology, Minor: Sociology

Kuri Cho graduated from Boston College in 2024 with a BS in Biology and a minor in Sociology. She worked as an EMT, Crisis Counselor, Planned Parenthood Counseling & Referral Specialist, and music director for her all-female identifying a capella group. During her time in undergrad, she completed independent research through the McNair Scholars program focused on the ethics of CAR T-cell immunotherapy clinical trials and the intersection of BIPOC health equity. She also worked as a research assistant at Ascension Health Center in Baltimore and focused on the echocardiogram outputs and COVID-19 patients. She found her passion for genetics and health equity through the culmination of her life, academic, and professional experiences. She loves to explore new restaurants, karaoke with friends, and be active.

Zel Djukic

Undergrad: University of Illinois at Chicago, Biology, Minor: Psychology

Zel Djukic graduated from the University of Illinois at Chicago in 2019 with a BS in Biology and a minor in Psychology. As an undergraduate, she held multiple positions on her sorority’s executive board and continued her passion for volunteering through Ronald McDonald House Charities, the MS Society, and the Crisis Counseling Hotline at UIC. Post graduation, she was a research technologist for the Northwestern Medicine Transplant Department where she gained an interest in expanding genetic counseling services for transplant patients and their families. She transitioned into a role as a genetic counseling assistant at a PGT laboratory where she was responsible for all incoming case reviews and coordination. In her free time, Zel enjoys baking and staying active through weightlifting, hiking, and playing tennis.

Brady Evans

Undergrad: University of Denver, Biological Sciences, Minors: English & Literary Arts, Chemistry and Psychology

Brady Evans graduated from the University of Denver in 2022 with a BS in Biological Sciences and minors in English & Literary Arts, Chemistry and Psychology. As an undergraduate, she interned as a STEM Mentor and in Dr. Timothy Ley’s lab at Washington University in St. Louis studying mutations associated with acute myeloid leukemia. After graduating, Brady worked as a Clinical Research Associate at Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSKCC) working on therapeutic and non-therapeutic clinical trials. She enjoyed collaborating with oncologists, geneticists, clinical trial nurses, and other research staff on investigational therapies in prostate cancer and loved volunteering on the pediatric oncology floor with MSK Kids. Beyond genetic counseling, Brady loves to spend time with family and friends, try new neighborhood spots, and teach yoga classes!

Jocelyn Fournier

Undergrad: Endicott College, Biology/Biotechnology, Minor: English

Jocelyn Fournier graduated from Endicott College in 2021 with a BS in Biology/Biotechnology and a minor in English. As an undergraduate, she worked per diem as a nursing assistant in the education department at New England Pediatric Care. After graduating, she worked as a Research Coordinator at Brigham and Women’s Hospital for the BWH Biobank while assisting with the development of a genetic study called eMERGE. She then worked for eMERGE for over two years. Additionally, she volunteered with a crisis text line, observed a support group through the organization FORCE, took an Intensive Elementary Spanish course, and volunteered as a teaching assistant for an Irish step dancing group. She enjoys spending time with friends, reading, traveling, and live music.

Roman Grossi

Undergrad: Michigan State University, Neuroscience

Roman Grossi graduated from Michigan State University in May 2021 with a BS in Neuroscience. During his undergraduate studies, Roman volunteered as an advocate and served on the executive board of the Center for Survivors’ Sexual Assault Crisis Intervention Team. After graduating, he continued volunteering as a crisis counselor at Crisis Text Line, worked as a clinical research assistant exploring the therapeutic effects of ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, and worked as a research assistant at Detroit’s Karmanos Cancer Institute aiming to reduce the financial burden of cancer treatment cost. Roman is passionate about providing personalized health education and maximizing accessibility to genetic counseling services. In his free time, Roman enjoys playing piano, watching old horror movies, and hiking.

McKenzie Hammer

Undergrad: University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Social Work

McKenzie Hammer graduated from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in 2017 with a Bachelor’s of Social Work. Upon graduation, McKenzie joined the Peace Corps in Botswana as an HIV/AIDS Capacity Building volunteer. After completing her service, she received a certification of Advanced Studies in Biology from Northwestern University. She has worked in a variety of healthcare settings, most recently as a medical assistant in an OB-GYN private practice in Chicago’s south suburbs. McKenzie has a passion for service and is fascinated by the bio-psycho-social intersectionalities within patient care. She is committed to making medical innovation not only accessible to all patients, but also advantageous to their health and wellbeing. In her free time, McKenzie loves traveling to new places, concerts, and painting.

Zach Haugstad

Undergrad: University of Wisconsin-Madison, Genetics and Genomics, Neurobiology

Zach Haugstad graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 2022 with a BS in Genetics and Genomics as well as Neurobiology. At UW-Madison, he worked as an undergraduate research assistant in Dr. Akihiro Ikeda’s lab where he utilized mouse models to study genes involved in age-related diseases. After graduating, Zach went on to work as a clinical Genetic Counseling Assistant at the Mayo Clinic, where he supported General, Cancer, and Prenatal Genetic Counselors. He later helped develop a Pediatric GCA role and served on his department’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion committee. Zach also volunteers with The Trevor Project as a Youth Crisis Counselor. In his free time, he enjoys playing tennis, going to concerts, and trying new coffee shops.

Jenny Li

Undergrad: University of California, San Diego, Molecular and Cell Biology, Minor: Psychology

Jenny Li graduated from the University of California, San Diego in 2022 with a BS in Molecular and Cell Biology and a minor in Psychology. As an undergraduate, she worked as a research assistant in the Wilkinson Lab studying the impact of gene regulatory circuits in reproductive health and in the Sigurdson Lab studying prion diseases. After graduating, she worked as a research associate at a biotech company developing AAV-based gene therapies and began volunteering with Crisis Text Line. She also volunteered with SHEKonnect, a local non-profit working with teenage girls experiencing the loss of their mothers, and with the UCSF Cancer Genetic and Prevention Program as a genetic counseling assistant intern. In her free time, Jenny enjoys dancing, ice skating, and watching K-dramas.

Krissy McGee

Undergrad: Northwestern University, Neuroscience and Biology

Krissy McGee graduated from Northwestern University in 2024 with a BA in Neuroscience and Biology. As an undergraduate, she was an engaged member of the Knight Community Scholars identity group and was recognized as a Trailblazer in the FGLI community. She assisted and conducted research in social psychology and educational policy at the Destin lab and served as a teaching assistant for introductory neuroscience classes. She worked with the eMERGE project as a research assistant and on the Osher NRC team as a Zoom Moderator. She interned in Northwestern’s Summer Experiential Workshop and as a GCA with Lisa Castillo, MS, CGC. In addition, she was the president and co-founder of the Genetic Counseling Club. In her free time, Krissy enjoys playing video games.

Keegan Miller

Undergrad: University of California, San Diego, Global Health

Keegan Miller graduated from the University of California, San Diego in 2024 with a BS in Global Health. As an undergraduate, he volunteered for It’s on Us Survivor Support Director working as a peer liaison for survivors of sexual violence. In his time as a Peer Health Educator, Keegan helped lead substance abuse and sexual health initiatives on campus including a World AIDS Day event and Naloxone Distribution Program. Also a Lead RISE Ambassador connecting students with mental health support and education, he led a campus project to expand access to mental health resources for underrepresented and underprivileged students. In his free time, you can catch Keegan checking out live music, watching old rom-coms, or rock climbing.

Liliana Perez

Undergrad: University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Molecular and Cellular Biology, Minor: Anthropology

Liliana Perez graduated from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in 2021 with a BS in Molecular and Cellular Biology and a minor in Anthropology. As an undergraduate, she volunteered in hospice care and worked as a tutor at the campus office for minority students' affairs. After graduation, she moved back to Chicago and spent three years working as a hereditary cancer patient advocate at Myriad Genetics. As an advocate, she reviewed and assisted genetic testing orders placed by genetic counselors nationwide. During this time, her passion for reaching Spanish-speaking and minority communities grew. She loves to spend time with her family, binge-watch a new show, and explore the city.

Lucy Richards

Undergrad: Michigan State University, Genomics and Molecular Genetics

Lucy Richards graduated from Michigan State University in 2020 with a BS in Genomics and Molecular Genetics. As an undergraduate, she studied the adaptive immunity and biofilm formation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a pathogen commonly infecting individuals with cystic fibrosis. During this time, she discovered her passion for the field of genetic counseling. Following graduation, Lucy became a front-line worker as a laboratory aid in Northern Michigan during the COVID-19 pandemic. She then transitioned to become a genetic counseling assistant at Hoag Hospital’s Cancer Center in Orange County, California where she helped to advocate for patients with a genetic predisposition for pancreatic cancer. You can usually find her enjoying art, at a concert, or having a relaxing night watching movies in her spare time.

Sophia Salemi

Undergrad: University of Wisconsin-Madison, Genetics & Genomics, Minor: Global Health

Sophia Salemi graduated with distinction from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 2023 with a BS in Genetics & Genomics and a minor in Global Health. As an undergraduate, she was a Pre-Genetic Counseling Organization executive board member, taught cooking/fitness classes to children with Down syndrome, volunteered with Northwest Special Recreation Association, was a student notetaker for McBurney Disability Resource Center, and volunteered at Central Wisconsin Center – an intellectual disability respite care facility. After graduation, Sophia was a research specialist in the Center for Human Genomics and Precision Medicine at the Wisconsin Institutes for Medical Research. Additionally, she advocates for rare disease patients as a Wisconsin Young Adult Rare Disease Representative. When able, Sophia enjoys traveling with her family and trying new vegan recipes/restaurants.

Lydia Storm

Undergrad: University of Nebraska-Lincoln: Biochemistry, Minor: Psychology

Lydia Storm (she/her/hers) graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 2024 with a BS in Biochemistry and a minor in Psychology. As an undergraduate, she conducted molecular genetics research, taught a general genetics laboratory, volunteered with Planned Parenthood, welcomed new students as an orientation leader, and participated in a Pre-Health study abroad trip to Rwanda, Africa. Additionally, Lydia was a Co-Founder and President of the Pre-Genetic Counseling Club and a participant in the Genetic Counseling Career Research and Exploration Workshop offered by the Medical College of Wisconsin. She is passionate about advocacy, which she incorporated as a peer educator providing information on sexual assault and relationship violence. Beyond genetic counseling, Lydia loves traveling, playing board games, and spending time with friends/family.

Mikayla Walsh

Undergrad: University of Wisconsin–Madison, Genetics and Genomics, Certificate: Health and the Humanities

Mikayla Walsh graduated from the University of Wisconsin–Madison in 2022 with a BS in Genetics and Genomics and a certificate in Health and the Humanities. As an undergrad, she worked on the Tiny Earth Research Project and volunteered with Badger Cru as a connect group leader and peer mentor. Upon graduating, Mikayla worked at Invenra, a biotech company focused on discovering and developing therapeutic bispecific antibodies. Mikayla also served as the Survivor Support Specialist for the EmBark Foundation, where she counseled local trauma survivors and supported their rescue animal adoptions and Emotional Support Animal certifications. In her free time, Mikayla enjoys reading and puzzles, attending concerts and finding new music, going on walks, and spending time with friends and family.

Chiu Yuan

Undergrad: Boston University, Biology

Chiu Yuan was born and raised in Taipei, Taiwan. She graduated cum laude from Boston University in 2019 with a BA in Biology. As an undergraduate, she worked as a learning assistant for a physics course and volunteered at the Zhi-Shan Foundation in Taiwan during the summers. Following graduation, Chiu-Hsiang served as a research assistant at the Boston University School of Medicine, worked as a clinical research assistant at Penn Medicine, and volunteered at the American Red Cross. Subsequently, she transitioned to a role as a genetic counseling assistant at Boston Children's Hospital. In her free time, she enjoys watching movies, going for easy long runs, and spending quality time with friends and family.