Every year at the NSGC Annual Conference, genetic counselors influencing the future of the profession are recognized through a series of awards. We asked the 2024 recipients to what earning this award has meant to them. If you see one of these deserving winners at an industry conference, or on LinkedIn, be sure to congratulate them!
Natalie Weissberger Paul National Achievement Award: Laura Hercher, MA, MS, CGC
“There is no award in the world that means as much as one coming from your peers, especially when your peers are genetic counselors, a group of people I admire so much.”
Leader in Diversity & Inclusion Award: Daniela Diaz Caro, MS, CGC
“I am honored to have received the 2024 Leader in Diversity and Inclusion award. I am humbled by this recognition and inspired by the continued commitment of our field to celebrate and cultivate a diverse and inclusive community. This recognition is a beautiful reminder that the efforts to uplift marginalized and underrepresented communities are valued and supported. I hope this award continues to demonstrate to others who share stories and challenges similar to my own that we can all contribute in meaningful ways to make our communities and organizations inclusive. It’s a powerful reminder that together, as a community, we can make a difference.”
Leader in Cultural Advocacy Award: Stefania Alastre Arcusa, MSPH, LCGC
“Receiving this award has been truly special, and overall, such an honor. I’m very much looking forward to continuing to work in the cultural advocacy space.”
New Leader Award: Laynie Dratch, ScM, CGC
“I am so grateful to have received the 2024 NSGC New Leader Award. To me, this recognizes not just my efforts, but those of my fantastic collaborators and mentors as well. From the time I first learned about the field of genetic counseling through today, I have felt so supported by the genetic counselors I have interacted with. Many of the leadership opportunities I’ve had have stemmed from the mentorship and guidance of Tanya Bardakjian, who has encouraged me to try new things and to think big. One of my most cherished accomplishments as a genetic counselor is the vibrant community that we have built via the ALS/FTD working group within the Neurogenetics SIG. Within three years, this group has made an impact through presentations, publications, advocacy and the development of educational resources; to me, the hard work and success of this group is reflected in the award. Receiving this award is a great honor, and it inspires me to continue my efforts to contribute to both the ALS/FTD and the genetic counseling communities in years to come.”
Strategic Leader Award: Ashley Svenson, MS, CGC
“Receiving this recognition from NSGC is an unbelievable honor and inspires me to keep showing up for a profession I value deeply. I am grateful for the connections I have made and growth opportunities provided to me through my involvement with NSGC.”
Outstanding Volunteer Award: Christine Wensel, MS, CGC
“I have always considered myself one of the worker bees, available and in the background. When something needs to be done, I jump in to do it and don’t look for acknowledgement. Being seen and acknowledged with this award has had a very powerful positive effect for me. I plan to keep this lesson in mind and do what I can to make sure I see the worker bees on any project and acknowledge what they are doing!”
Community Engagement Award: Jaime Malone, MS, CGC
“I am honored and humbled to be recognized and accept the NSGC community engagement award. It has been a very rewarding experience to serve the Omaha community and represent the genetic counseling field in this way.”