Donations and applications are needed for the Audrey Heimler Special Project Award (AHSPA). Each year, the AHSPA’s competitive fund supports a project focused on the future of the genetic counseling profession and/or the innovation of genetic service delivery. Inspired by genetic counseling pioneer, Audrey Heimler and her drive to fight for the profession, this award is given to those whose passion for the profession lifts us all. Past projects have included development of patient and continuing education resources and identification of genetic counseling outcomes.
The 2019 award recipient, “The Impact of the Genetic Assistant Position on Genetic Counselor Productivity: A Time-Series Analysis,” developed a statistical model to predict the ideal ratio of genetic counselors to assistants to maximize productivity. This project will provide leverage for genetic counselors across the country to advocate for assistant positions, allowing us to practice at the top of our scope of practice.
The AHSPA could get your project started and transform the future of the profession.
The 2020 award recipients, Lila Aiyar, MSc, CGC; Tala Berro, MS, CGC; Nadine Channaoui, MS, CGC; and Michelle Takemoto, MS, CGC, are focusing on diversity, inclusion, cultural responsiveness, and equity (DICE) issues. They will be developing a framework for genetic counselors to evaluate the effectiveness of DICE-related tools and education. This project will help determine the utility of DICE-related efforts and ensure they attain their desired outcomes.
Past recipients have used the award for transcription services, software, website development, volunteer honorarium, and much more.
The AHSPA application will open in February and involves a short proposal outlining project purpose, statement of need/relevance, research plan, and budget. Up to $10,000 can be awarded each year. Past recipients have used the award for transcription services, software, website development, volunteer honorarium, and much more. If you have an innovative idea for a project but no funding, apply! The AHSPA could get your project started and transform the future of the profession. You can also support innovation in the field by donating to the AHSPA fund. Visit the AHSPA page on the NSGC website to donate and learn more about the application process.
Katie Wusik, MS, CGC currently practices as a Clinical and Laboratory Stewardship Genetic Counselor at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center. She is also Chair of the Audrey Heimler Special Project Award Committee for the 2021 award cycle.