Date of Award

5-2024

Document Type

Thesis - Open Access

Degree Name

MS in Human Genetics

First Advisor

Vinaya Murthy

Second Advisor

Janelle Villiers

Abstract

The underrepresentation of racial and ethnic minorities within faculty and leadership roles in genetic counseling programs highlights a critical gap in the field's commitment to diversity and inclusion. This sequential explanatory mixed-methods study investigates the experiences, challenges, and perspectives of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) serving in these capacities. By examining responses from the faculty and leadership members across various genetic counseling programs, this research aimed to identify barriers to diversity and explore mechanisms for fostering a more inclusive environment. The findings revealed an underrepresented number of BIPOC individuals (n≤3) in leadership or faculty roles per genetic counseling training programs. Participants reported experiences of microaggressions, biases, and a lack of institutional support. Despite these challenges, the importance of mentorship and support networks emerged as a significant theme. This theme highlighted that mentorship and support enhanced professional growth and diversity within the field. This study underscored the need for genetic counseling training programs to implement targeted strategies for improving representation through inclusivity, early recruitment efforts, community engagement, and the development of formal mentorship programs. This investigation provides a foundation for understanding the experiences of faculty and leadership in genetic counseling programs.

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