From The Director's Desk

Many of us, given the nature of the field of our work, felt at least some comfort with the idea of the unknown. The place where science hasn’t yet reached; the concept that some things are not yet known. Maybe others, unknowable. The magnitude and depth of the past year and more have challenged even those of us who thought we “understood” the unknown. 

While many thought 2021 would be the year we returned to some semblance of normalcy, instead it became the year of the continually shifting landscape. It has challenged each of us in collective and individual ways. To consider what is important, who is important, how we care for ourselves while caring for others in a collective time of need. How we define family and risk and many of the concepts we previously associated with the confines of a genetic counseling session — a setting in which we were the experts. 

We have learned from and about each other in ways we never anticipated. Tried new activities, new ways of stress management, entertainment, advocacy. New ways to express our beliefs and passions. New ways to provide, to contribute and demonstrate care. We shared in our relative isolation, in the things we missed and even more that we hoped for. 

We came away with a clear understanding — connection is what matters. People make the difference. Community is perhaps more important than ever. We have been separate and separated, and we need each other. To pay attention, to lift voices that have been quieted, to create an atmosphere of belonging. Connection keeps us going.

We think of time now in much smaller increments. From years and months to days and minutes. Wake up, consider what is in front of us and rise to the occasion. No longer predictable, each day an opportunity to put into action what was learned the day before. 

Threats, seen and unseen, known and unknown, will continue to exist. What changes is our ability to navigate them. We are grateful for the opportunity to know and work with each of you. For your passion, dedication and the perspectives you bring to the program, our students, the field and community at large. We are successful because of what you share with us. We are the lucky ones.

From this year to the next and beyond. One moment at a time. 

With gratitude, humility & hope,

Lauren E. Doyle