Hello and welcome! My name is Maria and I am the Director of UConn’s Genetic Counseling Program. As Program Director, I want to give you some insight into my background, values, and teaching philosophy. I remember the nervousness, excitement, and hard work that accompanies applying to genetic counseling programs. By following a guided path of steps and passions, you will be well on your way to selecting which program is best for you. Our UConn GC leadership team is excited to motivate and support you as you consider applying to join the UConn Nation community.

I am a UConn Husky, Day of Pride Scholar, and an alumna with a bachelor’s degree in cytogenetics and a minor in molecular and cell biology. I earned my MS in genetic counseling at Virginia Commonwealth University and a certificate of completion in the VA Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities (Va-LEND) program. Experience and valued mentorship have enabled me to build a toolbox of teaching methods, organizational skills, and a greater appreciation for the broad-reaching impact of leadership in advocacy. I am a licensed and board-certified clinical genetic counselor, specializing in pediatrics. I also have roles as an academic instructor for traditional and non-traditional students, research coordinator, and supervisor for students on genetic counseling rotations. At UConn, I have developed two online graduate certificate programs in clinical genetics and counseling and serve as key faculty with the Health Care Genetics program. I voice the importance of professional development and remain engaged in leadership roles with the National Society of Genetic Counselors, New England Regional Genetics Group, and Connecticut Genetic Counselors’ Association.

I am excited to make available our online program embedded with Quality Matters core principles for a culture of continuous improvement, student engagement, and responsiveness to the ever-changing world of clinical genetics. I am a Latina woman, committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment by not just recognizing, but celebrating the uniqueness that each student brings to their educational experience. I hope you will take the time to learn more about UConn’s Genetic Counseling Program and how we plan to prepare the next generation of diverse genetic counseling professionals.

Go Huskies!
Maria Gyure, MS, CGC