Inaugural Cohort
Maddy Armstrong
"Originally from Cincinnati, Ohio, I earned my Bachelor of Science in Psychology at the University of Alabama, with minors in Biology and Neuroscience. Recently, I worked as a genetic counselor assistant at a high-volume medical genetics clinic in Grand Rapids, Michigan. I've also had the opportunity to work as an independent provider for a young boy with cerebral palsy, a peer mentor for a college student with autism spectrum disorder, and volunteered at a dance studio for individuals with different abilities. I am passionate about the field of genentic counseling for its unique intersection of science, research, education, and advocacy, and how it's rapidly developing with opportunities to learn something new. For fun, I like to spend time trying new coffee shops and restaurants, going to the gym, and spoiling my cat, Milo."
Vivian Duong, MPH
"Originally from Dallas, I earned a Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience with a concentration in Medical Neuroscience in 2022 from the University of Texas at Dallas. In 2024, I continued my higher education at the University of Pittsburgh, where I received a Master of Public Health in Public Health Genetics with a Graduate Certificate in Health Equity. During my MPH practicum, I completed an internship with the E.WE Foundation, a rare disease advocacy organization for Trisomy 18. In addition to public health genetics and health equity, I'm interested in pursuing pediatric/neurogenetics. In my free time, I enjoy singing, dancing, and painting."
Emily Helm
"I am originally from Albuquerque, New Mexico, and a recent graduate from Baylor University with concentrations in Biology and Medical Humanities. During college, I worked as a Registered Behavior Technician and volunteered as an English tutor for ESL adults. These experiences, alongside shadowing genetic counselors, cultivated my passion for education and genetic counseling. I am inspired by the ability of genetic counselors to enable informed decision making for patients of all backgrounds, and I look forward to working in clinics and pursuing clinical research. I love being outdoors with friends, hiking, stargazing, morning walks, and I'm a coffee lover."
Yasmine Luna
"I was born and raised in El Paso, TX, and graduated from New Mexico State University with a major in Kinesiology and a concentration in Exercise Science. My journey into genetic counseling began with a personal experience navigating a genetic variant, which revealed the lack of genetic counseling services in underserved communities like my hometown. I aspire to bridge this gap, making genetic counseling accessible to those who need it most, while also inspiring other Latinos interested in the field. I'm thrilled to be part of UT Southwestern's Genetic Counseling Program inaugural cohort and have the opportunity to grow alongside my peers. Beyond academics, I find joy in exploring new coffee shops and staying updated with the latest Lego sets in stores."
Jordan Murphy
"I am from Athens, Georgia, where I attended the University of Georgia to obtain my Bachelor of Science in Health Promotion and a certificate in Disability Studies. As an undergraduate student, I was a clinical and research intern at Emory University’s Lysosomal Storage Disease and Genetic Clinical Trials Center, where I was able to observe telehealth appointments in their Down Syndrome Clinic. I am passionate about working with the disability community and cannot wait to serve patients of all backgrounds. I have many friends and family members in the DFW area and I am so excited to begin a new chapter in this city!"
Courtney Singleton
"I grew up in Gilbert, Arizona, and later moved to Buena Vista, Virginia, to attend Southern Virginia University, where I studied biology with a minor in psychology. Since graduating, I've enjoyed working as a genetic counseling assistant at a cancer center in my hometown. My inspiration to become a genetic counselor came from the connections and knowledge gained from genetic counselors and witnessing their impact in healthcare. One of my favorite things to do is experience new cultures thorough traveling worldwide. Currently, I've been to 23 countries outside of the United States."
