Laura E. Birkeland, MS, CGC

Laura Birkeland

CHAIR OF EDUCATION 2021

Where were you born/ Where are you from?

Minnesota

What Genetic Counselor Program did you graduate from and when?

UW-Madison

Where do you work currently?

UW-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health as well as UPH-Meriter Hospital

How long have you been working as a Genetic Counselor?

14 years

What is your specialty(specialties)?

Prenatal

How did you get involved with WIGCA?

I was asked to chair the Education Committee - and honored to do so!

What types of skills overlap between being a Genetic Counselor and your work on the WIGCA board? What did you have to learn for this position?

So many genetic counselor skills are important to in many parts of my life. When working with WIGCA, critical thinking skills, being resourceful, and making connections with people have been very helpful.

What have you accomplished or hope to accomplish as a Board Member?

We hosted our first ever Annual Education Conference this past spring, 2020, which was wonderful. Our work together as a board also helped to refine our strategic goals that give our group a sense of direction.

Do you have any pets? If so, what is their name(s) and personalities like?

I have a cat (Steve) and a dog (Hank).  Steve is a recluse, alley-cat and Hank is a laid back puppy.

Hank Sleeping

What have you been doing to stay mentally healthy during the pandemic?

Walking, meditation, zoon happy hours, and baking

What do you spend way too much money on?

Good food!

What do you find hilarious but most people don’t find funny?

I find most things funny in life - if you can't find the humor than you are missing out!

If you were a cookie, what kind of cookie would you be? Why?

Chocolate Chip.  That's my favorite cookie, hands down, and so why not select that one!?

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Interview Credit to WIGCA Volunteer, Rachel Lichte 2021