Exploring Genetics

This free educational series is focused on relating your genes to your health. Learn how genetics plays a major role in your health in a specific area of genetic medicine each month.

2020 Spring Schedule

All lectures are free and open to the public. They will be held from 7-8 p.m. in the Sanford Imagenetics Courtyard at 1321 W. 22nd St. in Sioux Falls, SD.

Jan. 14
CRISPR in Context
The new world of human genome editing
Speakers: Bethany Tucker, MS, CGC, and Dylan Platt, MS, CGC
Scientists are on the brink of rewriting DNA in this unique era of health care. While this could offer incredible promise for life-threatening conditions, it also raises many questions. Come hear some great information about CRISPR, the new gene-editing tool, including:

• How gene editing works
• The potential benefits and concerns
• Information from patient advocacy groups
• Its impact on the future of genetic medicine

Feb. 11
7.5 Billion and Counting
Using Genetics in population health
Speaker: Emily Griese, PhD
As we learn more about human genetics, we are also discovering more about human health. Advances in genetic testing mean we can prevent disease and improve health across a lifetime – not just for the individual, but for all 7.5 billion people on the planet. Join Emily Griese, PhD, to uncover more about how population genetics helps:

• Improve what we know about disease
• Enhance how care is delivered to patients
• Develop tools to screen and predict health risks

March 10
Behind the Crown
Royal genetic disorders in European history
Speaker: RaeAnn Kragenbring, MS, CGC
From the dawn of kings and queens to the current royal families, monarchs have been seen to represent all of the people in their country. Now, they are offering all of humanity answers about the role genetics has in health and disease. Join Sanford Imagenetics to see how studying royalty has advanced our knowledge of genetic disorders and diseases for all.

April 14
Careers in Genetics
Exploring genetic counseling
Speaker: Quinn Stein, MS, CGC
Every day, we are learning more about the influence genetics has on health and disease. Which is why we need compassionate genetic counselors there to help patients make sense of it all. Attend the lecture to dive deeper into the everyday life of a genetic counselor. The discussion will cover:

• Roles and responsibilities
• The steps to become a genetic counselor
• Exciting opportunities within the field

May 12
DNA Can Have Its Day
Celebrating National DNA Day
Speaker: Allison Hutchinson, MS, CGC
The discovery of DNA’s double helix in 1953 and the completion of the Human Genome Project 50 years later have completely changed the world and our understanding of life. To honor these momentous breakthroughs, we are celebrating National DNA Day with a sneak peak of our lab, hands-on activities and information about how genetics has and is always helping change life and health care for the better.