Faculty in the Master of Science in Genetic Counseling Program
The Genetic Counseling faculty and clinical instructors integrate applied genomic medicine, research, and service into the Master of Science curriculum. Through interdisciplinary collaboration and community partnerships, faculty support training aligned with current clinical and professional standards.
Raluca Kurz, LCGC, PhD
Program Director
Raluca Kurz entered the field of genetic counseling in 1997. Over the past three decades, she has practiced in a wide range of settings, including clinical, administrative, and industry roles. Her work has encompassed establishing new genetic clinics, providing direct patient care, developing tests, and serving in medical affairs and health IT.
Throughout her career, Dr. Kurz’s focus has been on improving access to genomic care to advance health equity and outcomes for all populations. In her role as Program Director and Assistant Professor in the Genetic Counseling Program at Charles R. Drew University, she spearheaded the effort to achieve ACGC accreditation for the program. She also led the establishment of vital adult genetics clinics at the Martin Luther King Jr. Outpatient Center, enhancing community health services for residents of SPA 6, where the University is located.
Dr. Kurz is a graduate of the Sarah Lawrence College Human Genetics Program and holds a Doctor of Public Health degree from the University of California, Los Angeles, with a specialization in Health Economics and Health Services Research.
Amanda Higa, MS, LCGC
Genetic Counseling Clinical Experience Coordinator
Amanda Higa, MS, LCGC, is the Clinical Experience Coordinator and a certified Genetic Counselor. She earned her Master of Science in Human Genetics and Genetic Counseling from Keck Graduate Institute and is board-certified by the American Board of Genetic Counseling.
As a practicing genetic counselor specializing in oncology and general adult genetics, Amanda provides comprehensive genetic risk assessment, counseling, and testing coordination for individuals and families affected by hereditary conditions. She is passionate about increasing awareness of genetic counseling and improving access to genetic testing services across all communities.
As a volunteer with FORCE (Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered), Amanda advocates for expanded access to hereditary cancer care and genetics services. She believes everyone deserves the opportunity to benefit from the power of genetics in their healthcare.
Madeline Currey, MS, GC
Genetic Counseling Curriculum Coordinator
Madeline Currey, MS, is a genetic counselor at Charles R. Drew University of Medicine & Science and the Martin Luther King Jr. Outpatient Center. Her interest in the field began after a relative was diagnosed with a genetic disorder, inspiring her to support individuals and families navigating similar experiences.
She earned her Master of Science in Genetic Counseling from the University of California, Los Angeles. Madeline has worked extensively in cancer genomics, including with the Division of Clinical Cancer Genomics at City of Hope. Her work there focused on developing educational tools to support the return of genetic test results, including adapting complex genetic information for cancer patients who primarily speak Spanish and Mandarin.
This experience has shaped her passion for research aimed at advancing genetic care for diverse patient populations. Madeline is a published researcher on returning secondary findings in late-stage cancer care and is an active member of the National Society of Genetic Counselors.
Shorronda Warren
Program Coordinator
Shorronda B. Warren is a dedicated Project Manager in the College of Science and Health at Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, where she combines a strong commitment to service with academic excellence. Known for her warm presence, attention to detail, and strong sense of responsibility, Shorronda plays a key role in coordinating major events, supporting accreditation efforts, managing academic operations, and enhancing the student experience across the College of Science and Health.
Her work is guided by a deep belief in the power of education, a genuine love for helping others, and a personal commitment to uplifting every space she enters. Beyond her professional responsibilities, Shorronda values authentic connection, collaboration, and creating environments where people feel supported and seen. Her blend of compassion, leadership, and organizational strength reflects her personal mission to show up with heart, serve with integrity, and contribute meaningfully to the growth and success of the CDU community.
Caroline Lieber, LCGC
Program Advisor
Caroline Lieber is Director Emeritus of the Sarah Lawrence College Joan H. Marks Graduate Program in Human Genetics, the nation’s first and largest master’s program in genetic counseling. She brings more than 45 years of experience in human genetics, including 18 years as a clinical genetic counselor and supervisor, and 15 years as an educator and administrator serving as Program Director of the Joan H. Marks Graduate Program in Human Genetics at Sarah Lawrence College.
From 2013 to 2018, Caroline served as a consultant for Counsyl, a rapidly growing genomics company based in San Francisco, California. More recently, she has served as a program advisor to several genetic counseling training programs, including Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science in Southern California.
Caroline remains actively engaged in professional and educational outreach, with a particular focus on the narrative aspects of patient care. She regularly speaks to community and academic audiences, sharing insights drawn from her extensive experience in genetic counseling education and practice.