National Society of Genetic Counselors

About NSGC

National Society of Genetic Counselors (NSGC) History

The Leading Voice for Genetic Counselors

In 1971 the first class of master's degree genetic counselors graduated from Sarah Lawrence College in Bronxville, NY. Genetic counselors rapidly became an integral member of the genetics team because of the profession's unique knowledge and skills in counseling and human genetics.

Growth and development within the profession and the recognition of a unique identity provided the impetus for the formation of a responsive professional society. To that end, the NSGC was incorporated in 1979.

The NSGC promotes the professional interests of genetic counselors and provides a network for professional communications. Access to continuing education opportunities, professional resources, advocacy and the discussion of all issues relevant to human genetics and the genetic counseling profession are an integral part of belonging to the NSGC.

Click here to access An Oral History of the National Society of Genetic Counselors by Audrey Heimler, the NSGC's first president.

History of the Genetic Counseling Profession

Click here to view a timeline of the genetic counseling profession and NSGC milestones developed by the NSGC Late Career Special Interest Group (SIG). 

Click here to access Genetic counseling: Growth of the profession and the professional by Bonnie J. Baty.

NSGC's 40th Anniversary

NSGC celebrated its 40th anniversary at the NSGC 38th Annual Conference in Salt Lake City, Utah. To commemorate this achievement, NSGC asked some its former presidents to reflect upon the historical milestones within the last 40 years.

History of NSGC: Celebrating our 40th Anniversary

Click here to access 40 years and beyond for the National Society of Genetic Counselors: Reflections on genetic counseling practice, by Wendy R. Uhlmann, Jennifer Hoskovec and Mary Freivogel, former presidents of NSGC. To watch their 40th anniversary speeches, view the videos below.

40 Years of the Genetic Counseling Profession: The Past by Wendy R. Uhlmann

40 Years of the Genetic Counseling Profession: The Present by Jennifer Hoskovec

40 Years of the Genetic Counseling Profession: The Future by Mary Freivogel

NSGC Past Presidents

past presidents 2019 image.jpg

NSGC's Past Presidents at the 40th Anniversary Celebration at the 38th Annual Conference in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Learn the issues and challenges facing genetic counselors by viewing Past Presidential addresses. Click a President's name to access their Presidential address.

NSGC State of the Society Slides

NSGC Annual Business Meeting Slides

NSGC Executive Office   |   330 North Wabash Avenue, Suite 2000, Chicago, IL 60611   |   312.321.6834   |   nsgc@nsgc.org
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