CLEC 2026 Closing Keynote to Build Courage for Meaningful Dialogue in Education The Clinical Laboratory Educators Conference (CLEC) Steering Committee is pleased to announce the Closing Keynote for CLEC 2026 will feature Anu Taranath, PhD, and her presentation, “Getting More Comfortable with Uncomfortable Conversations” on February 7, at 10:30 am Pacific. Conversations about diversity, equity,…
Navigating AI in Medical Laboratory Education The Clinical Laboratory Educators Conference (CLEC) Steering Committee is pleased to announce the plenary session for CLEC 2026 will feature Nadine Lerret, PhD, MLS(ASCP)CM, and her presentation, “Responsible Use of AI for Educators” on February 6, at 9:15 am Pacific. Generative AI tools are already influencing how students learn,…
Your Voice Needed in January to Stop Lab Cuts | Call for Nominations for National Positions | Enhance Your Professional Development at CLEC 2026 | Save the Dates for 2026 Events | and More Your Voice is Needed in January to Stop Lab Cuts and Protect Patient Care Devastating reimbursement cuts under the Protecting Access…
Addressing Student Success Through a Trauma-Informed Lens The CLEC Steering Committee is excited to announce the 2026 Clinical Laboratory Educators Conference (CLEC) Opening Keynote will feature Jeanie Tietjen, PhD, and her presentation, “Trauma-Informed in Pedagogy & Practice” on Thursday, February 5, at 12 pm Pacific. As educators, administrators, and program leaders, we are increasingly aware…
Every year, the Clinical Laboratory Educators Conference (CLEC) brings together a vibrant community of educators who share ideas, swap practical tools, and leave inspired to elevate their programs. The stories below—from program directors who once felt overwhelmed, to seasoned educators who still discover something new each year—show just how transformative CLEC can be. Whether it’s…
Volume 39 Number 6 | December 2025 Summary The authors argue that casual stereotypes about medical laboratory professionals—such as calling them introverts or saying they don’t like people—undermine inclusion and belonging. These labels flatten the profession’s diversity and can alienate colleagues. They urge intentional, respectful language and highlight ASCLS efforts that foster community, emphasizing that…
Volume 39 Number 6 | December 2025 Summary The author, a data-driven perfectionist, shares why discussing DEIB feels uncomfortable yet essential. Drawing on veterinary and clinical laboratory experience, she argues that growth requires practice, safe spaces, and grace for mistakes. She proposes using structured methods like SOAP to improve DEIB communication and metrics within ASCLS,…
Volume 39 Number 6 | December 2025 Summary This article highlights the impact of inclusion in clinical laboratories, especially for LGBTQ+ professionals and patients. The author shares experiences of witnessing bias and emphasizes how discrimination harms both teamwork and patient care. Feeling genuinely welcomed at the ASCLS, AGT & SAFMLS Joint Annual Meeting reinforced the…
Volume 39 Number 6 | December 2025 Summary This article explores the difference between fitting in and true belonging, emphasizing that belonging begins with honoring one’s authentic self. Using neuroscience and practical strategies—pausing, regulating with support, and seeking genuine connection—it encourages medical laboratory professionals to build psychological safety, reduce division, and strengthen teamwork by showing…
Volume 39 Number 6 | December 2025 Summary This article explains how integrating diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) strengthens laboratory teams, reduces burnout, and improves patient care. Through supportive leadership, cross-training, psychological safety, and clear communication, medical laboratories build trust, resilience, and collaboration. Applying DEIB principles creates healthier workplace culture and more effective, connected…