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#IamASCLS Elizabeth LeFors

By Andrea Hickey posted 01-30-2017 10:58

  

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Name and Hometown

Elizabeth Stepp LeFors  from Tupelo, MS

Representing which state?
Colorado

How would you describe yourself as person?
I am dedicated, ambitious, energetic, and caring. I have an intense desire to help people however I can. 

Job title / specialization

MLS- Generalist 

What got you into the field of laboratory sciences?

It kind of happened by accident.  I graduated from Mississippi State University with a degree in Microbiology but had been working as a CNA for the past 6 years.  I was tired of feeling unfulfilled by my job and was looking to go back to school for a Master’s.  I found a random blurb about an MLS program at the bottom of a webpage about a Pathology program.  I had loved working in the lab as an undergraduate researcher and decided to find out more.  After hours of research, I decided that this is where I belonged.  I would get to use my Microbiology degree working in healthcare and I could play in a lab! What isn’t to love?

What has been the highlight of your career thus far?
All of the opportunities given to me by ASCLS!   When I first began this journey in 2014, I never thought that only 2 years later I would be able to say that I have been chosen to serve on State, Regional, and National levels, been published, or been nominated for State and National awards, yet here I am.  It has been an amazing journey already, and it’s not over yet!

What is your favorite part about your job?

Helping others, of course.  I have always wanted to be in healthcare, to help those that couldn’t help themselves, and to make a difference.  This career lets me do all of that and more!

What makes you diverse/unique?

In addition to serving as the ASCLS , I am also a member of the Kinnikinnik Chapter of Daughters of the American Revolution and the Pikes Peak Flute Choir.  I volunteer with the Colorado Springs Philharmonic Orchestra and the Phil’s Kids program, which teaches elementary school children about the orchestra and music.  I am a charter member of the Colorado Springs Alumnae Chapter of Sigma Alpha Iota International Music Fraternity for Women, serving as the Vice President, Fraternity Education Chair, Fundraising Chair, Membership Chair, and Programs Co-Chair.  I also serve on the Membership, Biography, and Programs committees of Chapter CE of Philanthropic Education Organization, whose mission it is to provide financial assistance to women seeking higher education.  In my spare time, I also enjoy making costumes for Dragon Con, cooking/baking, reading, writing poetry, crocheting, and singing.

What is your biggest achievement or proudest moment, both in your career and your life?

Being able to serve in an organization like ASCLS locally, regionally, and even nationally, being published in a national newsletter read by thousands, and being successful and respected in my career field.

What is an interesting fact about you?
I am a direct descendent of one Mayflower Compact signer.

How has ASCLS impacted you?

ASCLS has given me a professional purpose and the opportunity to meet some of the most interesting, brilliant, and inspirational people I know.  Being a member has allowed me to travel to places I probably never would otherwise while attending fascinating continuing education classes. 

In your eyes, why should people join ASCLS?

Everyone should be in a professional organization of some kind. I chose to join one that has my best interests in mind at all times, is composed of members of my own profession, and is a voice for my concerns.  It is a group that is passionate about education and research but also about patient care and safety.  The values of ASCLS align with my own. That is why I chose ASCLS.  

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