Distinguished Alumna Terri K. Rogers-Ivie recalls strong faculty mentors at the School of Health Professions
Terri K. Rogers-Ivie found her passion for medical laboratory science as a student in the Clinical Laboratory Sciences bachelor’s program at the School of Health Professions.
She was inspired by faculty, including Linda Smith, Ph.D., MLS, BB (ASCP), professor emeritus at the department of medical laboratory sciences, Cheryl Burns, MS, MLS (ASCP), associate professor at the department of medical laboratory sciences, and George Kudolo, Ph.D., FAIC, FACB, health sciences department interim chair who spent hours mentoring students and encouraging them to be investigators in the lab.
“I still remember the course I had with Dr. Kudolo and learning about the fascinating pathways in the body,” Rogers-Ivie shared. “This is when I discovered my passion, and I was determined.”
When Rogers-Ivie graduated in 2005, she felt confident in her education and training as a clinical laboratory scientist. She went to work for a private company in the biosciences field.
“The Medical Laboratory Sciences program at UT Health San Antonio is one of the best in South Texas,” Rogers-Ivie said. “It is thanks to Professor Burns and Professor Kudolo, who work tirelessly to advance the profession and to empower students.”
When Rogers-Ivie decided to begin a new journey in 2015, she connected with two friends, medical laboratory scientists David R. Campos, and Armando Diaz III, and formed Gen 3 Biosciences in 2016. The company benefits from the complementary skill sets and expertise of its partners.
“At Gen 3 Biosciences we collaborate with international partners to continue novel research to expand molecular targeted therapeutic uses," Rogers-Ivie explained. "Combined with an extensive background in preclinical drug development, the desire for our research to have a positive impact for others could possibly be fulfilled. “This is our passion, and it is the future of medicine and health care. We are happy to be at the forefront."