Turner Syndrome Foundation's Staff

Laura Fasciano
Director and Founding President
lfasciano@tsfusa.org

Determined to make a difference in the lives of individuals with Turner Syndrome through education, research and support, I founded this organization to advocate for a randomly acquired and complex condition affecting women. Precious lives, families and communities are struggling for answers. Learn more about the Vision for Turner Syndrome.

Our Team Makes an Impact – Join Us! VOLUNTEER APPLICATION

Monica Bobadilla
Health Initiatives
mbobadilla@tsfusa.org

Being an intern during my undergraduate studies, and having the opportunity to work at TSF after graduation, solidified my long-desired pursuit of a career in medicine. Being directly involved in the different aspects of a Turner Syndrome patient, and serving as a vessel that facilitated information and resources to improve the quality of life of these individuals, has been a privilege and an immensely rewarding experience. Returning, now as a third year medical student, I still carry the desire to be a part of a community whose goal is to save and improve lives. To achieve this, it is crucial that patients, families and health professionals come together as a team and work hand in hand. My goal is to create these connections and facilitate evidence-based, up-to- date information. This would ensure that patients remain in control of their health, having at hand the necessary resources and knowledge to advocate for their well-being. Additionally, health professionals will provide optimal and effective care at all stages of life that this multidisciplinary condition entails.

Janis Elwell
Patient Registry Coordinator
jelwell@tsfusa.org

I have the pleasure of receiving the many patient registries submitted to the Turner Syndrome Foundation from numerous adult women and caregivers of young children, as well as expectant families. Individuals submit their contact information, experiences of their journey with TS, and are asked about their questions and concerns. My role on the team is to invest in these relationships to forge an alliance of community, care and support. Engaging with clients provides the greatest insight to the unmet needs of all people affected by TS. While we do not have all of the answers, my goal is to provide the greatest care.

Steven G. Carr
Strategic Planning Manager
scarr@tsfusa.org

Over the past six years I have handled media planning for a number of brands and gained deep knowledge of various media. I have always wanted to leverage this experience to help shine a light on a worthy cause and found an opportunity to do so at TSF. In this role I hope to increase awareness of the foundation and grow the network for both patients and medical professionals; bringing the great work this team does and resources they provide to a larger audience.

Kayla M. Ganger, PA-C
Professional Membership Liaison
kganger@tsfusa.org

Kayla graduated from Houghton College with a BS in Biology and then completed a Master of Health Science through Lock Haven University PA program. She has worked as an NCCPA board certified PA-C at Family Practice Center in New Cumberland PA since 2019. She enjoys caring for patients holistically and how the complexity of family medicine involves all areas of the patient’s health. Kayla is currently a member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants, Pennsylvania Society of Physician Assistants, and Pi Alpha, the National Honor Society for Physician Assistants. She is also a professional member of the Turner Syndrome Foundation. Interestingly, she also has a publication on protein levels in freshwater fish in Ecology and Evolution. Kayla is thankful for the work that TSF does on behalf of the TS community and is happy to join them in their cause.

Susan Herman
Blog Coordinator
sherman@tsfusa.org

Susan Herman, a TSF volunteer since 2019 as lead editor of our blog has assumed a staff position as Blog Manager. She also produces our monthly My Story series, which highlights the wonderfully diverse journeys of people living with TS and their families and caretakers. In her professional life, Susan is an editor, linguist, and instructor for the federal government. Susan grew up in the D.C. area and lived in Tucson for 16 years as a teenager and young adult. She earned a B.A. degree in Spanish and political science and a M.A. degree in Spanish linguistics from the University of Arizona in Tucson. She currently lives in Maryland with her wonderful husband, Chris, and her their three crazy cats.

Kierstyn Holly
Talent Coordinator
kholly@tsfusa.org

As a member of the Turner Syndrome community for over two years, Kierstyn has influenced change and increased awareness through social media platforms. She has now taken on a new role as Talent Coordinator. She creates and executes potential talent opportunities to help broaden knowledge on a random chromosomal disorder that affects 1 in 2000 women and girls. Her role also includes coordinating calls, interviews and events to introduce brand partnership opportunities. Her background in Public Relations has allowed her to effectively work with talent to help increase advocacy and awareness for the TS community. Her goal at TSF is to ensure that TS patients have access to better resources, educational opportunities and a healthy life. She feels confident in her ability to support and execute the TSF mission through talent opportunities.

Jai-Ru Lai
Research Associate

I am currently located in Maryland, and find myself dedicated to applying data mining and research skills to search for related data from online data sources and research papers, and compile information to support further research and information sharing. I really appreciate the chance to work here and I hope to gain some insightful outcomes which would be meaningful to people around the world.

Marji K. Sojitra
Public Health Associate

In addition to my position as a Research Assistant at Adelphi University, I volunteer for the New York State Birth Control Association Project and Nassau County Medical Reserve Corps. During my curriculum and my internship as an Emergency Data Relief Intern, I analyzed quantitative and qualitative data using statistical software SPSS and SAS. I worked on data management and wrangling, as well as quality assurance. I collected, analyzed, and interpreted data and wrote literature reviews during research projects. My strengths include proficient written and oral communication skills, as well as proven abilities in organization, leadership, and project management. Additionally, my coursework, practicum, and capstone project gave me experience planning and evaluating of public health programs.

Manasi Thirumoorthi, BSN
Research Associate

I am currently located in Pennsylvania, and find myself interested in genetics, which led me to Turner syndrome. I am looking to potentially change careers from nursing to genetic counseling in the next couple of years. I would love to learn more about Turners Syndrome and how it affects patients and their families. I am interested in new research about the genetic condition. I really appreciate the chance to work here and I hope to gain some insightful outcomes which would be meaningful to people around the world.

Amun Uppal
Health Initiatives Associate

I always had an affinity for studying all things genetics, from heredity to genetic diseases. I have always been very passionate about my field of study and want to be able to contribute my education to my community. This would be my first time working with a company relating to my education in genetics and I would love to be able to help in any way I can to help educate others about Turner syndrome, as well as increase my own knowledge. I look forward to professionally advancing my knowledge and skills.

Dr. Komal Prem
Health Columnist

I have a very strong scientific background, with a B.S. and M.S. in engineering and an M.D., and I currently work as a clinical pharmacologist in a biotech company. I love the opportunity to provide support to young girls with Turner’s to show them that even with these medical issues, there is light at the end of the tunnel and they can live full, productive, engaging, and successful lives!