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Michelle Campbell (’18 MS MDS), Sophia Chandrasekar ’16 and Letycia Nuñez-Argote ’07, each received recognition for their contributions to the profession.


The American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science (ASCLS) recognized three alumnae of the Division of Clinical Laboratory Science as “Voices Under 40” at its annual meeting, hosted online in summer 2020 in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Campbell is a development technologist in the Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology at the Mayo Clinic and works closely with laboratory directors to develop new laboratory tests. She is also an adjunct instructor and teaches a course in biostatistics for laboratory professionals in both master’s degree tracks offered by the division.

“Since being a student, I have recognized the importance of being involved in a professional society that truly works in the best interest of its members and advocates for laboratory professionals,” Campbell said of the recognition. “It is also humbling to know that my colleagues and mentors provided recommendations in support of my receipt of this award.”

Chandrasekar works at UNC Health in McLendon Clinical Laboratories’ Core Lab, where she is a lead senior technologist over gas chromatography. Chandrasekar serves as the vice chair of marketing and communications committee for ASCLS. She serves as webmaster, social media manager, and newsletter editor for the North Carolina Society for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NCSCLS). She is also the illustrator of Lab Colors and Lab Colors 2, both NCSCLS adult coloring books. Chandrasekar is also the creator, writer, and artist for Warbler Works, a lab-inspired online comic.

“I am so honored to be named one of the ASCLS 40 Under 40, especially amongst so many distinguished peers also named,” she said. “It motivates me to do whatever I can do to contribute to the profession, the promotion of the profession, and the society.”

Nuñez Argote works as a clinical assistant professor at the University of Kansas Medical Center’s Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences.

“I feel fortunate to share this honor with an outstanding group of professionals, including fellow Tar Heels,” Nuñez Argote said. “This recognition is special to me, particularly in a year when clinical laboratory testing has featured prominently in the collective consciousness, because having my work acknowledged by my peers, who are health care heroes, fuels my desire to continue investing my energy and talents in growing this field and watching others prosper in it.”

Nuñez Argote said that the skills she learned while at UNC-Chapel Hill have translated into her current work in teaching, research, and advocacy.

“As an educator, I want to set an example for my students as they are entering this field in a time of heavy public scrutiny and change. I want them to see and understand the value of the work they will be doing, so they too can grow their interest and commitment to service and civic engagement. I want them to know that it pays off to remain connected with others in the laboratory community through professional organizations, such as ASCLS; what we do for others matters.”

The Division of Clinical Laboratory Science is housed in the Department of Allied Health Sciences.