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Deanna Cross Memorial Strategic Fund in Genetic Counseling

Bay Path University proudly announces the contributions from friends, family, and classmates of Deanna Cross to create the Deanna Cross Memorial Strategic Fund in Genetic Counseling. This endowed fund will honor Deanna’s life and work by supporting students and strategic initiatives in the Master of Science in Genetic Counseling Program at Bay Path University.

Dr. Deanna Cross passed away on July 16, 2024, at her Fort Worth, Texas home. Deanna received her master’s degree in genetic counseling from Bay Path University in 2019 as part of the inaugural class of the program and served on the faculty at the University of North Texas Health Science Center. In her professional life, Deanna was deeply committed to translating complex genetic research into meaningful patient care, with a particular focus on addressing healthcare disparities. Her efforts to reduce barriers to genetic medicine for traditionally underrepresented groups included developing innovative family health history tools that made genetic advances more accessible to diverse populations.

The Deanna Cross Memorial Strategic Fund in Genetic Counseling reflects Deanna’s values and commitment to making a positive difference. This fund will ensure perpetual support for Bay Path University’s initiatives in genetic counseling and genetic studies, including:

Research initiatives that explore the physical, psychological, and familial impacts of genetic conditions
Experiential learning opportunities, such as internships, fieldwork rotations, and conference attendance, which prepare students for competence and leadership in the field
Fellowships, with priority given to students from rural or underserved areas

Deanna’s work has left a lasting impact on the field of genetic counseling, and the Deanna Cross Memorial Strategic Fund will empower the next generation of genetic counselors to advance research, advocacy, and patient care while promoting equitable access to genetic medicine.