Laboratory Management Certificate Program

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    • Non-member - $499
    • Core Member - $449
    • Student Member - $399
    • Enhanced Member - $399

Stepping into a histology lab management role can be both exciting and challenging. This online course is designed specifically for new and aspiring histology lab managers who are ready to build confidence, competence, and leadership skills.  Whether you’re transitioning from a bench tech role or entering management from another path, this course provides the foundational knowledge and support to help you thrive as a histology lab leader.

Modules Include: Financial Management; Safety and Emergency Management; Operations Management; Regulatory Agencies; Process Improvement and Quality Management; iring and Performance Management


Donna Chuddley, HT(ASCP)

Donna Chuddley is the Histology Supervisor at St. Luke's University Health Network.  She has over three decades of experience in pharmaceutical, biotech and clinical histology. Donna enjoys participating on the Health and Safety Committee and has presented in the past on Safety in webinars, Safely Snippets and at Regional and National Meetings. Donna has experience in the laboratory working with paraffin tissue and plastics. Donna has experience in all areas of the laboratory including Immunohistochemistry and Special Stains. Donna enjoys moving new students through the Histology programs offered online and acts as a Supervisor for the Histology Education program at the hospital.  She is an active member of the NSH. 

Kathleen Dwyer-Bench, HT(ASCP)

Kathy Dwyer is an accomplished histotechnology leader with extensive expertise in quality management and laboratory operations. As the Director of Quality Assessment at Quest Diagnostics, she oversees the development and implementation of comprehensive quality systems designed to ensure precision, compliance, and continual improvement across a vast network of diagnostic laboratories.  With a career rooted in clinical excellence, Kathy has become a trusted authority in histopathology quality assurance. She has leveraged her deep understanding of regulatory standards and process optimization to shape robust quality frameworks that elevate patient safety and laboratory performance.

A recognized educator and thought leader, Kathy has shared her insights nationally—most notably co-presenting a webinar, “Preparing a Quality Management Plan for the Histopathology Laboratory,” which guided histology professionals through designing and maintaining effective quality systems in an increasingly regulated healthcare landscape

Allison Eck, MS, HTL(ASCP), QLS

Allison Eck is the anatomic pathology manager, co-safety officer of the laboratory, and hospital ergonomic assessor at Doylestown Hospital. She is passionate about safety and currently holds her QLS certification. She enjoys educating people on safety topics, namely ergonomics and hazardous waste handling. She is regular speaker at the NSH Annual Symposium/Convention and an active member of the NSH. 

Christie Gowan, HT(ASCP)

Christie Gowan is a dedicated leader and seasoned professional in the field of histotechnology, currently serving on the Board of Directors for the National Society for Histotechnology (NSH). With over two decades of experience in anatomic pathology, Christie brings a wealth of technical expertise, strategic insight, and a deep commitment to advancing the histology profession.

Throughout her career, Christie has held progressive roles in clinical, research, and educational settings, contributing to the development of high standards in tissue preparation, laboratory operations, and quality assurance. She is passionate about workforce development and has been instrumental in mentoring emerging histotechnologists and promoting continuing education initiatives across the country

Joshua Greenlee

Joshua Greenlee has spent 20 years working within the laboratory realm with the last 14 years focused in the area of histology.  He began as a bench-level tech and developed later into a production manager in a high-volume, multi-hospital laboratory system in Arizona.  He also taught in a NAACLS accredited histology program for four years where at one point he held simultaneous roles as Education Coordinator, Clinical Coordinator, and adjunct faculty. 

Lola Leibensperger

Lola Leibensperger is the Assistant Vice President of Operations at Versant Diagnostics, where I oversee daily operations, develop strategic initiatives for digital pathology, and ensure regulatory compliance for multiple pathology sites and laboratories. With a strong background in laboratory medicine, I have held various roles, from a bench tech to Director-level positions, where I have successfully led teams.

Nicole Leon, HTL(ASCP)

Senior Research Lead

Versiti

Nicole Leon has over two decades of laboratory management experience and nearly a decade of experience as a CAP inspector.  She is a regular volutneer and instructor with the NSH and has served on the NSH Program team, Laboratory Operations Committee Chair, and HTP Preceptor.

Cristi Rigazio, BS, MS, HT(ASCP)

Cristi Rigazio is currently the Clinical Specialist of Anatomic Pathology for Sentara Laboratory Services in Virginia.  Her responsibilities include, but are not limited to, equipment selection and validation, policy and procedure writing, development and training of the Laboratory Information System (LIS) and CAP compliance.    Prior to joining Sentara, Cristi opened a Physician Owned Lab for a group of Gastroenterologists, responsible for obtaining state licensure and CAP accreditation.  That opportunity presented opportunities to customize the LIS, learn about CPT codes, convert from ICD-9 to ICD-10 codes and develop interfacing between the Electronic Medical Records system and the LIS.  Cristi was first introduced to histology in the pre-clinical research environment, where she learned about GLP and FDA compliance.

Debra Siena, HT(ASCP),QIHC

Technical Manager

Statlab Medical Products

Debbie Siena has served over 25 years of experience in the field of histotechnology.  She was the Technical Support Manager for StatLab Medical Products since September, 2010. Prior to StatLab, Debbie was with Ventana Medical Systems, Inc. for seven years as a Technical Marketing Representative, Senior Technical Marketing Specialist, Area Support Manager and Key Account Technical Specialist with the Corporate and Major Account Team. While at Ventana, Debbie was a multiple award winner, including Technical Specialist of the Year, Technical Specialist of the Quarter, and President’s Club member. Prior to Ventana, Debbie was the Manager of the Anatomic Pathology Department at Baylor University Medical Center in Dallas, Texas for seven years and served as Supervisor of Histology at Children’s Medical Center in Dallas, Texas. While at Children’s Medical Center, Debbie was responsible for development of the IHC and ISH procedures and techniques. Debbie is very active in continuing education and has presented numerous educational workshops at the state and national level as well as multiple teleconferences for NSH. 

Dr. Anthony Scott, PharmD, MBA, DPLA

Dr. Scott is the Director of Pharmacy Services at Emory University Hospital where he oversee inpatient pharmacy operations.  Prior to Emory, he served as the Assistant Director of Pharmacy Operations at The University of Chicago Medicine (UCM). He received his undergraduate degree in biology, and spent some time working in a laboratory, then went on to persue a degree in pharmacy at the University of Georgia. His first year residency was at Piedmont Hospital and he completed his second year at North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System Program with a focus on Administrative Leadership. In 2022 Dr. Scott published “Leading diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts within the pharmacy department”

Aubrey MJ Wanner

CEO

National Society for Histotechnology

Aubrey M.J. Wanner is the CEO for the National Society for Histotechnology.  An association professional with over 20 years of leadership experience, Ms. Wanner began her career with the National Society for Histotechnology in 2005 in the events and education department.  She guided the growth of the annual convention both in attendance and revenue.  Her passion for technology and systems improvement has guided NSH into the digital space allowing the Society to be uniquely ready for hybrid events and the remote work environment brought on by events of the last several years.  She believes in a data first strategy leading her team by utilizing quantitative data for qualitive results.  When not leading the NSH team she loves cheering on her Philadelphia Eagles and learning to quilt.

Kathy Wilson, HT(ASCP)QLS CM

Kathy Wilson is an ASCP certified Histotech with over 40 years total experience in the laboratory.  She began her career in northern Michigan in the clinical laboratory as a laboratory assistant and phlebotomist, became and EMT, autopsy diener, and Histotech working in hospital environments.  Ms. Wilson worked in Fairbanks, Alaska for nearly 20 years.  Moving to Kansas City in 2004, she moved into operations management.  Safety, regulatory compliance, quality, and project management have always been keen areas of interest.  Currently working at a large multi-discipline reference laboratory managing Anatomic Pathology and all sub-departments.  She is a key member of the Safety Committee and Operations Management Team.  She mentors new supervisors and managers as well as managing a combined staff of 62 employees locally and remotely with 24/6 operations.

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Welcome and Introduction
Welcome to the Course!
Open to view video.  |  2 minutes
Open to view video.  |  2 minutes This short video will briefly orientate you to what is included in this course. If you have any questions, please reach out...we are here to help! histo@nsh.org
Module 1: Financial Management
Financial Terminology
Open to view video.  |  11 minutes
Open to view video.  |  11 minutes In this video, you will learn about key financial terms as they are applied to the histology lab, and as they relate to capital investments.
Learn More: Operational vs Capital Costs
Select the "View On-Demand Recording" button to begin.  |  4 minutes
Select the "View On-Demand Recording" button to begin.  |  4 minutes No matter how big your facility, you will likely be asked to contribute or review your organization's budget - or make budget requests (which we will cover in greater detail in the following sections). But before we do, take a quick look at this great breakdown of the difference between capital and operational costs for each budget type.
Test Your Knowledge: Operational vs Capital Budgets
10 Questions  |  Unlimited attempts  |  9/10 points to pass  |  Graded as Pass/Fail
10 Questions  |  Unlimited attempts  |  9/10 points to pass  |  Graded as Pass/Fail Do you know the difference between an operational and capital budget? Test your knowledge to make sure. Need a little extra support, check out the Learn More video below this quiz. You have an unlimited number of attempts to pass and can take the quiz as often as you like.
Building a Business Case: Part 1
Open to view video.  |  17 minutes
Open to view video.  |  17 minutes In this video, you will learn the basic purpose and theory behind building a business case.
Building a Business Case Part 2
Open to view video.  |  7 minutes
Open to view video.  |  7 minutes In this part, you will learn ways to present your solutions for budget approval.
Test Your Knowledge: Business Cases
7 Questions  |  Unlimited attempts  |  5/7 points to pass  |  Graded as Pass/Fail
7 Questions  |  Unlimited attempts  |  5/7 points to pass  |  Graded as Pass/Fail Test your understanding of key concepts in creating a business case justification.
Staffing Costs and Considerations
Open to view video.  |  24 minutes
Open to view video.  |  24 minutes Kathy Wilson shares her method for calculating test costs and staffing models to create an efficient laboratory.
Discussion: Staffing Budget Justification
Make 1 discussion post to continue.
Make 1 discussion post to continue. Read the scenario and provide one new piece of data and explain why this would be helpful OR respond to another post and share why you think how that data would be useful.
Module 2: Safety and Emergency Management
Lab Safety: Important Manager Functions
Open to view video.  |  14 minutes
Open to view video.  |  14 minutes Safety expert Allison Eck introduces you to important responsibilities of the lab manager in creating a safe work environment.
Learn More: Table Top Safety Drills
Select the "View On-Demand Recording" button to begin.  |  12 minutes
Select the "View On-Demand Recording" button to begin.  |  12 minutes This short video will take a closer look at organizing and facilitating a Table Top Safety Drill. You can find a sample safety drill in Handouts & Resources section of this course.
Lab Safety: Standard Work Practices
Open to view video.  |  12 minutes
Open to view video.  |  12 minutes In this video Allison covers basic work practices from lab dress code to PPE selection- responsibilities often left to lab managers and/or safety officers.
Test Your Knowledge: Administrative and Standard Work Practices
10 Questions  |  Unlimited attempts  |  10/10 points to pass  |  Graded as Pass/Fail
10 Questions  |  Unlimited attempts  |  10/10 points to pass  |  Graded as Pass/Fail Test your understanding of key concepts in relation to lab safety and your role as a manager.
Assignment: Lab Safety Orientation
Upload 1 files to pass.
Upload 1 files to pass. When new staff start at your lab, how to do make sure they are fully briefed on your lab's safety protocols and norms? Please upload a word document (5-10 sentences), audio file, or video file that describes your lab's safety orientation plan. Be sure to describe who is responsible for managing this part of onboarding, and how you make sure new staff are compliant. We have also included several lab safety orientation plans from various institutions for your reference (located in the Templates/Resources section).
Lab Safety: Fire Safety
Open to view video.  |  26 minutes
Open to view video.  |  26 minutes Donna Chuddley takes you deeper into one of the most dangerous hazards in the lab - fire.
Lab Safety: Electrical Safety
Open to view video.  |  6 minutes
Open to view video.  |  6 minutes Allison will cover basic electrical safety.
Lab Safety: Spills and Exposures
Open to view video.  |  7 minutes
Open to view video.  |  7 minutes This video will cover the basics of spills and exposures so that you, and your lab are ready in the event of a chemical emergency.
Test Your Knowledge: Fires, Spills, Electrical Safety
20 Questions  |  Unlimited attempts  |  0/20 points to pass  |  Graded as Pass/Fail
20 Questions  |  Unlimited attempts  |  0/20 points to pass  |  Graded as Pass/Fail Review your retention of fire, spill, and electrical safety. You have an unlimited number of attempts to pass.
Module 3: Operations Management
Operations: What is a Strategic Plan?
Open to view video.  |  8 minutes
Open to view video.  |  8 minutes In this video, Lola Leibensperger walks you through the basic components of a strategic plan and how it should impact your decision making.
Test Your Knowledge: Strategic Planning
6 Questions  |  Unlimited attempts  |  9/9 points to pass  |  Graded as Pass/Fail
6 Questions  |  Unlimited attempts  |  9/9 points to pass  |  Graded as Pass/Fail Recap what you learned in the strategic planning video
Operations: Equipment Management
Open to view video.  |  18 minutes
Open to view video.  |  18 minutes In this video, Nicole Leon will cover maintaining and documenting your lab's equipment so that operations run smoothly, and in compliance with regulatory agencies.
Test Your Knowledge: Equipment Management
5 Questions  |  Unlimited attempts  |  5/6 points to pass  |  Graded as Pass/Fail
5 Questions  |  Unlimited attempts  |  5/6 points to pass  |  Graded as Pass/Fail For this quiz, you will need to reference the SOP document provided in the handouts tab and is called Template_Equipment_SOP.
Operations: Understanding Your LIS
Open to view video.  |  36 minutes
Open to view video.  |  36 minutes In this video, you will learn about the basic functions of your LIS, and how it should support you in the lab.
Self-Assessment: LIS Downtime Preparedness Assessment
5 Questions  |  1 attempt  |  4/9 points to pass
5 Questions  |  1 attempt  |  4/9 points to pass Your LIS is incredibly important, but when your system goes down-either planned or unplanned, are prepared to move forward? Take this short quiz to gauge your readiness to respond!
Module 4: Regulatory
Regulatory & Compliance: Overview of Agencies
Open to view video.  |  34 minutes
Open to view video.  |  34 minutes Donna Chuddley provides you with a comprehensive view of all the regulatory agencies you should know as a lab manager/supervisor. You can also find a printable chart of the agencies in the handouts section.
Regulatory and Compliance: CAP and Joint Commission Inspections
Open to view video.
Open to view video.
Test Your Knowledge: CAP Deficiency
5 Questions  |  Unlimited attempts  |  7/8 points to pass  |  Graded as Pass/Fail
5 Questions  |  Unlimited attempts  |  7/8 points to pass  |  Graded as Pass/Fail Read the scenario and answer the affiliated questions. ----- While attending the summation meeting following your CAP inspection, a Phase II deficiency was cited under ANP.11716 related to Paraffin Microtomy. During the inspection, the inspector observed histotechs at their benches and inquired about cutting protocols. Upon reviewing the laboratory’s written microtomy procedure, it was noted that all tissue sections were stated to be cut at 4 microns. However, during direct observation and discussion, one histotech reported cutting bone marrow specimens at 3 microns, while another indicated that amyloid stain cases were cut at 10 microns. One indicated that renal biopsies were to be cut at 3 microns. This inconsistency between the documented procedure and actual practice in the laboratory resulted in the cited deficiency.
Module 5: Process Improvement and Quality Management
Process Improvement & Quality Management: Overview of Quality Management Systems
Open to view video.  |  18 minutes
Open to view video.  |  18 minutes In this video you will learn about Quality Management Systems and the importance in histology labs, data collection, monitoring, and ensuring accurate, reliable and timely test results.
Process Improvement and Quality Management: Document Control
Open to view video.  |  21 minutes
Open to view video.  |  21 minutes Nicole Leon explains the importance of document control procedures, how manage them, and how to change them.
Process Improvement and Quality Management: Root Cause Analysis
Open to view video.  |  26 minutes
Open to view video.  |  26 minutes As a manger, when you experience issues in the lab - like nonconformity, how will identify the problem to fix it? This video walks you through the steps to complete a root cause analysis, which can help you resolve and prevent problems.
Module 6: Team and Performance Management
Team and Performance Management: Hiring, Retention, Firing
Open to view video.  |  28 minutes
Open to view video.  |  28 minutes Cristi Rigazio shares the importance of retention and performance management on your laboratory.
Discussion: Employee Retention
Make 1 discussion post to continue.
Make 1 discussion post to continue. Answer the question about employee retention. Please be sure to explain your response.
Team and Performance Management: DEIB and Hiring
Open to view video.  |  19 minutes
Open to view video.  |  19 minutes Dr. Anthony Scott shares the basic principles of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) and helps you understand ways to include DEIB in hiring so you can build a great team.
Team and Performance Management: Difficult Conversations
Open to view video.  |  11 minutes
Open to view video.  |  11 minutes Aubrey Wanner shares best practices and her tips for a successful, but difficult conversation.
Test Your Knowledge: Performance Issues
3 Questions  |  Unlimited attempts
3 Questions  |  Unlimited attempts Read the scenario and answer the questions based on how you would respond.
Certificate of Completion
Certificate
8.50 CEU credits  |  Certificate available
8.50 CEU credits  |  Certificate available