In 1998, after 26 years at the helm of the program, Joan Marks retired as Director. In 1999, the National Society of Genetic Counselors honored Marks as a founder of the society and for her leadership and advocacy of the profession. She was succeeded by Caroline Lieber, M.S, a genetic counselor who had trained at and graduated from Sarah Lawrence in 1980. Under Lieber’s leadership, the program is expanding and building on its strong history. As of June 2000, the program has graduated more than 600 students. At present, some 47 students are enrolled, taught by a 19-person faculty. With links to some 50 genetics centers in the New York area, and around the country, the program continues to provide leadership to the burgeoning field of genetic counseling. At least half of the 25 graduate-level genetics counseling programs in the U.S. are directed by SLCHGP graduates.

With each passing month, scientists report exciting new breakthroughs in the field of human genetics. As the wonders of the human genetic code continue to be revealed, the role of genetic counselors will surely grow in importance in the 21^st century. And SLCHGP, the first in the field, will surely continue to lead.