Medical Director, Clinical Laboratory, Hematopathologist and Residency Program Director, Clinical Pathology

  Here is what Kristie's nominator had to say about her:

 "Dr. White is an outstanding mentor and leader in the Laboratory Medicine department, in her roles as hematopathologist and     Program Director of Clinical Pathology. Her commitment to education enriches Clinical Pathology training at UCSF. She models     both clinical excellence and leadership for her trainees."

 - Joanna Balcerek, MD, Resident, Laboratory Medicine 

Kristies's Bio:

I began my journey at UCSF as a medical student in 2003, and I am still here!  After medical school, I completed residency training in Anatomic and Clinical Pathology and fellowships in Surgical Pathology and Hematopathology at UCSF.   During residency, I also embarked on earning a Master’s degree in Education at UC Berkeley, which allowed me to gain more formal training to pursue research in education.   When I finished training, I was thrilled to accept a faculty position at UCSF. 

Currently I am based at Mission Bay, where I  am the Medical Director of the Clinical Laboratory, and I work as a hematopathologist to diagnosis disorders of the blood and bone marrow.  In addition, I am the Residency Program Director for Clinical Pathology.   In this role I cherish recruiting, supporting, encouraging, and training our outstanding residents.   My research is primarily in the area of medical education and involves developing curricula as well as new assessment methods for pathology residents and fellows.    Lastly, I became interested and involved in regulatory advocacy for pathologists several years ago, and I continue to work in this area in my role as President for the California Society of Pathologists.

What brought you to healthcare? Can you tell us about your professional journey?

I worked in human resources training management people for over a decade before returning to school.  I always wanted to be a physician, but I am a first generation high school graduate and had no support to navigate such a path.  I started working after high school and quickly advanced to a management position.  I loved the teaching and mentoring aspect of my position, but I had a  persistent desire to help others, which ultimately led me to return to school.  I re-entered school at City College of San Francisco, transferred to UC Berkeley to complete my undergraduate degree, and then went on to medical school at UCSF.  The shift was extremely challenging, but I can’t imagine my life today had I not changed directions.

What advice would you give yourself early on in your career?

Don’t overextend your self – there will be lots of opportunities, and you need to choose them wisely!  I was told very early on in my career to never say yes to anything unless it fell into one of these 3 categories. 1.)  It will result in a product (publication, presentation etc).  2.)  It affords facetime with someone important to your career.  3.)  It is something that you are absolutely passionate about. 

Can you tell us about an important role model or mentor in your life?   

Dr. Patricia O’Sullivan is the Director, Research and Development in Medical Education at UCSF.  She was the propelling force behind my initial involvement in medical education in the opportunity for me to obtain a Master’s degree in Education from UC Berkeley.  Pat has changed the course of my life, and she continues to be a very important role model and mentor for me. 

What’s a favorite movie or TV Show you’ve watched recently?

Grace & Frankie on Netflix. My daughter got me to start watching it during the pandemic, and I strive to be as innovative and tenacious as these two ladies!

Meet other outstanding women of UCSF Health through Our Spotlight.