Member Spotlight: Dawn Thut

Associate Director, Quality and Regulatory Affairs

Cleveland Cord Blood Center

Cleveland, Ohio

How long have you been an AABB member? 

12 years

In which AABB activities are you currently active? In which have you participated?  

I have served as a volunteer assessor for cord blood activities for the past 10 years and currently co-lead the Cord Blood Subsection, which meets monthly. I am also a member of the Annual Meeting Education Committee and the AABB Cord Blood Committee. In addition, I regularly participate in subsection calls, including Leadership and Administrative and Cell Therapy–Quality and Regulatory.

What motivates you to partake in AABB’s committees and activities?

AABB offers incredible opportunities for networking, learning and sharing experiences. What motivates me most is the sense of community. The members bring diverse expertise and are genuinely generous with their time, knowledge and support.

How has your experience as an AABB member impacted your professional work?

My experience with AABB has significantly enriched my professional growth. Serving as an assessor and participating in committees has expanded my knowledge, while the networking and educational opportunities continue to be invaluable.

What have you learned from your experiences with AABB? And what advice would you give to someone interested in getting more involved with our association?

One of the things I value most about AABB is its welcoming and supportive community, regardless of experience level. I began by simply listening in on subsection calls, but over time I gained confidence and became more actively involved. My advice is simple: start where you are, stay engaged and don’t hesitate to participate. You’ll find plenty of opportunities to grow.

What is your favorite vacation destination?

I enjoy relaxing beach vacations, especially as a way to escape Ohio’s long winters.