Ferre Institute
In 1982, Ferre expanded its mission by adding a groundbreaking community genetics program based in Binghamton, NY. Family building services such as adoption education were added in the 1990’s. In 2002, a preexisting teratogen information service, the Pregnancy Risk Network (PRN), merged with Ferre adding another dimension to our mission of providing the most current and balanced medical information to clients facing complex medical decisions. PRN was in operation from 2002 until 2024. The national organization, Mother to Baby is currently available to assist providers and patients with teratogen information services.
Ferre Genetics, a program of Ferre Institute, has pioneered a unique approach to comprehensive genetic services. We have been molding the concept of community-based genetics in upstate NY for over 40 years by providing exemplary genetic counseling services to many underserved areas. The term “community-based” is a common descriptor that can hold various meanings within the genetics community. Ours is a true collaborative clinical model that enhances clinical care and forms the foundation for ongoing education of health practitioners by involving the referring practitioner in the genetic evaluation and testing process.
Today, we are proud to serve a community of medical providers that depend on our services in 30 counties of upstate NY. The experienced genetic counselors at Ferre Genetics are committed to integrating genomics, risk stratification, and genotyping as tools in addressing common health conditions. In addition, Ferre Institute has a Medical Director who supports the Ferre Genetics Program.
Executive Director
Luba Djurdjinovic, MS
Luba Djurdjinovic, MS is the Executive Director of Ferre Institute, Inc., a non-profit organization that comprises a number of programs in genetics and reproductive health. She is also Director of Ferre Genetics, the genetic counseling program of Ferre Institute. A genetic counselor for over 40 years, Luba’s clinical interests and expertise range from fertility education to familial cancer syndromes and cardiovascular genetics. Luba is credited with developing a unique genetic service delivery model and has promoted its adoption. She has served important roles in many state and national genetic professional organizations. She is a past president of the National Society of Genetic Counselors and a recipient of their National Achievement Award.
Founder
Murray Nusbaum, MD
Murray Nusbaum, MD was the founder and Medical Director of Ferre Institute Inc. He was also the Medical Advisor to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) for New York State as well as a Diplomate of the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology. He spent many years in the private practice of reproductive medicine before becoming Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse. In 2004, he was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award from District II (New York State) ACOG.
Dr. Nusbaum had advocated for the integration of genetic discussions in clinical practice for 30 years. He was a frequent lecturer to professional and community groups about the importance of genetics in our daily lives.
Board of Directors
A 4-member board of directors oversees the activities of Ferre Institute to provide regular direction, guidance and oversight, and to support the endeavors of the Executive Director and staff to achieve the goals outlined in Ferre’s Mission Statement.
Ferre Institute, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) Not for Profit Organization