Marshall-Traino, Heather

Institution: Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond
Grant Title: Increasing Communication about Live Donor Kidney Transplant: A Proof of Concept
Grant Number: K01 HS018113
Duration: 5 years (2010-2015)
Total Award: $561,500

Project Description: This research has four main aims:

1. Identify the communication factors associated with kidney transplant candidates' reluctance to discuss the option of live donor kidney transplantation with family members.
2. Develop a culturally-sensitive communication skills program to improve kidney transplant candidates' communication competence, self-efficacy, and intent to discuss live donor kidney transplantation with family members.
3. Design and pilot test a survey to gauge the impact of the communication skills program.
4. Conduct a proof of concept test of the communication skills program.

Career Goals: Dr. Marshall-Traino is an Instructor at the Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU). She received her PhD in Communication from SUNY Buffalo. She was then an Assistant Professor at the Rochester Institute of Technology followed by a Postdoctoral Fellow position at VCU. The grantee would like to develop into an independent investigator who conducts research to inform and improve the organ donation and procurement process.

Progress to Date: The grant has just started.

Highlights and Specific Accomplishments:

• International Communication Association Award for Excellence in Student Teaching, 2005

K-Generated Publications: None thus far.

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