“When I got the email inviting me to participate, I honestly had to ask if it was real,” Giaimo said. “This opportunity aligns so closely with my personal and professional passions—it’s exactly the kind of work I’ve always wanted to do. To be able to share my expertise on a global scale and strengthen breast imaging services in another country feels incredibly meaningful.”

The program, titled “Strengthen the Breast Imaging Program,” is organized by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and will take place November 17 to 21 in New Amsterdam, Guyana.

“From the very beginning of my career, I felt like I was helping save lives,” Giaimo said. “Finding even the smallest cancer through a mammogram can completely alter someone’s path, and that’s always stayed with me. Every image matters and that sense of purpose drives me every single day.”

Giaimo brings a uniquely personal perspective to the field of diagnostic imaging.

“Five years ago, I became a breast cancer survivor myself, and that experience changed everything,” Giaimo said. “It deepened my empathy for patients and transformed the way I teach my students. I understand now — on both sides of the exam — how powerful compassion, communication and care can be.”

“I tell my students that every mammogram has a story behind it. We’re not just taking images — we’re taking care of people,” Giaimo added. “I want them to see the human being before the scan, to bring empathy and excellence together in everything they do.”

Giaimo was one of only two technologists nominated by the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT) — a leading national imaging organization — and subsequently selected by the International Society of Radiographers and Radiological Technologists (ISRRT) to contribute to this international effort.

During the five-day program, Giaimo will provide both didactic instruction and hands-on training to approximately 30 Guyanese technologists. The training will focus on best practices in performing mammography exams, with the goal of enhancing early detection and diagnosis of breast cancer across the region.

“This opportunity in Guyana is special on so many levels,” Giaimo said. “As a survivor and as an educator, I know how critical access to quality breast imaging is. If I can help even one technologist gain new skills that lead to earlier detection and better outcomes, then I’ve made a difference — that’s what this is all about.”

The IAEA initiative is part of a broader effort to reduce disparities in cancer care and expand access to diagnostic imaging in underserved regions.

Giaimo holds a Master of Business Administration, a Master of Health Science and a Bachelor of Science, all from Quinnipiac University. Their dedication to advancing the field of radiologic sciences is reflected in their professional credentials, which include certifications as a registered technologist in radiography, mammography and bone densitometry, as well as a registered orthopedic technologist.

“I feel like I’ve reached a point in my career where it’s time to give back in new ways,” Giaimo said. “I’ve been fortunate to teach and present nationally, but this is different. This is about using what I’ve learned — both professionally and personally — to make a global impact.”

Since joining Quinnipiac in 2005, Giaimo has held several leadership roles, including chair of the Diagnostic Imaging Department and program director for radiologic sciences. They have also served as clinical director and mammography clinical coordinator, demonstrating a commitment to educational leadership and clinical excellence.

As a faculty member, Giaimo has played a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of imaging professionals through innovative teaching and mentorship. In addition to teaching responsibilities, they are actively involved in scholarly research and professional development, presenting research at numerous conferences on topics such as bone densitometry and advances in breast cancer screening guidelines.