FACING OUR RISK - Key Persons
Job Titles:
- Member of the Advisory Board
- Medical Director of the Genomic Oncology Clinic / Mayo Clinic
Job Titles:
- Director Emeritus
- Member of the Advisory Board
- Assistant Professor of Medicine ( Oncology ) and of Health Research and Policy Director, Women 's Cancer Genetics Clinic
- Assistant Professor of Medicine and of Health Research and Policy
Dr. Kurian's research focuses on the identification of women with elevated breast and gynecologic cancer risk, and on the development and evaluation of novel techniques for early cancer detection and risk reduction. She received her medical degree from Harvard Medical School and trained as a resident in Internal Medicine at the Massachusetts General Hospital. Read More...
Dr. Kurian's research focuses on the identification of women with elevated breast and gynecologic cancer risk, and on the development and evaluation of novel techniques for early cancer detection and risk reduction. She received her medical degree from Harvard Medical School, trained as a resident in Internal Medicine at the Massachusetts General Hospital, and completed her fellowship training in Medical Oncology along with a master's degree in Epidemiology at Stanford University. As Director of the Stanford Women's Cancer Genetics Clinic, her practice centers on women at high risk of developing breast and gynecologic cancers.
Dr. Kurian has published numerous peer-reviewed articles, including several in high-impact journals such as JAMA, Journal of Clinical Oncology, and Journal of the National Cancer Institute. Her research has been supported by the National Institutes of Health, the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation, the American Society of Clinical Oncology, the California Breast Cancer Research Program, the Cancer Research and Prevention Foundation, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, and the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Dr. Kurian serves on several national committees that advance the clinical and research mission of women's cancer genetics: she develops evidence-based practice guidelines as a member of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, and she recently led the American Society of Clinical Oncology's Scientific Program Committee for Cancer Epidemiology and Prevention.
Dr. Kurian has had the privilege of working closely with FORCE for many years, as a member of the Scientific Advisory Board and a frequent speaker at their annual conference: Joining Forces Against Hereditary Cancer®. Dr. Kurian is passionate about improving the health of people with hereditary cancer predisposition through education, outreach and support, and she is honored to serve FORCE as a member of the Board of Directors.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Advisory Board
Job Titles:
- Member of the Advisory Board
- Associate Chair, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology / University of Florida
Job Titles:
- Member of the Advisory Board
Job Titles:
- Member of the Advisory Board
After a high-risk pregnancy and long-term hospital stays for both herself and her premature twins, Baleigh knew that when she reentered the workforce she wanted to be involved with bringing hope to others facing difficult medical circumstances. She was happy to have found such a role when joining FORCE in 2017.
Baleigh began her career at The Walt Disney Company in various administrative and resource positions with Merchandise Product Development and Creative Entertainment, and began working for MetLife in insurance benefits administration after relocating to Tampa. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Event Management from the University of Central Florida.
Baleigh lives in the Tampa Bay area with her husband, Jayson, and their children, Avelyn and Slade.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Advisory Board
- Assistant Professor, Dept. of OB / GYN / University of Washington / Seattle, WA
Barbara discovered her BRCA1 mutation in 2003 after her mother had been battling breast cancer for over 12 years. Barbara's volunteer work with FORCE began the following year and continued to expand. Under her leadership, the volunteer operations of the organization grew to 75 groups nationwide. In 2012 Barbara assumed the full-time role of Chief Executive Officer, leading a growing staff as they carry out the strategic plans and policies of FORCE. A former Microsoft Corporation executive, Barbara brings more than 25 years of business experience to FORCE's operations.
Barbara and her husband Alan reside in Staten Island, NY.
Job Titles:
- Associate Professor
- Member of the Advisory Board
Job Titles:
- Member of the Advisory Board
- Section Chief, Division of Breast Imaging, Department of Diagnostic Imaging / Moffitt Cancer Center / Tampa, FL
Job Titles:
- Member of the Advisory Board
Job Titles:
- Member of the Advisory Board
- Professor
Job Titles:
- Member of the Advisory Board
- Director, Gastrointestinal Cancer Genetics Program Assistant Professor of Medicine
Job Titles:
- Registered Nurse
- Secretary of the Board of Directors
Carmen's BRCA2 mutation discovery after a breast cancer diagnosis at age 42 brought her to FORCE in 2012. After attending her first conference in 2012 and learning what FORCE represented, she started volunteering and serving in various roles.
Through FORCE she has had opportunities to raise awareness about genetic mutations that cause predispositions to cancer. Her current roles are as a patient advocate on PCORI's
Carmen is a Registered Nurse with nursing experience in a variety of clinical settings, including oncology. After serving a tour in the U.S. Air Force, she received a practical nurse diploma from Greenville Technical College in Greenville, SC, a Bachelors in Nursing from the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, followed by a Master in Public Administration with a concentration in Healthcare Administration.
Carrie Catlin, CFP® is a BRCA1+ Previvor and has been an active part of the volunteer FORCE community since 2006. Carrie joined the FORCE Board of Directors in 2015 and held the positions of Treasurer and Secretary before she was elected President in December 2020. She continues to be an advocate for the hereditary cancer community and speaks publicly about her BRCA journey and FORCE.
Carrie's mother Donna died of ovarian cancer in 1986 at the age of 51. After her aunt and first cousin died of ovarian cancer and another aunt was diagnosed with breast cancer, Carrie underwent genetic counseling and testing in 2005. One of her surgeons at Mass General Hospital gave her a FORCE brochure and she gratefully spent hours on the FORCE website, learning about the risks of hereditary cancer and connecting with others in the hereditary cancer community. FORCE's resources were extraordinary as Carrie made decisions regarding her risk-reducing surgeries: an oophorectomy in 2005 and a prophylactic bilateral mastectomy in 2006.
Most of Carrie's career has been focused in financial services, in both the US and Singapore. Since 2015 Carrie and her husband Steve have been business partners at Fenway Financial Advisors in Boston, providing financial planning and efficient investment advice to individuals and non-profits.
Carrie earned a Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science from the University of Delaware and an MBA from the New York University Stern School of Business.
Native New Yorkers, Carrie and her husband Steve have been Boston residents for over 25 years. They live with their two cats - Rickie Fowler and Arlington. They are enthusiastic world travelers and amateur photographers, love playing golf and enjoying spending time with family and friends.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Advisory Board
- Assistant Professor / Department of Gynecologic Oncology / the Ohio State University / Columbus, OH
Job Titles:
- Member of the Advisory Board
- Program Leader, Comprehensive Breast Program / Moffitt Cancer Center
Dana Goldman is a practicing real estate attorney in Miami where she represents national and regional homebuilders with the development of their condominiums and planned development communities.
Dana is a 20-year colon cancer survivor, 10-year endometrial cancer survivor and nine-year breast cancer survivor. Her family has a history of pediatric cancers, including a sibling and two cousins.
At the time of her initial diagnosis in 2000, she was unaware of any familial risk factors for hereditary colon cancer. When diagnosed with endometrial cancer in 2007, her oncologist recognized the presence of a genetic mutation. Several years afterwards, following a third, triple negative breast cancer diagnosis in 2010 and upon advice by her medical team, she agreed to undergo genetic screening. In 2019 she tested positive for Lynch syndrome, a leading cause of inherited colon and endometrial cancer.
Dana is delighted to join the Board of Directors for FORCE to raise awareness about Lynch syndrome and the importance of genetic counseling and testing. Dana is a living testament to vigilant and proactive screening and early diagnosis. She is an advocate for policies in support of additional funding, research programs and resources for genetic-based cancers.
Dana is a full-time resident of Sunny Isles Beach, Florida and has extensive ties to the community. She has served as Commissioner for the City of Sunny Isles Beach, Florida since 2014. She is involved in local breast cancer initiatives and recently spearheaded the introduction of mobile mammography to her community. She was recognized in 2017 by the Honorable Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL) for Ten Years of Breast Cancer Survivorship.
Dana lives in Sunny Isles Beach, Florida with her husband, Michael and her daughter, Julia.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Advisory Board
- Assistant Professor of Urologic Oncology / University of Pennsylvania / Philadelphia, PA
David brings 23 years of healthcare experience and a record of entrepreneurial leadership to his role as CEO of InformedDNA. Since joining the company in 2007, David has transformed InformedDNA from the premier national genetic counseling provider network to the first-mover in the rapidly growing field of genetic testing utilization management. Read More...
David is a lifelong advocate for public education and has served on and chaired community and state education non-profits. David's other philanthropic pursuits focus on equality and social justice. He served on the boards of Victory Fund and the Gay & Lesbian Leadership Institute, which he chaired from 2005-2008.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Advisory Board
- Assistant Clinical Professor, Department of Surgery / UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine
Debora Denardi is a daughter, a sister and a mother. She was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Her studies and work took her from Buenos Aires to Austin, Miami, Sao Paulo, Dallas, and finally Sunny Isles Beach, Florida. Read More...
Debora Setuain is a daughter, a sister and a mother. She was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Her studies and work took her from Buenos Aires to Austin, Miami, Sao Paulo, Dallas, and finally Sunny Isles Beach, Florida. Her life was centered around work and family. She grew up in a very small family that had a very large medical history of cancer. Her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 39 and died 5 years later when Debbie was only 13 and her sister was 11.
In 2010 her life changed completely with a Triple Negative Breast Cancer diagnosis. The results of her genetic testing came back positive for the BRCA1 genetic mutation. She had all the necessary surgeries and treatments. She was overwhelmed. Her journey back to health started with FAITH and HOPE. Throughout her cancer diagnosis, treatments and surgeries, her two sons, Alex and Michael, were her guardian angels. They were there every step of the way during her recovery. She is blessed with wonderful friends and neighbors. Debora was fortunate that she was never alone, because she found FORCE. Now she provides support to individuals and families affected by hereditary cancer. She is an eight year breast cancer survivor and her sister is a Previvor.
Debora is on a mission to raise awareness about genetic counseling and testing, so others can have choices to reduce their risk of developing hereditary cancer. Since February 2011, she has been a FORCE Peer Support Group Leader volunteer in South Florida. She now works tirelessly in her volunteer position to pay it forward to support others. She fundraises with a purpose, for research, advocacy and support. She is interested in sharing information available in the United States to Latin American countries. When she talks to a person who has a family history of cancer, she is passionate about suggesting that they contact a certified genetic counselor, who can counsel them on their own situation. She knows from her own personal experience that this information can save lives.
Debora speaks to others about breast cancer and has received multiple honors for her service to the community. In 2018, she received a Pink Warrior award from The Miami Women Who Rock and a Proclamation from the City of Sunny Isles Beach for her dedication to educate the community.
Debora wants all women to empower themselves with knowledge so that they may make the best healthcare decisions for themselves and their families.
Denise Bulpitt was diagnosed with stage 1 ovarian cancer after discovering she carried her family's BRCA1 genetic mutation. She attended her first FORCE support meeting while undergoing chemotherapy. Through FORCE she found not only evidenced based information, but also invaluable support from other previvors and survivors that helped her get through cancer treatment. Denise went on to become a FORCE Peer Navigator and State Impact leader for the Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) area.
She is a Registered Nurse and Certified lactation Consultant with over 35 years experience in NICU and maternal nursing. Denise was named one of DFW's Great 100 Nurses in 2017. She is also a speaker for the Survivors Teaching Students program, which features women who have had ovarian cancer speaking to medical and nursing school students about their journey with ovarian cancer.
Denise is married, lives outside of Dallas, Texas and has three adult children. She enjoys traveling, reading and swimming.
Job Titles:
- Vice President, Research
- Co - Coordinator
Diane's family was shocked to learn their genetic test results following her aunt's ovarian cancer diagnosis in 1999 at the age of 53. When Diane discovered that her BRCA1 mutation was passed down from her father, she decided it was time to take action. She was given information about FORCE through her genetic counselor, went to local FORCE support meetings and researched options to reduce her risk. Diane made informed medical decisions and is proud to be called a previvor!
Diane became an outreach co-coordinator in Philadelphia and quickly decided that she would love to help FORCE in any other way needed. She became the Director of Volunteer Programs and a FRAT Advocate (FORCE Research Advocate Training Program).
She has a BA in Education from Kutztown University and worked for 20 years as an Early Childhood Education Center Director. Diane and her husband, Thomas, have a teenage daughter and two married sons.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Advisory Board
Job Titles:
- Member of the Advisory Board
- Director of Women 's Cancers
Job Titles:
- Vice President of Education
Dr. Piri L. Welcsh was finishing her Ph.D. in Molecular Genetics at The Ohio State University when she read the groundbreaking research paper by Dr. Mary-Claire King describing the location of BRCA1. Guided by this pioneering research, she committed herself to the study of inherited cancer. Her postdoctoral project at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center was in collaboration with Mary-Claire's groups and others to clone BRCA1. During this time, her maternal grandmother was diagnosed and died of breast cancer and her mother was also diagnosed and is currently a two-time breast cancer survivor.
Piri joined Mary-Claire King's laboratory at the University of Washington in 1996 and spent the next 20 years working with her and others identifying other hereditary cancer genes, as well as studying how they normally function in cells. A few years ago, shortly after her mother was diagnosed with a second primary breast cancer, both of her mother's sisters as well as her mother's cousin were also diagnosed with breast cancer. Piri is a previvor of sorts in that she is part of a high-risk breast cancer "mystery family", a family with a lot of breast cancer, but no known mutation in any known breast cancer gene.
Piri lives in Seattle, WA with her boy/girl twins and another son. Her family absolutely loves living and playing in the Pacific Northwest
Job Titles:
- Director Emeritus
- Member of the Advisory Board
- Professor of Genetics
Dr. Rebecca Sutphen is a Professor of Genetics, University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, Tampa, FL and Chief Medical Officer of InformedDNA. Dr. Sutphen received her medical degree from Temple University, where she was elected to the National Honor Medical Society Alpha Omega Alpha. Read More...
Dr. Rebecca Sutphen is a Professor of Genetics, University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, Tampa, FL and Chief Medical Officer of InformedDNA. Dr. Sutphen received her medical degree from Temple University, where she was elected to the National Honor Medical Society Alpha Omega Alpha. She is board certified by the American Board of Medical Genetics as a Clinical Geneticist as well as a Molecular Geneticist. Dr. Sutphen has been an NIH-funded researcher for more than a decade. Her research involves identification and management of hereditary cancer risk, strategies for early detection and prevention of cancer, and ways to increase consumer access to genetics experts as well as involve consumers in the entire research process. Dr. Sutphen serves with Sue Friedman, DVM as Co-Principal Investigators leading the ABOUT Network focused on hereditary cancer as part of the National Clinical Research Network PCORnet. Dr. Sutphen is a member of the FORCE Medical Advisory Board and Board of Directors and the co-author along with Kathy Steligo and Dr. Sue Friedman of the book, Confronting Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer. She is survivor of premenopausal breast cancer and melanoma.
Job Titles:
- Executive Director
- Founder
- Research
Dr. Sue Friedman was practicing small animal medicine in south Florida in 1996 when she was diagnosed "out of the blue" at age 33 with what appeared to be sporadic breast cancer. At the time, she was unaware of any familial risk factors for hereditary cancer. Read More...
Dr. Sue Friedman was practicing small animal medicine in south Florida in 1996 when she was diagnosed "out of the blue" at age 33 with what appeared to be sporadic breast cancer. At the time, she was unaware of any familial risk factors for hereditary cancer. After her treatment, however, Sue realized from an article about hereditary breast cancer that she had several indications for a mutation. She pursued genetic counseling, and in 1997 she tested positive for a BRCA2 mutation.
Shocked that her health care team didn't alert her to the possibility of being at high risk, and disappointed at having to make critical treatment decisions without knowing of her mutation, Sue acted so others could benefit from her misfortune. She founded FORCE in 1999 to fill the information void for individuals and families with hereditary cancer, and to help them advocate for themselves. Sue is co-author of the book Confronting Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer published by John Hopkins Press. Under her direction, FORCE has grown into the de facto voice of the hereditary breast and ovarian cancer community, filling the unique and unmet support needs for those who are navigating risk management and treatment decisions.
With FORCE, no one needs to face hereditary breast and ovarian cancer alone. After five years as the organization's executive director and maintaining her own busy practice, Sue left veterinary medicine to direct FORCE full-time. Since then, the organization has established itself as an unequaled source of research, advocacy, support, and information regarding risk management, prevention, and awareness. In 2004, Sue relocated her family and FORCE headquarters to Tampa to work more closely with researchers to improve options and care for high-risk women.
Sue lives in Tampa, Florida with her husband, Dan, and her son, Beau. She is a 14-year breast cancer survivor.
Elaine Kennedy was 31, recently married and a Marketing Director at a growing software company in the Washington, DC area when she was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2000. After hearing the news, Elaine's older sister decided to get checked and was also diagnosed with breast cancer 3 months later. Their dual diagnoses prompted genetic testing which was still fairly new at the time. With confirmed BRCA1 mutations, both women opted for chemotherapy and additional preventative surgery to lower their future risk. Doctors encouraged Elaine to think about having children since a hysterectomy by age 36 was recommended to reduce the risk of ovarian cancer. Elaine was grateful and relieved to gave birth to two healthy daughters, one in 2002 and a second daughter in 2005. During a routine doctor visit after the birth of her second child, a nodule was was found on her neck, which turned out to be thyroid cancer. More surgery and treatment followed.
Happy to have the two cancer episodes behind her, Elaine started her own business consulting firm, Diventa Consulting, where she helps clients define winning business strategies, enter new markets and improve marketing efforts. In addition to helping business clients, Elaine has also provided support and advice to numerous women grappling with cancer diagnoses and treatment. While helping a newly diagnosed friend, Elaine uncovered another tumor that again turned out to be breast cancer. It was during this third diagnoses that she found FORCE.
Today, Elaine is excited to help FORCE bring its community and empowerment to women facing the complex issues of hereditary cancer.
Elaine has a B.S. In Industrial Engineering from the University of Pittsburgh, an MBA from The American University, and resides in Washington, DC with her husband and two daughters.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Advisory Board
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology / Medical Director, Breast and Ovarian Cancer Prevention Program
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- CEO
- Member of the Advisory Board
- President
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- Member of the Advisory Board
- Director of Breast Imaging & Intervention / George Washington University Department of Radiology / Washington, DC
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- Member of the Advisory Board
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- Member of the Advisory Board
- Director Oncology Support Services / Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at Thomas Jefferson University / Philadelphia, PA
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- Member of the Advisory Board
- Associate Professor / University of Washington / Seattle Cancer Care Alliance / Seattle, WA
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- Member of the Advisory Board
- Assistant Professor of Internal Medicine / the Ohio State University / Columbus, OH
Job Titles:
- Senior Vice President of Finance and Operations
Jackie began her association with FORCE while finishing her master's thesis and working as an administrative assistant for the organization. She quickly began taking on additional responsibilities before becoming the organization's Director of Operations in 2008 and then in 2014 becoming the Vice President of Finance and Operations. Jackie works closely with the staff to ensure that day-to-day FORCE operations run smoothly.
Jackie has a Bachelor of Science from the University of Florida and a Master of Health Administration from the University of South Florida. She has been working in the non-profit field for over 10 years.
She resides in Wesley Chapel, Florida with her husband, Eli, and her children, Cadence, Reed and Harper.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Advisory Board
- Director, Stanford Clinical Cancer Genetics Program / Stanford Cancer Center / Palo Alto, CA
Job Titles:
- Member of the Advisory Board
- Associate Professor / the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center / Houston, TX
Job Titles:
- Member of the Advisory Board
- Assistant Professor of Surgery / UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine / Department of Surgery
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- Member of the Advisory Board
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- Member of the Advisory Board
- Clinical Program Manager / Cancer Genetic Counselor
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- Member of the Advisory Board
- Associate Professor of Internal Medicine / University of Utah / Salt Lake City, UT
Job Titles:
- Member of the Advisory Board
- Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Microsurgical Breast Reconstruction / New York, NY
Job Titles:
- Vice President of Health Education & Communication
Juanita Rogers, MS, CHES and PhD Candidate comes to FORCE with prior experience in clinical trial research, diagnostic testing labs and public health non-profit organizations. She is skilled in health education, health promotion practices and project/program management. Her significant expertise in plain language communication will improve the accessibility of our programs and assure that our communications are delivered in clear and plain language.
A Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES®), Juanita is driven by her passion for empowering patients and families.
She has a BS in Public Health and minor in Spanish from The University of Arizona. She completed a MS in Public Health Education and Promotion from Walden University and is currently a doctoral candidate focused on Public Health Education and Promotion.
Job Titles:
- Director Emeritus
- Member of the Advisory Board
- Director, Cancer Risk and Prevention Program / Dana - Farber Cancer Institute / Boston
Judy E. Garber, MD is the director of the Cancer Genetics and Prevention Disease Center at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and an Associate Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School. Dr. Garber founded the Friends of Dana-Farber Cancer Risk and Prevention Clinic, one of the first devoted to the identification and management of individuals at highest cancer risk. Read More...
Judy E. Garber, MD is the director of the Cancer Genetics and Prevention Disease Center at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and an Associate Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School. Dr. Garber founded the Friends of Dana-Farber Cancer Risk and Prevention Clinic, one of the first devoted to the identification and management of individuals at highest cancer risk. The program formed the basis for the new disease center, and is a major referral center for clinical care and research in inherited cancer risk, clinical trials of cancer preventive interventions and cancer genetic counseling models. To foster the incorporation of cancer genetics into clinical practice, Dr. Garber has played a major role in the development of national guidelines in genetics (American College of Medical Genetics) and medical oncology (American Society of Clinical Oncology and National Comprehensive Cancer Network.) Her research activities have been continuously funded by NIH and private foundations and include the study of breast cancer risk assessment and communication, cancer genetics more broadly, and pharmacogenetics. She is also a leader in research into the characteristics and treatment of triple negative or basal-like breast cancer, the most common form in women with BRCA1 mutations. Her translational research focuses on the evaluation of novel agents targeting DNA repair defects in breast cancer, including PARP inhibitors for treatment and prevention of breast cancer and other BRCA-associated cancers.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Advisory Board
- Instructor / University of Pennsylvania / Philadelphia, PA
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- Member of the Advisory Board
- Psychologist / Cleveland Clinic / Cleveland, OH
Job Titles:
- Senior Vice President, Marketing
- Media Inquiries
Karen brings more than 30 years of strategic marketing and communications experience to her goal of increasing awareness about FORCE and helping individuals and families affected by hereditary cancer.
When Karen discovered she had a BRCA1 mutation in 2009, the information and support she received from FORCE helped her navigate her own BRCA journey. As a previvor and FORCE volunteer, she spearheaded a social media growth campaign and efforts that led to the passage of a resolution by the U.S. House of Representatives recognizing National Hereditary Cancer Week and National Previvor Day. Through a myriad of communication and partnership efforts, FORCE has become the voice of the hereditary cancer community. Today, Karen's personal experiences and dedication to the FORCE community drive her to build greater awareness and provide potentially life-saving information to others.
Karen previously led marketing efforts for a mid-size investment bank, as well as a startup software company, helping it become the international leader in nonprofit and association software solutions. She graduated from The University of Maryland with a BS in Marketing and earned her MBA in Marketing from The George Washington University.
Karen and her husband live in Chevy Chase, Maryland.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Advisory Board
- Assistant Professor, Obstetrics and Gynecology / University of Washington / Seattle, WA
Job Titles:
- Director, Education and Research
Kelly Owens, PhD, brings over 20 years of experience in the field of genetics to FORCE as Director of Research and Education.
As a postdoctoral researcher with Dr. Mary-Claire King, she studied cancer risk in families with BRCA mutations. Working as the interface between researchers, genetic counselors and the hereditary breast and ovarian cancer community, she was involved in the New York Breast Cancer Study and NSABP tamoxifen trial examining impact on BRCA carriers. Her later research focused on the genetics of hearing loss and preventive drug development. She has published multiple peer-reviewed articles, holds several patents and successfully helped lead an academic drug development project through its translational phase to small start-up business.
Kelly has been a science educator and advocate throughout her career. She has taught genetics and biology at the University of Washington, been an advocate in the WA schools and an awarded public speaker. Her position at FORCE allows her to meld her research acumen and passion for science education with a desire to give back to the community. Kelly lives in Seattle, WA, near her grown son, with an elderly dog and lively kitten.
Job Titles:
- Corporate Engagement Manager
As an experienced corporate relations professional, Kelsey has 10 years of experience working for national and international nonprofit organizations. Healthcare is extremely important to her, and she has spent much of her career in healthcare supporting cancer research, health initiatives for expecting mothers and newborns, and healthy athletes for Special Olympics. With multiple family members and friends who have been affected by cancer, Kelsey is excited to be part of the FORCE team.
Prior to joining FORCE, Kelsey worked for the Robotics Education and Competition (REC) Foundation where she worked with corporate partners to help provide STEM education to underrepresented youth. Working with partners like Google, Tesla, and NASA, Kelsey was able to help support these students in getting a quality STEM education. She was able to partner with healthcare organizations to support the mission of the REC Foundation and help educate our next generation of doctors,
Job Titles:
- Member of the Advisory Board
- Chief, Clinical Genetics Service / Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center / New York, NY
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- Member of the Advisory Board
- Associate Professor / Leader, Cancer Prevention & Control Program
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- Member of the Advisory Board
- Assistant Professor of Medicine at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania
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- Member of the Advisory Board
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- Member of the Advisory Board
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- Member of the Advisory Board
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- Treasurer of the Board of Directors
For Laurie Spiegel, FORCE was the key to discovering her genetic mutation when she was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2010, enabling her to make informed decisions to protect her health Read More...
For Laurie Spiegel, FORCE was the key to discovering her genetic mutation when she was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2010, enabling her to make informed decisions to protect her health. Proud to be part of the FORCE team, Laurie is a trained Peer Navigator and Research Advocate and a regular at the Northern New Jersey Support Group meetings. She derives special satisfaction from speaking with women who suddenly find themselves having to make serious decisions within a whirlwind of complex choices. She finds helping them deal with their risks, options and challenges; providing them with good resources; and simply lending an ear based on her personal experience to be incredibly rewarding.
Laurie is a SUNY graduate, having earned a BA in Mathematics from the State University College at New Paltz and an MS in Industrial Engineering and Operations Research from the University at Buffalo. Now retired, she spent over 40 years in telecommunications software systems and operations across engineering, economics, consulting, and marketing. In addition to serving on the FORCE Board of Directors, Laurie is a vice president at Temple B'nai Or in Morristown, NJ, and treasurer of Theta Phi Sorority Alumnae Association. Laurie and her husband Steve reside in Florham Park, NJ, and are the proud parents of daughters and BFFs Jennifer and Carrie.
Lisa comes to FORCE with professional experience in advocacy, government relations, grassroots development and a personal drive to improve healthcare. In collaboration with another family, Lisa and her husband developed a large and profitable brain cancer charity event that thrived for 10 years.
She joined the public policy team at the National Brain Tumor Society in 2016 where she was their representative in DC. Leveraging her 11 years as a teacher, she created a year-round grassroots training curriculum to educate advocates and provide activities for congressional engagement throughout the year. She will continue this work at FORCE, recruiting, mobilizing and guiding volunteers, maintaining a strong community to advocate for the needs of the cancer hereditary community.
Lisa is an active volunteer with organ and tissue donation awareness and was instrumental in changing organ and tissue donation policy at her local hospital. She loves to hike and bike with her 2 dogs and 5 children and is always solving a jigsaw puzzle.
Job Titles:
- Vice President, Public Policy
Lisa is a recognized consumer advocacy leader for the hereditary cancer community. Joining the FORCE staff in 2010, she combines her personal knowledge and experiences as a BRCA1 mutation carrier with over 20 years in public affairs and advocacy. She spearheads FORCE's legislative and regulatory policy efforts, advocating for the unique needs of people who carry inherited genetic mutations that increase their risk of cancer, and the broader hereditary cancer community.
Well-versed in health care and genetic privacy laws, Lisa is the point person on national guidelines and advocacy issues affecting the FORCE community. She possesses expert knowledge on policies affecting, and insurance coverage of, screening and preventive services for individuals at increased risk of cancer and targeted treatments for those diagnosed with hereditary cancers. She is passionate about improving access to needed health services; facilitating precision medicine so the right patient gets the right treatment or care at the right time; and, advocating for improved protections for those with inherited genetic mutations and pre-existing conditions.
Lisa lives in the Washington, DC area with her husband, two children and their dog Penny.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Advisory Board
- Associate Instructor, University of Massachusetts Boston
Job Titles:
- Member of the Advisory Board
- Senior Psychologist, Co - Lead, GU Survivorship Program
Margaret Snow was a newly diagnosed BRCA1 previvor when she found the FORCE message boards in 2007. At that time, the ability to connect with other people experiencing the challenge of a hereditary cancer syndrome was essential Read More...
Job Titles:
- Member of the Advisory Board
- Assistant Clinical Professor / Associate Fellowship Program Director
Marisol saw her mother fight breast cancer when she was very young, only to lose her when she was 8 years old to ovarian cancer. Since then, she always feared she would one day have those same fights.
Years later, married and with two beautiful sons, she went for her routine mammogram. Given her family history, genetic counseling was suggested. It was time to face her fears and undergo genetic testing.
She tested positive for the BRCA1 genetic mutation. Knowing very well the pain left behind to those you love, she decided to fight this and learn as much as possible. That is when she found FORCE, an incredible source of information with an even more incredible community of fighters, like her. She knew she was not alone in this fight.
She has since gone through her prophylactic double mastectomy and prophylactic bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy. She is a previvor and proud of it. She knew it was time to give back and she is now in charge of the Helpline at FORCE. She is also involved in her Hispanic community and has participated in several conferences, both at home and beyond our borders.
Marisol resides in Orange County, California with her husband, Luis, and her two sons, Santiago and Nicolas.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Advisory Board
- Chairman, Department of Clinical Genetics / Fox Chase Cancer Center / Philadelphia, PA
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- Member of the Advisory Board
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- Member of the Advisory Board
- Director, Lynch Syndrome Center / Dana - Farber Cancer Institute / Boston
Matt Yurgelun, MD, is a gastrointestinal medical oncologist at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, with a long-standing clinical and research interest in hereditary cancer syndromes. Read More...
Matt Yurgelun, MD, is a gastrointestinal medical oncologist at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, with a long-standing clinical and research interest in hereditary cancer syndromes, particularly Lynch syndrome. He manages and treats patients with a wide array of gastrointestinal malignancies and also evaluates individuals and families with known/suspected forms of inherited gastrointestinal cancer risk. He has served as the Director of the Dana-Farber Lynch Syndrome Center since its inception in 2019, and also serves as the Director of Clinical Research for the Dana-Farber's Center for Cancer Genetics and Prevention. Previously, he served as the national President of the Collaborative Group of the Americas on Inherited Gastrointestinal Cancer (CGA-IGC). Matt has been active in developing various clinical practice guidelines for the workup and management of individuals with inherited cancer risk, including the National Comprehensive Cancer Network's Clinical Practice Guidelines Panels for both Colorectal Cancer Genetics/High-Risk Assessment and Breast/Ovarian/Pancreatic Cancer Genetics/High-Risk Assessment. Dr. Yurgelun's research has focused on the use of multigene panel testing in individuals with gastrointestinal cancers as well as on personalized risk factors for cancer in individuals with Lynch syndrome.
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- Member of the Advisory Board
- Assistant Professor of Medicine / Stanford University / Division of Medical Oncology / Stanford, CA
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- Member of the Advisory Board
- Assistant Professor / Division of Gynecologic Oncology
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- Member of the Advisory Board
- Director GI Risk Assessment / Associate Professor of Medicine
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- Member of the Advisory Board
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- Member of the Advisory Board
- Professor, Department of Health Policy and Management
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- Member of the Advisory Board
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- Member of the Advisory Board
- Assistant Professor / Abramson Cancer Center / University of Pennsylvania
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- Member of the Advisory Board
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- Member of the Advisory Board
- Director of Breast Imaging & Intervention / George Washington University Department of Radiology / Washington, DC
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- Member of the Advisory Board
- Associate Professor of Medicine
Raychel connected with FORCE over 20 years ago when she first learned of her own genetic breast cancer risk. She served as a FORCE volunteer in her local community and received a great deal of satisfaction helping others. Raychel is the author of Life in Asymmetry: A Hopeful Journey Over the Peaks and Valleys of Genetic Breast Cancer.
After receiving her Master's in Public Health from Rutgers University, Raychel worked for both the New Jersey Department of Health and then the California Department of Health in the area of tobacco counter marketing. After several years, she was certified as a wellness coach and started Choicepoint Wellness, providing one-on-one behavior change wellness coaching for 13 years. In late 2018, desiring to work with groups, she started YOLO WELL. As the sole proprietor of both businesses, she managed the day-to-day activities as well as the outreach and marketing efforts. She also brings to the FORCE team 20+ years of experience working with nonprofits.
Raychel lives in Northern California, in a county called Yolo, together with her husband Mitchel, two daughters, Marley and Ruby, and their dog, Chewbarka.
Job Titles:
- Senior Vice President of Development
Rebekah has more than 15 years of experience helping families affected by cancer. Beginning her career with the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society in Kansas City, where, as Development Manager, she supported blood cancer research working with local donors to help find a cure for leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin's disease and myeloma, and improving the quality of life of patients and their families.
Prior to joining FORCE, Rebekah was the Development Director for the Brent Eley Foundation, which operates Brent's Place a Denver-based non-profit that provides long-term housing and support for families traveling to Denver for life-saving medical treatment. At Brent's Place, Rebekah and her team helped raise funds to ensure every family receives unlimited support, but never a bill.
Holding a B.A. in Public Relations from Northwest Missouri State University, Rebekah is also a Certified Fund Raising Executive.
With several family members and close friends who have been affected by cancer, she has a heart to make a difference using her skills. Rebekah also enjoys spending time with her family, good books and traveling with her husband, Jared.
Job Titles:
- Vice President of Development
Ruth Kucharz has more than 20 years of non-profit development experience. After working for 10 years with the Walt Disney World Company, she moved into the non-profit arena by successfully directing nation-wide direct marketing programs for a large cancer organization in the role of Marketing Director moving into the role of Regional VP, accountable for high-end relationships, as well as oversight of 100+ fundraising walks, events, and galas.
Prior to joining FORCE, Ruth was the Sr. Director of Annual Giving for the University of South Florida. In her time with USF, she directed a centralized, integrated annual giving program for the university through its accomplishment of a $600 million comprehensive campaign. Ruth has a bachelor's degree in business administration from Florida Southern College.
Job Titles:
- Senior Vice President, Volunteer Programs
Sandy lost her 38-year-old grandmother and 54-year-old mom to breast cancer. After becoming a mother, herself, to twins, Sandy underwent genetic counseling and testing, where she learned about her BRCA1 inherited genetic mutation. Feeling very lucky that she had an opportunity to undergo surveillance for 10 years and then risk-reducing surgeries, she wanted to make sure others had this opportunity, as well. In 2006, she started volunteering for FORCE and co-founded FORCE's Philadelphia outreach group. After several years, she transitioned to a staff position to create a national support program. This involved implementing intensive volunteer training, in which individuals learn how to provide confidential and non-judgmental support and expert-reviewed resources to others and obtain a rewarding experience.
Sandy enjoys working with FORCE's incredibly passionate volunteer team, which consists of over 350 individuals who empower others to make informed medical decisions with their healthcare providers via FORCE's helpline, message boards, peer navigation matching program and support meetings. Her team helps to ensure that no one faces hereditary cancer alone. They welcome everyone into our FORCE family.
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- Member of the Advisory Board
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- Member of the Advisory Board
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- Member of the Advisory Board
- Director, Sexual Health Program / Dana - Farber Cancer Institute
Sherri Silver learned of her BRCA1 status after a recommended genetic test in 2000 and immediately began to search for information about the mutation and risk mitigation. She searched the internet, consumed research studies and considered information from her genetic counselor and various medical specialists. She struggled, though, to understand the real life implications of her options, especially in combination with each other. Ultimately, Sherri decided to undergo risk reducing surgeries.
FORCE, then in its early stages, was an invaluable source of information and support. Sherri spent her nights on the FORCE message board, taking comfort that she was not alone and reading advice from those who were ahead of her on their journey. Over the years, Sherri came back to FORCE to keep tabs on the latest information and screening recommendations. She always knew she wanted to give back to the FORCE community and started as a volunteer in 2021, helping to host Virtual Community Meetings and participating in Advocacy Day before becoming a Board Member.
Sherri has experience as a Corporate Executive and Chief Marketing Officer. She has an undergraduate degree in Marketing from the University of Massachusetts and an MBA in Finance from Fordham University. She is certified for Board Service by the National Association of Corporate Directors.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Advisory Board
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- Member of the Advisory Board
- Executive Director, Basser Research Center for BRCA / Director, MacDonald Women 's Cancer Risk Evaluation Center
Tara Freundlich has been an active member of FORCE since learning of her BRCA 2 mutation in 2002. Tara has been a tireless advocate for the HBOC community. She helped to establish the FORCE helpline and she has logged over 1200 hours fielding calls. She has also hosted meetings, been available to the media and helped to organize both local and national fundraising events.
After graduating from Richard Stockton College of New Jersey, Tara started her career in Social Services. She became a director of youth services, but then took a different career path and opened a fine jewelry store. Tara owned and operated a successful business for twenty-five years before leaving the business world to be a full time stay at home mother.
As a result of her volunteer work with FORCE and a growing commitment to advocacy, Tara's career took another turn and she is now a Patient Liaison at Morristown Medical Center in Morristown, New Jersey.
Tara lives in Randolph, New Jersey with her husband Dr. Kenneth Freundlich. They have two children Jesse and Brooke
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- Member of the Advisory Board
- Director, Oncofertility Program / MD Anderson Cancer Center / Houston, TX
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- Member of the Advisory Board
- Director, Gastro - Intestinal Oncology Program / University of Florida / Gainesville, FL
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- Member of the Advisory Board
- Assistant Clinical Professor in Obstetrics and Gynecology
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- Member of the Advisory Board
- Medical Director, Institute for Applied Cancer Science / Associate Director of Translational Research
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- Member of the Advisory Board
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- Member of the Advisory Board
- Assistant Director, Clinical Cancer Genetics, Cancer Genetics / Yale School of Medicine / New Haven, CT
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- Partnerships Strategy Manager
When Verinda's younger sister was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1993, it took the family by surprise. Resources and access to genetic testing was practically non-existent in the African American community. There were minimal resources for young African Americans diagnosed with cancer and no roadmap to follow. Despite the family's best efforts at educating themselves on existing treatments, dietary changes, holistic and traditional therapies, Verinda's sister lost her fight with breast cancer at the age of 32. Devastated by this loss, Verinda and her youngest sister were driven to complete genetic testing a few years later, only to find that they both carry the BRCA1 gene mutation.
Verinda was introduced to FORCE by her breast surgeon. FORCE became her go-to for the latest information and resources. Verinda attended a FORCE conference where she was impressed with the physician presentations, discussions of new modalities and treatments and was able to meet other people affected by hereditary cancer. After returning from the conference, Verinda made the difficult decision to undergo risk reduction surgeries. She has since become a volunteer Patient Advocate for FORCE where she focuses on the issue of healthcare disparities. She recently completed a workshop on creating the importance of diversity in participant selection in clinical trials. She is driven by her family's experience with hereditary cancer and her belief that knowledge is power. Verinda's goal is to ensure that those who have been touched by hereditary cancer also have access to support and resources no matter who they are, who they love or where they live. Genetic mutations lie hidden; finding support and access to resources shouldn't be.
Verinda holds a Bachelor of Science degree and has over twenty years of corporate experience as an Account Executive in both pharmaceutical and medical device sales where she successfully built relationships with healthcare providers and academic medical centers. Verinda lives in northern New Jersey with her husband, Lloyd.
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- Member of the Advisory Board
- Assistant Professor / Department of Surgery
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- Member of the Advisory Board
- Professor and Chair, Department of Population Sciences / Associate Director, Comprehensive Cancer Center
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- President of the Board of Directors
Wenora Johnson is a colorectal, endometrial and basal cell carcinoma survivor. These different cancers identified her as a Lynch Syndrome patient, with more possible cancers in her future. Read More...
Wenora Johnson is a colorectal, endometrial and basal cell carcinoma survivor. These different cancers identified her as a Lynch Syndrome patient, with more possible cancers in her future. While diagnosed with colorectal cancer in 2011 at the age of 45, it wasn't until five years later through a genetic test, that she learned of being Lynch syndrome positive. During this time, she also learned that she came from a family with a history of cancer that included her grandfather (who passed away from colorectal cancer at the age of 38), her mother (who passed away from a glioblastoma at the age of 42) and a younger brother (who was diagnosed with late stage colorectal cancer in 2016).
Upon Wenora's second cancer diagnosis, she decided she wanted to do more about raising colorectal cancer awareness, so she began volunteering with an advocacy organization called Fight CRC. As a volunteer she learned about the importance of policy and research regarding cancer and genetic testing. Wenora then became a clinical trials curator. She also serves as a Patient Advocate for the College of American Pathologists and as a Technical Expert Panel Member for the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.
She lends her voice by participating in podcasts and writing articles and blogs about her cancer journey. After being involved with other advocacy organizations (such as the Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute, the National Quality Forum and the National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship), she found her true calling and home as a volunteer Peer Navigator and Research Advocate with FORCE.
Wenora holds a Bachelors in Business Management from the University of Phoenix and currently works for Argonne National Laboratories. She and her family have been residents of the Chicagoland area for over 30 years and her favorite pastime includes reading and being a motorcycle enthusiast.