Staff

The staff of the IASLC is united in a shared passion to conquer lung cancer by serving its members worldwide.
IASLC Staff at WCLC 2023

IASLC Staff

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Karen Kelly

Karen Kelly

Chief Executive Officer

United States

Dr. Kelly is the CEO of the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC), the only global network dedicated to the study and eradication of lung cancer and other thoracic malignancies. She is an internationally recognized lung cancer expert dedicated to providing enhanced cancer care through cutting-edge clinical trials. Her research spans the spectrum of this disease from prevention to treatment. Dr. Kelly is widely published, and she frequently lectures on lung cancer topics, nationally and internationally. Dr. Kelly is a long-standing active member of IASLC, ASCO, and SWOG. She served as the SWOG Lung Committee Chair from 2016 until 2022.

Dr. Kelly earned her medical degree from the University of Kansas School of Medicine. She completed her internal medicine residency and oncology fellowship at the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center in Denver, Colorado. Dr. Kelly was appointed faculty at the University of Colorado where she spent many years building her academic career in thoracic oncology prior to accepting a faculty appointment at the University of California, Davis where she held the Jennifer Rene Harmon Tegley and Elizabeth Erica Harmon Endowed Chair in Clinical Cancer Research and was the Associate Director for Clinical Research for their NCI designated comprehensive cancer center

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J Michael Hoehn

J. Michael Hoehn, CAE

Chief Operating Officer

United States

J. Michael Hoehn, Chief Operating Officer, adds extensive experience in business consulting, for-profit and not-for-profit operations, and process improvements, as well as technology start-ups to the IASLC team. Before joining the IASLC, he was the president of an association management company that provided management and consulting services to healthcare associations. Michael has been instrumental in helping organizations evaluate, plan, and implement improved systems and processes, develop growth strategies, and build effective professional teams.  Outside of work, Michael pursues a deep interest in history, fosters dogs, plays an active role in the local chapter of ASAE, and serves as a volunteer and board member for several community organizations.

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Jennifer C. King

Jennifer C. King

Chief Science Officer

United States

Jennifer C. King, Ph.D., is the Chief Science Officer of IASLC. In this position, she will guide and implement the scientific strategy of the IASLC, support scientific research projects and scientific content development, and manage the Scientific Affairs department. 

She is a scientist, thought leader, and accomplished executive with extensive leadership experience collaborating with diverse stakeholders to improve health outcomes. Most recently, Dr. King served as the Chief Scientific Officer at GO2 for Lung Cancer, where she led research studies and strategic initiatives to increase lung cancer survivorship. She trained in translational oncology at MSKCC and UCLA and received a Ph.D. in Biology from MIT and a BS from Duke University. Outside of oncology, Dr. King leads an organization dedicated to improving outcomes for people with dysgraphia, a learning disability in written expression. She enjoys traveling and spending time with her husband, two kids, and Korean Jindo dog. 

 

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John Skadow

John Skadow

Chief Financial Officer

United States

Since 2015, John has been responsible for all financial planning and daily financial management for the IASLC. One of his favorite aspects of the job is working with the association’s inspiring members and dedicated staff. John’s previous experience includes working in the natural resources industry and the nonprofit sector; he is also a licensed CPA. When not at work, John can usually be found adventuring outside in the Rocky Mountains.

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Matt Yeingst, CFRE

Chief Development Officer

United States

As Chief Development Officer, Matt brings a wealth of experience in nonprofit management and fundraising, including over 20 years working for health-related organizations.  For the past 6 years, Matt has served as the Vice President of Development for the Dental Lifeline Network where he has successfully developed strategic partnerships and doubled annual private revenue. Before that he spent 10 years at the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation in progressive leadership roles. He has extensive experience in strategic planning, program development and management, community outreach, staff development, and allocation of resources. As a Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE), Matt has achieved significant revenue increases for the organizations he has served and has helped to lead cultural transformations within those teams. In his spare time, Matt enjoys a lively game of tennis, traveling, baseball, and has served on many nonprofit boards. 

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Andrea Alarcon

Andrea Alarcon

Scientific Project Manager

United States

As a Scientific Program Manager, Andrea supports scientific projects and initiatives for the Rare Tumors and Career Development committees. Before joining the IASLC, Andrea worked as a researcher and project manager in biotech start-ups that focused on the translation and commercialization of advanced technologies in the field of obesity research. Andrea earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and Master of Business Administration degree from Loyola University of New Orleans and enjoys working at the intersection of science and business. Outside of work, Andrea enjoys exercising, playing classical guitar, baking, and spending time with her dachshund puppy, Sr. Wilfred.
 

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Tessa Baxter

Tessa Baxter

Development Program Manager

United States

Tessa coordinates the ILC Foundation’s programs and events and assists with fundraising campaigns. Her prior work experience includes program, event, and volunteer management roles with the Colorado Education Association and the Society for Mining, Metallurgy, and Exploration, Inc. Outside of work, Tessa runs a taxi service for her daughter and she is also a certified REFIT® instructor who currently co-leads two REFIT® classes each week.

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Bernina Bijou

Bernina Bijou, DHA, MBA

Executive Assistant II

United States

As the Executive Assistant II to our CEO, Bernina brings extensive experience providing high-level executive administrative support and office management to her role here at IASLC. She holds several academic degrees that include a Bachelor of Business Administration, a Master of Business Administration with a dual focus in Accounting and Health Services Management, and a Doctor of Health Administration. She is also a member of The National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS). In her free time, Bernina loves traveling, shopping, and spending time with her family.

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Becky Bunn

Becky Bunn

Director, Strategic Initiatives

United States

Becky loves to connect – people, ideas, and content – and to work together on collaborative solutions to challenges. As Director, Strategic Initiatives, she oversees the implementation of the IASLC's strategic plan and builds and maintains strategic partnerships. Becky combines her understanding of science, strategy, and communications with her desire to make a difference. In her free time, she loves exploring the outdoors, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.

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Mya Burns

Mya Burns

Associate Director, Conferences

Mya brings more than 20 years of experience working for professional associations to her role as Associate Director, Conferences. Past association experiences have included the areas of planning and executing conferences, collaborating with subject matter experts and implementing new event technologies in support of virtual and hybrid conferences. In her current role she will oversee the development and execution of IASLC’s Meetings. Outside of work, Mya enjoys spending time with her family, playing tennis and enjoying all that outdoor Colorado has to offer.

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Casey Connolly, MPH

Scientific Project Manager

United States

Casey comes to the IASLC as a recent Master of Public Health graduate of the Colorado School of Public Health where she gained expertise in Research Administration and Nonprofit Management. As Scientific Project Manager, Casey supports IASLC scientific projects, including the flagship Staging Project, and she collaborates closely with various scientific committees of the association. Casey is eager to contribute her efforts to several of the IASLC's innovative scientific projects.   

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Bailey Creamer Headshot

Bailey Creamer

Editorial Assistant

United States

As Editorial Assistant, Bailey supports both IASLC journals, JTO and JTO CRR, and assists with any publishing and administrative needs. Her strong interest in the publishing industry and working with our international membership make her an asset to the IASLC. Bailey earned a Bachelors in Creative Writing from Chatham University and formerly worked in the closed caption industry. She loves spending time outdoors almost as much as she loves trying out new bread recipes, cooking with friends, and catching up on TV shows. 

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Kathy Doherty

Kathy Doherty

Director, Human Resources

United States

At IASLC, Kathy directs the full spectrum of human resources, including recruitment, employee development, employee relations and benefit programs. Kathy’s previous employment has included positions in human resources, administration and education. On a personal level, Kathy enjoys spending time with family, singing a cappella music and traveling.

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Wanda Folsom

Wanda Folsom

Education Manager

United States

Wanda Folsom, Education Manager, is a Certified Surgical Technologist. In recent positions, she has developed and implemented medical education programs for surgical technologists. Wanda’s passion for medical education will be handy as she supports our continuing medical education program, webinars, and the expansion of IASLC educational offerings.  She enjoys books and movies, cooking, golf, football, and everything Colorado has to offer.

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Rory Graham

Rory Graham

Web Content Administrator

United States

Rory Graham, Web Content Administrator, adds her Digital Marketing experience within the non-profit sector to the IASLC team. Throughout her career, Rory has curated engaging content that showcases the passion behind nonprofits' past, current, and future innovations across all digital platforms. In her free time, Rory loves to row in a boat with her best friends, explore all that Colorado's beautiful Rocky Mountains have to offer, attend concerts at Red Rocks Amphitheater, and travel the world.

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Ken Harrell

Ken Harrell

Associate Director, Information Technology

United States

As the Associate Director, Information Technology, Ken leads technology and digital initiatives that support the mission of the IASLC. He works closely with leadership and other stakeholders to develop and execute technology strategies that enhance programs and operations. He has an extensive background in data management, analysis, and software system administration. Ken is an avid sculptor, illustrator, and bowler. He enjoys spending his free time with his wife and their rambunctious boxer pup, Zuzu.

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Kelsey Heckler

Kelsey Hecker

Conference Coordinator

United States

Kelsey Hecker has recently joined the IASLC as our Conference Coordinator. She brings extensive nonprofit experience to the IASLC, including volunteer management, project management, and event planning. Kelsey’s enthusiasm, creativity, and operational expertise are welcome additions to our team. As a recent transplant from the Pacific Northwest, Kelsey enjoys the sunny weather and outdoor adventures that Colorado has to offer.

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Kelly Heemsbergen

Kelly Heemsbergen

Conference Manager

United States

Kelly Heemsbergen, Conference Manager, holds an MHA degree in Healthcare Administration with a concentration in Project Management with extensive work for healthcare organizations. In her previous role, Kelly coordinated continuing medical education programs and events for physicians and medical professionals in the field of emergency medicine. Outside of work, Kelly enjoys hiking, traveling, and spending time with her family and two dogs.

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O'Ryan Jackson

O'Ryan Jackson

Development Specialist

United States

O'Ryan Jackson is the Development Specialist at the IASLC. Her previous job roles involved legal and administrative support in the fields of real estate, litigation, and nonprofit organizations. She has a demonstrated gift for developing internal processes, implementing improvements, and providing seamless support to the team.

Outside of work, O'Ryan enjoys roller skating, creative writing, and life with many animals on her urban homestead.

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Kendra Lechtenberg

Kendra Lechtenberg

Scientific Project Manager

United States

As a Scientific Program Manager, Kendra is excited to contribute to the association's impactful scientific projects, including the Staging Project and the Multidisciplinary Clinical Science Committee. She holds a Ph.D. in neuroscience from Stanford University, and her background is as a scientist and project manager in the fields of neuroscience and oncology drug discovery and preclinical development. In her free time, Kendra loves hiking in the Rocky Mountains, knitting, and attending concerts.

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Sara Lindsey

Sara Lindsey Patton

Patient Advocacy Specialist

United States

During her employment at the IASLC,  Sara has demonstrated a passion for amplifying the voices of patients with lung cancer.  In her role, Sara will manage all IASLC patient advocacy programs, including the Cancer Care Team and Patient Advocacy Educational Award Programs and the successful STARS Program that trains patient advocates to become effective ambassadors for cancer research worldwide.  Sara will also serve as the staff liaison for the Patient Advocacy Committee and the primary contact with other patient advocacy organizations.  With the addition of Sara’s expertise, we are confident that the IASLC’s patient advocacy programs will continue to expand awareness around research and patient-centered care. Outside of work, Sara enjoys cooking, baking, and traveling. Her favorite places to visit are Hilton Head Island and Paris.

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Katie Maher

Membership Specialist

United States

Katie Maher joins the IASLC as its Member Experience Specialist. A graduate of Colorado State University in Business Administration, Katie has a wide array of diverse experience in marketing, content creation, customer service, and event planning. And as part of the Member Experience team, Katie will provide incredible support to our members, meeting attendees, partners, and other stakeholders.

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Sunhee Malinowski

Controller

United States

Sunhee holds a B.S. degree in Accounting as well as her MBA with a focus on Leadership.  She is also a licensed CPA in the state of Connecticut.  Her deep accounting experience includes previous positions as the Controller at nonprofits and clinics in the healthcare services industry with wide experience in all aspects of Accounting. In her free time, Sunhee likes to hike, paint, travel, and enjoy time with her family.  

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Jan Mazotti

Jan Mazotti

Associate Director, Marketing and Communications

United States

Jan Mazotti joins IASLC as the Associate Director of Communications. With more than 20 years of experience in the field, she is a skilled communicator experienced in building strategic alliances, fundraising, program development and project leadership. Formerly the Director of Communications, Marketing and Public Relations at Project C.U.R.E., Jan is a Colorado native who loves traveling, camping, crafting and is an active “cheer and choir mom.” She lives in Centennial, Colorado with her husband and daughters.

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Kahri-Nestingen

Kahri Nestingen

Sponsorship and Exhibits Coordinator

United States

Kahri Nestingen, Sponsorship and Exhibits Coordinator, provides exhibit coordination, effective communication with sponsors and donors, and administrative support for IASLC meetings and events. Her strong nonprofit background in managing development campaigns and event planning is an asset to the IASLC Development team. Outside of work, Kahri enjoys running, skiing and cherishes quality time spent with family and friends.

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Kelly Nevins

Kelly Nevins

Associate Director, Education

United States

Kelly Nevins, Associate Director, Education, adds her extensive experience in continuing medical education to the IASLC team. Throughout her career, Kelly has created innovative live, and enduring medical activities and applied her strong background in CME guidelines and instructional design to enhance educational programming for several medical societies. Kelly is an active member of the continuing education community, having served as a past President of the Illinois Alliance for CME (IACME), an IACME Board member, an ACCME Surveyor, and a lecturer on continuing medical education topics. In her free time, Kelly loves to cook, go to baseball games, watch movies, attend live music events, and spend time with friends and family.

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Rodrigo Sagastegui

Marketing Specialist

United States

Rodrigo joins the IASLC’s Marketing Team after more than 25 years of broad experience in the private sector. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing/Communications and Business and certification in digital marketing. Rodrigo led the global marketing efforts for his previous employer with a strong focus on Central and South American markets. He is driven by a strong desire to apply his knowledge and skills for a greater good and looks forward to promoting the IASLC’s mission worldwide. A native of Mexico, Rodrigo is a triathlete, a home chef, and a dedicated dad who enjoys outdoor activities with his family.

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Savannah Spakes

Savannah Spakes

Membership Coordinator

United States

Savannah Spakes, Membership Coordinator, serves as a friendly liaison for IASLC members who have questions about IASLC membership, membership renewals, or volunteer opportunities and provides efficient administrative support for membership programs. Savannah is dedicated to nonprofit organizations that seek to increase public health through education and improved access to care. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Integrative Physiology and a certificate in Public Health. Outside of work, Savannah enjoys traveling, any outdoor activity that Colorado has to offer, and exploring the National Parks. 

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Alexander Watson

Alexander Watson

Business Services Lead

United States

Alexander Watson, Business Services Lead, lends his expertise in office administration to the IASLC. Before joining the IASLC, he worked in administrative capacities at small nonprofits and a large international firm. At the IASLC, Alexander provides office organization, vendor and project management, and an eye for implementing operational improvements. In his free time, Alexander enjoys theater arts, cooking innovative meals, and hiking in the Colorado mountains.

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Kelsey Wood

Kelsey Wood

Associate Director, Membership

United States

Kelsey works to ensure member program activities best serve our members and strives to expand the IASLC's global presence. Before the IASLC, Kelsey served two terms with AmeriCorps, managing a range of projects - from disaster response to organic farming. Kelsey loves taking advantage of everything Colorado has to offer, whether its camping, skiing or enjoying great food. Her favorite place that she has traveled is the Havasupai Indian Reservation.

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Laura Woodruff

Laura Woodruff

Education Specialist

United States

Laura Woodruff brings extensive association experience and expertise with learning technologies and medical education program management to the Education department. As our Education Specialist, Laura serves as the project manager for the learning management system (LMS) and manages the popular IASLC podcast program. She will also support other educational initiatives. We welcome Laura's enthusiasm, integrity, and compassion to the IASLC team.

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Murry Wynes, PhD

Murry Wynes, PhD

Senior Advisor, Scientific Affairs

United States

Murry Wynes leads the scientific affairs department at the IASLC, helping to support its committees with scientific projects. He also plays a significant role in the development of scientific content for the IASLC’s meetings and the ILCN. Before IASLC, Murry worked at National Jewish Health researching idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and the University of Colorado researching lung cancer. Outside of work, he enjoys outdoor activities and spending time with his family.

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Flavia Zarcula

Flavia Zarcula

Development Manager – Corporate

United States

Flavia Zarcula joins IASLC as the Corporate Relations Manager. In this role, she secures corporate support for IASLC meetings, scientific programs, and initiatives. Flavia brings with her a wealth of experience in research and evaluation, as well as corporate fundraising and grant writing, and management for philanthropic, government, and private organizations.  She is also fluent in Romanian, and conversational in Spanish and French.  Outside of work, Flavia enjoys hiking, skiing, and exploring Colorado’s beautiful outdoors. As a commissioner appointed by the mayor, Flavia contributes her talents to the wider Denver community.