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Thelma Suson inducted into Relay For Life Hall of Fame

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On Nov. 23, one of the American Cancer Society’s most passionate and innovative supporters was celebrated by the entire Relay For Life community. In a surprise ceremony, volunteer Thelma Suson was inducted into the Relay For Life Hall of Fame, which encompasses a select group of Relay volunteers and team members that have made a significant, lasting impact on the program.  

Thelma was presented the honor by current Hall of Fame member Laura McCormick. Also, in attendance during the ceremony was Bryan Sherwood, senior director, Relay For Life, along with Thelma’s family. 

Thelma Suson’s journey with Relay For Life began in 2001, when she walked her first Survivor Lap just after chemotherapy, a moment that gave her hope and transformed her outlook on cancer. This pivotal experience ignited her passion to become a dedicated advocate for the American Cancer Society, inspiring others and expanding Relay For Life’s reach worldwide. Over the years, Thelma has played a pivotal role in both local and global i​nitiatives, becoming a tireless leader and ambassador for the cause. 

In 2002, Thelma became Team Captain of Delta Air Lines’ first Relay For Life team, which eventually grew into a Global Team partner. By 2010, she was leading Delta’s first Global Relay team in Japan and helped expand the airline’s international presence. Thelma also played a crucial role in launching the Philippines' first collegiate Relay outside of Manila in 2012, working alongside the Philippine Cancer Society and Visayas State University. Her contributions were felt locally at home, as she has served as Event Chair for her local Relay For Life and mentored teams across the U.S. and abroad. 

As a founding member of the former Heroes of Hope program in 2005 (now known as Voices of Hope), Thelma helped develop the signature "How to Tell Your Story" workshop, empowering survivors and caregivers to share their experiences. Her leadership included training volunteers across the U.S. and expanding the program to Global Relay For Life organizations. Through her role as a lead volunteer in Global Relay For Life since 2010, she has supported Relay efforts in various countries, facilitated volunteer training, and fostered cross-border collaboration to inspire hope and resilience worldwide. Thelma’s unwavering commitment to Relay For Life has made her a beacon of hope and a true embodiment of the movement’s spirit. 

Please join us in congratulating Thelma on her induction into the Relay Hall of Fame by posting a message of support in the Relay For Life Community on Facebook! 



  • Merck acquires BrightEdge portfolio company Modifi

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    An ACS BrightEdge portfolio company was recently acquired by Merck, marking the seventh BrightEdge investment exit. Modifi Bioscience, Inc., a New Haven, CT-based pre-clinical stage company, announced the deal with Merck could total $1.3 billion.

    Among the company's leaders are two former ACS grantees, Ranjit Bindra MD, PhD, and Seth Herzon PhD, who co-founded the company to disrupt conventional oncology drug development in hard-to-treat cancers. The company aims to improve the standard of cancer therapy and patient care by developing direct DNA modification enabled cancer therapeutics.

    “I'm especially proud of the BrightEdge investment team and the American Cancer Society former scientific grantees who discovered and propelled programs that bring hope for those who have not benefited from cancer innovation to date," BrightEdge Managing Director Alice Pomponio shared on LinkedIn. “Brain cancer has the worst survival second only to pancreatic. This news is a refreshing change in tide, so everyone rises."

    Impact Investment Income

    BrightEdge was an early strategic investor in Modifi's seed round of funding. The purchase demonstrates the BrightEdge team's ability to source and invest in profitable venture capital investment deals that align with ACS mission and deepen the impact of those companies along their journey BrightEdge actively collaborated with multiple brain-related cancer nonprofits and was represented on the Modifi Board of Directors by Lucas de Breed, BrightEdge Director of Investments.  

    The total value of the acquisition is valued at $1.3 billion. ACS will receive a pro rata percentage of those funds upfront as well as milestone payments—proof of concept for new streams of ACS revenue generation coming from equity investing.

     



  • BrightEdge hosts Converge on Cancer Summit

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    On Oct. 28 - 29, the BrightEdge Converge on Cancer Summit convened nearly 200 leaders from across the cancer ecosystem, including impact investors, biotech innovators, healthcare experts, academics, and patient advocates. The event focused on fostering collaboration and driving progress in the fight against cancer. The summit addressed pressing issues and explored pioneering approaches in cancer prevention, treatment, and equitable access, working to end cancer as we know it, for everyone.

    ​Pictured above are, left to right, Director of Innovation, BrightEdge, Farnaz Bakhshi, PhD; President and Chief Executive Officer, Foundation for the National Institutes of Health, Julie Louise Gerberding, MD, M.P.H.; Associate Professor of Pediatric Oncology, Dana Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Howard Hughes Medical Institute Investigator, and Scientific Founder, Foghorn Therapeutics, Cigall Kadoch, PhD; John J. and Dorothy Wilson Professor of Engineering, Director of Laboratory for Multiscale Regenerative Technologies, MIT and Co-Founder of seven companies, Sangeeta Bhatia, M.D. PhD; and Managing Director BrightEdge, Alice Pomponio.​

    "BrightEdge is building on the shoulders of giants. With ACS’s legacy behind us, we’re leveraging expertise, strategy, and impact investment to shape the future of cancer care. Our mission is to deliver triple-bottom-line results, driving both impact and returns that fuel the fight against cancer."

    - Alice Pomponio, MPP, managing director, BrightEdge

    The BrightEdge Converge on Cancer Summit underscored the need for bold, innovative funding models and collaborative approaches to address the biggest challenges in cancer care. The event's key themes addressed the complex challenges across cancer care. Panels with key industry leaders discussed:

    • Innovation across the cancer continuum: Embracing advancements in artificial intelligence, emerging technologies, and support for visionary entrepreneurs, leaders at the event examined ways to improve patient outcomes and drive impactful cancer

    • Advancing impact through investment and collaboration: The event raised awareness of the essential role of impact investing and strategic partnerships in advancing high-impact cancer solutions. Discussions examined how cross-sector collaboration can create measurable improvements in patient outcomes and health equity.

    • Pursuing equitable cancer care: Reducing disparities in cancer care remains central to BrightEdge’s mission. Summit speakers highlighted the need for accessible, patient-centered models and explored how targeted investments and innovation can address critical gaps in care.

    About BrightEdge

    As the innovation and impact investment arm of the American Cancer Society, BrightEdge leverages ACS’ deep expertise in cancer research, patient support, and advocacy, along with strategic partnerships and financial resources to fuel oncology-aligned investing. BrightEdge accelerates transformative cancer solutions across the continuum of care through initiatives such as the BrightEdge Entrepreneurs Program, which supports early-stage companies, equity investing through the ACS Impact Venture Fund, and the Cancer Impact Investment Framework, which aligns investments toward high-priority unmet needs.

    With an announcement coinciding with the summit, the release of the BrightEdge 2023 Impact Report showcases how BrightEdge portfolio companies are developing cutting-edge therapies, diagnostics, and technology with the potential to change millions of lives. See the infographic below for more details.

    For more information, please contact BrightEdgeInfo@cancer.org.

  • Coaches vs. Cancer experience auction is live through Dec. 2

    ​The Coaches vs. Cancer Experience Auction, a national online auction that includes packages from sports teams and clubs across the country, is now live through Monday, Dec. 2. From VIP experiences to exclusive golf packages, this auction includes something for every sports enthusiast and supports the mission of the American Cancer Society to end cancer as we know it, for everyone.

    With more than 100 experiential sports packages available this year, including golf, basketball, baseball, racing, and more, there’s something for everyone. 


  • Tournaments offer gaming for good

    ​ACS recently teamed up with Skillz, an online mobile gaming platform, to host two exciting charitable tournaments. Players can compete in Skillz-powered games through this partnership while raising critical funds to support cancer research and patient services.

    What is Skillz?

    Skillz is a platform that hosts online multiplayer competitions for iOS and Android games, allowing players to compete for real-world prizes. The partnership with ACS gives players the chance to enjoy their favorite games, like blackjack and poker, while helping fund the fight against cancer.

    How It Works

    For each ACS Charitable Tournament on the Skillz platform, 100% of the net revenue from entry fees will go to ACS. This means that when you play, you’re supporting cancer research and patient care. Net revenue is defined as tournament entry fees (excluding any deposit incentives or Bonus Cash), minus a 20% administration fee.

    Tournament Dates

    • Nov. 22 - 30: Blackout Blackjack
    • Dec. 20 - 29: Blackout Poker

    ​​These dates offer players the chance to compete and make a difference. With Skillz’s global reach, anyone with an iOS or Android device can participate from anywhere.

    Anyone can join ACS and Skillz in a fun and meaningful way. Whether a seasoned gamer or a first-time player, you can contribute to life-saving cancer research by entering a tournament. 

  • New York City Marathon team surpasses $1.5M in fundraising

    ​The TCS New York City Marathon team has lots to celebrate after demolishing its fundraising goal earlier this month and marking the highest amount raised with more than $1.5 million and counting through our 295 DetermiNation runners!   

    Highlights include: 

    • The average raised per participant was $5,168
    • Participants ran 7,729 miles, equating to $197 raised for every mile that was run/walk 
    • Our team represented 35 states and two additional countries (Canada and the UK), with the furthest participant traveling from Alaska!

    In addition, Team Morgan Stanley crossed two significant milestones this year. The team has now reached the Hero of Research award by raising more than $225,000 for the 2024 New York City Marathon and surpassing the $1 million in lifetime fundraising as a 15-year team! 

    The Hero of Research Award level offers recognition based on team fundraising performance to support an approved Extramural Discovery Science postdoctoral fellowship. Qualifying teams will select from an approved list of newly awarded three-year Extramural Discovery Science postdoctoral fellowship grants to name. ​

    This marks the first time that a team from DetermiNation has reached the $225,000 funding level and Morgan Stanley is currently the first team nationwide in 2024 to hit this level for DetermiNation, Relay For Life and Making Strides Against Breast Cancer.   

    The future looks promising in 2025 as well. According to Paul Purdy, strategic director, Endurance Events & Network Fundraising, the team already has a waiting list longer than the number of spots anticipated for the 2025 race and ACS will be implementing an application process for registration.   

    Big congratulations to ACS leads Ramon Bermo, director of Development – Endurance, and Allie Birkinbine, Development manager, for being essentially “sold out” before the 2024 event even finished. 

  • New SVP of Philanthropy named

    ​The American Cancer Society announced Naomi Adler will join the organization as the new senior vice president, Philanthropy, beginning Monday, Nov. 18.

    Naomi most recently served as CEO of Hadassah, a volunteer organization that supports Israel's health, education, advocacy and youth development. As the leader of one of the largest women’s membership organizations in the United States, she managed a cross-functional national and global team of 235 people and was responsible for personally securing major and principal gifts of $500,000+. Prior to this, Naomi led the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia as President & CEO where she secured hundreds of donations ranging from $25,000 to $5 million and oversaw $37.2 million of annual grants. Earlier in her career, Naomi also held executive positions with multiple United Way chapters and led a $15.5 million campaign for Rutgers University. 

    “Naomi not only brings sophisticated fundraising experience to ACS but has also led large nonprofit organizations for more than 20 years,” said Mike Neal, chief of organizational advancement. “She understands how to navigate and lead in a complex environment, like ours, and has a proven track record of helping organizations substantially increase revenue and enhance their impact.” 

    A graduate of Mount Holyoke College and SUNY Buffalo School of Law, Naomi worked in private practice and then as an Assistant District Attorney for Monroe County. Her reputation as a successful prosecutor in cases of violence against women and children, and later as a community advocate for families living in poverty and experiencing crises, earned several honors including national recognition at the State of the Union address to Congress in 2013 and at various international forums, including the United Nations.

    “We look forward to welcoming Naomi to the Development leadership team in November,” Mike said.

  • Spread the word about ACS free estate planning this week

    ​Spread the word to strengthen the ACS planned giving program.

    Monday, Oct. 21 kicks off National Estate Planning Awareness Week (NEPAW), an ideal opportunity for nonprofits to generate more planned gifts for their organization by encouraging donors to make a will. Started in 2008, NEPAW aims to help people understand what estate planning is and why it's so important.

    You can help increase public awareness and raise donations to strengthen our planned giving program by amplifying NEPAW content, pictured at right, posted on the American Cancer Society LinkedIn channel this week. Take a moment to reshare with your professional networks and check out this opportunity to leverage the Giving Docs platform to give to ACS through your own estate plans.

    Visit the Giving Docs free estate planning platform to get started.


  • Sarah Wells promoted to Executive Vice President, Northeast Region

    ​Transition from chief of staff for Development effective Oct. 21.

    In a message to Northeast Region team members and the OneACS leadership team on Oct. 10, Senior Vice President of Field Operations Brant Woodward announced the promotion of Sarah Wells to Executive Vice President for the Northeast Region.

    In 2000, Sarah began her ACS career in cancer control and health initiatives, before moving into more development-focused roles including community fundraising, major gifts, corporate partnerships and board development. Before her most recent appointment as Chief of Staff for Development, Sarah served in a variety of roles with the former North Central and current Northeast Region including Vice President of Ohio/West Virginia & Regional Development, Vice President of Community Engagement, Vice President of Distinguished Partners and Executive Director for the state of Ohio. 

    “It goes without saying that Sarah’s experience in both development and field operations runs deep. She has a proven track record of building exceptional relationships with volunteer leaders, standing up impactful boards and other highly effective leadership groups, leading capital campaigns, developing best-in-class Distinguished Events, and driving exponential revenue growth,” said Brant. “She is a highly respected people leader who is known as much for her commitment to her teams as she is for her dedication to our vision of ending cancer as we know it, for everyone. Sarah’s past experiences in cancer control (now patient support), coupled with her most recent role as Chief of Staff for Development, only strengthens her ability to make an immediate impact in her new role.”

    "The mission of the American Cancer Society is very personal to me, and each year my passion to do more to end cancer and increase our impact on cancer patients and their families grows stronger,” Sarah shared. “I am deeply honored for this opportunity and excited to lead this extremely talented team in the Northeast Region to accelerate our collective work."

    Sarah is a native of northeast Ohio and currently resides there with her husband and two children. She is a graduate of the University of Cincinnati and earned a Master of Science degree in health promotion management from American University. 
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