Community Advisory Board
The Community Advisory Board meets quarterly to advise on current and future directions of cancer center research, dissemination of evidence from ongoing research activities, and policy recommendations.
Specifically, the Community Advisory Board sets out to:
- Make recommendations that will enhance cancer center research in Nebraska.
- Identify, recommend and assist in implementing initiatives that address barriers experienced by patients, referring physicians, and other referral services.
- Improve access to cancer care by enhancing communication between community members and healthcare professionals, including physicians, clinicians, administrators, and researchers.
- Foster high-quality research that informs state cancer policies.
The Community Advisory Board reflects people from different populations and communities across the area we serve to help guide the cancer center’s outreach, education, and research efforts based on community needs. The board includes members from the state cancer group, health department, cancer advocacy groups, and healthcare providers.
Board Members
Vira Brooks
Survivor; My Sister's Keeper
Mehmet Copur
Medical Director of Oncology
Beth Nacke
Rural Health Extension Educator
Aravind Menon
Epidemiologist, Two Rivers Health Department
Vivian Garcia
Minority Health Outreach Manager, OneWorld Community Health Centers
Andy Link
Associate Director, Cancer Center Partnerships; ACS
Karen Kliment Thompson
VP Ancillary Services, Community Hospital
Rhiannon Pitzl
Chief Operating Officer, Ponca Health Services
Donna Polk
Survivor
Abigail Anderson
Comprehensive Cancer Control Program Manager, DHHS
Laura Schabloske
Executive Director, Nebraska Cancer Coalition
Mona Zuffante
Winnebago Chief Public Health Officer