Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network Welcomes New Executive Director to Increase Awareness and Funding for Bladder Cancer

Bethesda, MD, September 20, 2013 --(PR.com)-- The Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network (BCAN) is pleased to announce that Monica Smith has been named the new Executive Director, effective immediately. In her role, Smith will lead BCAN’s efforts to increase visibility of the organization and advocate for additional funding for bladder cancer research, a disease that is known as the sixth most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States, but is only 22nd on the list of cancers provided funding for research by the government.

Smith comes to BCAN with nearly 20 years of experience working in the non-profit sector, which includes more than 13 years working with oncology organizations. In addition, BCAN’s mission is of great personal importance to Smith in that bladder cancer has directly impacted her family.

“As a seasoned non-profit professional, we are delighted to have Monica on board at BCAN,” says Diane Zipursky-Quale, president and co-founder of BCAN. “There is no doubt that she will be an effective leader for the bladder cancer community and a passionate advocate for those that are impacted by this disease.”

Before joining BCAN, Smith served as Director of Development for Susan G. Komen Central and South Jersey, where she was responsible for the organization’s fundraising and community relations. Previously, Smith spent six years at CancerCare of New Jersey, as the Assistant Director of Development.

“I am looking forward to advancing BCAN’s mission and to being on the front-lines advocating for greater public awareness and research funding for bladder cancer,” says Smith. “Advocacy is a strong force for improving the lives of patients and I am eager to begin influencing the landscape alongside BCAN.”

Smith graduated from the University at Albany with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. She began her career in the non-profit community providing direct patient services for several mental health organizations in the New York and New Jersey areas.

For more information about Monica Smith and her new role as Executive Director or for more information on bladder cancer or how you can become involved with BCAN, please visit www.bcan.org.

About the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network
Founded in 2005, the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network (BCAN) is the only national organization devoted to advancing bladder cancer research and supporting those touched by the disease. Through a comprehensive program of research, education and advocacy, BCAN is the leading voice for bladder cancer. For more information, visit www.bcan.org.