Press Release
2013-11-18
CancerCare® Announces New Chief Program and Communications Officer
Brian Tomlinson to lead national programs, services and public affairs for people coping with cancer
New York, NY, November 18, 2013 – CancerCare®, the leading national non-profit organization providing free support services to anyone affected by cancer, is pleased to announce the appointment of Brian Tomlinson, MPA, BSW to the position of Chief Program and Communications Officer. Mr. Tomlinson, who began his career as a social worker, is a highly respected national advocate for cancer patients and their families.
In his new role as Chief Program and Communications Officer at CancerCare, Mr. Tomlinson will function as part of the organization’s Senior Management Team working to continuously enhance the value and scope of CancerCare’s network of professional support services. Tomlinson will lead CancerCare’s extensive portfolio of support services, educational programs and patient assistance programs, as well as public affairs, brand management and communications. Most recently, he served as Chief Program Officer at the Lymphoma Research Foundation (LRF).
“I am excited to be joining such a remarkable organization with 70 years of history. I look forward to working with the dedicated CancerCare team to expand national awareness and to continue to carry out the incredible mission of helping people cope with the emotional and practical challenges of a cancer diagnosis,” said Mr. Tomlinson.
During his decade-long tenure at LRF, Mr. Tomlinson served as member of the executive leadership team and was responsible for the development, execution and evaluation of the Foundation’s patient education, patient services and professional education programs, as well as the development and dissemination of disease-specific publications and online resources. Tomlinson expanded programming to reach people in every state in the United States, as well as over 90 countries worldwide.
"We are delighted to welcome Brian to the organization,” said CancerCare National Board of Trustees President Susan Smirnoff. "His extensive knowledge and experience in oncology social services, education and program development perfectly align with our core mission and values. We’re excited to have such an outstanding addition to the leadership team as we plan for the future of CancerCare.”
Mr. Tomlinson holds a masters degree in nonprofit management and public administration from Baruch College School of Public Affairs and a Bachelor of Science in social work from Long Island University. He is a member of several professional societies including the Alliance for Continuing Education in the Health Professions, the American Association for Cancer Education, the American Society of Clinical Oncology and the Association of Oncology Social Workers. Mr. Tomlinson also serves on the board of directors at the Lymphoma Coalition, which is a global network of lymphoma patient organizations from nearly 60 countries.
About CancerCare®
Founded in 1944, CancerCare® is the leading national organization providing free, professional services and information to help people manage the emotional, practical and financial challenges of cancer. CancerCare’s comprehensive support services include counseling and support groups available over the phone, online and in-person, educational workshops, publications and financial and co-payment assistance. CancerCare services are provided by professional oncology social workers and are completely free of charge.