Western States Cancer Research

Western States Cancer Research NCORP (WSCR-NCORP) (formerly Colorado Cancer Research Program) is a nonprofit, National Cancer Institute (NCI) affiliated Cancer Clinical Trial Research Organization, whose primary aim is to make cancer clinical trials available to patients, physicians, and communities in our region.

WSCR-NCORP Board of Trustees

Officers

Patricia Gleason

Chair

Mullen High School
Chief Financial Officer

“I was excited to join the Board of Western States Cancer Research NCORP in the fight against cancer as it affects us all. My father was diagnosed with cancer at the age of 74. Through his treatments and support of the medical community, he lived to the age of 94! I want to support WSCR-NCORP in the fight for all to have access to clinical trials to provide that opportunity to everyone. I have been so impressed with WSCR-NCORP’s commitment and professionalism in providing this service and proud to be a part of this organization.”

Wendy Shaver

Vice Chair


Senior Clinical Oncology Specialist

“I joined the Board of Trustees because I am passionate about caring for and finding solutions for oncology patients. The clinical trials offered through Western States Cancer Research NCORP answer many important questions, moving medicine forward through research. Patients that participate in our studies have access to some of the newest and most promising treatments in the world. It is a very exciting and hopeful time to work in oncology.”

Elizabeth Redente, PhD

Secretary

National Jewish Health
Associate Professor
Department of Pediatrics

“As a scientist who is dedicated to discovery and research towards innovative cures, I understand the importance of bringing new therapeutic options to the patients who need them the most. The mission of WSCR-NCORP plays a critical role by connecting patients to clinical trials; thus advancing patient care and bringing hope at an integral moment in time.”

Norm Benedict

Treasurer, Chair of Finance Committee

PERA
Retired

“I joined WSCR-NCORP to help inform the public of the benefits of participating in cancer trials.”

Trustees

Trent Adams

Trustee

Proofpoint
Director, Ecosystem Security

“I’m impressed with the commitment and passion demonstrated by the WSCR team in connecting patients with available research opportunities. I’m honored to bring my experience in global community development to support their mission.”

Russell Bean

Trustee

Clanahan, Beck & Bean, P.C.
Attorney

“I was introduced to WSCR-NCORP through my friends. I found their dedication to testing for cancer treatments to be extraordinary, and I wanted to be part of their solution.”

Dan Bennett

Trustee

Director
Beacon Group LLC.

David Gordon, MD

Trustee

4 Pillars Health & Wellness

“WSCR-NCORP provides crucial research study opportunities and education to cancer patients and their families. As someone that believes passionately about health and patient advocacy, I wanted to not only support WSCR-NCORP, but also learn more about the patients’ experiences and options for cancer research.”

Rob Gray

Trustee

PERA
Retired

“Clinical trials are the key to making progress against cancer. WSCR-NCORP has unique abilities to make trials effective for patients, providers, researchers, and regulators.”

Gerry Horgan, MB, MRCP, FACR

Trustee

Retired Pediatric Radiologist

“I am involved with WSCR-NCORP because I want to help facilitate the Scientific basis of Cancer Care.”

R. Lee Jennings, MD

Trustee

Colorado Surgical Oncology Associates
Retired

“Clinical research is the only way to improve the safety and effectiveness of cancer treatment. WSCR-NCORP brings National Cancer Institute (NCI) clinical research trials to patients in their own community. This is why I have been a volunteer for over 30 years.”

Pius Kamau

Trustee

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Consuelo Kelly, MSN, FNP-BC, OCN

Trustee

The Melanoma and Skin Cancer Institute
Director of Clinical Operations

“I started as a Nurse CRC with CCRP in 2007, and have always felt a strong connection to the organizations core mission. The services and connection that WSCR provides to the community for access to cancer clinical trials is essential for moving new treatments and approaches forward, and advancing the field of oncology.”

Michael Koloshca, BS, PharmD

Trustee

Advanced Clinical Practice Pharmacist
Retired

“Prior to retirement, I was an Advanced Clinical Practice Pharmacist, Oncology Specialist at the Medical Center of Aurora. I worked with Dr. Di Bella and Dr. Pajon, both are outstanding oncologists. After retiring, I was asked to join CCIRB and helped review treatment protocols. Being asked to join WSCR-NCORP is a great honor and is a fantastic opportunity in helping provide cancer research trials to all the communities that we serve.”

Ann Murphy, PhD

Chair of Audit Committee

Metropolitan State University of Denver
Dean, College of Business

“As with many, we have most likely been impacted by some one we love having to deal with cancer. Supporting research is one way to give back and work towards a cure.”

Ed Pajon, MD

Trustee

Retired

“I have been part of cancer research since my early years as an oncology fellow at the University of Colorado Medical Center, as an army officer at Fitzsimons Army Medical Center in collaboration with Dr. DiBella, and as a clinician in private practice first participating in clinical trials with the Colorado Cancer Research Consortium, and then as its Principal Investigator. So it is fitting that I return to the fold to continue my association with such a fine institution, now Western States Cancer Research NCORP, to help in its efforts to provide access to clinical trials to our community, medical providers and researchers. It is only through such clinical research that we will be able to advance the field of oncology.”

Blake Parsons, DO

Trustee

Internal Medicine Hospitalist

“Joining the Board of WSCR-NCORP is a fantastic opportunity to participate in the organization’s mission to deliver cancer research trials to our communities.  Clinical trials are vital to improving and advancing medical care.  Having been affected by cancer personally in our family and professionally as a physician, I am proud to be a member of this organization.”

Kathy Trujillo

Trustee

Bell Plumbing & Heating
Customer Service Representative

“I applaud that their research doesn’t stop at treatment. It extends to preventative measures and follow up after cancer treatment.”

Ex-Officio

Lisa Switzer, M.A.

Ex-Officio

WSCR-NCORP
CEO / Executive Director

“I am passionate about getting cancer clinical trials into local communities and making them an option for every patient who receives a cancer diagnosis. I also care deeply for the staff and Board of WSCR-NCORP and maintaining an open and affirming, inclusive organizational culture of compassion.”

Dr. Nicholas DiBella

Ex-Officio

WSCR-NCORP
Principal Investigator

“I have been an active supporter of WSCR-NCORP because as an oncologist, I realize the vital importance of these clinical trials that are only available through the National Cancer Institute (NCI) to patients in our community. Cooperation with other NCI sites helps us stay in the forefront of progress in cancer.”

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