Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network Staff

  • Andrea Maddox-Smith

    Chief Executive Officer

    As CEO for the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network (BCAN), Andrea brings more than 20 years of experience within the voluntary health space and 30 years as a non-profit impact leader.  Since joining BCAN in 2016, Andrea has transformed the organization’s approach, structure and focus and has helped to better the lives… Read More
  • Aleena Ahmed

    Communications and Marketing Manager

    Aleena Ahmed is the Communications and Marketing Manager for the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network. She was previously a proofreader and copy editor for Barton Cotton Graphics Inc., in Baltimore, Maryland.  She completed her bachelor’s in English from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County and went on to attend graduate school… Read More
  • Valérie Aldana, MPH

    Senior Research Project Manager

    In her role, Valérie supports the implementation of BCAN’s research and grant activities, including post-award management and tracking award deliverables and outcomes. She also works collaboratively in project management and oversight, support of new or existing funding initiatives and processes, award management and reporting, monitoring programs and awards, as… Read More
  • Joslyn Brown

    Development Coordinator

    Joslyn is a California native, but has recently made her way to the East Coast. Earning her degree in Communication Studies from Cal State Northridge, it was there that she met a professor who sparked her passion for nonprofit work.  She worked as a Development Associate at a nonprofit… Read More
  • Stephanie Chisolm, Ph.D.

    Director of Education and Advocacy

    Stephanie brings many years of experience in urology and education for patients and health care providers to BCAN.  She received her PhD in Health Education/Health Promotion from the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 2000. She has been a University professor, a public health educator and an advocate for patients. Read More
  • Anne Collins

    Research Project Coordinator

    Anne Collins, MPH is BCAN’s Research Project Coordinator. She is responsible for supporting the implementation of BCAN’s research and grant activities, including pre-award activities and coordination and tracking of post-award deliverables and outcomes. Prior to BCAN, Anne served as a Master’s-level Research Associate at RTI International. She has experience… Read More
  • Rob Demske

    Chief Advocacy and Development Officer

    As the Chief Development Officer for the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network, Rob is responsible for the development and execution of the organization’s global development strategy Read More
  • Bernadette Fitzsimmons

    Volunteer and Chapter Manager

    Bernadette K. Fitzsimmons is a native Washingtonian with over 25 years’ experience working and volunteering in associations, and advisory boards in medical research, health promotion/advocacy and program management.  Since joining BCAN in 2018, Bernadette has overseen an increase in the number of research grant award applicants and is passionate in… Read More
  • Rachel Johnson

    Senior Development Manager and Walk Director

    As BCAN’s Senior Development Manager and Walk Director, Rachel directs the organization’s Walks to End Bladder Cancer and also supports corporate fundraising. She has extensive experience in designing and executing effective fundraising initiatives in global oncology services, with a focus on helping deliver access to care in low-income countries. Read More