The Fanconi Cancer Foundation (FCF) is excited to announce that Dr. Isis Sroka has been named CEO effective August 1, 2024. She succeeds Mark Quinlan who served as Executive Director since 2017 and recently announced his departure. Quinlan will continue in an advisory role with FCF through a transition period.
The Fanconi Cancer Foundation is the leading nonprofit organization with a mission to improve the lives of people affected by Fanconi anemia and associated cancers worldwide. FCF has funded ~$33 million in research, education and family support projects globally, and these efforts have directly led to identification of genes that cause FA, established the connection between FA and cancer, as well as identified treatments that to date have at least doubled life expectancy.
Dr. Sroka joined the organization in 2018 as Director of Scientific Operations and has served as Chief Scientific Officer since 2023. She developed many of FCF’s strategic relationships, greatly expanding the national and international network of key partners researching FA as part of the Fanconi Cancer Consortium, building infrastructure with the National Institutes of Health, and facilitating partnerships to develop the first global FA data commons and new FA research initiatives with the American Association of Cancer Research and Stand Up To Cancer. She has also spearheaded strategic initiatives such as the FA advocacy program and the FCF patient registry, to empower individuals with FA to share their experiences and collaborate with the research community to advance high-impact research. Dr. Sroka has elevated the visibility of FCF and increased understanding of FCF research and its potential to unlock and accelerate treatment for cancers in the FA and general population.
“I want to thank the Board of FCF for the opportunity. I’m humbled and energized to lead this exciting next chapter for the organization. Advancing a cure for Fanconi anemia and related cancers is truly my passion and calling,” said Sroka. “Innovative collaboration with our partners makes the future bright.”
“I am leaving FCF proud of the firm foundation established over the past seven years, knowing an extremely capable and dedicated group of individuals are in place to grow on that base,” said Quinlan. “The decision to move into the next chapter of my career did not come easily, as I am extremely proud of all that the FCF staff have accomplished during the past seven years, and I am deeply grateful for the wonderful relationships I’ve made within the FA community worldwide. Isis’ ability to drive forward strategic scientific relationships will serve FCF well.”
“The FCF strategic plan catalyzed a new chapter for the organization. Isis’ strategic insight and proven ability to create relationships that form the foundation for the exponential expansion of Fanconi cancer research position us well for that transformation and for greater impact in the lives of people living with FA and associated cancers,” said Lisa Mingo, FCF Board President. “Under Mark’s direction, FCF expanded its international community network, created the FA Adult Council, and established a stable foundation for future growth, including professionalizing the organizational infrastructure and stewarding donors and fundraisers. We are grateful for his service and appreciate his guidance through this leadership transition period.”
“Our vision is a future free from FA Cancer. The urgency of this mission has never been greater, and the role of FCF has never been more vital. Our relentless focus will be on fostering research innovation and strengthening infrastructure to ensure substantial clinical advancements,” says Sroka. “Our primary goal is to accelerate discovery and impact for all people living with FA.”
About the Fanconi Cancer Foundation (FCF)
The Fanconi Cancer Foundation (FCF) is the leading organization worldwide dedicated to advancing research, advocacy, and support for people affected by Fanconi anemia (FA) and associated cancers. FA is a rare inherited disease characterized by bone marrow failure, leukemia, and an increased risk of cancer. FA stems from mutations in one of 23 genes, including notable breast cancer susceptibility genes BRCA1 and BRCA2. Symptoms vary widely and may include birth defects, abnormal blood cell counts, and heightened cancer susceptibility.
Founded in 1989 by parents Lynn and David Frohnmayer, FCF’s contributions have been instrumental in improving treatments such as hematopoietic cell transplant (HCT), significantly enhancing success rates and improving patient outcomes and life expectancy. Through its multifaceted approach, FCF has propelled significant advancements in understanding FA, with over $33 million funded for 260+ research projects worldwide. In recent years, FCF’s research activities include partnering with Stand Up To Cancer and the American Association for Cancer Research, leading the international effort to standardize all patient data, and the formation of two international consortia: one focused on gene therapy and gene editing, and another focused on cancer prevention, detection and awareness. Its efforts extend beyond research, encompassing advocacy, community support, educational resources, and clinical programs like the Virtual Tumor Board and the FA Patient Registry.
Studying FA and its connection to cancer not only provides crucial insights into the disease itself but also contributes to a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between DNA repair mechanisms and cancer development. This research has the potential to inform the development of novel diagnostics, preventive strategies, and therapies for various types of cancer. By fostering collaboration and innovation, FCF continues to lead the charge toward effective treatments and ultimately a cure for Fanconi anemia and associated cancers.
