Our Mission
We empower survivors, caregivers, and researchers to collaborate on cancer research that reflects the patient experience and drives real-world change.
Our Story
For over twenty years, RAN has built bridges between patient communities and the cancer research world. We began with a simple belief: research is better when patients are part of the process.
Since then, we have partnered with cancer centers, nonprofits, and research institutions to train thousands of advocates - equipping them with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to speak up and shape science.
A Legacy of Advocacy
The Research Advocacy Network was originally co-founded by Mary Lou Smith, Elda Railey and Judy Perotti, all tireless champions for patient involvement in cancer research. Long before “patient-centered” became standard language, they built a national movement to elevate the lived experience of survivors and caregivers in scientific spaces.
Though Elda and Judy have retired from RAN, their vision continues to shape our mission, our community, and the future of research advocacy.
Who We Serve
Survivors and Caregivers
Learn how to share your story, review studies, and shape future treatments.
Cancer Researchers + Clinicians
Collaborate with trained advocates to improve study design, trial enrollment, and community trust.
Cancer Organizations
Integrate research advocacy into patient care, academic programs, or research teams.
Our Leadership & Advisors
Mary Lou Smith, JD, MBA
Co-Founder, Research Advocacy Network
Mary Lou Smith is a nationally recognized advocate and three-time cancer survivor who has spent over 25 years advancing patient-centered healthcare and cancer research. Before co-founding the Research Advocacy Network (RAN), she led patient, payer, and policy initiatives for the Coalition of National Cancer Cooperative Groups.
She currently serves as Co-Chair of the ECOG-ACRIN Cancer Research Advocacy
Committee and holds board appointments with the National Cancer Institute, Gateway for Cancer Research, and the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers.
Mary Lou’s earlier work includes developing managed care programs at Blue Cross and Blue Shield, including a pediatric oncology centers of excellence network. She has also held leadership roles with the Y-ME National Breast Cancer Organization, Mayo Clinic’s Breast SPORE, the National Breast Cancer Coalition, and several national research committees.
She holds a JD with a Health Law Certification and an MBA.
Board of Directors
David Gerber MD
UT Southwestern
Associate Professor Internal Medicine | Department of Clinical Science Integrative Biology
Donna Marinucci
ECOG-ACRIN Medical Research Group
Executive Director
George W. Sledge Jr MD
Caris Life Sciences
Executive Vice President and Chief Medical Officer
Our Extended Network
We are more than a team. We are a true network. RAN’s work is enriched by ongoing collaborations with experts in communication, leadership, learning design, web development, and research engagement.
These partners contribute to training development, workshop facilitation, curriculum design, and thought leadership across RAN’s projects.
Regular Contributors and Collaborators Include:
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Lisa Beckendorf – Patient Advocate | Consultant
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Amy J. Hauenstein, PhD – Founder, Learning Designs LLC | Communication and Curriculum Expert
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Elizabeth Kole, MFA – Duet Creative | Web and Graphic Design Expert
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Jeanne Sparrow – Leadership Communication Expert | Author | Media Personality
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Richard Watson – Bridgehill Learning Solutions| E-Learning Design & Development
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Carol White – CB White | Market Research & Strategy
