Championing equity and expertise: LBBC welcomes six new board members

LBBC works toward a future where patient choice and quality of life are central, and this diverse group of individuals is poised to help bridge gaps in access, knowledge, and support for all those impacted by breast cancer.

As LBBC welcomes these new board members, Gina J. Range, LBBC’s newly elected board chair, reflects on the organization’s mission:  “Living Beyond Breast Cancer offers invaluable support to those navigating the confusion and fear of a breast cancer diagnosis, particularly for women of color who often face unique challenges. As someone who has experienced LBBC’s impact firsthand, I am honored to lead an organization so deeply committed to ensuring everyone impacted by breast cancer has access to trusted information, community support, and hope.”

Bridging professional and lived experiences to advance LBBC’s mission

Each of these individuals brings a unique perspective to LBBC’s leadership, informed by their professional achievements and personal experiences. Their diverse backgrounds reflect LBBC’s commitment to inclusivity and its ongoing mission to meet the evolving needs of the breast cancer community.

Meet the new board members:

• Jake Bevan, breast cancer advocate. Jake’s advocacy journey began as a supporter of his friend Megan Rutt, LBBC’s current Board Chair, and deepened when his wife, Michelle, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2022. Jake’s personal insights into the challenges of navigating breast cancer and his dedication to building community support make him a valuable addition to the board.
• Michael DeFillipo, partner, 1847 Private Client Group. Michael’s 20 years of experience in asset management and insurance equip him with strategic decision-making skills that he brings to LBBC. As the partner of a breast cancer thriver, Michael’s lived experience fuels his commitment to supporting the organization’s mission and expanding its reach.
• Renae Kuck Gregg, vice president of sales and product development, Arden Jewelry. A leader in the luxury goods industry, Renae brings creativity, marketing expertise, and strategic vision to the board. Her passion for engaging new partnerships and events aligns with LBBC’s mission to enhance support for the breast cancer community.
• Amanda Nguyen, executive vice president, Aon. As a breast cancer thriver and seasoned c-suite executive, Amanda brings over 23 years of expertise in strategic operations and leadership. Her personal experience balancing career, family, and treatment gives her a unique perspective on the needs of LBBC’s community.
• Amelia O’Relly, founder, How to Breast Cancer, and Hear My Voice leadership volunteer. Amelia’s lived experience as a five-year breast cancer thriver and her business acumen as a former executive make her a powerful advocate. She is passionate about leveraging her strategic thinking and personal insights to support LBBC’s mission.
• Ravi Tolani, chief of staff to chief investment officer, Vanguard. Ravi’s professional background in financial strategy and investment management, combined with his personal connection to breast cancer through his mother’s survivorship, positions him to make a meaningful impact on LBBC’s initiatives.

LBBC is also proud to introduce its newly elected board officers for 2025: Gina J. Range, chair; Valerie Miller, vice chair; Walter Kowal, treasurer; and Abby Match, secretary. Together, they will guide LBBC’s efforts to expand resources, foster inclusive support networks, and address the evolving needs of the breast cancer community.

Looking ahead

With Gina’s leadership and the addition of new board members, LBBC is poised to expand its impact, addressing the unique challenges faced by those navigating a breast cancer diagnosis. Guided by authentic leadership and a commitment to equity, LBBC will continue to ensure that trusted information, community support, and hope remain accessible to all