Cancer Support Community Welcomes New Board Members, Expanding Women’s Representation

Cancer Support Community Greater San Gabriel Valley (CSC) announces the appointment of four members to its Board of Directors: Dr. Marwa Kilani, Melissa Alcorn, Kandice Lin, and Valerie Mendoza. Each brings exceptional leadership, expertise, and a passion for CSC’s mission to ensure that no one faces cancer alone.

CSC continues to welcome more women leaders into its governance. The addition of these four accomplished women underscores CSC’s ongoing commitment to fostering inclusive leadership and strengthening its ability to meet the evolving needs of various demographic groups facing cancer in the greater Pasadena area.

Melissa Alcorn, a long-time supporter and returning leader within the organization, reflected on CSC’s growth: 
“I’m excited to move forward and see what the next six years bring. I look back to 2010 when the ‘Wellness Community’ came close to closing its doors and here we are 16 years later—we own our own building, we’re serving more and more than we ever have, and the calendar is loaded with free support groups, education workshops, and activities! We’ve come a long way!” 

Kandice Lin, an Attorney with Aguirre, PLC in San Marino, shared her personal motivation for joining the Board: 
“I would like to serve on the CSC BOD to stand with and help strengthen an organization whose goals and vision I profoundly relate to—a desire to help those impacted by cancer with strength, connection, and hope.” 

Valerie Mendoza, the Chief Administrative Officer for Rusnak Auto Group emphasized her dedication to community engagement: 
“I want to facilitate more community partnerships with CSC and other local nonprofit boards I sit on to make a bigger impact in helping those who are served by CSC.”   

Serge Melkizian, CSC’s Board President, expressed his enthusiasm for the new Directors and the future of the organization: 
“We’re thrilled to welcome Marwa, Melissa, Kandice, and Valerie to our Board. Their leadership and passion will help guide CSC as we expand our programs and strengthen our impact across the community.” 

Continuing Board Directors include Steve Ralph (Vice President) Sandi Mejia Ramirez (Treasurer), Vicki Laidig (Secretary), Ellen Knell, Ph.D., George Mack, Mark Meahl, Susan Reynolds, Elliot Sainer, Charlotte Streng, Ronald Valenta, Jay Wagener, and Kristin Windell.  

CSC remains steadfast in delivering high-quality support, education, and resources to ensure that every individual impacted by cancer finds connection, empowerment, and hope, at no charge. For more information about CSC’s programs or leadership, please visit www.cancersupportsgv.org.