Meet the Team

Dr. Ian Padykula

Executive Board Member

Dr. Ian Padykula is a cancer researcher with a background in vaccine development and public health, specializing in the development of gene- and vector-based therapies for HPV-associated and lung cancers. His research focuses on advancing clinically relevant, noninvasive therapeutic strategies that improve patient access and translational impact. Dr. Padykula is deeply committed to scientific communication, education, and advocacy. As a cancer advocate, he actively works to bridge the gap between the laboratory, the clinic, and the community by championing policies that expand access to cancer screening, clinical trials, and equitable care. 

Dr. Cody Wolf

Executive Board Member

Dr. Cody Wolf is a cancer biologist specializing in the identification of novel targets and drug development for cancer patients to inhibit growth and metastasis. His long-term research goals are to help identify novel drivers for metastasis and develop therapeutics that are clinically relevant for patients. He has a passion for scientific communication, teaching, and advocacy. Dr. Wolf is also a long-time volunteer for various non-profits where he advocates for science research, science communication, and support for early-career cancer researchers and clinicians.

Dr. Afroz Hafeez

Executive Board Member

Dr. Afroz Hafeez is a healthcare and community leader from Illinois.  He leads telemedicine at a major academic medical center in Chicago.  Dr. Hafeez has been involved with the cancer space as both a researcher in cancer and RNA as well as an advocate with national non-profit organizations.  Inspired by his late mother’s cancer journey, Dr. Hafeez is deeply committed to advancing cancer research, policy development, and health equity. He has participated in national advocacy summits, state / federal legislative efforts, and coalition-building initiatives, earning recognition for community leadership. Dr. Hafeez is passionate about improving equitable access to high-quality cancer care nationwide.

Laura LaRose

Executive Board Member

Laura LaRose, MSN, RN, PMGT‑BC, AGACNP‑BC, AOCNS, AOCNP, is a hematology‑oncology nurse practitioner with more than 16 years of experience caring for patients across the cancer continuum. Her clinical background spans solid‑tumor oncology, symptom management, and supportive care, and she has contributed to national oncology education through authorship of textbook chapters on cancer treatment and disease‑specific topics. Inspired by both personal and professional experiences supporting patients through serious illness, Laura is committed to advancing compassionate, equitable cancer care—both at the bedside and through broader patient advocacy efforts. She is dedicated to improving access, strengthening patient support systems, and ensuring that individuals facing cancer receive the dignity, resources, and high‑quality care they deserve.