NEW YORK, May 12, 2011 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Young Survival Coalition (YSC), the premier global organization dedicated to the critical issues unique to young women with breast cancer, has named Jennifer Merschdorf as its new Chief Executive Officer. Ms. Merschdorf will bring a combination of leadership, strategic planning and financial management skills to the position.
There are more than a quarter-million women living in the U.S. today who were diagnosed with breast cancer before their 41st birthday. Ms. Merschdorf strives to be a strong voice for these women, ensuring that they face the disease empowered and supported. As a young breast cancer survivor, Ms. Merschdorf understands the need for all young women to have access to YSC’s critical resources.
"My goal is to bring a new voice and a new philanthropic approach to YSC," said Ms. Merschdorf. "I look forward to the opportunity to merge my traditional business and large-scale nonprofit training with fresh and innovative thinking. Now is a particularly exciting time to be joining YSC as the organization creates its vision for the next decade. YSC needs to remain as relevant as the amazing young women we serve."
A San Francisco Bay Area native, Ms. Merschdorf spent the first six years of her career in the for-profit sector. Motivated by a desire to effect social change, she entered the nonprofit world in 2001 when she joined the Sierra Club, where she became a Director of Operations and Finance. She later served as Director of Development for New Yorkers for Parks. Most recently, Ms. Merschdorf was the Director of Finance for Soliya, an international nonprofit.
"Jennifer will be an outstanding leader of the organization," said Anna Cluxton, Young Survival Coalition Board President. "As a young breast cancer survivor, she understands the unique issues faced by young women diagnosed with this disease and is dedicated to ensuring that no young woman faces breast cancer alone."
About the Young Survival Coalition
Young Survival Coalition (YSC) is the premier global organization dedicated to the critical issues unique to young women with breast cancer. YSC offers resources, connections and outreach so young women feel supported, empowered and hopeful. Via its website, www.youngsurvival.org, and nearly 30 affiliates nationwide, YSC aims to ensure that no young woman faces breast cancer alone.
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