Colleen DeSimone
Chair
Colleen DeSimone, Treasurer and Interim Secretary of the Joe Andruzzi Foundation Board of Directors, is Vice President of Finance for a biotechnology company focused on harnessing autophagy to develop novel therapeutics focused on degradation of disease targets.
Colleen’s more than 20 years of experience spans both private and publicly traded biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies and includes building and leading finance functions, raising capital and leading strategic financial planning. Previously, Colleen was principal of a financial consulting firm where she served as the interim head of finance for a number or early-stage biotechnology companies.
Get to know Colleen
What drove you to become a supporter of the Joe Andruzzi Foundation?
My family has witnessed firsthand the true cost of cancer – physical, emotional, and financial. While we were fortunate enough to have resources available to us, I came to learn quickly that access to cancer services is not equitable. JAF’s mission to provide financial support, allowing cancer patients and their families to focus on care and recovery, really resonates with me.
What is your favorite thing about being a JAF Board Member?
I really enjoy working with likeminded individuals with diverse backgrounds to make a meaningful difference in my community. The Board’s unique experiences inform and educate the group as we work towards our philanthropic goals. Additionally, the firsthand accounts from patients and their families affirm our commitment to JAF.