Karen Malcolm, second from left, – was awarded ACT Lead of the Year by the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network Sept. 17 in Washington, D.C.

Karen Malcolm receives national volunteer award for commitment to cancer advocacy

Local Cancer Advocate Receives National Recognition from the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN)

WASHINGTON – Karen Malcolm was awarded ACT Lead of the Year by the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) for her exceptional commitment to advocacy work and making cancer a national priority.

This annual award is given to a lead congressional district volunteer who has demonstrated remarkable leadership advocating for ACS CAN’s mission priority areas of cancer-related public policy.

“Karen is a tireless advocate who speaks out on behalf of all those fighting cancer, both in her community in Oregon and across the country,” said Lisa Lacasse, president of ACS CAN. “Her outstanding efforts are reflected in her ability to swiftly organize and mobilize a robust team of local volunteers to champion strong and effective public policy to help end cancer as we know it for everyone.”

The award was presented on Sept. 17 as part of the annual ACS CAN Leadership Summit and Lobby Day. Nearly 700 cancer patients, survivors and their loved ones met with their elected officials to urge them to support policies that increase funding for cancer research and prevention programs and address barriers that prevent diverse populations from enrolling in clinical trials.