About Us
The hub for environmental cancer prevention in Southwestern Pennsylvania.
The vision of the Cancer and Environment Network of Southwestern Pennsylvania is a future where everyone in our region is free from exposure to toxic chemicals that contribute to cancer.
Our mission is to equip people with the scientific knowledge and collaborative tools needed to take action against environmental cancer risks and advance health equity.
Our network takes bold, collective action to dramatically and equitably reduce environmental threats that contribute to cancer while advancing safe and healthy alternatives for all. Grounded in science, community action, and health equity, this cross-sector movement serves as a hub for over 50 organizations, bridging the gap between scientific research and community-led solutions. Central to this mission is a commitment to dismantle the racial disparities found in toxic exposure and cancer rates. By facilitating collaborative partnerships and translating complex research into accessible resources, the network equips communities disproportionately impacted by pollution to advocate for change, hold industries accountable, and build a safe and thriving local economy.
Leadership
The Network is convened and stewarded by a diverse group of local and national leaders in the fields of environmental health and cancer prevention.
- Dani Wilson, Executive Director
- Andre Green, Associate Director
LEADERSHIP COUNCIL
- Jason Beery, Principal, NatureSpace Consulting
- Stephanie Ciranni, Executive Director, Cancer Bridges
- Lou Tierno, Director of PA Sustainable Business Network, American Sustainable Business Network
- Meghan Tipre, Assistant Professor, Virginia Commonwealth University
- Matt Mehalik, Executive Director, Breathe Project
- Talor Musil, Field Manager, Environmental Health Project
- Nicole Kreidler, Assistant Professor, West Virginia University
- Jess Friss, Director of Community Programs, Three Rivers Waterkeeper
- Alyssa P. Lyon, Principal Consultant, Black Girl, Green World
- Michelle Naccarati-Chapkis, Executive Director, Women for a Healthy Environment
- Olivia Benson, Chief Operating Officer, The Forbes Fund
SENIOR ADVISOR
- Molly Jacobs, University of Massachusetts’ Lowell Center for Sustainable Production
Hubs & Action Pods
Government Hub
Science Hub
Healing & Justice Hub
Action Pods — Where Meaningful Action Occurs
Our emergent Action Pods are temporary, self-organizing groups formed organically around a specific, time-limited goal (e.g., drafting a press release, organizing an event, or responding to a community crisis). They are the primary engine of network output and exist to allow the Network to react to sensitive community needs in real time.
Who We Are
We are scientists and survivors. We are changemakers and caretakers. We are leaders in communities, in healthcare and business, philanthropy and advocacy, representing organizations across sectors. We are affected – and motivated – by the ravages of cancer in our region. We are grounded in science, rooted in the principles of healing and justice, committed to prevention, and focused on the reduction of chemicals in our air, water, food, homes, workplaces, and products.
Network Members
Organizations that have officially joined the Network to stand as a collective voice for environmental health and equity. Beyond these organizations, our Network is powered by the expertise and lived experiences of individual researchers, survivors, and residents across Southwestern Pennsylvania.
Network Allies
Vital partners whose staff contribute their time, leadership, and expertise to our collective work and regional initiatives.