Audrey Miller Accepts National Staff Award for Excellence in Cancer Advocacy Work

Portland, Ore. – Audrey Miller was awarded the Grassroots Professional of the Year Award by the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) in recognition of her efforts to help make cancer a national priority.

ACS CAN, the advocacy affiliate of the American Cancer Society, presents the award each year to a staff member who has made extraordinary contributions to the organization’s mission to reduce the burden of cancer through public policy change.

"Audrey brings undeniable value to the ACS CAN Oregon team and the entire cancer community, thanks to her skilled approach to grassroots campaigns," said Lisa Lacasse, president of ACS CAN. "We have made great strides in reducing the cancer burden in communities across her state, a testament to Audrey’s leadership and commitment to supporting, growing and strengthening her volunteer teams."

Miller joined ACS CAN in 2018 and has made a huge impact on efforts to fight cancer in Oregon and across the country. During her tenure, she grew and strengthened Oregon’s grassroots volunteer team statewide to engage with members of Congress and state and local lawmakers—all while keeping the group engaged and connected virtually during the pandemic.

Audrey’s leadership helped ACS CAN Oregon pass a ballot measure last November to raise the state’s cigarette tax by $2 per pack and tax e-cigarettes for the first time in the state, as well as state legislation this year to further protect youth from tobacco products. Additionally, Audrey helped mentor and lead her volunteer team to triple the state’s fundraising goal this year through Lights of Hope, ACS CAN’s signature fundraising event to honor and remember loved ones touched by cancer.

"Whether it’s planning a state lobby day in Salem, talking with people in the community about cancer advocacy or helping a volunteer share their cancer story with media and lawmakers, Audrey leads with enthusiasm, passion and a strong commitment to our mission," said Jamie Dunphy, ACS CAN Oregon Government Relations Director. "She is the epitome of a team leader, and we are so lucky to work with her daily to improve the lives of cancer patients and survivors."

The award was presented on Sept. 26 as part of the annual ACS CAN Leadership Summit and Lobby Day. Nearly 700 cancer patients, survivors and their loved ones will meet virtually with their elected officials on Tuesday, Sept. 28 to urge them to make cancer a national priority.

On behalf of all families touched by cancer, ACS CAN thanks Audrey for her incredible advocacy efforts that helps eliminate the burden of cancer in Oregon and across the country. To learn more about ACS CAN Oregon and our public policy efforts to fight cancer, visit www.fightcancer.org/oregon.

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