Megan Wessel Accepts National Staff Award for Excellence in Cancer Advocacy Work
American Cancer Society Vice President Receives National Recognition from the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network
ST. PETERSBURG, FL – September 28, 2021– Megan Wessel was awarded the American Cancer Society Partner of the Year Award this week by the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) in recognition of his efforts to help make cancer a national priority. Megan serves as Vice President of Cancer Control in ACS’ Southeast Region.
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.
“Megan has long been an exemplary partner to ACS CAN’s public policy advocacy,” said Lisa Lacasse, president of ACS CAN. “Her collaborative attitude and enthusiasm for cancer advocacy shine through as she consistently elevates ACS CAN’s work and mission through her leadership role. We are thankful for strong partners like Megan who go above and beyond to advance the fight against cancer.”
Her immense impact is displayed in all areas of her work – advising in key arenas in concern to the cancer burden in the state. She serves on the Florida Cancer Control and Research Advisory Council, known as C-CRAB, in which she helps lead the development of the state cancer plan and represents the American Cancer Society’s voice, serving on the organization’s designated seat for the Florida Tobacco Advisory Council which oversees the $73 million dollars in tobacco prevention and education appropriations.
“From educating stakeholders internally to supporting external decisionmakers, Megan has played an integral role in the fight against cancer with her consistent collaboration and leadership,” noted Paul Hull, ACS CAN Vice President of Regional Advocacy. “Megan has not only been a loyal friend to advocacy for many years, but a changemaker in the space.”
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 Sept. 28 to urge them to make cancer a national priority.
On behalf of all families touched by cancer, ACS CAN thanks Megan for her incredible advocacy efforts that helps eliminate the burden of cancer in Florida and across the country.
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About ACS CAN at 20
The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) makes cancer a top priority for policymakers at every level of government. ACS CAN empowers volunteers across the country to make their voices heard to influence evidence-based public policy change that saves lives. We believe everyone should have a fair and just opportunity to prevent, find, treat, and survive cancer. Since 2001, as the American Cancer Society’s nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy affiliate, ACS CAN has successfully advocated for billions of dollars in cancer research funding, expanded access to quality affordable health care, and made workplaces, including restaurants and bars, smoke-free. As we mark our 20th anniversary, we’re more determined than ever to stand together with our volunteers and save more lives from cancer. Join the fight by visiting www.fightcancer.org.