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Shana Crews Accepts National Staff Award for Excellence in Cancer Advocacy Work
Local Advocate Receives National Recognition from the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network
September 27, 2021
SPRINGFIELD, IL – Shana Crews was awarded the Government Relations 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.
“When it comes to advancing public policies that reduce the burden of cancer, Shana has delivered time and again,” said Lisa Lacasse, president of ACS CAN. “She brings incredible skill and strategy to her role, resulting in impactful legislative successes that will benefit cancer patients and survivors throughout Illinois. ACS CAN is beyond fortunate to have a strong, determined advocate like Shana as a colleague.”
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.
“This year, Shana worked tirelessly with the Illinois general assembly to improve access to care for cancer patients by passing legislation that will expand coverage for biomarker testing. As a result, more Illinoisans will benefit from the latest advances in cancer treatment with this first in the nation law,” said Sara Mannetter, managing director, ACS CAN. “She was fierce and dogged in her pursuit this session and her lobbyist skills were second to none. I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this recognition.”
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 Shana for her incredible advocacy efforts that helps eliminate the burden of cancer in Illinois 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.
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