The Show Up Initiative is a series of portraits and personal stories from peer-nominated honorees who exemplify Rutger’s Cancer Institute inclusive core values by continually showing up for their patients, peers, and community. Their presence and voices throughout the hallways of 195 Little Albany represent the myriad of cultures, skillsets, and professions we have within our team that all positively contribute to the shared mission of conquering cancer.
2024 Show Up Honorees
(Click on any honoree's name to learn more.)
Antoinette (Nan) Stroup, PhD
"...My collaborations with researchers have led to advances in cancer research across the continuum, but perhaps my most important contribution is being at the table. Being a member of a research team is critical to give voice to those who would not otherwise be represented..."
Donna Thomas, RN, BSN, OCN
"As a nurse, fostering an inclusive environment is paramount to me. It's about creating a space where every individual, regardless of their background or identity, feels genuinely valued and respected. This means actively listening to and engaging with underrepresented voices..."
Katie Devine, PhD, MPH
"As a pediatric psychologist, I am committed to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion by fostering a collaborative team environment and amplifying the voices of survivors and families in my research...I’m proud to lead a research team where every voice is heard and valued..."
Gulam Mohmad Rather, PhD
"...Being a biochemist by training, I feel honored and fortunate to use my drug discovery skills at the Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey (RCINJ) research community to fight against the dreadful disease of cancer and give hope to our cancer-patient community...."
Kenneth A. Gyan, MSN, APRN, FNP-C
"...Over the last ten years, I have gained experience within the health field, working in different roles and healthcare settings with colleagues, to provide service to patients from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds..."
Maya Aleksandrova
"I strive to be a reliable and supportive colleague, committed to fostering a collaborative atmosphere by offering guidance, sharing knowledge and providing assistance during challenges. I believe in open communication as a means to strengthen our teamwork bonds..."
Michael Kane, RPh, BCOP
"Every patient with cancer has their own 'why' to live. That’s just human. Not every patient with cancer can bear the “how" to live without a collective and cohesive group dedicated to their "why.” I show up every day because patients have a continued need for help in achieving this basic, human desire...."
Michelle Moscato
"I know the stakeholders that would make the most impact and make sure that key players are involved when it matters ...Acknowledgment of people's skills and talents goes a long way to making them confident in their work to produce great results...."
Rashida Terry
"...I am grateful for the opportunity that I have to provide great care and emotional support to our patients at Rutgers Cancer Institute. I demonstrate our core values everyday by giving a friendly welcome to all patients, visitors and staff that enter the building..."
Srigowri (Sri) Kota
"...My goal as a healthcare professional has been share the unique perspectives of my background, education, and experience to both colleagues and patients. I passionately believe in equity more than equality, one size does not fit all. Cancer does not discriminate, neither should we!!"
Past Honorees
Learn more about past Show Up Initiative honorees.