Staff Page

Suzanne Tierney, CEO/President, Suzanne@lupusgreaterohio.org

I have spent the last 30 years dedicated to the lupus patients in Ohio. The goal is to provide a better quality of life until a cause or cure for lupus is found. My passion is providing programs to empower those affected by lupus so that they will have a better journey with lupus through education and emotional support. Lupus does not have to be a lonely, miserable, and misunderstood illness. My goal is to provide my chapter with the tools and resources to provide such services to all those in the state of Ohio.

Leslie Vizcarra, Vice President of Operations & Patient Navigator, Leslie@lupusgreaterohio.org

I’m a registered nurse and have a BSN from Ohio University. My primary role is to help people understand lupus and provide general health education. I strive to build working relationships, solve problems and support patients while they learn how to best manage their symptoms. I started volunteering for the LFA, GOC over 20 years ago. My dedication is driven with a passion to help fight lupus and was inspired by all the people I have met along the way.

Kathy Holmes, Finance Manager, Kathy@lupusgreaterohio.org

I was diagnosed with lupus in 1989 and joined the Lupus Foundation of America, Greater Cleveland Chapter the same year. I have been able to grow with the organization, as it became the LFA, GOC. Knowing how important it was to have somewhere to turn when I was first diagnosed is what motivates me to do all I can to help our chapter continue in our mission. Being in remission for the past 20 years has enabled me to take an active part in the growth of our chapter.

Adrienne Rice-Fernandez, Lead Project Coordinator, adrienne@lupusgreaterohio.org

I help with anything from grant writing, coordinating advocacy efforts, managing projects, writing/editing and whatever else our office needs. I’m also a patient, so finding a cause and a cure is especially important to me. I love speaking with patients and caregivers when they call the office because I can empathize and offer a sympathetic ear.

Aletha Acree, Community Outreach Coordinator, Aletha@lupusgreaterohio.org

I am the devoted mother of two wonderful sons, they are the reason I fight lupus daily. I share my story everyday hoping that it might help or encourage someone else on their journey. I try to leave lupus patients with these thoughts and that is keep your environment positive in all aspects and do what you can while you can!

Tina Flynn, Communications Director, Tina@lupusgreaterohio.org

I graduated from Purdue University with a BA and from The University of Akron with an MA, both in Communication. With my degrees, I have focused on nonprofit communication as I have always enjoyed working for nonprofits and helping those in need. Working for LFA, GOC is truly rewarding because I know my efforts have a direct effect on our community members. I’m a jack of all trades and help with everything from database management to marketing efforts to event help.

Mackenna Willis, Creative, Design Manager, Mackenna@lupusgreaterohio.org

I’m the marketing manager and creative developer when it comes to strategizing new ideas for Lupus awareness. As a graduate from Bowling Green State University with a BFA in graphic design, I’ve always envisioned utilizing my skills to make a difference. My enthusiasm to help others through design has always been a passion of mine and having the opportunity to share and grow with the LFA, GOC team has been nothing but inspiring.

Victoria Hornikel, Fundraising and Events Coordinator, Victoria@lupusgreaterohio.org

With a lifelong passion for service, I found the Nonprofit Administration program at Cleveland State was perfect for me. After obtaining my degree, I began working with the LFA,GOC. I was truly blessed to start my career learning from this brilliant team of skilled and passionate lupus advocates. After some time away from the Foundation, I am so happy to be back working on this mission. I can’t wait to connect with fellow supporters in the fight to end lupus, and I hope to see you at the next gathering of lupus warriors.

Alex Acevedo, Digital Assets Manager, Alex@lupusgreaterohio.org

As the digital assets manager I assist our team with anything in the digital space. After studying business management and marketing at Kent State University, I realized my passion was to help small businesses and other local organizations. I spent 11 years in the pet care industry working primarily in the boarding, grooming, and veterinary spaces. I joined the LFA, GOC team to help our chapter continue to grow and help lupus patients for years to come.

THANK YOU FOR READING OHIO’S LUPUS MAGAZINE! FOR THE MOST UP-TO-DATE INFORMATION FROM THE WORLD OF LUPUS, PLEASE VISIT US AT WWW.LUPUSGREATEROHIO.ORG

THE FUNDING FOR THIS CAMPAIGN IS FROM AN EARMARK FROM THE STATE OF OHIO AND MANAGED BY THE OHIO DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH.

EMAIL INFO@LUPUSGREATEROHIO.ORG WITH ANY QUESTIONS OR CORNERNS. GET IN TOUCH!

Lupus Foundation of America, Greater Ohio Chapter 12930 Chippewa Road, Brecksville, OH, 44141 Phone: (440) 717-0183 Tollfree: 1 (888) NO-LUPUS FOLLOW