Our Staff

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 haveto 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

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 past20 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 & 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.

Rita O. Piccin, BS, ND, RN, Lead Patient Navigator/Outreach Coordinator

rita@lupusgreaterohio.org

I am a caring, collaborative, and resourceful nursing professional with over 30 years of experience in a variety of roles. I have a BS in Biology and French from John Carroll University and a Doctor of Nursing degree from Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing at Case Western Reserve University. I am passionate about giving effective and empathetic customer service and education to patients, caregivers, families, colleagues and community organizations. I am honored to be a part of the LFA,GOC and dedicated to providing education, support, and resources to lupus warriors.