Bringing over 20 years of nonprofit leadership and fundraising experience, Katy Brown Ryan joins ISF as the new Chief Operating Officer
CHARLOTTE - June 3, 2024 - The Isabella Santos Foundation (ISF), a 501(c)3 rare pediatric cancer foundation, announces Katy Brown Ryan as its new and first Chief Operating Officer. Katy brings over 20 years of nonprofit leadership and fund development experience, having raised more than $52 million for North Carolina communities and contributing to campaigns totaling over $3 billion.
Katy Brown Ryan ISF's new Chief Operating Officer
Most recently, Katy served as Executive Director of KinderMourn, a Charlotte-based grief and bereavement agency. She also previously led the 24 Foundation, coordinating major events and distributing millions to local cancer nonprofits, including ISF. Her background in strategic partnerships, major gifts fundraising, and managing high-net-worth donor relationships will be an invaluable asset as ISF continues to grow its impact across the Carolinas.
"We are thrilled to welcome Katy as our new Chief Operating Officer," said Erin Santos Primis, Executive Director of the Isabella Santos Foundation. "Katy’s extensive experience in major donor development and enhancing operational success will be instrumental in driving ISF's regional growth across North and South Carolina."
Katy’s appointment as Chief Operating Officer comes on the heels of announcing the TORCH Initiative, ignited by ISF, and hosting a record-breaking annual gala, where an unprecedented $537,350 was raised. TORCH, which stands for Transformational Outcomes for Rare Cancer Heroes, extends the legacy of ISF by improving the quality and quantity of life for young rare cancer patients through support for clinical trials, basic science, survivorship support, and addressing hospitals' greatest needs.
To support the operational and strategic growth, ISF is also thrilled to share the following new individuals have joined its Board of Directors in 2024:
- Chris Graper, Financial Advisor, Mahoney Private Wealth
- Sarah Jacobs, Partner, Bradley Law Firm
- Incoming Co-Chair: Katie Landy, Industrials Senior Analyst & Consulting Director, RSM US LLP
- Justin Nicolette, Head of Sports & Entertainment Communications, Ally
- Brad Westover, Head of Fixed Income Trading, Citizens Bank
For more information about the Isabella Santos Foundation and how to get involved, visit isftorch.org.
About the Isabella Santos Foundation
Established in 2007, The Isabella Santos Foundation (ISF) is dedicated to eradicating pediatric cancer's devastating impact while honoring the legacy of Isabella Santos, a courageous neuroblastoma fighter. Through the TORCH initiative, ISF provides funding for clinical trials, basic science and translational research, and survivorship support at medical institutions across North and South Carolina, igniting transformational outcomes for rare pediatric cancer heroes.
For nearly two decades, ISF has raised over $14 million to expand research and treatment and support affected families. Partnering with Atrium Health and Levine Children’s Hospital, ISF funded clinical trials, developmental therapeutics and a top-tier MIBG therapy suite—one of 20 nationwide. In 2020, the Isabella Santos Rare & Solid Tumor Program launched with Levine Cancer Institute, aspiring to be a global hub for children with solid tumors and rare cancers.
Originating from one girl's mission, and carried forward by her loving mom, her family and the support of the Charlotte community, ISF's impact thrives and its ability to transform lives will endure for generations. Join our commitment to bring hope, healing and progress to young pediatric cancer heroes and their families.