News & Press
The MRF Welcomes Susan Vogel
In October 2020, the Melanoma Research Foundation welcomed Susan Vogel to the MRF team as Chief Development Officer. Susan was previously the executive director of the Charles Regional Medical Center Foundation, a position she held since 1999, and brings more than two decades of experience in healthcare philanthropy. Learn more about the newest addition to the MRF team in this brief Q&A with Susan:
As the newest member to join the MRF team, tell us a little bit about yourself.
I was born and raised in Southern Maryland just 30 miles south of Washington DC. The oldest of 6 children, I have been married for 28 years to my husband, Keith. We have a son, Keith Jr. “Kip” (26) and a daughter, Julia (20). In June 2021, we’ll add a daughter-in-law, Erica, to the mix as my son is engaged to be married. I’ve always thought it was important to get involved in community efforts and have instilled that in our children as well. I enjoy staying connected with family and friends, entertaining, traveling to the Delaware shore, reading, baking, dabbling in calligraphy and watching college sports (especially South Carolina athletics as both my children attended). Go Gamecocks!
As someone who spent over 20 years in the healthcare space, what drew you to this position at the MRF?
I’ve spent my career in healthcare philanthropy with a regional/community lens. The Chief Development Officer position with the MRF offered me an opportunity to bring my skills and experience to a national platform and lead/mentor a development team that is already accomplishing so much for the organization. I have always been mission-driven in my career, and the role with the MRF was a chance to continue my passion in that area.
What are you most excited for in your new role?
There are so many things to be excited about! I am so pleased to work for a CEO with a background in development who shares similar experiences and will help me dive right into the role and responsibilities. It will be an honor to meet donors, volunteers and families involved with our cause. And collaborating with board members and staff to advance the MRF’s mission will be the icing on the cake!
As we approach the MRF’s 25th Anniversary, what do you think will be the most impactful way someone can support the MRF?
A milestone like this needs to be celebrated for its history and achievements and I’m excited to be here at this point in time with the organization. There will be a variety of ways to support the MRF which will most certainly make an impact. Beyond traditional philanthropic support, I believe the most impactful way will be to share the MRF’s story, expand our reach and grow our network of supporters. Giving feels good. And we will celebrate giving – of time, talent and treasure – with those already connected to the MRF and those we will get to know in this special year. Thanks for helping to share our story!
For nearly 25 years, the MRF has remained strongly committed to funding life-saving melanoma research and treatment developments, educational resources and patient support programs. None of this would be possible without the generosity of our community. As we enter the season of giving, please consider a tax-deductible gift to show your support for the melanoma community.