WAC Board of Directors
Who We Are
Meet our Board of Directors, the fantastic team guiding our journey!
Each member has incredible stories and talents that drive us toward success—no pirate hats needed, just their passion!
Mi'Chelle Allen - Founder & Director
Michelle L. Allen is the visionary Founder and Director of Warriors Against Cancer (WAC), dedicated to empowering and uplifting individuals and families affected by cancer. With over five years of experience serving with the Combined Federal Charities, Michelle has a strong foundation in nonprofit fundraising and community outreach.
Her passion for service is also rooted in over a decade of leadership with the Association for the Improvement of Minorities (AIM) in the IRS, where she held key roles including Local Chapter President in Kansas City and National Vice President for the Midwest Region. Michelle’s extensive background in advocacy, leadership, and strategic program development drives the mission and impact of WAC, ensuring that every voice is heard. She is driven by Isaiah 58:7, fueled by purpose—to give freely, welcome fully, and serve humbly in love.
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John Lewis - Vice President
John has over 30 years of experience in pharmaceutical and healthcare industries, I’ve dedicated my career to improving quality patient care and helping people live longer, healthier lives. Inspired by personal experiences and a deep understanding of the challenges many face in navigating healthcare, my mission is to support individuals in overcoming barriers so they can achieve their life goals and dreams.
Melinda Hopkins-Hill - Cancer Liason
“Supporting warriors with empathy, advocacy, and connection.”
As Cancer Liaison for Warriors Against Cancer, Melinda Hopkins-Hill serves as a vital bridge between the foundation and the individuals and families it supports. With deep compassion and a strong understanding of the cancer journey, Melinda connects warriors and survivors to critical resources, support services, and community programs designed to provide hope and healing.
In this role, she coordinates outreach efforts, builds relationships with care teams, and helps ensure that every warrior feels seen, heard, and supported. Whether guiding someone through the foundation’s assistance programs or offering a listening ear, Melinda is dedicated to walking alongside those facing cancer with dignity and care.
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She also plays a key role in promoting awareness, collecting community feedback, and strengthening the foundation’s mission of empowering warriors to thrive—physically, emotionally, and socially.
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Anita Urban - Communications & Media
Anita Urban brings over 25 years of experience in computer systems, data management, and strategic communications. As Communications and Media Coordinator for Warriors Against Cancer, she leads the foundation’s digital outreach—managing content creation, social media, media relations, and branding across all platforms.
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With a background in federal service and IT operations, Anita has supported major programming, cybersecurity, and policy integration initiatives. She combines technical expertise with creative strategy to elevate community engagement and promote events like Brave the Shave . Anita is passionate about using technology and storytelling to connect with the community, raise awareness, and support those affected by cancer.
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Lisa McCoy-Cole - Treasurer
Dr. Lisa M. Cole, PHD- Board Member, Warriors Against Cancer
Dr. Lisa M. Cole brings a wealth of academic and community-based experience to Warriors Against Cancer (WAC). She holds a Ph.D. in Accounting and currently serves as a professor at Xavier University in Louisiana. With over 25 years on the faculty at Johnson County Community College, Dr. Cole has dedicated her career to education, leadership, and mentoring future professionals.
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Beyond the classroom, Dr. Cole is deeply committed to serving underserved communities and advocating for those whose voices are often overlooked. Her involvement with WAC reflects her belief in giving back and using her expertise to make a tangible impact. She sees this role as an opportunity to support cancer patients in meaningful ways—ensuring they receive the compassion, resources, and dignity they deserve.
Advisors
Curtis Allen
Curtis Allen is a seasoned entrepreneur with over 30 years of experience owning and operating successful businesses throughout the Kansas City Metropolitan area. Known for his integrity and community-first mindset, Curtis built a reputation for fair and accessible housing through his rental property business, where he kept rent affordable and aligned with fair market rates to ensure housing remained within reach for all.
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A dedicated supporter of Warriors Against Cancer (WAC), Curtis stands alongside his wife, Michelle L. Allen, in championing the organization’s mission. His business insight, community values, and unwavering support help strengthen WAC’s efforts to bring hope, assistance, and advocacy to those fighting cancer.