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OCRA Staff

Our Staff

OCRA’s dedicated staff members bring passion, expertise, and a collaborative spirit to the fight against ovarian and related gynecologic cancers. Whether spearheading innovative research initiatives or creating engaging support programs, OCRA’s team is devoted to advancing progress and igniting hope. Together, we are committed to improving the lives of patients and their families, ensuring anyone impacted by gynecologic cancer feels understood, empowered, and supported.

Meet Our Staff

Audra Moran smiling

Audra Moran

President & CEO

As President & CEO of Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance (OCRA), Audra heads the largest global charity for ovarian and related gynecologic cancer research and advocacy. She directs overall strategy, operations, and fundraising to promote progress and awareness while hastening breakthroughs in diagnostics and treatments with the ultimate goal of finding a cure.

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Programs

Sarah DeFeo

Chief Program Officer

Sarah DeFeo, OCRA’s Chief Program Officer, joined OCRA in November 2008 and oversees OCRA’s annual grant solicitation and review progress, working closely with the Scientific Advisory Committee. Under her leadership, applications to OCRA’s three research grant programs have quadrupled.

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Development

Jon Zeidman

Chief Development Officer

Jon Zeidman is OCRA’s Chief Development Officer and is responsible for the design, implementation, and oversight of OCRA’s fundraising programs including annual giving, major gifts, direct mail, corporate partnerships, foundation relations, and special events. He has more than 13 years of experience in the nonprofit sector.

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Communications

Operations

Lydia Smith

Senior Director, Operations

Lydia Smith is OCRA’s Senior Director, Operations. She joined OCRA in 2024 and oversees the organization’s day-to-day operations, maintaining office management, IT, and Human Resources while serving as a member of the finance team and collaborating with various departments and teams. She works to implement new initiatives to improve operational effectiveness.

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Related Topics

The Overview: November 2025

The Overview: November 2025

Friends, As we approach the end of the year, one thing stands out above all else: this is a moment of unprecedented opportunity to accelerate progress against ovarian and all gynecologic cancers. And thanks to you, OCRA is rising to meet that moment — driving innovation, expanding support, and providing the community that so many … Continued

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OCRA Board Member Laura Shawver, PhD, Named to Fierce 50 of 2025

OCRA Board Member Laura Shawver, PhD, Named to Fierce 50 of 2025

Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance (OCRA) congratulates board member Laura Shawver, PhD, on her selection to the Fierce 50 of 2025, a leading industry award from Fierce Life Sciences recognizing individuals and organizations advancing what’s possible in health, science and patient care. Dr. Shawver was selected for her long-standing leadership in oncology research and drug development, … Continued

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Make 2X the Difference with OCRA this Giving Season

Make 2X the Difference with OCRA this Giving Season

YOU Can Help Shape the Future of Ovarian and Gynecologic Cancer Care We need your help to reach our important $2 million year-end fundraising goal. Your donation will be matched up to $500,000 through 12/31, thanks to a generous OCRA board member. That means your $1 = $2 to improve care, foster hope, and bring … Continued

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