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.
Audra Moran
President & CEO
Audra Moran has served as President and CEO of Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance (OCRA) since 2010, guiding its transformation into the world’s largest organization dedicated to advancing ovarian and related gynecologic cancer research while supporting people affected by gynecologic cancer.
During her tenure, OCRA has nearly tripled in size, expanded its national and international reach, and significantly increased its investment in research, with more than $150 million awarded to date. Today, OCRA serves more than 140,000 people annually through its patient support, education, and advocacy 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.
Vice President, Support & Education
Senior Director, Treatment Access and Scientific Education
Senior Director, Social Work Education and Research
Director, Patient Support
Director, Survivors Teaching Students®
Director, Education
Senior Manager, Patient Support
Manager, Programs
Steps Counselor
Steps Counselor
Steps Counselor
Jon Zeidman
Chief Development Officer
Jon Zeidman is OCRA’s Chief Development Officer, where he leads the organization’s comprehensive revenue strategy, including major gifts, annual giving, corporate and industry partnerships, foundation relations, special events, and planned giving. As a member of OCRA’s executive team, he helps shape the organization’s strategic direction and long-term growth. Jon also provides executive oversight for the organization’s finance, human resources, and operational functions.
Lydia Smith
Vice President, Operations & Finance
Lydia Smith is OCRA’s Vice President, Operations & Finance. She joined the organization in 2024 and oversees core operational functions, including human resources, information technology, compliance, and organizational infrastructure, as well as executive oversight of financial management. She brings a strategic, systems-focused approach to building efficient and mission-aligned operations that support OCRA’s work.
OCRA’s Rivkin Ovarian Cancer Research Symposium Convenes A Scientific Community Ready To Accelerate Progress More than 375 researchers, clinicians, and advocates gathered in Philadelphia for the 16th Biennial Rivkin Ovarian Cancer Research Symposium, presented for the first time by Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance (OCRA). Founded in 1996, the Symposium is the longest-standing meeting dedicated to … Continued
This article was updated in October 2026 to reflect NCCN’s release of the 2026 Guidelines for Ovarian Cancer Patients. OCRA is a proud sponsor of the 2026 Patient Guidelines for Ovarian Cancer, Cervical Cancer, and Uterine Cancer. We believe ensuring access to clear, understandable information is critical. NCCN provides wonderful guides for anyone newly diagnosed … Continued
Researchers, clinicians, and advocates gather to share findings and build collaborations More than 375 researchers, clinicians, and advocates from across the ovarian cancer community gathered in Philadelphia for the 16th Biennial Rivkin Ovarian Cancer Research Symposium, presented for the first time by Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance (OCRA), from October 16-18. Founded in 1996 by the … Continued
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