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
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.
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
Senior Manager, Programs
Manager, Programs
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.
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.
April is a full month at OCRA, with several new programs joining our ongoing lineup of workshops, educational sessions, and community events. Whether you’re looking for practical guidance, clinical information, or simply a chance to connect and create, there’s something here for you. New and Expanded Programs Advanced Care Planning Workshop Series April 6, 13, … Continued
Written by Julia Thayer, Associate Director, Advocacy This month, more than 120 OCRA Advocate Leaders traveled to Washington, DC for Advocacy Day—braving snowstorms, severe weather, and even a partial government shutdown to make their voices heard on Capitol Hill. We kicked things off with a full day of training, where the group built skills, shared stories, and … Continued
On March 17, 122 Advocate Leaders from nearly 40 states and Washington, DC, converged on Capitol Hill for OCRA’s Spring Advocacy Day. Together, they held 158 meetings with Congressional offices, carrying a clear message: Congress must sustain and build on its commitment to ovarian and gynecologic cancer research. The energy and reach of this year’s … Continued
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