CLRA Staff
Angela Russo
Executive Director
Reporting directly to the Board of Trustees, Angela is responsible for the all-inclusive operation/administration of the organization.
Just prior to joining CLRA in 2018, Angela learned her son’s mother-in-law was diagnosed with Leukemia, became quite ill and doctors were unable to determine the success of her treatment. Shortly after this devastating period, the opportunity to join CLRA was presented to Ms. Russo. As witness to the effects of this disease she was elated to accept the C.L.R.A position and is dedicated to the mission of the Children’s Leukemia Research Association.
Ms. Russo has served 18 years as Executive Director for a Not-for-Profit organization within the profession of psychology. Previous experience includes over twenty five years of various managerial positions (including HR and EAP) for a major airline. She is a member of the Malverne American Legion Auxiliary, has served on the St. Joseph R.C. church fundraising committee as well as teaching CCD and serving as a Eucharistic Minister within the parish. Angela earned her bachelor’s degree in Business Administration where she graduated Magna cum laude from Adelphi University located in Garden City, New York.
Tara Coleman
Director of Operations
As the Director of Operations, Tara is responsible for all aspects of the Patient Aid program and works with our Executive Director to manage the day-to-day operations.
Tara received her Bachelor’s degree from SUNY Oneonta, MBA from Dowling College, and an Excellence in Nonprofit Management Certificate from Adelphi University. She has several years of experience managing technical training programs and teaching Microsoft Office courses. She has been a dedicated volunteer and advocate for children serving her community as PTA Secretary, Treasurer and President.
Tara joined CLRA in 2018.
In her own words, “The best part of my job is that it doesn’t feel like a job. I truly enjoy connecting with the families in our program. It is SO important to me to make the financial assistance process as easy as possible. Sometimes, they just need a couple of minutes on the phone with a caring voice to unload some burdens. I’m happy to lend that ear. A cancer diagnosis is life changing. The age of the patient doesn’t matter.
Our young families have to figure out how to afford and get the best care for their sick children while still running a household and caring for other children. Our adult patients are faced with financial obstacles that can seem insurmountable at times. Anything that we can provide to alleviate that burden is deeply appreciated by all of the patients and families in our program.”
In Memory of JoAnn Russo
Operational/Organizational Volunteer
JoAnn Russo, started in 2018 as a resolute volunteer in all phases of the organization’s operational and administrative duties. During the time she spent with CLRA. JoAnn tirelessly assisted the staff in doing all possible to fundraise and assist with patient aid. Being ill and in pain during this time, her empathy and compassion dealing with patients was extraordinary! JoAnn succumbed to her health condition and is sorely missed by all. Her positive spirit and unwavering desire to help others will always prevail.