Our history began with Dr. Joel Warren and his request for $250,000 for cancer research. He approached Theresa Castro, who was inspired to create an organization for funding and research. With Castro at the helm, one hundred of her friends pledged $2,500 and joined the Royal Dames mission. Together, they created the 501(c)(3) non-profit: the Royal Dames of Cancer Research, Inc.
Today, the Royal Dames support the ground-breaking work being done at the Rumabaugh-Goodwin Institute for Cancer Research, now located at Nova Southeastern University. We have come far, but with your help we can go the distance to find a cure.
For more than six decades, the Royal Dames of Cancer Research has been guided by a simple but powerful belief: that together, we can change the future of cancer. Because of your generosity, advocacy, and unwavering commitment, that belief has become real progress and real hope for patients and families everywhere.
Cancer research is not abstract, it saves lives. It drives breakthroughs in prevention, detection, treatment, and survivorship, and brings hope in moments when it is hardest to hold. Through this work, we move closer to a world where cancer no longer defines outcomes or limits possibility.
Since 1969, you have been the driving force behind this progress. Your support of our fundraising, volunteer leadership, and steadfast support have advanced critical research, sustained scientists at every stage of discovery, and ensured innovation continues even in challenging times. Our mission would simply not be possible without you, our members and donors.
While we are proud of how far we have come, the work ahead remains urgent. Cancer is one of the most complex challenges of our time, and continued investment in research is essential. On behalf of our board, researchers, and all whose lives have been touched by this work, thank you for believing in science, standing with patients and families, and helping shape the future of cancer care.
With deep gratitude,
We are a community of volunteers. Ever since our founding over fifty years ago, all of our proceeds have gone to cancer research.
The Royal Dames maintains its mission to eradicate cancer. As of today, millions of dollars have been raised to encourage and aid individuals fighting the battle with cancer. Our funds have also gone toward enriching and supporting educational programs and critical cancer research at the Rumbaugh-Goodwin Institute.
PRESIDENT
Sophia Mylona
THIRD VICE PRESIDENT, PUBLIC RELATIONS
Caroline Mozo
VICE PRESIDENT, WAYS AND MEANS
Bonnie Mitten
TREASURER
Martha Bohler
SECOND VICE PRESIDENT, MEMBERSHIP
Ladan Ahmadi
RECORDING SECRETARY
Victoria Martoccia
Bonnie Barnett
Sharon Gustafson Florescue
Sharon McQuilian
Carole Nugent
Joey Stotsky
Martha Bohler
Carol Kalagher
Bonnie Mitten
Ladan Ahmadi Patel
Shannon Brown Wayte
Terra Buckley
Lisa Kasten
Caroline Mozo
Giuliana Pelletier
Nancy Westin
Sharon Gustafson
Florescue
Victoria Martoccia
Sophia Mylona
Rhonda Ritchie
Gloria Jacaruso
Bailey Brooks Mashburn
Hilary Reid
Ava Shore
2018-2025
Ms. Carole Nugent
2010-2011
Mrs. Janet Davis
2006-2007
Mrs. Carmen Hotchkiss
1997-1998
Dr. Marietta Glazer
1988-1991
Dr. Nell Lewis McGuire
1979-1981
Mrs. Theresa Castro
2016-2018
Ms. Rhonda Ritchie
2009-2010
Dr. Marietta Glazer
2003-2006
Mrs. Robin Blackwell Lööf
1996-1997
Mrs. Patty Grace
1986-1988
Mrs. Helen Isley
1977-1979
Mrs. Millicent Steele
2013-2016
Ms. Carole Nugent
2008-2009
Mrs. Sharon Navarro
2000-2003
Mrs. Sharron Navarro
1993-1996
Mrs. Lorraine Thomas
1983-1986
Mrs. Marleen Wiersum
1975-1977
Mrs. Bernadette Guida
2011-2013
Mrs. Joey Stotsky
2007-2008
Mrs. Lorraine Thomas
1998-2000
Mrs. Jullianne Finch
1991-1993
Mrs. Donna Casto
1981-1983
Mrs. Marge Cooper
1969-1975
Mrs. Theresa Castro
The Royal Dames are committed to handling all donations responsibly, furthering cancer research, and aiding those in need.