Nine months ago today I started working for the American Cancer Society. When I was considering the move to this job, my biggest concern was that the culture at ACS wouldn’t be as professional or intense as other options. I think there is a common conception that not for profit organizations lack professionalism.

I can proudly report that this is not the case with ACS. My colleges are among the most talented, driven, and professional individuals I have ever encountered. The work environment and culture is amazing.

I work as the Director of Data Management for the Mid-South Division of the American Cancer Society. The Mid-South is composed of local offices in Kentucky, Tennessee, Mississippi, Alabama, Louisiana, and Arkansas. Basically I make sure we are collecting the right kind of information, and using it strategically to serve our constituents better. Using technical tools and rethinking our business procedures, I hope to decrease mortality rates, fund additional cancer research, and provide services to patients in our underserved communities.

It goes without saying that working for an organization like the American Cancer Society is rewarding on many levels. It was a hard decision to make the career move in this direction, but if I had known then what I know now, it would have been the easiest decision of my life.