Who We Are

Board of Directors

Susan Patterson

CEO/Executive Director

Susan Patterson

After a career in Marketing for Solar Energy companies (including 4 years in Bermuda), Susan made the decision to leave the corporate world and help to fulfill a dream of the founder of Ovations for the Cure, Patty Franchi Flaherty, to create a nonprofit designed specifically to support women with ovarian cancer. In 2005, during Patty’s last recurrence until her passing in 2009, Susan, Patty, and their friends and family worked diligently to create Patty’s vision. After her passing, Susan continued to work at Ovations supporting the Board created by Patty and continuing the vision.

During the pandemic in 2020, Susan completed the academic requirement to be certified as a registered Death Doula.

In 2022, the Board reached the decision that they had done all they could and were ready to step down. With that decision, Susan took control of Ovations and created a female-focused Board of Directors with ties to the ovarian cancer community to assist in her vision to grow Ovations and raise enough funds to help even more women!

Tina Gee

Treasurer

Tina Gee

Tina began volunteering with Ovations for the Cure in 2010, when she participated in her first W.A.R. Against Ovarian Cancer 5K. In 2022 Tina officially joined Ovations’ board. Since her own ovarian cancer diagnosis in 2009, Tina has been involved with raising awareness and funds for ovarian cancer research, specifically by captaining Team Ovations for the Dana Farber Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk since 2014, helping raise over $620,000 to date.

Tina was born and raised in the Boston area and is an executive administrator at Breakthrough Energy Ventures. When she isn’t dialing for dollars for ovarian cancer research, Tina enjoys spending time with friends and family, spin classes and traveling to new destinations. Tina, together with Ovations for the Cure, was a recipient of the 2023 Myra Kraft Community MVP Awards, awarding Ovations for the Cure $10,000.

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Laura Morrissey

Clerk

Ursula Matulonis MD

Medical Advisor

Patti Hess

PRESIDENT

Giovanna Franchi

Director Emeritus

Giovanna Franchi

Giovanna is the first cousin of our founder, Patricia Franchi Flaherty. Since Ovations’ inception, she has participated in numerous events, to show her support of the organization. She proudly joined the board in 2022 and is excited about her new role and this new phase of Ovations!

Giovanna is a long-time resident of Boston’s South End and a “retired” psychotherapist, spiritual director, reiki master and flight attendant. She is a volunteer for the BSO, Boston Ballet, and St. Cecilia’s Parish. A lifelong learner and traveler, she is always open to a new adventure with family and friends - old and new.