Meet Our Board Members

At the heart of the Rose M. Turknett Cancer Network (RMT) lies a dedicated team of leaders who steer our organization with passion, expertise, and a deep commitment to our mission. Our Board of Directors plays a pivotal role in guiding RMT's efforts to support cancer patients and their families throughout their journey.

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Barbara Turknett Edwards

Founder & President

Barbara Turknett Edwards is not only the founder and President but also the driving force behind RMT. Her journey as a cancer survivor and advocate has shaped the vision and mission of our organization. Barbara brings to the table a wealth of experience in healthcare advocacy, patient support, and community outreach. Her leadership is fueled by a profound dedication to improving the lives of those affected by cancer through innovative programs and compassionate care initiatives.

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Joseph Akharoh

Strategic Manager / National Community Outreach Director

Joseph Akharoh serves as our Strategic Manager and National Community Outreach Director, bringing his extensive experience and passion to the team. A native of Texas now residing in Miami, Florida, Joseph has dedicated over five years to working within the medical nonprofit community.
Joseph holds four college degrees, including a Master’s in International Business from Florida International University. His educational background provides a strong foundation for his strategic and project management roles, ensuring our initiatives are both impactful and sustainable.

His commitment to nonprofit work is deeply personal. Having benefited from various nonprofit assistance programs as a child dealing with sickle cell disease, Joseph's dedication to giving back is rooted in gratitude and empathy. His unique perspective as a former beneficiary drives his passion for making a difference in the lives of others.

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Doreen Fox

MAPA, LPC: Licensed Professional Counselor

Doreen Fox is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a Master of Arts in Professional Counseling (MAPA). With many years of experience in counseling and community outreach in behavioral health, Doreen brings a wealth of knowledge and compassion to our board.

Her extensive background in mental health services and community engagement allows her to provide invaluable insights into the psychological and emotional aspects of cancer advocacy. Doreen’s dedication to improving the well-being of individuals and families affected by cancer is evident in her commitment to our organization’s mission.

Doreen's expertise in behavioral health is crucial to our efforts in providing holistic support to those we serve. Her compassionate approach and professional experience ensure that our programs are not only effective but also empathetic and inclusive, addressing the diverse needs of our community.

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Merilyn Turknett

Administrative Director

Marylin Turknett serves as our Administrative Director, bringing a wealth of experience and organizational acumen to our team. She holds a business degree from All-State Business School and has spent many years as an executive assistant and administrator.

Marilyn's extensive background in executive support and administration ensures the smooth operation of our organization. Her attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to manage complex tasks are invaluable assets to our board and our mission.

With her strong business acumen and dedication, Merylin plays a critical role in maintaining the efficiency and effectiveness of our programs. Her leadership in administrative functions allows our team to focus on advocacy and community outreach, knowing that the foundation of our operations is in capable hands.

Governance &
Oversight

The Board of Directors at RMT is responsible for steering the organization's strategic direction, governance, and financial stewardship. They ensure that every initiative aligns with our mission to provide comprehensive support and resources to cancer patients from diagnosis through survivorship.

Building Trust through Expertise

Each member of our Board brings a unique set of skills and experiences that collectively strengthen RMT's impact. Their diverse backgrounds in healthcare, finance, advocacy, and community service ensure that RMT operates with integrity, transparency, and accountability.

Engaging with
Our Community

We invite you to explore opportunities to engage with RMT and support our mission. Whether you are considering a donation, volunteering your time, or exploring partnership opportunities, our Board of Directors stands ready to inspire confidence through their leadership and dedication to making a difference in the lives of those affected by cancer.