Staff

Each ACPMP staff member has been directly affected by appendix cancer and/or PMP.

Deborah Shelton
Executive Director
deborahs@acpmp.org

Deborah M. Shelton is grateful for the privilege that she has each and every day to contribute to the ACPMP Research Foundation her deep knowledge and extensive professional experience in drug development with a focus on rare cancers. Deborah has spent over 25 years as an FDA regulatory advisor to a diverse set of stakeholders, including patients and caregivers, researchers, drug and device developers, and legislative bodies. In her professional capacity, Deborah has helped this diverse group of stakeholders to navigate the complex considerations and regulations pertinent to clinical research, and the testing and commercialization of cutting-edge pharmaceuticals and medical devices directed at enhancing the timely diagnosis and effective treatments for cancers and other serious diseases. She is an honors graduate of the University of Maryland School of Law, a frequent presenter at FDA-related conferences and has authored numerous publications on various topics of interest in the regulatory sphere.

As with all of her colleagues at ACPMP, Deborah’s personal journey with appendix cancer inspired her to dedicate her time to ACPMP. Deborah’s spouse is a survivor of appendix cancer. She was diagnosed in August 2018 and underwent CRS/HIPEC that October. For several years prior to her spouse being diagnosed, Deborah had been actively engaged in patient advocacy and issues involving the need to incentivize innovation for the development of therapies to treat cancers and other diseases where there is critical unmet medical need. Her spouse’s subsequent diagnosis with ACPMP and their collective personal experience with the numerous challenges presented following that diagnosis has further fueled Deborah’s zeal for that work, taking the fight now to both a professional and personal level.

Deborah’s primary focus in her work at ACPMP is in further developing the ACPMPs research grant program, clinical trial network, and the organization’s scientific and educational initiatives.

Deborah resides in Silver Spring, Maryland with her spouse (Kate), Deborah's 85-year “young” mother, and their two rescue dogs. In her spare time, she loves exploring salt marshes by kayak with Kate, exploring beaches, and reading Nordic detective novels with a good cup of strong coffee in hand.

Click here to see Deborah's video for Giving Tuesday

Alyssa Strackbein
Operations Coordinator
alyssa@acpmp.org

Alyssa joins the Appendix Cancer Research Foundation as the new full-time Operations Coordinator, bringing with her a wealth of diverse experiences and a deep personal connection to the cause. Her journey over the past decade has seen her explore various roles, each contributing to her unique skill set and abilities. From managing an art gallery and artist program, where she was able to foster relationships within the creative community, to community operations for a coworking space, where she excelled in ensuring a productive and harmonious environment for professionals from diverse backgrounds and providing meaningful events to foster community.

Recognizing her affinity for technology, Alyssa then ventured into the field of digital strategy and web development, joining an IT consulting company. Her expertise in developing digital strategies and crafting engaging online experiences proved invaluable in helping businesses achieve their goals.

However, it was Alyssa's personal experience that truly inspired her to dedicate her time and talents to ACPMP. In 2021, her spouse began her battle with appendix cancer, although the battle started long before she was diagnosed. Sadly, her spouse, Jennifer, passed away on September 26, 2022. Witnessing firsthand the challenges and impact of this disease, Alyssa developed a profound understanding of the urgency and importance of appendix cancer research, and felt working for ACPMP was meant to be.

With a deep-rooted connection to the cause, she is committed to advancing research, raising awareness, and supporting individuals affected by appendix cancer.

Alyssa resides in Norfolk, Virginia with her cat, Slim. Outside of work, she finds solace in meditating, reading in her hammock, visiting art galleries, taking walks with friends, and being in nature.

Jamila Slade
Administrative Coordinator
jamila@acpmp.org

Jamila joins our team with an MBA from Duke, and has past experience working for non-profit organizations. Her skills and expertise in organizational management, business, finance, and marketing will be invaluable in supporting our organization.

In addition to her professional background, Jamila has a personal connection to the cause. Her family has a history of cancer, and she is dedicated to making a difference in the lives of those affected by this disease.

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