Minneapolis, Minn. --- Feb. 2, 2007 --- DeAnn Lazovich, Ph.D., University of Minnesota Epidemiologist, was named Minnesota Cancer Alliance Steering Committee Vice Chair at a recent Steering Committee meeting. She will assume her one-year position as chair in 2008.

“I have been involved in cancer research since the early 1980s,” says Dr. Lazovich, who is looking forward to her leadership role. “My involvement with the Minnesota Cancer Alliance represents the first time that my experience, expertise and passion for public health come together to improve our citizens' health by reducing the burden of cancer. We have the knowledge and tools to achieve our goals by working together and I am excited to do my part.”

Dr. Lazovich has played an integral role in the planning processes for Cancer Plan Minnesota and the Alliance. She has served as co-chair of the Cancer Plan Minnesota Cancer Prevention Workgroup; member of the Cancer Plan Minnesota Data Committee; member of the Cancer Plan Minnesota Steering Committee and Interim Steering Committee; and is currently a member of the Minnesota Cancer Alliance Steering Committee; co-chair of the Evaluation Committee; and chair of the Minnesota Cancer Alliance Advisory Council at the University of Minnesota Cancer Center.  

The Minnesota Cancer Alliance is a statewide coalition of health care organizations, cancer centers, community-based groups and volunteers dedicated to implementing the state’s first comprehensive cancer plan, Cancer Plan Minnesota 2005-2010. Developed through a collaboration of public, private, and non-profit organizations, the plan was published in 2005 and now serves as a common framework for action to reduce the burden of cancer among all people living in Minnesota. For more information, visit www.mncanceralliance.org.