NETRF has lost a leader in its community to neuroendocrine cancer. Carol Branaman died in early June. Carol joined the NETRF Board of Directors in 2011. She was Chair of the Board from 2014 through 2016 and Vice Chair in 2017 to the present. Carol’s involvement in NETRF was inspired by her own experience with NETs. She was captivated by what research was being conducted in neuroendocrine cancer, realizing that research was the first step to understand neuroendocrine tumors.
“Carol was an energetic and passionate advocate for neuroendocrine cancer research funding,” said Joe Li, MD, Chair, Board of Directors. “She had an inquisitive mind and was not afraid to ask hard questions. She represented the best in all of us and it was truly a pleasure to serve alongside her. She will be missed.”
On the NETRF Board of Directors, Carol challenged the Foundation’s leadership to reach further, dream bigger, and extend our community of researchers. She led the Board during a period of unprecedented growth, both in NETRF’s ability to fund research and the development of organizational structure. Carol also advocated for the investigation of promising research that could lead to new treatment options. During Carol’s service on the Board, NETRF funded many innovative research projects, such as CAR T-cell therapy, immunotherapy, PRRT, and most recently, smart chemotherapy and a cancer vaccine.
“Carol cared deeply about NETRF, but even more deeply about our staff, fellow Board members, and supporters,” said Elyse Gellerman, NETRF CEO. “We will greatly miss her friendship and guidance.”
Carol was a bold, brave leader, willing to explore opportunities. Her energy and positivity shone brightly, offering others strength and hope. Her presence will be missed, but her impact on the organization is profound and lasting. As a result, generations going forward will benefit from her passion, purpose, and courage.
Carol retired from a career as an air traffic controller and regional executive of the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA). She began as a controller at the Daytona Beach Tower, later transferring to the tower at Centennial ATCT in Colorado.
She is survived by her husband, Tim Branaman; sisters, Barbara Taylor and Nancy Miller; and her beloved dog, Mattie.