Community Scientist Program
COE-SCORE incorporates the perspectives of Community Scientists into Moffitt's internal pilot research funding mechanisms. Community Scientists are individuals from the Tampa Bay community who are cancer patients, cancer survivors, caregivers, or representatives from community organizations who serve as voluntary grant reviewers.
Our Community Scientists complete trainings led by COE-SCORE to learn how to review and rate research grant applications. They serve as reviewers for internal research applications including Moffitt Catchment Area Research Enhancement Support (M-CARES) awards, George Edgecomb Society (GES) awards and Miles for Moffitt awards. They provide feedback to Moffitt’s Grants Review Committee, which determine which pilot projects to fund. Community Scientists include members of Moffitt’s Patient and Family Advisory Council, the Tampa Bay Community Cancer Network, the George Edgecomb Society and the Research Integration Committee.
To learn more about becoming a Community Scientist for a future review cycle, please contact COE-SCORE at COE-SCORE@Moffitt.org.
We are pleased to recognize our Community Scientists:
Judy Adkins
PFAP Patient Advisor
Community Scientist since 2024
Ms. Judy Adkins is a graduate of Florida State University with a BS in Social Science and further training in computer programming. She worked in IT for the State of Florida for 20 years and at several companies in the Tampa area before retiring. In 2013, she was diagnosed with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) and treated successfully at another cancer center. In 2016, she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer (stage 3c) and referred to Moffitt for surgery. She continued her treatment at Moffitt, and she has had no evidence of disease since then. In 2021, Ms. Adkins began volunteering at Moffitt as a digital sherpa and later became a patient advocate. She actively volunteers in the Patient Library and as a comfort companion.
Why do you want to be a Community Scientist?
As a cancer survivor and volunteer with Moffitt, I know the importance of finding cancer as early as possible. The need for outreach to a community that has been marginalized and ignored for so many years is imperative. The disparities that exist can cause needless suffering and death among the minority populations that can be served by Moffitt. I am honored to be a part of any effort to assist in ensuring that Moffitt is using the most effective ways to reach out to and meet the needs of all the people in its service area.
Felicia Bell
Former TBCCN Community Advisor
Community Scientist since 2025
Ms. Felicia L. Bell is a Management Consultant-Cerner Certified with Oracle Corporation, which provides after-sales services to clients and affiliated entities across the United States and globally. Ms. Bell's most recent professional experience notably includes advising clients in the healthcare sector on complex matters related to implementation, activation, start-up, troubleshooting, testing, maintenance, and training regarding diverse Cerner health information systems, tools, solutions and software at client sites and facilities.
Ms. Bell holds a Bachelor's degree in communication from DePauw University and a Master's degree in human resource development and training from Indiana State University. She has over 30 years of experience in higher education environments. Over the last 24 years, her transformative impact within the community has been related to her ability to identify, develop and foster strong relationships within communities around the Bay to Pinellas County, reaching Central and South Florida, while connecting people and organizations to resources. Ms. Bell has served with various community organizations, including CareerSource Tampa Bay, The Skill Center, Big Brothers and Sisters and the Bullard Family Foundation.
Why do you want to be a Community Scientist?
Over the years, I have had the opportunity to support Moffitt in various capacities, from the community engagement committee to TBBCN and the RESET initiative, all allows me to connect with an organization whose mission hits close to home on a professional and personal level. Being a Community Scientist allows me to continue an active connection with the organization and to have an impact in a new way.
Lolita Dash-Pitts, CCHW, DM/DWBE, SBE, WMBE, ED/WOSB, WOSB
RIC member, TBCCN Community Advisor, served on Moffitt’s Community Advisory Board
Community Scientist since 2025
Ms. Lolita Dash-Pitts was hired by the State of Florida in 2001 to represent the Front Revitalization Council as the Community Liaison, and became the Executive Director of Front Porch Community Development Association, Inc. in 2004, when the organization became a 501(c)3. In 2015, Lolita received her Florida certification as an independent Certified Community Health Worker (CCHW), and by certification date, she is the first Community Health Worker (CHW) to be certified in Florida.
With nearly 35 years of experience in community development and organizing, Ms. Dash-Pitts has extensive experience and knowledge of nonprofit strategic planning, capacity building, professional development, grant writing, and program management. Ms. Dash-Pitts is well known for her active participation in the Center for Equal Health (CEH) grant-funded project as a Community Health Worker, and the Florida Prevention Research Center (FPRC) at USF as the Community Coordinator. She is truly committed to the communities she serves and her compassion for her community is unwavering.
Why do you want to be a Community Scientist?
Immediately upon reading the description and requirements of the Community Scientist position, I knew this was a perfect opportunity to display my abilities in this particular professional area. Although experience and knowledge were not required to be selected for the position, I have utilized both my knowledge and experience as a grant writer, a former grant reviewer, and a health advocacy trainer to complete the required tasks. My longevity as a community collaborative partner with the Moffitt team also demonstrates my commitment and support of Moffitt’s initiatives, projects and programs. By serving in the capacity of Community Scientist, I am an asset to Moffitt, and I will continue to be an asset to the communities I serve.
Shanel Greene, MPH, CPH
TBCCN Community Advisor
Community Scientist since 2025
Ms. Greene is a public health professional with experience in health policy, reviewing grants, client navigation and program operations at the state and local level. Currently, she works with the Florida Department of Health (DOH) as a Contract Manager, and she previously supported a screening and referral program that connected DOH clients with community resources such as housing, employment, transportation and health services. Prior to that, she provided contract oversight with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Program Office at the Department of Children and Families. In addition, she has supported university research grants aimed at reducing gun violence in Florida and promoting inclusivity in early childhood education for children on the autism spectrum. Her work is grounded in developing practical solutions for increasing service access to healthcare and health-related systems for underserved and marginalized populations.
Why do you want to be a Community Scientist?
In the past, as an intern, I assisted with grant writing and coordination at the VA Hospital on a 50K grant to support cardiac health in women veterans. In addition, as a SAMHSA intern, I worked directly with new programs/providers, reviewing their applications to assist them with navigating the RFP process in the federal funding landscape. I've even served on a review team to award a $10M central receiving systems grant to behavioral healthcare providers in Florida.
Every project was extremely rewarding, and each has given me deeper insight into how grants function as tools to drive impact and innovation. Also, my goal is to continue to reduce disparities in underrepresented communities. On a personal note, I've lost three family members to cancer in the last three years, and I would like to contribute to any efforts that can increase awareness, provider trust, and access to care in these communities.
Angela Hill, Pharm.D., RPh, CRPh, FAACP
TBCCN Community Advisor
Community Scientist since 2025
Dr. Angela Hill is a seasoned pharmacist with specific training and clinical expertise in neurology, psychiatry, geriatrics, alternative medicine, health disparities, community-engaged research, leadership and advocacy. She has practiced in retail pharmacy, academia, specialty clinics, primary care and research. She is currently affiliated with the USF Taneja College of Pharmacy and provides clinical services at Dr. Traci’s House. She is a longstanding member of Moffitt’s Tampa Bay Community Cancer Network (TBCCN), and has worked collaboratively with the Moffitt Cancer Center pharmacy department, Lung & Thoracic Cancer Community Outreach Department and the former Moffitt Cancer Outreach and Education Committee. She is a proud graduate of Florida A&M University, consultant pharmacist and owner of Paragon Pharmacy Services and Professional Solutions.
Why do you want to be a Community Scientist?
I wanted to serve in the Community Scientist Program to offer my insights as a community member with a strong family history and many acquaintances who have or had cancer. I also think that my insights as a health professional and advocate for clinical trial participation will be beneficial. Lastly, I was excited about the opportunity to learn more about research and funding processes that benefit the community.
Walter Inman
PFAP Patient Advisor
Community Scientist since 2024
Mr. Inman is a retired Pharmacist who spent many years in positions of healthcare leadership, including hospital administration and operations.
He is a cancer survivor, and is committed to the active support of cancer patients, their families and friends. He works with cancer support organizations, including Moffitt Cancer Center, where he is still an active patient. He enjoys applying his career experience to also support Moffitt and its operations. He is especially passionate about supporting cancer patients, Veterans’ groups and animal rescues.
Why do you want to be a Community Scientist?
I am a Patient Advisor at Moffitt, a 10-year survivor of AML. I am passionate about supporting other cancer patients on their journey, and I believe that, in part, this means doing what I can to ensure their survival. Research is critical to the possibilities for newer and better treatments for cancer, so I wanted to support our research efforts. In my career, I was a Pharmacist involved in Hospital Operations, so I am familiar with some of the activities involved in research processes. I enjoy understanding the projects and ways to facilitate their development. My interest in this opportunity is from both a patient’s perspective and from the perspective of the organization.
Yvonne Kelly Montell, EdD, MBA, PHR
TBCCN Community Advisor
Community Scientist since 2023; Inaugural Member
Dr. Yvonne Montell joined Premier Community HealthCare, Inc., in 2022 as Grants Manager, Corporate and Foundation Relations. She has a 20-year professional career in grant development and management for non-profits and community projects as development/ engagement manager, and she previously worked in the higher education arena. In her role as Grants Manager, she is responsible for increasing funding revenue streams in the areas of corporate, foundation, and private donors. She intends to focus on these areas to promote community health center services and build awareness among the priority population.
Dr. Montell received her doctorate degree from Argosy University in Tampa, Florida. She continues to pursue her passion for education and earned Advanced Graduate Professional Certificates in International Business, Global Sustainability, Management, and a Graduate Certificate in Instructional Design. Yvonne completed an M.B.A. in Project Management and Health Care Management and Human Services Management with Saint Leo University. She has a passion for influencing systems and is actively involved in changing communities.
Why do you want to be a Community Scientist?
I was very interested in the opportunity to serve as a community reviewer for the M-CARES pilot grant program. I have a deep appreciation for the importance of research and have actively engaged in prior research projects; for example, the National Association of Community Health Centers (NACHC) adult immunization initiatives. Furthermore, I have served as a dissertation and grant reviewer, which has equipped me with a strong foundation to evaluate and provide meaningful feedback on research proposals. As the Grants Manager at Premier Community HealthCare, we’ve worked with Tampa Bay Community Cancer Network (TBCCN) to earnestly highlight Men’s Health issues within our community.
Cathy Schaffer
PFAP member
Community Scientist since 2023
Ms. Cathy Schaffer has been a member of Moffitt’s Patient and Family Advisory Program (PFAP) since 2019. She participates in the Communication Skills Training program as an actor working with doctors on end-of-life issues. She also works on the Partners Newsletter and the Pup Project on screening potential service dogs.
Why do you want to be a Community Scientist?
I am a 2018 breast cancer survivor. We had just relocated to Tampa. Only by luck of advertising did I hear about Moffitt Cancer Center. It's a frightening experience, feeling you have nowhere to go to get help. Being a survivor, I understand the importance and the magnitude of prevention, education and outreach. I would like to be part of a grant mechanism that supports research that potentially impacts social determinants of health for at-risk communities. Increasing awareness in the community enhances Moffitt's reputation as a trustworthy cancer center.
Lisa L. Stewart, BSN, RN
TBCCN Community Advisor
Community Scientist since 2025
Ms. Lisa Stewart, BSN, RN, has over 20 years of nursing experience and a strong foundation in public health. She currently serves as a Program Manager at the Florida Department of Health, overseeing Community Health Client Services programs. A graduate of the University of South Florida with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, she is based in the Tampa Bay area. As an ovarian cancer survivor who received treatment at Moffitt Cancer Center, Lisa offers a unique perspective on program planning and service delivery. She is serving as a grant reviewer for the first time, bringing her professional knowledge and lived experience to the process with a commitment to thoughtful and impactful evaluation. A proud mother of four, she has a passion for both the arts and sciences and is deeply committed to developing effective, community-centered strategies that improve access to care and support the well-being of Florida’s residents.
Why do you want to be a Community Scientist?
My journey as a registered nurse and program manager for a community health department's breast and cervical cancer early detection program has provided me with a deep understanding of the challenges and disparities faced by individuals navigating cancer care. Coupled with my personal experience as an ovarian cancer survivor treated at Moffitt Cancer Center, I possess a unique perspective that bridges the gap between clinical expertise and lived experience. I was profoundly interested in becoming a Community Scientist to leverage my skills and insights to contribute to meaningful research and initiatives that directly impact cancer prevention, early detection, and survivorship within underserved communities. I am particularly passionate about ensuring that research is not only scientifically rigorous but also culturally sensitive and responsive to the specific needs of diverse populations. I believe my ability to translate complex medical information, coupled with my firsthand understanding of the patient experience, is invaluable for fostering collaborative research partnerships and driving positive change within the Tampa Bay community and beyond.
Stephanie Wynn
TBCCN Community Advisor
Advancing Clinical Trials - Community Advisory Committee Member
Community Scientist since 2025
Ms. Wynn is a 3X Author, IBD Patient Navigator® Survivor, Certified Patient Leader, and President of the Stephanie A. Wynn Foundation, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to eliminating health disparities and improving outcomes for individuals and communities affected by Inflammatory Bowel Disease through comprehensive support services, prioritizing underserved populations facing the greatest barriers to healthcare. Founded in 2021 following Stephanie’s near-death experience with IBD, the organization addresses critical gaps in care.
A native Floridian with extensive experience in financial services, branding, marketing, and business development, Ms. Wynn has worked with Franklin Templeton (Fiduciary Trust), JP Morgan Chase, and INVEST Financial. She volunteers with Soul Reborn, a nonprofit transforming the lives of disadvantaged women. Ms. Wynn has completed extensive training in public health topics and patient, nonprofit and community leadership, and is the author of three publications. She is a board member for the Healthy Start Coalition of Pinellas and serves on the Consumer Reviewer-Peer Reviewed Medical Research Program (PRMRP) Peer Review.
Why do you want to be a Community Scientist?
As a Certified Patient Leader, Advocate and Founder of the Stephanie A. Wynn Foundation, I am deeply committed to amplifying the voices of underserved and underrepresented communities, particularly African Americans living with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). My lived experience as a patient and my dedication to advancing health outcomes position me to offer a unique perspective in the grant review process. I am especially interested in ensuring that cultural competence, community relevance, and equitable access are considered when funding research initiatives. Serving as a Community Scientist for Moffitt Cancer Center aligns with my mission to support inclusive research and community-driven solutions.