Meet The Social Committee
The Office of Academic Affairs' Social Committee, chaired by Brianna Amato and comprised of an engaged and excited group of trainees, is dedicated to strengthening community and fostering opportunities for connection and celebration. Past events organized by the committee include Applefest and Trainee Friendsgiving.
We are also excited to create Trainee Times!
Science Program Recruitment Administrator
Brianna Amato
"From the moment I arrived at Fox Chase, I was inspired by the dedication of our junior scientists and felt a strong desire to support in any way I could. Hosting social events has been a meaningful way to foster community, and I find that sense of connection both special and rewarding."
Fun fact: I play the violin and have been a member of many orchestras!
Graduate Student, Whitaker Lab
Carson Cohen
"I ultimately joined the Social Committee because I wanted to help foster a strong sense of community for trainees, like myself, here at Fox Chase Cancer Center."
Fun fact: I'm always up for trying new cuisines and hikes around Philadelphia!
Postdoc, Fane Lab
Kelly Coutant
"I have already been in a social committee during my PhD and I really liked it. I think it's important to have a good atmosphere at work so I wanted to join. And as a foreigner, I think it's cool to be able to meet people during the proposed activities."
Fun fact: I like to go hiking!
Postdoc, Arora Laboratory
Adria Hasan
"I joined the Social Committee because I enjoy organizing events and bringing people together. I’m passionate about fostering a sense of community, creating opportunities for connection, and ensuring everyone feels included and engaged."
Fun fact: I enjoy reading and can spend hours getting lost in a good book.
Postdoc, Wasik Laboratory
Cosimo Lobello
"I joined the Social Committee because, as a foreigner, I deeply understand the value of belonging to a community. Moving to a new place can be challenging, and having a supportive network can make all the difference. My goal is to create opportunities for colleagues to come together, share moments, and grow."
Fun fact: I have visited 21 out of 63 USA national parks, and I aim to visit all.
Scientific Technician, Wasik Laboratory
David Rushmore
"The Social Committee is great way to meet everyone at Fox Chase Cancer Center."
Fun fact: I am older than I look.
Scientific Technician, Liu Laboratory
Rebecca Smith
"I joined the Social Committee because I wanted to be involved in making Fox Chase a welcoming community where trainees feel at home. I enjoy brainstorming creative event ideas, and it gives me something to look forward to when life is feeling mundane."
Fun fact: I volunteered at a wildlife rescue during college. My favorite tasks included bottle feeding baby squirrels and deer, and hand-feeding injured birds. It was an experience like no other!
Graduate Student, Astsaturov Laboratory
Aizhan Surumbayeva
"I joined the Social Committee to help create a supportive community for trainees where they can feel connected and have fun! I love planning events where people actually show up for the snacks but leave thinking "Wow, that was fun!" :)"
Fun fact: I can’t resist petting every cat and dog I meet!