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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 Trainee Friendsgiving and the Bowling Social!

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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."

“Looking back on 2025, I believe this was a transformational year for me, one where I really worked to learn how to find balance. This past year, I also met people who will be lifelong friends. I am so grateful for the Fox Chase community.”

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Maria Cavallo

"I joined the social committee to spend time with like-minded scientists and help design fun events that strengthen our network. Getting to connect outside of the lab is so important, and I wanted to make sure I could contribute to making those opportunities happen!"

"Looking back on 2025, I'm extremely thankful for the positive and supportive environment my mentor and lab mates created this year. Having a team that genuinely values professional growth and personal well-being makes the challenges of research feel more manageable!"

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Kelly Coutant

"I have already been in a social committee during my Ph.D. 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."

"One moment I am very thankful for in 2025 is having my whole family visit me here in the U.S. for the first time since I moved from France in 2019. I was able to spend a lot of time with them and cherish these precious moments."

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Tamasa De

"I  joined the Social Committee because I love connecting with people, meeting new faces, and celebrating cultural exchange. I enjoy bringing fresh ideas to the table, and the committee felt like the perfect space to showcase my leadership, help organize events, and contribute to a more vibrant, supportive community where trainees can connect beyond the lab—because good science thrives on good community!"

"One thing I’m thankful for in 2025 is
stepping into my postdoc position at Fox Chase and finding such a supportive team. It’s been a year of growth, new ideas, and great people—I’m truly grateful."

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Leonny Gathuka

"I joined the Social Committee because I love bringing people together and seeing the smiles and connections that form during our events. It brings me joy knowing I can help create those moments. I also come from a family and culture that values bringing people together through hosting and celebration, which makes being part of this committee especially meaningful to me."

"One achievement I’m especially proud of in 2025 is stepping out of my comfort zone. I’ve always been more of a homebody, but I made a resolution this year to be more social and open to new experiences. That decision led me to join the Philadelphia Film Society, as well as local running and pickleball clubs, and even the Social Committee! These experiences have helped me build confidence, meet incredible people, and create memories I’m truly grateful for."

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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."

"One thing I’m especially grateful for this year is the chance to grow both as a scientist and as a member of our trainee community. Being honored with two AACR Scholar-in-Training Awards was incredibly meaningful, but so was leading the Trainee Seminar Series, mentoring students, and contributing to the community that has supported me so much. I’m especially thankful to Dr. Arora for her constant support and belief in me, which has shaped my confidence and direction as a young scientist."

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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."

"From now on, 2025 will always be the year, the year my life changed. I am deeply thankful for the gift of my son and for the way he has transformed how I see the world.."

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David Rushmore

"The Social Committee is great way to meet everyone at Fox Chase Cancer Center."

"Looking back on 2025, I am thankful for my first publication at Fox Chase. Hopefully with 3-4 more to follow soon."

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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!" :)"

"Looking back on 2025, I’m thankful for learning to slow down and appreciate small things! Like morning coffee, quiet evenings with my cats, and runs that cleared my mind after long days. It reminded me that progress isn’t just about moving forward, but being present and grateful along the way."

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Delia Zumpano

"I joined the social committee to become more connected to other trainees and to help host events. One of the best parts about undergrad was being part of a larger community, and I'd really like to try to replicate that at Fox Chase."

"In 2025, I feel especially thankful for my family. Being in grad school can feel isolating sometimes, but being able to go on a family vacation this year was a highlight-it's hard to get all of us in the same room at one time!"

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Could this be you?

Interested in joining the Social Committee?


We currently have an open spot and welcome postdocs, graduate students, and scientific technicians to apply!

If you'd like to get involved, please fill

out this short social committee interest form. 

Thank you to all.

Credits - Trainee Times

The Social Committee is responsible for creating the Trainee Times — including this edition!
A huge thank you to everyone who contributed their time, creativity, and effort to make it happen.

Website Design
• Brianna Amato 
• Aizhan Surumbayeva

Content Creators

  • Brianna Amato - Trainee Spotlights Page & Trainee Appreciation Week

  • Dr. Kelly Coutant – Faculty Spotlight, FTSS, & Trainee Research Day

  • Leonny Gathuka – Fel's Trainee Day

  • Dr. Adria Hasan – Faculty Spotlight & FTSS 

  • Dr. Cosimo Lobello – Trainee Picnic & Bingo Night

  • David Rushmore – Welcome Message & Ice Cream Social

  • Aizhan Surumbayeva – Alumni Highlight & Pet Spotlights

  • Delia Zumpano – Alumni Highlight

 

Editor in Chief

  • Dr. Amanda Purdy

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