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ZERO Prostate Cancer Appoints Former V Foundation Executive as New Chief Operating Officer

Jefferson Parker joins dynamic new Executive Leadership Team to Advance ZERO’s Mission
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Washington, D.C., October 22, 2024 – ZERO Prostate Cancer, the nation’s leading prostate cancer organization, is pleased to announce the appointment of Jefferson Parker as its new Chief Operating Officer. Parker is an award-winning nonprofit leader, with experience guiding the financial direction of organizations and ensuring long-term financial health and stability. Most recently, he served as Chief Financial Officer of College Advising Corps, dedicated to increasing college access for underserved high school students nationwide. Prior to College Advising Corps, Parker was the Chief Operating Officer of The V Foundation for Cancer Research founded by ESPN and legendary coach Jim Valvano. 

“Jefferson’s experience with one of the sport’s world’s most celebrated cancer charities will add a fresh perspective and leadership to our team. His expertise extends beyond traditional operations and includes strategic planning, fundraising event management, and technology implementation,” said Courtney Bugler, President & CEO of ZERO Prostate Cancer. “Jefferson’s philosophy of building a culture that is team-oriented, mission-focused, and performance-driven aligns perfectly with our values at ZERO. He will be an incredible asset as we continue to expand our reach and impact.”

For 14 years, Parker held various leadership roles at The V Foundation for Cancer Research, including Chief Operating Officer, Chief Financial and Administrative Officer, and Vice President of Operations, where he oversaw finance, investments, legal affairs, human resources, and IT, contributing to the organization’s growth from $13 million to $36 million in revenue. The V Foundation was founded in 1993 and has funded more than $353 million in research grants at cancer centers around the country.

“I have a deep and personal connection to ZERO’s mission. My family has been significantly impacted by prostate cancer. My father is a survivor, and my father-in-law passed from this disease,” said Jefferson Parker, ZERO Prostate Cancer’s new Chief Operating Officer. “My role is to provide a financial and organizational structure that supports our development while keeping our focus on the mission to support men and families facing prostate cancer.”

Parker has also served as Board President of the ACLU of North Carolina and was named CFO of the Year for large nonprofits by the Triangle Business Journal in 2015. He currently resides in the Raleigh-Durham, NC area.

As Chief Operating Officer, Parker rounds out a dynamic new executive leadership team, including new CMCO Sherí Barros from the Atlanta Falcons, Oakland Raiders, and San Antonio Spurs. Parker will play a pivotal role by overseeing the organization’s day-to-day operations. He starts on October 22, 2024.

For media inquiries or interview requests with Jefferson Parker, please contact ZERO's media team at press@zerocancer.org.


About ZERO Prostate Cancer

ZERO Prostate Cancer (ZERO) is on a mission to improve and save lives from prostate cancer through advocacy, education, awareness, and support. Formerly known as the National Prostate Cancer Coalition, ZERO was founded in 1996 to stand up for people impacted by prostate cancer. Today, ZERO serves as the nation's leading prostate cancer organization, advancing a future where prostate cancer detection is early, support is unwavering, and care is accessible to all. For almost 30 years, ZERO has led the way in prostate cancer advocacy and support, successfully unlocking funding toward breakthrough discoveries, treatments, and lifesaving access to care.

As the nation's #1 provider of prostate cancer resources, programs, and services, ZERO has supported millions of people at-risk or diagnosed, and their families. As the voice of the prostate cancer community, ZERO's urgent focus on breaking barriers to survival—by closing gaps in diagnosis, treatment, and care—brings critical attention to those most likely to be impacted by this disease. Learn more at ZEROCancer.org.

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