Liaison to the Board | Sky Foundation Scientific Advisory Committee
Overview
Samantha (Sammy) Kasselman earned her Bachelor of Science in Public Health and Applied Statistics from the University of Michigan, where she contributed to research on potential treatment pathways for pancreatic cancer. She is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Genetic Counseling at the University of Pennsylvania, leading research on pancreatic imaging findings in individuals with pathogenic variants who are at high risk for developing pancreatic cancer.
Sky Foundation Role
As the Liaison to the Board for Sky Foundation’s Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC), Sammy plays a key role in connecting scientific review with organizational strategy. She attends all quarterly SAC meetings and final reviewer discussions, helping ensure transparent communication between the SAC and the Board of Directors. Sammy translates complex scientific recommendations into accessible updates and ensures SAC goals align with Sky Foundation’s long-term strategic direction.
Leadership & Advocacy
Sammy’s advocacy for the pancreatic cancer community continues to grow both personally and professionally. Her commitment is deeply personal—her grandmother, Sheila Sky Kasselman, Sky Foundation’s founder, was diagnosed with the disease when Sammy was a child. Inspired by her grandmother’s courage and vision, Sammy continues her legacy of advancing awareness, research, and early detection efforts.
Education & Research
- B.S., Public Health and Applied Statistics – University of Michigan
- M.S. Candidate, Genetic Counseling – University of Pennsylvania
- Research Focus: Pancreatic imaging and genetic risk in individuals with pathogenic variants
Board Involvement
- Joined Sky Foundation’s Board of Directors in 2022
- Serves as Board Liaison to the Scientific Advisory Committee
- Facilitates collaboration between Sky’s research, advocacy, and leadership teams