Kay Yow Cancer Fund welcomes four new board members

The Kay Yow Cancer Fund announces the appointment of four dynamic new members to its Board of Directors: Amber Cox, Heather Smith, Jasmine Thomas, and Coquese Washington. These trailblazing women bring unparalleled leadership, heart, and vision to the Fund’s mission to break down barriers in cancer care for underserved women.

“This is what growth with purpose looks like, ” said Jenny Palmateer, CEO of the Kay Yow Cancer Fund. “Each of these leaders brings not only experience and vision, but a true heart for the mission. Together, we’re expanding our reach, our voice, and our impact. ”

Their appointment comes at a critical moment, as the Fund’s health equity programs and community partnerships gain national momentum. These four women will help shape the future of a movement rooted in courage, service, and the enduring legacy of Coach Kay Yow.

Amber Cox: Elevating Women Through Sport and Service

Amber Cox, Chief Operating Officer and General Manager of the Indiana Fever, is a recognized leader in professional sports and a longtime advocate for advancing women’s athletics. She was named one of the Top 100 Most Influential Women in Sports by Sports Business Journal, and her career spans high-impact roles across the WNBA, NCAA, and front-office leadership.

“Coach Yow’s legacy continues to inspire us all, ” said Cox. “I’m honored to help carry that mission forward to reach more women and communities in need. ”

Coquese Washington: Embodying Leadership Beyond the Game

Coquese Washington, Head Women’s Basketball Coach at Rutgers University, has rejoined our Board of Directors. A respected leader in the basketball community, Washington previously served as President of the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA), where she played a key role in championing gender equity and student-athlete well-being. During her tenure at Penn State, she was instrumental in elevating the Pink Zone event, transforming it into one of the nation’s premier breast cancer awareness games. Her passion and commitment to the Fund’s mission continue to make a lasting impact.

“Coach Yow stood for purpose beyond the game, ” said Washington. “I’m proud to join this fight and help champion her vision to uplift others through service. ”

Heather F. Smith: Advancing Policy and Community Impact

Heather F. Smith, a public policy strategist and founder of Heather Smith and Associates, LLC, brings deep experience in legislative affairs, advocacy, and nonprofit leadership. She has been honored with the University of South Carolina Distinguished Service Award and the NFL Child Advocate of the Year Award, recognizing her impact in both policy and community spheres. “I am profoundly honored to be a part of the Kay Yow Cancer Fund board,” Smith stated.

“With a family history of cancer, particularly among women, it is one of my objectives to fight for a cure and to assist in educating women about the significance of early detection. ”

Jasmine Thomas: Bridging Passion and Purpose

Jasmine Thomas, Vice President of Basketball Operations and Assistant General Manager of the Dallas Wings, brings elite athletic experience and a personal connection to the Fund’s mission. A veteran WNBA player and respected team leader, Jasmine served as a players’ association representative and helped lead league-wide social justice initiatives, including Play4Kay while with the Connecticut Sun.

“This mission has been close to my heart for years, ” said Thomas. “I’m honored to help move it forward—not just in sport, but in the lives of women everywhere.”

Together, these four leaders reflect the future of the Kay Yow Cancer Fund—strategic, inclusive, and unstoppable. Their voices will help advance a bold vision: one where all women have equitable access to cancer resources, regardless of race, place, or circumstance. We are louder, stronger, and unstoppable together.

For more information about the Kay Yow Cancer Fund and its mission, please visit www.kayyow.com.

About the Kay Yow Cancer Fund
The Kay Yow Cancer Fund was officially founded on December 3, 2007, from the vision of the organization’s namesake, Kay Yow, former NC State University head women’s basketball coach. Coach Yow was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 1987 before succumbing to the disease on January 24, 2009. The Kay Yow Cancer Fund is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization committed to raising money for life-saving cancer research, underserved programs that provide access to quality cancer healthcare, and uniting people in the fight against all cancers affecting women. The Kay Yow Cancer Fund has awarded $9.5 million in the fight against all cancers affecting women. For more information on the Kay Yow Cancer Fund, or to donate, please visit KayYow.com.