For general questions and inquiries either call us at (317) 257-1505 or
e-mail our general mailbox.

Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer

Kathleen N. Spears, Ph.D.

Dr. Kathleen N. Spears, a Pennsylvania native, has more than 10 years of experience in healthcare administration having held management positions in hospital and community-based organizations and has successfully secured more than 5 million dollars in new funding over the years for the organizations she led. Prior to joining Cancer Support Community-Central Indiana as its Chief Executive in October 2008, she worked as an executive and business development consultant assisting not-for-profits, in retelling their stories through identifying and implementing new products and services that meet the changing needs of the communities they serve.

Spears earned both a Master of Healthcare Administration and a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Health Studies/Community Health, from Texas Women's University (TWU). While at TWU, Dr. Spears published articles on disparities in health and health literacy. In 2000, her paper on disparities in health was recognized by the American College of Healthcare Executives as an award-winning management essay.

Recently, Dr. Spears was selected as one of 50 Women Who Make a Difference in Memphis, TN. While in Memphis, she served on numerous community boards including the Health Loop Board of Directors and the American College of Healthcare Executives Tennessee Regent’s Advisory Council. Kathleen was also active with the advocacy efforts of the American Cancer Society & Susan G. Komen. Having recently moved to the Indianapolis area, she is looking forward to becoming just as actively involved in the Indianapolis community.

[ e-mail ]

Operations Director

Sara Anderson

Sara has been with Cancer Support Community-Central Indiana since it was chartered in 1993. Over the last 15 years, Sara has transitioned from office manager to Chief Operating Officer where she oversees the human resources and finance departments and participates in the strategic planning process. Sara also directs the production of Cancer Support Community’s media and publications. Her commitment to Cancer Support Community concept has been demonstrated through her active participation in projects with our national office including serving as team coordinator for Strides for Hope. Prior to joining Cancer Support Community, Sara worked for the Walther Cancer Institute as Executive Assistant to the Scientific Director. Sara studied business administration at Bowling Green State University.

As active in the Indianapolis community as she is at Cancer Support Community, Sara has served as team captain & coordinator for a 400 plus member Race for the Cure team and has been a volunteer member of the Sponsorship Committee for the Komen Indianapolis Race for the cure.

[ e-mail ]

Clinical Program Director

Jennifer Kappes, RN, MSW, Interim Program Director

[ e-mail ]

Community Relations Coordinator

Jennifer Jansen, ACSW, LCSW

Jennifer Jansen is the newest Wellness Community team member. Jennifer earned Psychology and Criminal Justice degrees from Indiana University and a Masters of Social Work from Washington University. She began her career in Community Mental Health and education, servicing children and their families in a school environment. In accordance with Jennifer's love of education, she shifted her focus to teaching. She taught therapy and psychology courses as an adjunct instructor at IUPUI and Indiana Institute of Technology.

Jennifer has served on 2 not-for-profit boards; researched alleviating the effects of chemotherapy and group work with children; and, initiated two fund raisers for The Women's Fund of Central Indiana. Jennifer's new role at Cancer Support Community incorporates her passion for mental health, education, wellness, and outreach. Because Jennifer's connection with Cancer Support Community began as a cancer patient care-giver/Relaxation participant, she understands the power of cancer support services. Jennifer is enthusiastic about inviting cancer patients and their loved ones through the doors of TWC!

e-mail ]

Clinical Facilitators:

Lora Hays, LMFT, RPT
Sherry O'Brian, LCSW
Marlene Sharp, LCSW
Jan Wilson, LCSW