Dr. Heather E. Stefanski, MD, PhD, is a leading authority in pediatric hematology, stem cell transplantation, and cell therapy innovation. As Executive Vice President of CIBMTR and Clinical Services at the National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP), she drives national and global initiatives focused on donor safety, transplant access, and cellular therapy advancement. With over 65 peer-reviewed publications and multiple patents, Dr. Stefanski blends clinical excellence with groundbreaking research to improve outcomes for patients worldwide. She serves in key leadership roles across the WMDA, ASH, and ASTCT, and is recognized for her visionary contributions to donor health and translational medicine.

After decades of experience in pharmaceutical marketing, brand strategy, and digital health innovation, I’ve taken a moment to reflect on my journey—from my early days launching interactive tools at Merck, to founding CAP Pharma and leading global omnichannel campaigns. It’s been a privilege to contribute to healthcare transformation, partner with exceptional teams, and remain committed to patient-centered progress. Here is my biography.

I’m a physician, author, and advocate with over four decades of experience in pediatric oncology, academic medicine, and nonprofit leadership. For the majority of my career, I served at Columbia University Medical Center, where I led one of the nation’s top pediatric hematology-oncology programs and mentored a generation of physician-scientists. I’m proud to have founded the Hope & Heroes Children’s Cancer Fund, which has raised over \$100 million to support children and families facing cancer. Today, I remain active as a writer and fundraiser, committed to advancing care, research, and hope for the next generation.

I am excited to share my executive biography, highlighting my journey in oncology, clinical research, and medical affairs over the past 25 years. From my work as a medical science liaison to my leadership in pharmacy education and healthcare consulting, I have been committed to advancing patient care, scientific innovation, and medical education. If you're interested in learning more about my background, expertise, and contributions to pharmaceutical sciences and healthcare strategy.

Maryam Nourbakhsh is a seasoned project management leader with over 18 years of experience in the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries, specializing in strategic operations, clinical quality, and global regulatory compliance. She has a proven track record of driving complex initiatives, optimizing resource allocation, and implementing data-driven decision-making frameworks to enhance portfolio planning and operational efficiency. Currently serving as Director of Project Management at Bristol Myers Squibb, she spearheads innovative methodologies, fosters cross-functional collaboration, and ensures alignment with corporate objectives. With expertise spanning oncology, immunology, and hematology, Maryam has successfully led high-impact projects at leading pharmaceutical organizations, leveraging her knowledge in clinical trials, governance structures, and process improvement. Holding an MBA in Pharmaceutical Marketing and certifications in Lean Six Sigma and Change Management, she is a strategic thinker committed to innovation, operational excellence, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.