Tributes & Celebrations

Marcela Romero

Patient Advocate

Marcela retired in 2020 after a successful 35-year career in the IT industry, including 10 years working in Mexico. She has been happily married to her husband, Bob, for 10 years, and together they share their home with two dogs and a cat. Fluent in both Spanish and English, Marcela enjoys recreational tennis and practicing Pilates in her free time.

Passionate about helping others, Marcela was introduced to Me Squared Cancer Foundation through a friend who twisted her arm to help with the 2026 Gala. When hearing more about what the Foundation does and the role of a Patient Advocate, Marcela eagerly embraced the opportunity.

Having seen her own family battle cancer in many forms, Marcela understands firsthand how the lack of financial resources can deeply affect a patient’s recovery and overall well-being. She feels incredibly fortunate to support patients through the immense care and assistance that Me Squared provides.

Dr. Paul Tavakolian

Patient Advocate

Dr. Paul Tavakolian is an orthopedic surgeon specializing in Hand & Upper extremity and Trauma Surgery and serves patients throughout North Texas. A native Texan, he graduated magna cum laude from The University of Texas at Austin before earning his medical degree from The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, where he later completed orthopedic surgery residency training. He pursued advanced subspecialty fellowship training in hand, upper extremity, and microsurgery, with additional international experience in trauma and reconstructive surgery.

Paul’s commitment to service and philanthropy has been a defining part of both his personal and professional journey. While attending The University of Texas at Austin, he rode with the Nike-Livestrong Texas 4000 for Cancer team and completed the world’s longest annual charity bike ride—a 4,000-mile journey from Austin, Texas to Anchorage, Alaska—to raise funds and awareness for cancer research and support programs. His passion for global health has also led him to participate in medical mission work throughout Central America and Africa, providing orthopedic surgical care to underserved communities and working alongside local healthcare teams.

As a cancer survivor himself, Dr. Tavakolian brings a uniquely personal perspective to cancer advocacy and support. His own journey has deepened his understanding of the physical, emotional, and human impact of a cancer diagnosis and strengthened his passion for serving patients and families navigating similar challenges.

Paul’s medical background, lifelong commitment to service, and personal cancer journey provide him with a unique perspective as a member of the Board of Directors for Me Squared Cancer Foundation.

“As a cancer survivor myself, I understand that a cancer diagnosis affects far more than a person’s health—it impacts families, emotions, and every aspect of life. My own experience gave me a greater appreciation for the importance of support, guidance, and community throughout that journey. Me Squared’s mission resonates deeply with me because it provides meaningful support to patients and families during some of the most difficult moments of their lives, and I’m honored to be part of that mission.”

Tien Tran

Chief Executive Officer

Tien Tran is a Dallas native and general dentist practicing in the DFW area. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Texas at Austin before going on to complete his dental training at the University of Texas School of Dentistry at Houston. He subsequently completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) residency at Texas A&M School of Dentistry in Dallas, where he has proudly built his career and his life. His wife, Dr. Phan, is also a dentist, and together they share a deep commitment to serving their community.

Tien’s connection to Me Squared Cancer Foundation is deeply personal. His mother, Mimi Tran, founded the organization following her own diagnosis with Triple Negative Breast Cancer in 2018 — a journey that Tien and his sister Thi witnessed firsthand as caregivers throughout her treatment. Watching his mother endure prolonged chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation while simultaneously finding the strength to build something meaningful for others left a lasting impression on him. It was through that experience that Tien felt called not only to support his mother’s vision, but to carry it forward. As Chairman of the Board, he is committed to honoring her legacy and ensuring that Me Squared continues to be a beacon of hope and relief for newly diagnosed cancer patients across the DFW community.

Tiffany Smith

Patient Advocate

Tiffany is the newest member of our Patient Advocate team. She recently retired after a 29-year career as a federal agent and has been married to her husband, Alex, for nearly 30 years. They have two grown sons living in the DFW area.

Cancer has deeply affected Tiffany’s life—her husband was diagnosed with kidney cancer in 2020, she faced breast cancer in 2023, and her mother received the same diagnosis a year later. Several friends have also battled cancer. Introduced to Me Squared by her friend Cristi Duea, Tiffany saw an opportunity to give back. “I’m keenly aware of how cancer impacts a person physically, mentally, and financially,” she says. “I am so grateful that an organization like Me Squared can help to lessen that financial burden.”

Julie Hanson

Patient Advocate

Julie is a retired high school French teacher with a rich and varied background. Before entering education, she worked as a host and producer on a television show and previously held a role at The Walt Disney Company as a buyer and product developer. She’s been married to her husband for 37 years, and they have two grown children—one married, and the other preparing for a wedding in December.

Cancer has left a mark on Julie’s life through the loss of several close relatives. When her friend Wendy encouraged her to get involved with Me Squared, Julie saw an opportunity to make a meaningful difference. She’s been with us almost a year, and what resonates most is, “I find it very compelling to witness the gratitude of the patients we are able to help.”

Wendy Magusiak

Patient Advocate

After a 40-year career as a radiation therapist, 20 of those with Texas Oncology, Wendy retired in 2022. She’s married with three sons, two daughters-in-law, and a 2½-year-old granddaughter who lights up her world. Her decades in cancer care gave her deep empathy for what patients face: “For those who can’t manage out-of-pocket costs, the financial burden adds a whole new layer of stress.”

Wendy met Mimi years ago while serving on a Community Enrichment Board—and later, was part of Mimi’s radiation care team. In 2022, they reconnected when Wendy presented Me Squared with a charity check from a golf tournament and told Mimi, “I need something meaningful to do.” Mimi had the perfect answer: become a Patient Advocate. Since then, Wendy has found new purpose helping patients focus on what matters most, getting well.

Rob Hibbard

Treasurer

Rob Hibbard spent 40 years in enterprise IT software and services before transitioning into real estate. He now serves clients through Ebby Halliday’s Southlake office. Rob and his wife Becky have lived in Southlake for 26 years, where they raised their four children and continue to actively volunteer in local schools, community programs, and their church.

“I’m honored to support Me Squared Cancer Foundations mission alongside such a dedicated team,” says Rob. “Like many, I’ve seen cancer’s impact up close—my uncle lost his battle a few years ago, and more recently, my cousin is thankfully in remission. I’m committed to helping ensure patients have access to the critical funding they need for treatment and recovery.”

Kelly Christian

Technology Manager

Retired from BNSF, Kelly Christian now lends her technology expertise to Me Squared Cancer Foundation.

Her connection to Me Squared is deeply personal. Diagnosed with brain cancer in 2019, she began chemo and radiation in 2023 and is now responding well to a targeted inhibitor. Introduced to Me Squared by fellow survivor Dave Stropes, Kelly began volunteering during her recovery and honored as one of our “Volunteers of the Year” at the 2024 Black & White Gala.

Kelly and her husband Ryan recently celebrated 30 years of marriage and are proud parents to Maddie and Ethan. Whether hiking, serving at church, or capturing her signature “jump photos,” Kelly brings joy, heart, and gratitude to everything she does.

Patient Narratives – 2024

Jinu

Jinu, a 41-year-old woman from Collin County, is facing the hardest battle of her life after being diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma in her right breast and lymph nodes. As the primary breadwinner for her family, which includes four young children and elderly parents, the diagnosis has been devastating. Her income was drastically reduced when she had to quit two of her three jobs. Despite having health insurance, the $9,000 annual out-of-pocket costs have led to mounting medical bills. With several upcoming surgeries, the financial strain has forced her to make difficult decisions, such as pulling her daughter out of preschool. Me Squared Cancer Foundation provided a $2,500 grant to help cover immediate medical expenses, offering critical support and hope as she fights for her health while caring for her family.

Maureen

Maureen is a Dallas County resident whose journey has been filled with unimaginable challenges. At 61, she was diagnosed with stage III metastatic rectal cancer. After being abandoned by her boyfriend, Maureen was left homeless and terrified. She entered Parkland Hospital with nothing but her ID and insurance card. Complications, including dementia, vision loss from a fall, and depression, have made her fight even harder. With no support from her daughters and only her sister residing out of state as power of attorney, her medical bills total nearly $10,000, including a $2,500 balance at UT Southwestern. Me Squared Cancer Foundation was able to cover her expenses at UT Southwestern and is now residing in a nursing home.

Kehinde

Kehinde, a 44-year-old single mother from Tarrant County. Kehinde’s journey began with a breast cancer diagnosis in 2021. Despite following all recommended treatments, her cancer returned, and she was recently diagnosed with metastatic adenocarcinoma of the liver. Unable to work due to the severity of her illness and treatments, Kehinde and her two children, the youngest of which is only 5 years old, rely on the emotional and financial support of her sister. Me Squared Cancer Foundation was able to provide a $2,500 grant to John Peter Smith Hospital on Kehinde’s behalf, covering a significant portion of her medical expenses. Kehinde found peace of mind and was able to focus on healing and being present for her children.

Rupe Gill

Director

Rupe Gill is a Partner in the Mergers & Acquisitions practice at PwC, bringing over 15 years of management consulting experience. He specializes in merger integrations and divestiture services, with extensive experience in pre-deal diligence, integration strategy, planning, and managing complex transactions. Rupe has supported numerous business functions including IT, operations, supply chain, finance and human resources. He has worked across various industries including technology, energy, healthcare, and industrial products. Rupe holds a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering from Penn State University, and an MBA from Drexel University.

A cancer survivor, Rupe understands firsthand the challenges of navigating a cancer diagnosis and treatment. In early 2024, he joined the Me Squared Board of Directors where his business acumen and personal experience play a vital role in advancing the mission to support newly diagnosed cancer patients.

Wade & Katie White

Director (shared position)

Wade & Katie White are active members of the Westlake, Texas community where they enjoy retirement and living life to its fullest! Wade, a successful entrepreneur, founded an electrical infrastructure business, which he sold several years ago. Katie began her career in computer programming and later transitioned into a successful marketing career. Together, they are a proud “Brady Bunch”, with four children and five grandchildren.

Wade is a prostate cancer survivor, a journey that deepened their passion for supporting those affected by cancer. As dedicated advocates, they have joined the Board of Directors and are serving as the Co-Chairs of the 2025 Black & White Gala.

Vic McLane

Director

Vic McLane has been a valued member of the Southlake, Texas community for over 20 years. A successful business owner, Vic relocated his longstanding State Farm agency to Southlake four years ago. He is deeply involved in community initiatives, including the Southlake Chamber of Commerce and the Carroll ISD Budget and Finance Committee, and he serves as the CEO of A Taste of Southlake, Inc. In addition, Vic also serves on several regional and national boards, including Texas State Alumni Association and Kids Matter International.

A colon cancer survivor, Vic has been cancer-free and in remission for the past seven years. Having served on the Me Squared Cancer Foundation Advisory Committee for several years, he is honored to now join the Board of Directors to help make a meaningful impact in the lives of cancer patients.

Rick Boland

Chief Financial Officer

Rick Boland has over 25 years of senior level executive experience, offering financial and operational leadership and consulting advice to a broad range of companies across a variety of industries. His background includes serving as Chief Financial Officer of 17 companies on a full-time or consulting basis. He has also co-founded several businesses and served in CEO and other executive leadership roles.

Ricks industry experience includes food, wine, and other consumer package goods, specialty retail, manufacturing, media and communications, transportation and logistics, and metals processing. His specialty is helping companies navigate complex business issues at each key stage of their evolution, from planning and fundraising to operational start, through acquisitions to reinvention, and eventually transition.

Rick graduated from the University of Mount Union with a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration and Physical Education and his MBA from Baldwin Wallace University.

Rick’s extensive business expertise, along with his own cancer journey, equips him to help grow and shape the future of Me Squared Cancer Foundation as a vital member of its Board of Directors.

“I am a cancer survivor, having discovered a large Leiomyosarcoma tumor in my abdomen in 2018. My cancer journey was complex, but I had a fantastic outcome. What resonates with me about the work that Me Squared is doing is how we help patients navigate the cancer journey with experience, compassion and funding during these emotional and difficult times.”

Cristi Duea

Executive Director

Cristi grew up in the Fort Worth area, but love led her to the West Coast. She, her husband Brad, and their two boys spent 14 years in Los Angeles and 11 years in Seattle before returning to Texas in 2021.

Cristi brings a wealth of experience from a diverse career, including roles in Office Management, Space Planning, Interior Design, Consumer Goods & Marketing, and entrepreneurship with her own Event Planning business.

However, Cristi’s true passion lies in serving others. Service is her “Love Language.” She has held numerous leadership positions in various non-profit organizations, demonstrating her commitment to making a difference:

VP of Fundraising for Mercer Island Middle School
Leadership Team Chairman of Evergreen Covenant Church
Founder, VP of Philanthropy, and President of the National League of Young Men, Mercer Island Chapter
Founder of the New Families Program for Mercer Island School District
President of the Mercer Island Soccer Booster Club
President of the TCU Sigma Chi Parents Club
Education Co-Chair and Moderator for the Young Presidents Chapter (Santa Monica Bay, Seattle, and Fort Worth chapters)
Auction Chair for the Boys & Girls Club of Seattle, Mercer Island Chapter
Auction Committee member for the Check Your Boobies Foundation

“Like many, my life has been deeply affected by cancer. Both of my grandfathers passed away from Prostate Cancer, as did one of my uncles, while another uncle succumbed to Stomach Cancer. My father is currently in remission from Prostate Cancer, and some of my closest friends have battled Breast Cancer. I feel incredibly blessed to have the opportunity to help change the trajectory of someone’s battle with cancer and be a catalyst to “light the path” from hope to healing.”

Rupinder Gill

Rupe is a Partner in PwC’s M&A practice with over 20 years combined industry and management consulting experience, specializing in Merger Integration and Divestiture Services.

Rupe’s experience has provided him with in-depth deal support across business functions, including IT, operations, supply chain, finance, and HR. Rupe has assisted clients across various industries, including Technology, Telecom, Energy, Industrial Products, Utilities, and Financial Services.

Rupe has a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Engineering from Penn State University and an MBA from Drexel University.

Rupe enjoys spending time with his two children (ages 6 and 8) and his wife, Neha. Rupe and his family live in Dallas, TX and he’s an avid golfer, fan of the Philadelphia Eagles and Phillies, and loves traveling and eating incredible authentic foods from around the world!

“I was recently diagnosed with brain cancer in late 2022 and have been so fortunate to get some of the best treatment out there.

The journey through the surgery and post treatment plan made me realize early that God put some lucky dice in my hands to roll it out to others to get some of the best care out there.

Going through the new diagnosis was a heart break for my family, and anything we can do to make it easier for those being diagnosed today brings us joy to be part of.

Me Squared gives our family an opportunity to support newly diagnosed cancer patients, giving them the best chances possible to beat cancer and enjoy the rest of their lives.”

Amanda Hall

“I am overwhelmed with gratitude for you amazing contribution that zeroed out my hospital bill from my craniotomy last summer. I look forward to volunteering at the foundation so I can pay it forward.” Amanda

Amanda’s Story

Amanda is a family nurse practitioner and mother of two. She is a runner and loves to garden.

After her sudden diagnosis with brain cancer she had to leave her job while at the same time being faced with a mountain of bills from her surgery, intensive care stay, and follow-up MRI’s.

Me Squared was able to help her pay the remainder of her hospital bills.

Kristin Jain

Focusing on commercial litigation and subrogation matters, Ms. Jain has extensive experience representing insurance companies, business enterprises large and small, financial institutions, trustees, debtors‐in‐possession, and creditors’ committees. Her practice spans both state and federal courts in all 50 states and includes cross‐border disputes.

Bar Admissions

Texas
Alabama
United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit
United States District and Bankruptcy Courts for the Eastern, Northern, Western, and Southern Districts of Texas
United States District Courts for the Northern and Middle Districts of Alabama
United States District Court for the District of Colorado

Professional History

Jain Law & Associates PLLC, Founder/Managing Member
Law Offices of Kristin H. Jain, PLLC, Founder/Managing Member
Gordon & Rees LLP, Of Counsel
Baker McKenzie, Associate
Andrews & Kurth LLP, Associate
Law Offices of Marion F. Walker & Associates, L.L.P., Associate

Education

J.D., Tulane University School of Law, 1997, Cum Laude
B.S., Northwestern University, 1994

Representative Cases

Represented insurance companies and their subrogation agents in litigation to recover from at‐fault parties. The disputes include products liability, transportation (motor carrier and marine), fire and water losses, negligence and breach of contract.
Represented creditors’ committees, liquidating trustee, debtors‐in‐possession, secured creditors, and unsecured creditors in various Chapter 11 cases across the nation and across borders. The cases ranged in size up to $1 billion in assets. Industries included transportation, manufacturing, airlines, energy, grocery supply, telecommunications, and healthcare.
Represented purchasers, including stalking horse bidders, in asset and going concern sales in various industries, including manufacturing and airlines. Asset values varied from tens of thousands of dollars to over $1 billion.

Professional Affiliations and Board Service

Member, Dallas Bar Association, Bankruptcy & Commercial Law Section
Member, Texas Bar Association, Bankruptcy, Litigation, and Women In Law Sections
Member, Alabama Bar Association
Member, American Bar Association (Member, Woman Advocate Committee, Co‐Chair of Website and Social Marketing Subcommittee and Bankruptcy Subcommittee)
Member, National Association of Subrogation Professionals
Member, Turnaround Management Association
Board Member, Law Firm Anti‐racsim Alliance (Co‐Chair, Employment Committee)
Board Member, Dallas Chapter, Turnaround Management Association (Member, Network of Women Committee)
Board Member, Woman’s Educational Aid Association (affiliated with Northwestern University)

Danyell Carlile

“I did not have the means or the funds for the PET scan and Me Squared stepped in and wrote a check and that was a huge blessing. They [Me Squared] are amazing. They keep in contact with you. They are continuously looking to see if there is anything else they can do to help.” Danyell

Danyell’s Story

Danyell is a mother of three. After surviving cancer 5 times in her life she is unable to work.

Danyell was recently diagnosed with breast cancer for the second time. Because Medicare only covers 80% of costs she needed help covering her share diagnostic scans.

Me Squared was able to provide the funds so that she could get the scans and move on with her treatment.

Janette Falis

. . . and because of Me Squared, and the financial assistance, I can move forward with my treatment plan. Thank you again for all your help.” Janette

Janette’s Story

Janette is a single mother of two who works at a small non-profit that helps children and families in need. When she is not working she continues to give back to the community by volunteering at her church, by mentoring a group of girls, and helping 2 youth sports organizations. She also attends all of her sons’ sports events.

Janette was diagnosed with kidney cancer and was facing the painful decision of paying her rent or her medical bills.

Me Squared helped pay Janette’s medical bills so that she could continue to shelter her family.

Lisa Guerra

“I didn’t know what to do. I had to deal with everything on my own. I am very thankful and grateful for Me Squared. They are a foundation that cares and they are people who want to help you” Lisa

Lisa’s Story

Lisa is a single mother of two sons. She enjoys cooking, going to church, and hanging out with her two sons.

After Lisa was diagnosed with breast cancer she was unable to work. This left her struggling to pay both medical bills and support her family.

Me Squared was able to help Lisa by providing transportation to and from her radiation treatments and by paying outstanding medical bills.

Jim Bruning

Director

Regan Priakos

Director

Mimi Tran

Chairman & Chief Executive Officer

Mimi Tran is the Market President for Southlake for Texas Regional Bank. Prior to this role, she held various positions at Frost, J.P. Morgan, and Bank of America.

Mimi has held numerous leadership roles in community organizations. In addition to her duties at Me Squared, she is currently on the board of directors of the JPS Foundation in Fort Worth. Mimi is also the current Program Chair for Southlake Women’s Club.

Mimi graduated with a B.S. in Marketing and a Minor in MIS from Louisiana State University.

“Where did I find the drive to help people? I am not sure, but it’s been with me for as long as I can remember. My family immigrated from Vietnam when I was only 6 years old, and I am forever grateful that we landed in this great country. I think that may have formed the foundation of my desire to give back wherever I can.

In addition to having a full-time career as a Private Banker at Frost Bank, I have always been involved in the community and have volunteered in several organizations, including the Irving Healthcare foundation, Colleyville Rotary, the Carroll Education Foundation, the Community Enrichment Center, Kids Matter International, among others.

Nevertheless, I was diagnosed with Triple Negative Breast Cancer in 2018. I had to undergo a long and traumatic treatment plan that involved prolonged chemotherapy, painful surgeries, and intense radiation therapy. I was lucky in that I had a tremendous support system around me to help me through the process. It was during one of those chemo sessions that I formed the idea of Me Squared

Cancer Foundation. I wanted to help those people who may lack the means for their treatment course.

Now that I am in remission, I find whatever free time I have to spend with my loving husband, visit my adult kids in Houston, or play lots of tennis or go skiing with my friends. And best of all, I have my sheepadoodle Lucy to cheer me up at the end of a tough day.

Live Laugh Love”

Dave Stropes

Vice Chair & Chief Operating Officer

Dave Stropes retired at the end of 2015 from his position as BNSF Railway’s vice president, Corporate Audit Services.

Dave led BNSF’s internal audit program from May 2004 until his retirement. In this role, Dave was responsible for providing recommendations on management controls and processes, safeguarding of company assets, reliability of information, and compliance with policies and procedures.

During his more than 30 years with BNSF, Dave focused on ensuring the company upheld the highest standards of integrity, accuracy, and compliance.

Stropes joined BNSF in 1984 and served in a variety of positions in Accounting, Finance and Marketing, prior to being named to his internal audit role. These roles included serving as assistant vice president (AVP) and assistant controller in Finance from 1999 to 2002, and as AVP, Consumer Accounts Marketing and Sales, from 2002 to 2004.

After retiring, Dave taught a graduate business ethics course at Texas Christian University for two semesters. He currently volunteers as Vice Chair of Me Squared Cancer Foundation and as a member of the finance committee of The Cliburn.

Stropes is a Certified Public Accountant and has a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Northern Illinois University and a master’s degree in management from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University.

Dave is a two-time brain cancer survivor.

“I was so blessed when I was diagnosed with cancer. I had fantastic doctors, great health insurance and benefits from my employer, financial resources, and most of all the love and support of family and friends. Unfortunately, many people diagnosed with cancer are not as fortunate. That is why I am very involved with the Me Squared Cancer Foundation, to reduce the stress and worry for others so that they can focus on healing.”

Lisa Winch

Director

Lisa Winch is Global Remote Revenue Manager Marriott Headquarters for Marriott.

She holds a bachelors degree from University of Massachusetts Amherst.

Kelly Rose

Director

Kelly Rose has been involved with charity work since a young child as her parents were very involved and instilled the importance of giving back in her heart.

Kelly graduated from Texas State with a B.A. in Sociology and a Minor in Business. She spent 30+ years in the medical world as a Practice Administrator for Neurology, Family Practice and OB/GYN. She is currently the Office Manager for Southlake Style Magazine. She is married to Ken her love since 7th grade and resides in Coppell with her 2 golden retrievers.

She is a Breast Cancer Survivor since 2015. She was very active in Dallas County Susan G Komen as a top fundraiser(top 5 for five years and #1 Fundraiser 2020) and committee chairperson the the Dallas County Race for the Cure for 5 years.

Kelly has been active in many charities in the DFW Metroplex: American Diabetes Association, Susan G Komen, Mammogram Poster Girls, Me Squared Cancer Foundation, Spark Ministry, Taylor Hooton Foundation, Star Children’s Charity, Charity Car Shows (Connor’s Car Show /SSG Alex Viola Memorial Car Show).

In June 2015 Pat Smith(Emmitt Smith’s wife -Dallas Cowboys) honored her with the Treasure You Award for Women That Influence other women with Breast Cancer.

Kelly Currently serves as Board Member for Me Squared Cancer Foundation and Board Member for Mammogram Poster GIrls.

“My heart has always been to pay it forward and being a cancer survivor that became even more of a priority for me. During treatment I was referred to as the the “pink sparkly lady” in the chemo room -I was constantly encouraging patients to keep the faith and we all were going to get through this. The most humbling thing is to sit in a chemo treatment room …. When I finished chemo I hit the ground running to raise money for Breast Cancer and loved helping the metroplex people get assistance with the help they needed. I joined Me Squared Cancer Foundation because I saw the GREAT things they were doing locally. I love talking to these cancer patients and giving them confidence to not be afraid to ask for help and Me Squared Cancer Foundation is here to ease the stress and anxiety that comes with their journey. Money adds a lot of stress when you battle cancer and it often leads patients to worry more about that than battling the disease -I did that in my own journey.”

Mel Latu

Director

MeI Latu is a proud Marine wife, mother to two children, and a small business owner. She loves to serve and impact others in business and community. Her volunteer experience includes serving as as a gala committee member and program volunteer for GRACE Grapevine, advisory board member and volunteer coordinator for Me Squared Cancer Foundation, and an active parent in both my children’s schools. She also loves to tag along to any event that has a mission and is looking for volunteers. She believes that volunteers are the hands and feet of the good work and she says, “I want to be part of as much good work as I can.”

Latu has a 20 year corporate background in operations management and executive leadership. She loves to foster long lasting relationships and impact those around her. From her corporate background she knows that teams and strength in numbers is the only way to get goals and missions accomplished. Mel owns a back office and accounting firm with the simple goal in mind to help other business owners and impact our community through business and service.

“I felt led to be more involved with Me Squared Cancer Foundation from the moment I heard Mimi’s vision. My cancer story is not of a survivor, but as a caretaker for my best friend and mother. My mother was terminal for four years and the journey we took together that four years was preparing me to live out a legacy of love and caring that my mother would not be able to do. It may sound cliche, but I truly believe serving and helping others is the most important thing we can do. I have seen first-hand the impact that Me Squared has on cancer patients in the DFW area and am truly humbled and honored to be part of this organization. “

Julie Walter

Director

Julie Walter is Vice President of Marketing and Sales at Fidelity National Title / The Baker Firm.

Julie is very active in the community. She is on the board of the Southlake Chamber of Commerce, a competitive coach for Miricle League of Southlake, and a founding board member of SASO (Scholars and Athletes Serving Others Mother/Son Organization)

Julie attended Western Illinois University.

Harriet Brenner

Director

Harriet Brenner is currently Senior Alliance Director for Blue Prism. Prior to this role she held positions at Service Max, Astadia, and ENTEX.

Harriet holds a bachelor’s degree in math and economics from Denison University.

Bill Priakos

Director

Bill Priakos is currently Owner at WHP2 Consulting LLC. Prior to that, Bill was President of Merchandising for the Dallas Cowboys for 24 years.

He holds a BSBA degree in Marketing/Finance from University of Arkansas.

Nicole Reilley

Project Manager

Nicole Reilley was born and raised in Comanche, Texas. She received her servant’s heart from her parents. Jim and Nancy Wilkerson taught her to always give back to her church, community, schools and anyone in need.

Nicole graduated from Texas Tech University with a BBA in Marketing. Before “retiring” to raise two daughters, she had a successful sales career with national companies in the Houston and Dallas areas.

Nicole is an active member of White’s Chapel United Methodist Church. She has volunteered and been appointed to several board positions over the years. Nicole and her husband, Tim, served as chairs of the capital campaign in 2005.

Nicole served in numerous volunteer positions at Carroll ISD from 2005 to 2020.

Nicole and her two daughters were active members of National Charity League of Southlake from 2012 to 2020. She served on the Executive Board and held countless other positions during her time with NCL. She was recipient of the Bouquet of Yellow Roses Award for her contributions to NCL.

Nicole was also the team manager for the D’Feeters Soccer Club for 4 years in Dallas.

Nicole started volunteering for Me Squared Cancer Foundation in the fall of 2020. She was immediately inspired by the foundation’s mission and became the executive director in June 2021 and now serves as the project Manager.

“”My mom and Dad both had colon cancer. I helped with their recovery and care. They were fortunate to have the necessary resources and support to battle their cancer. During my parents’ struggles with cancer, I realized not everyone was that fortunate. My goal is for everyone to have the opportunity to battle their cancer regardless of their financial situation. This is the reason I work and serve for the Me Squared Cancer Foundation”.

Dr. Trung Tran M.D. FAAP

Vice Chair & Chief Medical Officer

After completing my medical training at UT Southwestern Medical School and pediatric residency training at Children’s Health in Dallas, Dr. Tran joined Clinical Pediatric Associates of North Texas in 1996.

He is currently a principal partner in the group with over 26 years of pediatric private practice experience.

Trung’s wife is Mimi Tran, the founder of Me Squared Cancer Foundation. Prior to her cancer diagnosis, they both had already been heavily involved in their community, whether devoting their time and services to the local healthcare foundations or school district.

“Anyone who has known Mimi will understand that it’s very hard to say “no” to any requests that Mimi puts forth. I’m just glad that she said “yes” to my marriage proposal almost 30 years ago.”

Rebecca Bruning

Vice Chair

Rebecca Bruning is a Licensed Real Estate Agent with United Real Estate. She has been in the real estate industry for 12 years and was previously with Re/Max. Prior to those roles she worked as a Brokers Assistant for Landhold Advisors, Inc. and as an interior designer.

Rebecca holds bachelor’s degrees from Texas A&M university and University of North Texas.

Shannon Guthrie

Vice Chair & Secretary

Shannon Guthrie is a Principal at Guthrie Law Firm. Prior to this role she was a partner with Stephens-Guthrie. She also worked as an attorney at Beneati Law Firm and K&L Gates.

Shannon also served as Chair, Trust Code Committee Chair for the Trust Code Committee.

Real Estate, Probate & Trust Law Council, State Bar of Texas.

She received her J.D from Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law and a B.S, in legal administration from University of Evansville.

Todd Winch

Vice Chair & Treasurer

Todd Winch has served in the Hospitality industry for over 30 years with Marriott International and is currently the General Manager of the Westin Irving Convention Center at Las Colinas hotel. His roles have provided him a broad skillset in all aspects of hotel operations including, financial budgeting and forecasting, sales and marketing, labor relations, and project management. He has been active in community involvement serving on the Southlake Chamber of Commerce’s Board as treasurer for 3 years, Hotel Association of North Texas HANTX for 4 years, and has Chaired several Marriott Business Councils in DFW and back in South Florida

“As we relocated to Dallas from South Florida our journey was met with my wife’s diagnosis of breast cancer. We were welcomed into a warm and caring community that helped support us through what laid ahead. A short two years later she was again diagnosed with cancer this time colorectal. Again, we had the wonderful support of friends and community to assist us along with a great insurance program. Still the journey presented many questions and uncertainties and co-pays and bills the just seemed to keep coming. Any support that we can provide to folks on that similar journey keeps me motivated in my role at Me Squared.”

Celebrate Julie's 50th

Julie Smith

Donation Request for Julie’s 50th Birthday