Susan G. Komen North Jersey Appoints New Development Director

On Feb 20, 2020

Parsippany-Troy Hills-based Susan G. Komen North Jersey appoints Joan Verplanck as its new development director. Verplanck is a former president of the New Jersey State Chamber of Commerce and a former president of the Morris County Chamber of Commerce. She was twice named one of the state’s 10 most powerful women in business by the Star-Ledger and was named by New Jersey Monthly as one of five “business power players,” alongside Donald Trump. She has been the recipient of numerous awards, including an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters awarded by Drew University in recognition of her work on behalf of women in the workplace.

Verplanck was the first woman to serve as Chairman of the National Board of Trustees, Institutes for Organization Management, US Chamber; and first to chair the Council of State Chambers, the national organization for state chamber executives and the primary forum for state chamber CEOs and government relations specialist on national legislative issues.

She brings substantial nonprofit experience including her own company, Profit by Association, as well as; US Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, the US Chamber Foundation Board of Directors, New Jersey Economic Development Authority Board, Clean Communities Council and the New Jersey Employment Security Council.  She continues to serve on the board of Wenzhou-Kean University (in Wenzhou China) and the Citizens Campaign (a clean government organization based in New Jersey.) She was awarded Honorary Life Membership in the National Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives, the highest honor in the chamber industry.

“I initially became involved with Susan G. Komen North Jersey as a volunteer, because I am a ten-year breast cancer survivor,” Verplanck said. “What struck me, and continues to do so, is this horrific disease has a face. The mere mention of ‘breast cancer’ brings to mind someone we know who has dealt with its ravages. It’s what makes it so personal, motivating millions across the country to participate in fundraising efforts each year with the intention of finding a cure. Breast cancer is a terrible club to be a part of, and yet, getting to know your fellow members calms your fears and inspires you to be grateful for your blessings and to share them with others. Being part of the Komen team reminds me to appreciate every day and inspires me to help others find the same peace.”

“We are thrilled to have Joan join the team,” said Perla Haltner, acting executive director of Komen North Jersey. “With her experience and passion, Joan will certainly make an impact and help us continue funding breast cancer treatment and care for those who can’t afford it. It is Joan’s drive and compassion that will help us fuel hope. Hope that a lack of insurance will not be a barrier to care. Hope that new, more effective treatments and the cures to finally end breast cancer are just around the corner.”

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