Our Board and Staff
THE GUIDING FORCES BEHIND CHEMO COMPANIONS ARE LOVE, COMPASSION, UNDERSTANDING AND HOPE.
Alyssa Dinowitz
Chemo Companions comes from the heart of its founder, Alyssa Dinowitz, and was born from her own family’s experiences with cancer. Alyssa’s mother, Marriann Gofonia, passed away in September 2009 after beating breast cancer four times. During her many rounds of chemotherapy treatments, the Gofonia girls (there are five, each as spunky and spirited as their mother) would all but turn the chemo lounge into a party hall with laughter, jokes, hugs, and love. Then, something interesting began to happen.
Doreen Bennett
2002 was the beginning of Doreen’s journey into the “business of cancer” when her sister, Madeline, was diagnosed. Like Chemo Companions founder, Alyssa Dinowitz, she witnessed how isolating and scary treatment is for those receiving infusions without their loved ones nearby. After the passing of her sister in 2007, Doreen did not think she would be interested in returning to the world that brought so much pain to her and her family. But upon meeting Alyssa and understanding the value of being a Chemo Companion, she knew she wanted to get involved.
Doreen’s fulfilling professional resume runs the gamut from managing entrepreneurial start-ups, creating a board game to film production. Now, she finds herself inspired by the idea of being part of an impactful organization that brings comfort to strangers during a pivotal time in their lives. And most importantly, it would serve the memory of her sister justly.
David Cohen
David has been with Jones, Skelton & Hochuli since 1996, and a Partner since 2002. He has been a member of the firm’s Management Committee, the leader of the firm’s Health Care Trial Group, and the head of the firm’s Diversity and Inclusion Committee. His practice focuses on defending and mediating tort cases, including but not limited to, medical malpractice cases, Adult Protective Services Act (APSA) cases, and wrongful death and personal injury cases. David received his law degree from Arizona State University College of Law in 1994, and his Bachelor of Science degree Magna Cum Laude from the University of Arizona in 1990. He is a member of many organizations, including the Arizona Health Care Association for whom he has successfully served as an expert witness in the passage of several tort reform bills. He also regularly serves as a visiting instructor and mediator at the Arizona State University College of Law. David has been recognized as a Top Rated Lawyer, a Super Lawyer, one of the Best Lawyers in America in medical malpractice defense, and one of Arizona’s Finest Lawyers. He is a Member of the National Academy of Distinguished Neutrals (NADN). David serves on the Board of Directors of nonprofit organizations devoted to improving the lives of foster children, South Sudanese refugees, and chemotherapy patients.
Barb Gilles
Barb Gilles is a former Google executive, who is also longtime friend of Chemo Companions founder, Alyssa Dinowitz. Barb was added to the Board this year, while also acting as Corporate Donation Director, and Operational Officer. She is passionate about lifting up the cancer community, and ensuring that there is equity in assistance and treatment.
Robert Gofonia
Construction Management
Bob Gofonia is a Professional Engineer and Registered Land Surveyor who has provided construction management services for more than 45 years. He is the firm’s Vice President who manages the WOODPATEL construction management department. Bob previously spent 22 years working in the City of Phoenix’s Engineering and Street Transportation Department, which gives him insight into development standards and Quality Control.
Bob is exceptionally well-versed in estimating and construction scheduling, acting as a bridge between the field and the office. In addition, his knowledge of construction complexity brings value to our clients through constructability and construction schedule reviews.
Bob was married to Marriann Gofonia for 55 happy years before she passed in 2009. She is the driving force and inspiration behind Chemo Companions.
Shobhna Kumar
Shobhna has in-depth leadership experience in the software and telecommunications industries including Microsoft and CenturyLink. She has a MBA degree from Arizona State University and is a Certified Project Manager (PMP).
Shobhna Kumar is a Senior Marketing Professional with in depth expertise in B2B marketing, planning and managing campaigns, product launches and corporate events to achieve critical business objectives. Skilled at developing strong, enduring relationships with internal/external teams, vendors, partners, and customers. Highly effective management style that promotes a shared vision and positive relationships across all organization levels. Trilingual in English, Hindi, and Spanish. Thrives in challenging fast-paced environments dedicated to excellence and quality of service.
Shobhna has in-depth leadership experience in the software and telecommunications industries including Microsoft and CenturyLink. She has a MBA degree from Arizona State University and is a Certified Project Manager (PMP)
Sherrie Myers
Sherrie is a serial entrepreneur, starting and or restructuring multiple businesses during the last 30 years. She is most known for leading not only cities and governments into considering development options with the creation of affiliated minor league baseball operations, but also teams of young employees. Sherrie believes her number one asset is people and prides herself on motivating others and understanding all key stake holder’s needs.
In addition to serving on the board of Chemo Companions, she currently sits on several non-profit boards including the internationally focused, Global Foundation Network facilitating business educational academies around the world.
Kristel Naylor
Operations Manager
