Member News

ROCHESTER, N.Y., July 11, 2022 –Cancer Support Community Rochester has named James Love as its new CEO. He takes on the leadership position starting today, following the retirement of former CEO Melinda Merante.

Love previously served in various positions with the American Red Cross for 33 years, including executive director of the Greater Rochester Chapter for the last seven years. He brings a wealth of nonprofit management experience to his new role, including in such key areas as program development and management, fundraising, building community partnerships, media relations, board development and strategic planning.

"I am excited about the opportunity to lead Cancer Support Community Rochester,” Love said. “Cancer is a devastating disease that impacts nearly everyone. Working in collaboration with the board of directors, staff and community partners, we will grow the organization and make our programs better known in the region so that we can serve more people living with cancer."

Larry Yovanoff, chair of the board of directors, said, “Our executive committee conducted a thorough search for a new CEO, and we found the right leader in Jim Love. With his vast nonprofit leadership experience, we are confident that Jim will take the organization to new heights.”

James Love earned his bachelor’s degree from SUNY Brockport and completed management training programs while at the Red Cross. He resides in Walworth, N.Y.

About Cancer Support Community Rochester

Cancer Support Community Rochester (cscrochester.org) provides free, non-medical, social and emotional support to people living with cancer, along with their families and friends. The nonprofit serves more than 5,000 people annually and offers more than 1,000 free programs annually to adults, teens and children who are affected by any type of cancer. Cancer Support Community Rochester is an affiliate of a global nonprofit network of 175 Cancer Support Community and Gilda’s Club locations.