Jason Bernhard Joins the Board of Directors at LUNGevity Foundation to Advance Lung Cancer Initiatives

Jason Bernhard Joins LUNGevity Foundation Board of Directors

On July 17, 2025, the LUNGevity Foundation proudly announced the appointment of Jason Bernhard, a prominent figure in the investment banking sector, as a member of its Board of Directors. As the Managing Director and Global Chief Operating Officer of Financial Advisory at Lazard, Bernhard brings with him an impressive background nearly three decades in the industry, particularly focusing on complex transactions in healthcare.

His expertise is geared towards improving healthcare outcomes, making him an invaluable asset to LUNGevity's mission of enhancing prospects for individuals affected by lung cancer. Andrea Ferris, the President and CEO of LUNGevity Foundation, shared her enthusiasm about this appointment, stating, "We are thrilled to have Jason join the LUNGevity Board. His combination of investment banking know-how, extensive experience in healthcare, and passionate desire to make an impact aligns with our objectives to broaden our reach in research, advocacy, and care."

Jason Bernhard's motivation for joining the board is deeply personal and professional. In a statement, he expressed honor in contributing to LUNGevity's transformational work, aiming to revolutionize what it means to face a lung cancer diagnosis. "LUNGevity is doing groundbreaking work that is changing what it means to be diagnosed with lung cancer, and I am honored to join LUNGevity's Board of Directors to help accelerate the organization's efforts to make lung cancer a survivable disease," Bernhard remarked.

LUNGevity is known as the nation's leading nonprofit focused on lung cancer, striving to create a positive change in the lives of those diagnosed. The organization's comprehensive approach includes enhancing quality of life and survivorship, while tackling health equity issues within care. This approach entails supporting research for early lung cancer detection, developing new treatment methodologies, and ensuring a vibrant future for professionals in the lung cancer research field.

In addition to research, advocacy plays a pivotal role in LUNGevity's mission. The foundation actively works with various stakeholders to facilitate accessibility to screening, biomarker testing, and groundbreaking treatments, ensuring that no one is left behind in the fight against lung cancer.

Furthermore, LUNGevity emphasizes community building by providing education and support for individuals affected by lung cancer. They offer an array of resources such as a user-friendly, patient-focused website, specialized gateways for different types of lung cancer, a toll-free HELPLine for tailored assistance, and international conferences for lung cancer survivors. These initiatives are part of a broader vision to create a future where lung cancer is no longer a lethal disease.

The Bigger Picture: Lung Cancer Statistics in the U.S.

Did you know that approximately 1 in 18 Americans will receive a lung cancer diagnosis in their lifetime? Predicted figures for this year suggest that over 234,000 individuals in the United States will face similar news, with an alarming new case occurring every 2.2 minutes. Notably, around 65% of new lung cancer patients come from backgrounds with little to no tobacco exposure, highlighting a significant misconception surrounding the disease.

Lung cancer reportedly claims more lives than the combined fatalities from the next two deadliest cancers—colorectal and pancreatic—underscoring the urgent need for funding and support for this cause. Currently, only 27% of individuals diagnosed with lung cancer survive for five years or more. However, early detection drastically increases the five-year survival rate to 64%.

With Jason Bernhard's expertise and LUNGevity's steadfast commitment, positive changes are on the horizon for lung cancer patients. The ongoing support from leaders like Bernhard can amplify efforts aimed at transforming lung cancer care and outcomes, ultimately contributing to a world where no one succumbs to this disease. To learn more about the LUNGevity Foundation and its just cause, visit www.LUNGevity.org.