About Us
Elias Obeid, MD, MPH - Medical Director
Dr. Elias Obeid is a distinguished medical oncologist and a leading expert in cancer prevention and early detection. With a comprehensive medical education from the American University of Beirut, and Medical Oncology and Cancer Genetics training at the University of Chicago, he dedicated his career to advancing cancer care through innovative research and compassionate clinical practice. Dr. Obeid’s work primarily focuses on high-risk cancer assessments and the genetic predispositions associated with cancer, highlighting his commitment to integrating clinical genetics into oncology practice. His research includes numerous funded studies exploring innovative treatments and preventive strategies for metastatic cancers.
Jessica Russo, MS, CGC - Genetic Counselor
Jessica is a licensed and certified genetic counselor with specialized experience in oncology genetics. She was instrumental in developing innovative genetic counseling models in leading cancer genetics clinics and has also worked in a cancer genetic testing laboratory specialized in liquid biopsy. Jessica has co-authored several publications in cancer genetics. Her research interests include increasing accessibility to genetic counseling and genetic testing in oncology. “I am privileged to be a part of this groundbreaking program, which bridges gaps in access to cancer prevention and cutting-edge genetic testing.”
Jordan Fragomeni, MS, CGC - Genetic Counselor
Jordan is a licensed and certified genetic counselor with specialized experience in oncology genetics. Jordan’s passion for oncology genetics began while completing her Bachelor of Arts in Biological Sciences degree at the University of Delaware. Jordan was inspired by the impact genetic counseling and testing had on oncology patient experiences.
She completed a minor in genetic counseling from the University of Delaware in 2019 before pursuing her Master’s degree in Human Genetics and Genetic counseling from Thomas Jefferson University in 2021. “I am honored to join a team that is dedicated to integrating genetics into everyday oncology care through affordable/accessible genetic testing and cancer screening for cancer prevention.”
Helen Nunez, MS, BSN, FNP-BC, RN - Nurse Practitioner
Helen is a bilingual Nurse Practitioner specializing in oncology, with a deep-rooted passion for cancer prevention and risk reduction. In her current role as an Advanced Practice Nurse at The Hennessey Institute at Hackensack Meridian Health, she applies this passion by focusing on personalized screening, genetic testing, and preventative assessments.
She is committed to empowering individuals with a clear understanding of their cancer risk. She achieves this by delivering highly personalized and culturally sensitive care, ensuring every patient feels seen, heard, and equipped to improve their long-term health outcomes.
Susan Montgomery, BSN, OCN, CGN - Nurse Navigator
Susan is a nurse navigator with more than 25 years of experience in oncology. Her entire nursing career has been devoted to cancer prevention and genetics. “It has been so rewarding to be able to help those with a family history of cancer better understand their risk and take steps toward prevention and early detection. I am honored to be part of the Hennessy Institute team providing our clients with genetic risk evaluation, clinical assessment and exciting research opportunities.”
Katherine Doria, RN, BSN, OCN - Nurse Navigator
Katherine is a nurse navigator with 20 years of experience in oncology. She has been devoted to caring for those affected by cancer, while also educating our community on cancer prevention measures through outreach activities and encouraging recommended screenings and early detection. “I am thrilled to be part of the Hennessy Institute where participants will have access to life-saving, comprehensive cancer risk assessment and genetic testing that might have been otherwise unavailable to them.”
Erin DeGennaro, RN, BSN, OCN - Nurse Navigator
Erin is a Nurse Navigator with 20 years of experience. She has spent her career primarily in oncology and benign hematology treating patients. She is excited to be a part of the Hennessy Institute to help educate people in understanding their cancer risk assessment through genetic testing, screening, and early detection. “I am proud to be a part of this team that is dedicated to providing new and innovative processes in cancer care.”
Gabriella Magarelli, MSN, ACNP-BC, AOCNP - Advance Practitioner Nurse
Gabriella is a board-certified nurse practitioner with 20 years of oncology experience. Gabby began her nursing career in 2004 after graduating from Rutgers University with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. In 2009, she earned her Master of Science in Nursing from New York University and subsequently commenced her role as an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, specializing in oncology. Her passion is to provide innovative, exceptional, compassionate care. “I am honored to be part of a team that is pushing the needle forward in genetic testing and cancer prevention.”
Lee Ifhar, MS, CCRP - Project Manager, Clinical Trials
Lee is a certified clinical research professional with extensive experience in research operations, monitoring and management. Lee specializes in In Vitro Diagnostics and genetic testing. “After my grandfather died of pancreatic cancer and another family member was diagnosed with endometrial cancer, I realized how great the need is for better access to cancer prevention and early detection in our community. I am honored to support and lead The Hennessy Institute’s research program because without methodical collection of information through research we won't be able to win the fight against cancer.”
Mehmet Tuna, MBA, BSc, BBA, RTT - Administrator
Mehmet brings an extensive background with over thirty years of expertise in radiation oncology, medical oncology, cancer research, and patient care. His unwavering dedication is to ensuring that patients and their families in our community receive nothing short of exceptional care. As the Administrator at HICAP, Mehmet leads a masterful team of experts wholeheartedly devoted to delivering the highest quality of service. Their primary focus is empowering individuals to comprehensively understand their cancer risk and take proactive measures to reduce it.