Dean Crowe is the Founder and CEO of Rally Foundation for Childhood Cancer Research, which she established in 2005 after a personal connection to a child with brain cancer inspired her to take action. She leads the organization’s strategic direction, working closely with its Board of Directors, Medical Advisory Board, and national advocacy efforts, with a focus on raising awareness and funding for childhood cancer research to improve treatments and advance cures. Under her leadership, Rally has grown from a grassroots initiative into a nationally recognized nonprofit, earning top ratings from charity watchdogs and mobilizing volunteers across the United States to support pediatric cancer research and innovative clinical programs.
A graduate of Auburn University and Harvard Business School’s Executive Education in Strategic Perspectives for Nonprofit Management, Crowe brings extensive nonprofit leadership experience, including prior work as Campaign Director for Young Life’s national camp. Her tenure at Rally has been marked by strategic growth in fundraising, research grantmaking, and advocacy, helping to fund cutting-edge research projects that address unmet needs in childhood oncology. Through her guidance, Rally Foundation has become a leading voice in the pediatric cancer community, combining scientific impact with community engagement to improve outcomes and advance potential cures for children with cancer.
The 100 CEOs featured here reflect the diversity and complexity of modern oncology leadership. In 2025, some lead the world’s largest cancer institutions; others guide specialized societies or emerging innovators. What unites them is responsibility: for millions of patients, for the integrity of science, and for the future direction of cancer care globally.
This list is not a celebration of power, but a recognition of stewardship, accountability, and impact – and of the leaders whose choices continue to shape the fight against cancer. For the many deserving individuals not mentioned in this list, we will continue to acknowledge, honor and elevate your voices in our daily publications from across the world.
See the full list of The 100 Most Influential CEOs in Oncology in 2025, and stay tuned for other special category nominations
