Two New Directors Join Ellen Hermanson Foundation Board
The East End organization adds a surgeon and a breast cancer survivor while creating a new emeriti title for seven long-time contributors.
By Julian Schulz ·
The Ellen Hermanson Foundation expanded its leadership team on Wednesday, naming two new board members and recognizing seven past members with a new emeriti title.
Dr. Edna Kapenhas now leads the breast surgery program at Stony Brook Southampton Hospital. She also serves as the medical director for the Ellen Hermanson Breast Center. Her appointment connects the foundation directly to the clinical care provided to patients on Long Island's South Shore.
Geralyn Lucas joins the board as a breast cancer survivor and author. She wrote the best-selling memoir, “Why I Wore Lipstick to My Mastectomy.” Lucas previously served as the honoree at the foundation’s 2026 annual summer gala. Her work focuses on raising awareness regarding diagnosis, treatment, and patient support.
Dr. Julie Ratner, the founder and chair of the foundation, said the new members bring medical expertise and personal perspective. She stated that these connections will help advance the group's mission to support breast health care for women on the East End.
The foundation simultaneously established a board members emeriti designation. This new title honors individuals who made lasting contributions to the organization. The first group to receive this distinction includes Constance M. Chen, Amanda Star Frazer, Patti Askwith Kenner, Hope Klein Langer, James Levin, Hugo Moreno, and Iris Shokoff.
Source: 27east (Southampton Press)
