The American Cancer Society (ACS) and its advocacy affiliate the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) have announced Shane Jacobson as their Chief Executive Officer, effective August 12, 2025. He steps into the role following Wayne A.I. Frederick, MD, MBA, FACS, who has served as interim Chief Executive Officer of both organizations since November 2024.
Shane Jacobson
Mr. Jacobson currently serves as Chief Executive Officer of the V Foundation for Cancer Research, where he leads a team focused on accelerating game-changing research and funding top scientists. An accomplished and enthusiastic leader with more than 2 decades of nonprofit experience, including 15 years in nonprofit executive management, Mr. Jacobson has a proven record of leading organizations to achieve record-setting results and mission-driven outcomes. Prior to his time at the V Foundation, Mr. Jacobson was President and Chief Executive Officer of the University of Vermont Foundation.
“We are incredibly excited to welcome Shane Jacobson to the next chapter of the ACS,” said Terri McClements, Chair of the ACS Board of Directors. “He is a bold, mission-driven leader with integrity and the proven ability to align purpose with performance. His leadership, passion, and deep belief in the urgency of our work will make a difference in countless lives. With him at the helm—we are poised for even greater impact in the fight against cancer.”
During his nearly 5-year tenure at the V Foundation, revenue grew by 190% and grant making by 275%. With a passion for connecting mission to high-impact opportunities, Mr. Jacobson elevated distinctive investments and fundraising in cancer research, including health disparity research and reinvestment strategies in the most promising ideas. To accelerate strategic objectives, he facilitated the V Foundation’s largest partnerships and charitable gifts in the history of the organization.
“The burden of cancer is unacceptably high, and the ACS is uniquely positioned to tackle this challenge. It is a special opportunity to lead an organization with such an impressive history and powerful mission,” said Mr. Jacobson. “I look forward to working with the exceptional ACS team and national volunteer network, building on their many successes to boldly shape the future of ending cancer as we know it, for everyone.”
Mr. Jacobson identified stakeholder engagement and elevating fundraising for effective and maximum mission delivery as his key organizational priorities. In addition, he will collaborate with board and staff leadership to establish a long-term strategic plan to ensure continued relevancy and impact. Mr. Jacobson will also serve as Chief Executive Officer of ACS CAN, which advocates for evidence-based public policy change to make cancer a top nationwide priority.
Mr. Jacobson received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Iowa State University, and he completed the Harvard University Management Development Program.
