Meet The Team

Investigators

Clinical Team

Administrative Team

Translate Language

Select A Location

Stephen Quaning, MD

Investigator

Stephen Quaning, M.D. is the Medical Director and Chief Physician at MetroHealth. A graduate of the St. George’s University School of Medicine, he completed his internal medicine residency and geriatric fellowship at the Long Island Jewish Medical Center in 1998-99. He became Board Certified in Geriatric Medicine in 2000.

Since assuming control of MetroHealth in 2002, Dr. Quaning has overseen all aspects of medical programming and patient services. Under his direction, MetroHealth has developed into one of the premier providers of expert geriatric medical care in the Central Florida area.

Dr. Quaning identified his interest in geriatric medicine at a young age while serving as a caregiver for his aging grandfather. He saw firsthand the important role that personalized care can play in preserving quality of life during one’s later years. Dr. Quaning believes that the goal of geriatric medicine is not only to extend life expectancy, but also to extend the period of high-functioning time in a person’s life.

An avid reader, Dr. Quaning enjoys learning about Eastern philosophy. He continuously seeks new ways in which to apply the lessons learned in his readings to his daily life and business. MetroHealth visitors will notice Eastern elements incorporated into the office decor, a reflection of Dr. Quaning’s personal style.

When he is away from work, Dr. Quaning enjoys spending time and travelling with his wife and their daughter. He also enjoys pursuing his aviation license in fulfillment of his longtime love of flying. Dr. Quaning is also the CEO of MH Geriatrics Management, LLC, an affiliated management services organization. He obtained an Executive MBA from Rollins College in 2006.

Samuel Dunlop, DNP, NP-C

Investigator

Samuel Dunlop, DNP, NP-C began his nursing career working in a cardiovascular intensive care unit for seven years before returning to school to gain a deep knowledge and understanding of how health and medicine could work together to improve his patient’s lives. He has always loved science and learning how the body works, which make his position with us all the more meaningful.

Victoria Marsh

MANAGING DIRECTOR

Victoria Marsh joins K2 Medical Research as Managing Director of K2 SODO. Victoria began her career in clinical research in 2009 while pursuing a graduate degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of Central Florida. Her prior roles in research include Clinical Research Coordinator, Lead Neuro-Clinical Research Coordinator, Project Manager and Psychometric Rater.

Victoria has extensive experience with geriatric populations and neurological indications to include Mild Cognitive Impairment, Mild-Moderate Alzheimer’s Disease and Parkinson’s Disease. Victoria’s intellect, caring nature and warmth is prized by her teammates and patients alike- she thoroughly enjoys connecting with people and finds fulfillment in helping others.

Victoria graduated from the University of Central Florida as a Lead Scholar with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and minor in Sociology in 2009. She is passionate about dogs, animal rescue and welfare. In her free time, she enjoys running, yoga and being outdoors with her two dogs, Chloe and Kona.

Marianne McManus

MANAGING DIRECTOR

Coming soon…

Tiffany Kiako

Associate Site Director

Tiffany currently serves as the Associate Director at K2 Medical Research in Daytona. Her passion for research began while pursuing a Master’s Degree in Biomedical Sciences at Quinnipiac University in her home state of Connecticut. Shortly after, she joined the K2 Medical Research family and has since held various roles, including Research Assistant, Clinical Research Coordinator, and Study Start-Up Specialist.

Tiffany attributes her love for neurodegenerative research to her volunteer experience in hospice care and collegiate thesis on epigenetic changes in the brain. She is especially inspired by the resilience and wisdom of the elderly population, and her work is driven by a commitment to blending cutting-edge research with holistic approaches that support healthy living.

Outside of work, Tiffany finds peace at the beach or while exploring new destinations around the world. A dedicated health and fitness enthusiast, she spends much of her free time both teaching and practicing Pilates.

Becca Carr, BSN, RN

Lead Project Manager

Becca has been a registered nurse since 2018, bringing a strong clinical background from both hospital and research settings. Her passion for helping others is what first drew her to the nursing field, and that same dedication continues to shine through in her work in clinical research.

Becca has held several key roles in the research space, including Pharmacy Coordinator and Lead Neuro Clinical Research Coordinator. She’s especially known for her ability to build strong, genuine relationships with patients, creating a supportive and comfortable environment for those participating in studies.

Outside of work, Becca loves spending quality time with her husband, son, and daughter, enjoying beach days, and indulging in a little retail therapy.

Susan Black, BSN, RN

Lead Project Manager

Susan Black joins K2 Medical Research as an RN and Lead Project Manager for Gen Med studies at the Daytona Beach site. Susan began her medical surgical nursing career in her home state of WV, graduating from West Virginia University before moving to Florida and starting a family.

In 2009, Susan was given the opportunity to begin her work in Clinical Research with a friend and physician in his small office setting. Susan pursued research working in a variety of research facilities while obtaining her Certified Clinical Research Coordinator certification. Susan sees clinical research as a great fit for her as she is detail oriented and loves connecting with her participants hoping to empower them to develop a better understanding of their diseases/health conditions as they take part in possible scientific advancements, new treatments and interventions in research.

Susan is passionate about her 3 sons, 2 daughter in laws and one granddog, Rue. Susan enjoys spending time with friends, dining out, traveling and playing pickleball.

Arnaldo Acosta

Project Manager

Bio Coming Soon.

Maryoreht Arellano

Project Manager

Bio Coming Soon.

Ally Ferguson

Project Manager

Ally is a dedicated Project Manager with a Bachelor of Science in Health Services Administration from the University of Central Florida, class of 2022. Since graduating, she has grown her career in clinical research, holding roles such as Clinical Research Coordinator, Lead Neuro Clinical Research Coordinator, and Quality Assurance Manager.

Known for being reliable and collaborative, Ally plays a key part in supporting daily operations and cross-functional teams. She brings a thoughtful, problem-solving mindset to every project and values clear communication and teamwork.

Outside of work, Ally finds joy in reading, exploring new places, and spending time outdoors – especially when the UV index hits 9.

Camille Hebert, BSN

Project Manager

Camille is a dedicated Project Manager with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing with a minor in Psychology from the University of Central Florida, class of 2024. With a background as a Clinical Research Coordinator, Camille brings both clinical expertise and a deep commitment to patient-centered care.

Known for her diligence and keen attention to detail, Camille excels at building strong rapport with patients and ensuring smooth, high-quality operations. She is especially passionate about serving and advocating for underserved populations, bringing heart and purpose to everything she does.

Outside of work, Camille enjoys spending time with her partner, Collin, and their cat, Kyo. Together, they love exploring different towns and trying new activities, always on the lookout for their next adventure. With family roots in Louisiana, Camille also cherishes the culture and vibrant spirit of New Orleans, which continues to be a meaningful part of her life.

Allana Runge

Lead Psychometric Rater

Allana joins K2 Medical Research as a Lead Psychometric Rater. She has been specializing in cognitive testing since 2020, with experience spanning across private practice, academic, and clinical research settings. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Clinical Psychology and a Master of Arts in Human Services Counseling, which have laid a strong foundation for her clinical and compassionate approach to care.

Throughout her career, Allana has held key roles including Rater Trainer, Psychometric Operations Manager, and Trial Placement Manager. She is especially passionate about supporting individuals and families facing Alzheimer’s disease and cognitive decline, bringing both expertise and empathy to every interaction.

Outside of work, Allana enjoys animals, the outdoors, and all things vintage. You can often find her hiking, going to the beach, capturing special moments through photography, or spending time with her husband and their beloved rescue dog.

Jennifer Avila

Research Assistant

Bio Coming Soon.

Shivani Patel

Clinical Research Assistant

Shivani Patel joined K2 Medical Research as Clinical Research Assistant. She is a clinical research professional and an experienced pharmacy technician with a love for science. With a Master’s in Clinical Research and a Bachelor’s in Pharmacy, she blends science and compassion to help make healthcare better, one patient at a time.

She worked as a pharmacy technician, where she prepared prescriptions, handled insurance processing, and supported patients with their patient needs. Previously, she worked as a pharmacist in India, where she gained hands-on experience in both prescription review and patient counseling – building a strong foundation in both skill and compassion.

When she’s not in her scrubs, she’s all about the little joys – spending time with family, taking breezy beach walks, and playing badminton with her husband (sometimes a little competitively!). She’s a foodie at heart who enjoys cooking.

Savannah Urbanski

Clinical Research Assistant

Savannah is a Research Assistant with a strong background in emergency medicine. She has been serving as a firefighter since 2017 and a medic since 2019, gaining extensive hands-on experience in high-pressure situations, including responding to codes, administering medications, starting IVs, and providing critical care in the field. Through her work as a first responder, Savannah discovered her true passion lies in medicine and healthcare. She brings that same dedication and energy to her role in clinical research, along with a natural ability to connect with others. Personable and approachable, she has a talent for making patients feel at ease and building strong rapport with everyone she meets. Outside of work, Savannah enjoys baking sweet treats, exploring local thrift shops, and spending time in the great outdoors. Whether it’s hiking, relaxing in the sun, or going on adventures, she’s usually accompanied by her beloved Australian Shepherd, Benny. She also loves unwinding with family and friends, always bringing warmth and good conversation wherever she goes.

Marjorie Mathieu

Laboratory Technician

Bio Coming Soon.

Jeyssa Samo

Pharmacy Technician

Bio Coming Soon.

Lesia Hise, CPA

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Bio Coming Soon.

Marieke Cajal Berman, PhD

Vice President, Patient Experience & Marketing

Dr. Marieke Cajal Berman, Vice President, Patient Experience and Marketing, holds a PhD in Neurosciences from the Université Paris Cité in France. She has published peer-reviewed papers and abstracts at international conferences.

After research on brain development, she joined a clinical trial site network, Compass Research, in Orlando, Florida, to develop patient engagement, community outreach, physician relationships, and client relationships, first focusing on CNS research and later expending to liver disease and many other therapeutic areas. When the US based network became global via an acquisition by Bioclinica, now part of PPD, she helped establish unified patient recruitment and marketing processes across the US and European clinics. She served as Director of Patient Strategy and Innovation at ClinEdge, now Elligo, before joining Wake Research, where she oversaw the patient recruitment and marketing departments. She successfully launched a patient recruitment spin-off vendor there, supporting sponsors’ projects independently from the site services. She then applied her expertise in setting-up best-in-class processes and systems to support patient recruitment and marketing in clinical trials at Lightship, and Flourish Research before joining K2 Medical Research.

Sandra Torres, RN, BSN

Vice President, Engagement & Strategic Initiatives

Sandra Carmona Torres currently serves as the Vice President, Engagement & Strategic Initiatives at K2 Medical Research. A graduate from the University of South Florida with a nursing degree, she has dedicated over 10 years as a passionate registered nurse advocating for patients. Sandra began her career in research as an infusion nurse since she has held various leadership positions in clinical research. As a passionate advocate for patient engagement, Sandra recognizes the importance of ensuring that individuals from diverse backgrounds have equal access to clinical research opportunities. Through her exceptional leadership skills and her innovative and creative approach she has been able to build strong relationships with community organizations, healthcare providers, and advocacy groups. These partnerships have not only increased awareness about the importance of clinical research, but they have also helped to address and overcome the barriers that may hinder participation. Through her role as the Executive Director for Patient Engagement, Marketing, and Diversity, she continues to make a profound impact by ensuring that everyone has equal opportunities to participate in clinical research. Her tireless efforts have not only transformed the lives of individuals within her community but have also contributed to the advancement of medical knowledge and the improvement of patient outcomes.

Lesli Leimer, PharmD

Director of Pharmacy

Bio Coming Soon.

Carlos Baez, MD

DIRECTOR OF LABORATORY SERVICES

Bio Coming Soon.

Kristen Grube

DIRECTOR OF QUALITY AND COMPLIANCE

Bio Coming Soon.

Kimberly Stokes

Director of Psychometric Operations

Bio Coming Soon.

Angela Thorn

Senior Human Resource Director

Bio Coming Soon.

Stephanie Cassidy

DIRECTOR OF CLINICAL INITIATIVES AND COMMUNITY AFFAIRS

Bio Coming Soon !

Katy Smith

Senior Director of Client Relations

Bio Coming Soon.

Callie Arnold

Director of Accounting

Bio Coming Soon.

Gina Lagares

Director of Recruitment

Gina Cedano is an accomplished professional specializing in patient recruitment within the clinical trials sector. Commencing her career in 2009, Gina embarked on a transformative journey by conducting grassroots recruitment in the Bronx, subsequently contributing significantly to the enrollment of 4,000 Hispanic subjects for a pivotal observational study. This achievement stands as a testament to her collaborative approach and strategic recruitment capabilities.

In her current role as Director of Recruitment at K2 Medical Research, a leading clinical research facility in the greater Orlando area, Gina leads a dynamic team responsible for both recruiting and prescreening subjects, guiding them with her expertise and fostering a culture of excellence. Aligned with K2’s commitment to promoting innovative and effective medical treatments while prioritizing participant safety and privacy, Gina plays a vital role in connecting patients with the treatments of tomorrow. Her foundational experience as a recruiter, prescreener, and recruitment strategist has been instrumental in shaping her comprehensive understanding of the field, enabling her to mentor and train professionals effectively.

Gina excels in formulating innovative recruitment strategies and harnessing data analytics to optimize operational efficiency, furthering K2’s mission to fight diseases and improve community health. Her adept problem-solving skills and leadership acumen underscore her dedication to advancing clinical research and setting industry benchmarks for excellence and innovation.

Outside the confines of her professional responsibilities, Gina’s creativity shines through her passion for crafts and DIY projects, adding a distinctive dimension to her multifaceted personality.

With a distinguished career marked by unwavering commitment and exemplary achievements, Gina Cedano continues to be a driving force in advancing clinical research at K2 Medical Research, consistently striving to make a positive impact on the health of local communities and the broader population.

Michelle Montone

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND OUTREACH

Michelle Montone joins K2 Medical Research as Director of Marketing with nearly a decade of experience in clinical trials. Specializing in forming community partnerships, educational programs, and promoting clinical research, Michelle is a Certified Meeting Planner with a primary focus on marketing and event planning for neurodegenerative diseases and disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Prior to joining K2, she provided operational support for various industries, such as Ripley Entertainment and the Judicial Circuit Court system. A scholar and an athlete, she obtained her bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida in 2007 and won the All-SEC Freshman of the Year Award for the University’s softball team in 2004.

Originally hailing from South Florida, Michelle is bilingual: fluent in both Spanish and English. As a first-generation Cuban-American, she is well-versed in integrating cultures while still honoring their individual nuances; she hopes to use these skills to bring the benefits of medical research to traditionally underserved populations and end the stigma of clinical research in the Latin community once and for all.

In her free time, you can find her traveling, watching sports, and enjoying quality time with her friends and family.

Mike Isaac

Associate Director of Digital Marketing

Bio Coming Soon.

Linda Colon

Director of Global Data Management

Bio Coming Soon.

Bradley Alexander MBA

Clinical Operations Coordinator & Analyst

Bio Coming Soon.

Tail McNeil

CTMS Architect

Bio Coming Soon.

Carri Faircloth

Strategic Sourcing & Business Engagement

Bio Coming Soon.

Blake Carmichael

Human Resources Generalist

Bio Coming Soon.

Christina Banks

ADMINISTRATOR OF GLOBAL DATA MANAGEMENT

Bio Coming Soon.

Alyssa Peter

ADMINISTRATOR OF GLOBAL DATA MANAGEMENT

Bio Coming Soon.

Ame Cordero

K2 Experience Ambassador

Bio Coming Soon.

Beatriz Castillo

Clinical Research Navigator

Bio Coming Soon.

Gisel Kautz

SITE DEVELOPMENT AND OUTREACH SPECIALIST

Bio Coming Soon.

Elizabeth Duque-Buckham

Mobile Clinic Coordinator

Bio Coming Soon.

Cathryn Pendleton

Mobile Clinic Coordinator

Bio Coming Soon.

Heather Reyes

CLINICAL RESEARCH TECHNICIAN

Bio Coming Soon.

Paula Bui

Recruitment Specialist

Bio Coming Soon.

Yakira Colon

COMMUNITY OUTREACH NAVIGATOR

Bio Coming Soon.

Britney Graves

Data Entry Specialist

Bio Coming Soon.

Nichole Molina

Marketing Assistant

Bio Coming Soon.

Sandi Sundstrom RN

FEASIBILITY SPECIALIST

Bio Coming Soon.

Emily Alavarez

Quality Control Associate

Bio Coming Soon.

Rebecca Barros

Quality Control Associate

Bio Coming Soon.

Gian Colon

Project Manager

Bio Coming Soon.

Maritess Coronel

Source Document Specialist

Bio Coming Soon.

Cortney Fretz

Source Document Specialist

Bio Coming Soon.

Yanela Vazquez

Lead Account Manager

Bio Coming Soon.

Diadette Gonzalez

Account Manager

Bio Coming Soon.

Jonathan Nieto

Account Manager

Bio Coming Soon.

Maria Williams

Account Manager

Bio Coming Soon.

K2 is Closed for the holidays

All K2 locations will be closed from December 24, 2024 – January 5, 2025. We will reopen on January 6, 2025. In the meantime, please check out our website to learn more about our clinical research trials, our teams, and ways you can join our growing team.

Wishing you and your families a Happy Holiday Season!

Melissa Belardo, APRN

Clinical Investigator

Melissa Belardo, is a certified family nurse practitioner (FNP-BC), joins K2 Medical Research with more than a decade of clinical experience. She has served as an investigator in over 20 trials. Prior to clinical research, she held roles in gastroenterology, hepatology, and nurse education.

Melissa’s academic background includes a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Adventist University, followed by a master’s degree in Family Nurse Practitioner from Georgetown University.

Melissa is a native of the US Virgin Islands’ and is fluent in both English and Spanish; Melissa has lived in central Florida for the past twenty years. When she’s not at work, you can find her volunteering at her local church and spending time with family.

Meet The Team

Investigators

Joshua Eisenhut, MD

Natalie Eisenhut

Clinical Team

Administrative Team

Mike Ames

Tina Blair

Jodi Slocum

Julien Nogues

Ram Nitta

Alfredo Coronado

Heather Jimenez

Translate Language

Select A Location

Stephen Quaning, MD

Investigator

Samuel Dunlop, DNP, NP-C

Investigator

Victoria Marsh

MANAGING DIRECTOR

Marianne McManus

MANAGING DIRECTOR

Tiffany Kiako

Associate Site Director

Becca Carr, BSN, RN

Lead Project Manager

Susan Black, BSN, RN

Lead Project Manager

Arnaldo Acosta

Project Manager

Maryoreht Arellano

Project Manager

Ally Ferguson

Project Manager

Camille Hebert, BSN

Project Manager

Allana Runge

Lead Psychometric Rater

Jennifer Avila

Research Assistant

Shivani Patel

Clinical Research Assistant

Savannah Urbanski

Clinical Research Assistant

Marjorie Mathieu

Laboratory Technician

Jeyssa Samo

Pharmacy Technician

Lesia Hise, CPA

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Marieke Cajal Berman, PhD

Vice President, Patient Experience & Marketing

Sandra Torres, RN, BSN

Vice President, Engagement & Strategic Initiatives

Lesli Leimer, PharmD

Director of Pharmacy

Carlos Baez, MD

DIRECTOR OF LABORATORY SERVICES

Kristen Grube

DIRECTOR OF QUALITY AND COMPLIANCE

Kimberly Stokes

Director of Psychometric Operations

Angela Thorn

Senior Human Resource Director

Stephanie Cassidy

DIRECTOR OF CLINICAL INITIATIVES AND COMMUNITY AFFAIRS

Katy Smith

Senior Director of Client Relations

Callie Arnold

Director of Accounting

Gina Lagares

Director of Recruitment

Michelle Montone

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND OUTREACH

Mike Isaac

Associate Director of Digital Marketing

Linda Colon

Director of Global Data Management

Bradley Alexander MBA