Learn more about the K2 Network

CALL 615-208-5252
Nashville, TN
Join a Study

Meet The Team

Investigators

Joshua Lennon, MD

Principal Investigator

Clinical Team

Kerry Lovelace

Managing Partner

Anna Grace Beyer

Clinical Operations Coordinator & Rater

Alexis Perry

Project Manager & Rater

Francesca McKay, MS

Project Manager & Rater

Jasmine Carter, MS

Project Manager & Rater

Administrative Team

Michael Ames

Chief Financial Officer

Lesia Hise, CPA

Chief Accounting Officer

Tina Blair

Chief of Staff

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

Jodi Slocum

Associate Director of Regulatory Affairs

Kimberly Stokes

Director of Psychometric Operations

Angela Thorn

Senior Director of Human Resources

Stephanie Cassidy

Senior Director of Clinical Initiatives & Community Affairs

Julien Nogues

Senior Director of Growth & Strategy

Katy Smith

Senior Director of Client Relations

Callie Arnold

Director of Accounting

Gina Lagares

Director of Recruitment

Michelle Montone

Director of Brand Marketing & Events

Mike Isaac

Associate Director of Digital Marketing

Linda Colon

Director of Global Data Management

Bradley Alexander MBA

Clinical Operations Coordinator & Analyst

Ram Nitta

Business Analytics Manager

Tai McNeil

CTMS Architect

Carri Faircloth

Strategic Sourcing & Business Engagement

Blake Carmichael

Human Resources Generalist

Courtney Lorini

Human Resources Business Partner

Christina Banks

Administrator of Global Data Management

Alyssa Peter

Administrator of Global Data Management

Eduardo Mendez Rivas

Director of Community & Physician Engagement

Santiago Santelis

Director of Community & Physician Engagement

Ame Cordero

Clinical Research Navigator

Alfredo Coronado

Clinical Research Navigator

Elizabeth Duque-Buckham

Clinical Research Navigator

Gisel Kautz

Clinical Research Navigator

Juan Lombana

Clinical Research Navigator

Paula Bui

Lead Recruitment Specialist

Jason Gonyea

Lead Recruitment Specialist

Beatriz Castillo

Patient Recruitment Specialist

Yakira Colon

Marketing Specialist

Emily Alavarez

Associate Director of Quality

Rebecca Barros

Quality Control Associate

Gian Colon

Quality Control Associate

Denise Hopkins

Source Document Specialist

Maria Williams

Lead Account Manager

Diadette Gonzalez

Account Manager

Jonathan Nieto

Account Manager

Tomorrow’s treatment today.
Facebook Instagram Linkedin Twitter Google
Translate Language
Select A Location
Join A Study
Refer a Friend
©2024 / K2 Medical Research / Privacy Policy / Website Designed by O360®

Joshua Lennon, MD

Principal Investigator

Joshua Lennon, MD, is an education-focused double board-certified sleep neurologist with 15 years of clinical neurology experience, including 11 years of experience in neurology clinical trials. He is an Assistant Professor at the University of Tennessee, participating in the clinical education of medical and nursing students, residents and fellows, and PhD candidates. He has served as a consultant and advisor to startups and established manufacturers alike in the medical device and pharmaceutical industries. Prior to joining K2 Medical Research, he served as the facility director for an American Academy of Sleep Medicine accredited sleep center and developed a podcast and online course in sleep education.

Dr. Lennon’s academic background includes a Bachelor of Science in biology, chemistry, and religious studies from the University of Miami, followed by a Doctor of Medicine at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. After graduation, he completed a neurology residency at University of Tennessee, followed by a fellowship in adult and pediatric sleep medicine at UT.

A Massachusetts native, Dr. Lennon has spent the last 15 years living in Tennessee. When not at work, he enjoys spending time with his wife and three daughters.

Kerry Lovelace

Managing Partner
Bio Coming Soon.

Anna Grace Beyer

CLINICAL Operations COORDINATOR
Anna Grace Beyer is a dedicated Clinical Operations Coordinator with a passion for improving lives through both healthcare and wellness. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Fitness and Sports Studies, with a minor in Psychology, from Lipscomb University, combining her interest in physical health with a deep understanding of human behavior.
 
Before entering the clinical research field, Anna Grace worked as a fitness trainer, where she discovered her love for helping people achieve personal growth and well-being. That same passion now drives her work in clinical operations at K2 Medical Research, where she supports the coordination of clinical trials with care and precision.
 
Born and raised in Nashville, Tennessee, Anna Grace brings a strong sense of community and compassion to everything she does. Known for her empathetic nature and strong work ethic, she is committed to making a positive difference in every life she touches.

Alexis Perry

Project Manager & Psychometric Rater
Hi there! I’m Alexis Perry, born and raised in the vibrant city of Nashville, TN. I graduated from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga with a degree in Exercise Science, and I’m thrilled to have started my journey at K2 as a Project Manager in February 2025.
 
When I’m not working, you can usually find me traveling to new places, roller skating through the streets, or getting lost in a creative scrapbooking project. I’m passionate about educating underserved communities, driven by my desire to contribute to medical advancements, improve patient care, and make a real difference in people’s lives.
 
I love building relationships, paying attention to the details, and staying adaptable—qualities I bring to both my personal life and my professional work. 
 

Francesca McKay, MS

Project Manager & Psychometric Rater
Bio Coming Soon.

Jasmine Carter, MS

Project Manager & Psychometric Rater
Jasmine Carter is a dedicated clinical research professional with over five years of experience in the field. She has worked across all clinical trial phases, including preclinical studies, contributing to advancements in medical research and innovation.
 
A proud graduate of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Jasmine earned her degree in Biochemistry before completing a Master’s in Biomolecular Science at Lipscomb University. Her strong academic foundation, combined with hands-on research expertise, allows her to navigate complex clinical trials with precision and insight.
 
As a Nashville native, Jasmine is passionate about contributing to the scientific community while staying connected to her roots. Her commitment to research excellence and innovation drives her work, ensuring meaningful contributions to the future of healthcare.
 

Lesia Hise, CPA

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Bio Coming Soon.

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.

Santiago Santelis, MD, MS

Site Director, Holly Hill

Santiago Santelis, MD, MS, joins K2 as the Site Director for the Holly Hill location with over 15 years of clinical experience.  Santiago has been published in several review articles, abstracts, and peer reviewed scientific journals related to the endocrine response to burns, and a proposal to standardize burn patient data.  He is bilingual in English and Spanish. 

Ame Cordero

Clinical Research Navigator
Bio Coming Soon.

Elizabeth Duque-Buckham

Clinical Research Navigator

Elizabeth Duque-Buckham is a seasoned professional in the field of research, bringing her expertise and dedication since 2017. She holds a bachelor’s degree in health science with a specialization in Vascular Ultrasound from Nova Southeastern University, a testament to her educational foundation.

Throughout her career, Elizabeth has exhibited strong leadership skills by managing a dynamic team within the research sector. Her role involved overseeing various projects and ensuring the timely completion of deadlines. Demonstrating adaptability, she learned multiple positions to serve as a valuable backup resource, showcasing her commitment to the success of the team.

Currently serving as a Clinic Research Navigator, Elizabeth plays an essential role in facilitating and coordinating research activities. In this capacity, Elizabeth is dedicated to prescreening patients and enrolling them in studies aimed at identifying therapies that enhance their quality of life.

Outside of her professional life, Elizabeth finds joy in spending quality family time with her husband and two children. Whether it’s vacationing, enjoying the beach, or visiting family, she values and prioritizes these moments, creating a well-rounded and fulfilling life outside of work.

Gisel Kautz

Clinical Research Navigator

Since 2022, Gisel Kautz has been a dedicated member of the K2 Team. An experienced all-rounder with a versatile professional and rich background. She transitioned from roles like Front Desk Coordinator to Research Assistant , Site Development Specialist and more before assuming her current position as Mobile Unit Manager. Gisel‘s diverse career spans customer service, administration, and surgical coordinator, culminating in her entry into the medical industry in 2017. Beyond her responsibilities, Gisel finds joy in travel, concerts, and cherishing moments with her family, whose battle with Alzheimer’s disease inspires her advocacy for patients and commitment to impactful work in medical research.

Juan Lombana

Prescreen Coordinator
Bio Coming Soon.

Paula Bui

Recruitment Specialist
Bio Coming Soon.

Beatriz Castillo

Clinical Research Navigator
Bio Coming Soon.

Yakira Colon

COMMUNITY OUTREACH NAVIGATOR
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.

Denise Hopkins, AS

Source document specialist
Bio Coming Soon.

Maria Williams

Account Manager
Bio Coming Soon.

Diadette Gonzalez

Account Manager
Bio Coming Soon.

Jonathan Nieto

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! 

Learn More

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.

Join a Study

If you are interested in learning more or participating in any of our studies, please fill out the form below and our office will get back to you within 1-2 business days.