Meet The Team

Investigators

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Beatriz Colon, MD

Principal investigator

Dr. Beatriz Colon joins the K2 medical team as a Principal Investigator with more than 20 years of clinical experience in Emergency Medicine. She began her involvement in clinical research in 2022 overseeing trials involving vaccines, Diabetes and Neuropathy, Hypertension, NASH/MASH (Fatty liver), and most recently, Obesity and Alzheimer’s Disease.

Dr. Colon pursued her medical degree at the University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine with a specialty in Emergency Medicine and began practicing in 2002. She later moved to Florida where she continued in Emergency Medicine for more than two decades. Her genuine approach to the well-being of her patients and her work colleagues makes her a true asset to the South Downtown clinic and team. Her sense of humor is a gift, and her smile is said to light up a room.

In her free time, Dr. Colon enjoys traveling and hiking, especially in the National Parks. She also volunteers at the local dog shelter.

Lumary Matos

Sub-Investigator

Lumary Matos joins the K2 medical team as Sub-Investigator with a diverse background in Family Medicine and Psychiatry. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies from the University of Central Florida in 1996. Driven by a passion for healthcare, she later pursued a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from D’Youville College in Buffalo, NY, graduating in 2016.

Lumary joined our South Orlando location in early 2024 assisting in the oversight of clinical trial indications to include Alzheimer’s Disease, Mild Cognitive Impairment, Diabetes, Obesity and MASH/NASH (Fatty Liver). Throughout her career, Lumary has demonstrated a genuine love for helping a diverse patient population. She strives to impact patients’ experience through her commitment to treating patients with kindness and compassion. Over the past eight years, she has made significant contributions to both Family Medicine and Psychiatry, serving her community with dedication and care.

Outside of her professional life, Lumary enjoys spending quality time with her family and pets. She has a passion for travel and loves to explore new places. Additionally, she is an avid pickleball player, finding joy and relaxation in the sport.

Elizabeth Phillips, MD

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR

Dr. Elizabeth (“Beth”) Phillips joins the K2 medical team as a principal investigator with over 25 years of clinical expertise. Board certified in Emergency Medicine, Dr. Phillips’ experience encompasses all levels of emergency departments; in addition to managing emergent care in all areas of medicine, she has served administratively as departmental medical director, and has held faculty appointments as assistant professor and clinical instructor.

Dr. Phillips’ academic background includes a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of the South (Sewanee), followed by her Medical Degree at The University of Alabama School of Medicine. After graduation, she completed an internship in Internal Medicine at the Naval Medical Center in Portsmouth, Virginia, then served as a General Medical Officer in the US Navy for four years. Following her military service, Dr. Phillips completed an Emergency Medicine residency program at Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge. She has also completed a fellowship in wilderness medicine through the Academy of Wilderness Medicine, and a Master’s in Business Administration through Auburn University Harbert School of Business.

A native Alabamian, Dr. Phillips recently relocated to Central Florida, where she lives in Winter Park with her husband, Terry. A lover of modern and classic literature, when she’s not working, you can find her curled up with a good book, enjoying the warm Florida weather.

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…

Anny Gonzalez

Project Manager

Anny joins K2 Medical Research as a Project Manager. Anny brings to our team over 9 years of experience in clinical research across the USA and Canada. She has contributed significantly to a diverse array of medical fields, including Emergency Medicine, Nephrology, COVID-19 Research, Obstetrics, and Neurology. Anny holds a Doctor of Medicine degree from Venezuela and has consistently demonstrated a commitment to advancing healthcare through meticulous research and patient-focused care.

In addition to her medical degree, Anny has been responsible for overseeing clinical trial operations and has successfully managed multiple clinical sites. Her expertise spans various therapeutic areas, and her role in clinical research has been marked by a dedication to improving patient outcomes and enhancing clinical practices. Colleagues and patients alike appreciate Anny’s professionalism, empathy, and dedication to the field. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends and going to the beach.

Yvette Kowalski

Project Manager

Bio Coming Soon.

Mia McMullen

Project Manager

Mia McMullen joins K2 Medical Research as a Project Manager. She is a University of North Florida graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Health, a program that equipped her with a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape, including the principles of health promotion, disease prevention, and patient-centered care. While at UNF she interned at Brooks Rehabilitation Hospital in Jacksonville, Florida, where she worked in their brain injury rehabilitation center. This experience was helpful allowing her to engage directly with patients and apply her knowledge in a practical setting.

In addition to her academic and internship experiences, she is a Certified Medical Technologist. She has three years of prior health care experience at Aventus Health Laboratories. In her free time, she enjoys going to Disney with her daughter and spending time with her family.

Adriana Seda

Clinical Research Assistant

Bio Coming Soon.

Arianah Yamin-Laboy

Psychometric Rater

Arianah Yamin-Laboy joins K2 Medical Research as a Psychometric Rater and Project Coordinator. She is a University of Central Florida graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Clinical Psychology and Minor in Human Services and Aging Studies. While at UCF, she served as a Peer Educator for the Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), a Trained Peer for Togetherall, an anonymous clinically moderated peer support platform, and as a Research Assistant for UCF’s OLDeR Lab where she assisted in subject recruitment and designed presentation materials.

Her previous experience includes interning as a Behavioral Health Technician for Aspire Health Partners, where she provided recovery support services to individuals with substance use conditions, monitored client progress and family visits, assisted with group therapy and activities, and conducted drug screening tests. She also previously interned at the Alzheimer’s & Dementia Resource Center (ADRC), where she provided resources to caregivers in the community, managed Florida Brain Bank Research Program files, facilitated the smooth sailing of workshops, and created marketing materials. She continues to volunteer for them in her free time. She also enjoys traveling and spending time with her family, friends, and dog, Poppy.

Kiara Rodriguez

Psychometric Rater & Research Assistant

Bio Coming Soon.

Sebastian Gonzalez

Recruitment Specialist

Bio Coming Soon.

Jeyssa Samo

Pharmacy Technician

Bio Coming Soon.

Iman Banks-Tillman

Laboratory Manager

Iman Banks-Tillman joins K2 Medical Research as Laboratory Manager for the South Orlando location with a professional background in medical research and public health. Iman earned a Master of Public Health degree from South New Hampshire University in Manchester, NH and brings over three years of experience working in laboratory research and management. Throughout her career, Iman has developed expertise in therapeutic areas to include Alzheimer’s disease, cancer, Parkinson’s, COVID-19, diabetes, obesity and more.

Outside of work, Iman enjoys riding her bike and listening to music, activities that bring balance and creativity to her life. Driven by a passion for improving patient outcomes, she continues to make meaningful contributions to the field of medical research.

Sandra Torres, RN, BSN

Executive Director for Patient Engagement, Marketing and Diversity

Sandra Carmona Torres currently serves as the Executive Director for Patient Engagement, Marketing, and Diversity 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.

Candace Baird

DIRECTOR OF REGULATORY AND QUALITY ASSURANCE

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 !

Kerry Lovelace

Senior Director of Business Development & Strategic Growth

Bio Coming Soon.

Callie Arnold

Director of Accounting

Bio Coming Soon.

Gina Cedano

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.

Bill Menard

Associate Director of Strategic Operations

Bio Coming Soon.

Katy Smith

Senior Director of Client Relations

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.

Linda Colon

ADMINISTRATOR OF GLOBAL DATA MANAGEMENT

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.

Rebecca Barros

Quality Control Associate

Bio Coming Soon.

Emily Alavarez

Quality Control Associate

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.