From Transition to Transformation: Tower’s Next Chapter
Author
Matt Zarcufsky
Executive Director and Chief Philanthropy Officer
Date
September 3, 2025
Reading Time
1
min.
Dear Friends of Tower,
As summer gives way to fall and I start my tenure as Tower Cancer Research Foundation’s Executive Director and Chief Philanthropy Officer, I find myself reflecting on the extraordinary resilience and generosity of this community. September is a month of transition — a time when we return to routines but also renew our commitment to what matters most. At Tower Cancer Research Foundation, what matters most is clear: advancing cutting-edge research, supporting patients and their families, and building hope where it is needed most.
This past year, your support has enabled Tower to invest in innovative clinical trials aimed at better treatments and brighter outcomes, as well as strengthen our patient support programs. Each dollar donated and each volunteer hour represents more than a number — it represents lives touched, hope extended, and futures changed.
I also want to shine a spotlight on the Magnolia Council’s upcoming Spirit of Hope Luncheon. This beloved tradition embodies the heart of Tower — bringing together women leaders who are passionate about philanthropy, community, and making a tangible difference in the fight against cancer and supporting those living with it. The luncheon not only raises critical funds for patient support but also serves as a powerful reminder that compassion, when combined with action, can create lasting change. Thank you to the Magnolia Council for their steadfast support, and please consider joining us on October 13th at the Beverly Hills Hotel.
In a season that reminds us of change, Tower remains steadfast in our belief: when we come together, we can change the course of cancer. Thank you for walking alongside us, for fueling discovery, and for ensuring that patients and families know they are never alone.
Matt Zarcufsky
Executive Director and Chief Philanthropy Officer
Matt Zarcufsky serves as the Executive Director & Chief Philanthropy Officer of Tower Cancer Research Foundation, a Los Angeles-based nonprofit that advances early-stage cancer research to accelerate breakthroughs and delivers community support for patients to improve their lives. In this role, he leads the Foundation’s philanthropic strategy, major gift development, and organizational operations to accelerate breakthroughs in research and expand programs that improve the lives of those affected by cancer. Matt brings extensive experience in all facets of nonprofit organization management and institutional advancement, including organizational governance, major gift development, annual giving, capital and endowment campaigns, government relations, strategic development and planning, and communications.
A graduate of Villanova University School of Business with a degree in Finance, Matt has previously served as President and Administrator of the Mary Jo and Hank Greenberg Animal Welfare Foundation and as a member of the Board of Directors of the Marine Mammal Care Center in San Pedro, California and the Board of Councilors for the USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work. He is a member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals Greater Los Angeles Chapter and holds the designation of Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE).
Born and raised in suburban Washington, DC, Matt resides in Los Angeles, CA, with his wife, Shana, their children, Jake and Samantha, and rescue dogs, Simba, Sunshine, and Floppy.
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From Transition to Transformation: Tower’s Next Chapter
As summer gives way to fall and I start my tenure as Tower Cancer Research Foundation’s Executive Director and Chief Philanthropy Officer, I find myself reflecting on the extraordinary resilience and generosity of this community.
Support the Journey
When you donate to Tower, you’re not supporting a single study. You’re part of an ecosystem that believes the next breakthrough is out there, waiting for someone to believe in it first. Every gift puts resources directly behind the discoveries that would otherwise never see the light of day.