2025-2027 AATB Board of Governors Officers and At-Large Governors Election

Mark DeFilippis
New England Donor Services, Inc.

Professional Bio
Mark serves as the Vice President of Tissue Operations at New England Donor Services, where he has dedicated his entire career to multiple roles. Throughout this time, he has actively participated in AATB, engaging in various areas.

Mark's career progression at New England Donor Services has resulted in a broad and deep knowledge base encompassing quality systems, donor eligibility, authorization, continuous improvement, and operational and executive leadership. 

Mark's contributions to the AATB community have been numerous, and tissue donation directly impacted his life when he received the gift of tissue in 2021. Mark is an active member of the RADE Council, serving as Secretary from 2018 to 2022 and Vice-Chair until 2023. Mark currently serves as an AATB At-Large Board of Governor Member, liaising several committees, and chairs an Ad Hoc committee.

Mark served on the Membership Committee from 2012 through 2023 and was co-chair from 2018 to 2023. He has driven significant changes for new and existing individual members, highlighting resources available to the membership.

Mark was an inaugural member of the Uniform DRAI Task Force, which began in 2008, and he has continued his work with the UDRAI through various regulatory changes. He is currently leading a subgroup in conjunction with the Standards Committee regarding the impact of MTB and sepsis guidance documents from the FDA.

Mark is committed to sharing his experiences and transferring knowledge throughout the tissue community. He is often a featured speaker at AATB, AOPO, and member organizations. Mark is a resource for leaders in other organizations and encourages new members to get involved at all levels of the association. 

Mark earned a bachelor's degree from Salem State University and an MBA from Endicott College and is a Certified Tissue Banking Specialist. Mark resides in Massachusetts with his wife and two adult children.

Statement Outlining Vision and Goals for Serving in This Capacity
"As Chair of the American Association of Tissue Banks, I envision a future where safety, ethical practices, and scientific innovation guide our membership in this challenging environment. This commitment ensures that all patients in need have access to safe and effective tissue transplants. Promoting the continuous development and implementation of best practices, ensuring that all tissue banks adhere to the highest standards of safety, quality, and regulatory compliance. Enhancing educational opportunities and resources for tissue bank professionals, ensuring they remain informed of the latest industry developments, regulations, and best practices. Enabling all members to have a voice regarding best practices and standards to shape tissue donation, advancing it for the next generation.

We will continue to advocate for the tissue banking industry with regulatory agencies and through legislative efforts to align standards and regulations. Fostering international collaborations to share knowledge, research, and best practices in tissue banking, creating a global network of professionals working together to advance the field. This effort will advance tissue banking globally to continue to meet the increasing access to safe tissue for more patients.

Given the opportunity, I will strive to provide exemplary leadership, collaboration, and ongoing education. I aim to advance the field of tissue banking by fostering a community dedicated to improving patient outcomes while always honoring the gift."

Walter Recker
LifeCell Corporation, An AbbVie Affiliate

Professional Bio
With more than 22 years dedicated to the field of tissue banking, Walter is deeply committed to advancing science, ethics, and practices that will ensure the safety and quality of donor tissues.

AATB Experience:

• Member, American Association of Tissue Banks (AATB), 2003 – Present
• Member, AATB Recovery and Donor Eligibility Council (RADE), 2003 - Present
• Chair, AATB Certification Committee, 2022 – Present
• Vice Chair, AATB Certification Committee, 2016 – 2022
• Board Member, AATB Board of Governors, 2014 - 2016
• Chair, AATB Recovery and Donor Eligibility Council (RADE), 2014 – 2016
• Vice Chair, AATB Recovery and Donor Eligibility Council (RADE), 2012 – 2014
• AATB Education Committee Member, 2006 – 2012

These experiences have reinforced his belief in the power of collaboration, education, and innovation to drive meaningful progress in our field.

Walter currently holds the position of Senior Regional Field Manager for AbbVie Tissue Service Operations. He directs, coordinates, and supervises the activities of the National On-Call Coordinators to ensure consistency of screening. He also directs procurement activities to coincide with tissue needs to ensure effective operations, provides and supervises on-site training, and delivers technical, material, and program support. He serves as a key business partner between AbbVie and its recovery partners.

Walter’s education includes a B.S. in Marketing Management and a Master of Business Administration – Healthcare Management from Western Governors University. He is a Certified Tissue Banking Specialist and Certified Surgical Technologist. Walter and his family live in Texas.

Statement Outlining Vision and Goals for Serving in This Capacity
"As Chairperson-Elect, I will focus on:

• Strengthening Educational and Certification Programs to ensure we remain the leading resource for professional development and industry standards.
• Enhancing Regulatory & Quality Initiatives by advocating policies that maintain the highest level of safety and ethical responsibility.
• Championing Membership Engagement by expanding opportunities for networking, mentorship, and professional growth for all members.

I am committed to serving with integrity, transparency, and a vision for the future of tissue banking. I humbly ask for your support in this journey, and I look forward to the opportunity to work alongside each of you to advance the mission of AATB."

Tom Buersmeyer
LifeNet Health

Professional Bio
Tom Buersmeyer has been with LifeNet Health for over 19 years, starting in 2005 as Vice President of OPO Relations and currently as the Vice President of Global Donor Recovery Services. Tom is directly responsible for overseeing the development of LifeNet Health's extensive recovery network of organ and tissue procurement organizations as well as relationship strategy with industry partners. In recent years this has expanded beyond accessing clinical tissue to support LifeNet Health's worldwide bio-implant distribution and now includes supporting LifeNet's Lifesciences division by sourcing organs and tissues for research and research service products. Tom has also had oversight over Lifenet Health's tissue recovery, donor center, donor development, and donor family service operations. 

Tom has been in the field of donation and transplantation for over 25 years. He started working as a program manager/assistant administrator for the solid organ transplant program at Indiana University Medical Center. He briefly spent 2 years as an Account Executive specializing in both organ and bone marrow transplant contracting for Clarian Health Partners (including Indiana University Medical Center/Methodist Health System). Tom then spent 5+ years working at Indiana Organ Procurement Organization (IOPO), now Indiana Donor Network, in multiple capacities, as Director, Administration, and then Chief Operating Officer. Tom also had oversight of the IOPO Foundation and Chaired the IOPO Finance and Ethics Committees of the IOPO Board.

Throughout his time at IOPO and LifeNet Health Tom has been active in multiple Committees and Councils of AOPO, AATB and UNOS, and is currently active in the AATB Accredited Tissue Banks Council, Recovery and Donor Eligibility Council, and two OPO Advisory Boards. 

Tom received his BS degree in Industrial Engineering, from Purdue University in 1988 and a Masters in Health Administration, from Indiana University in 1996. 

Statement Outlining Vision and Goals for Serving in This Capacity
"Thank you for considering me for the position of Secretary/Treasurer on the AATB Governing Board. I view this as a meaningful opportunity to contribute to an organization that is actively adapting to a changing environment—one that demands thoughtful leadership and a collaborative spirit.

This role aligns well with my background, particularly my leadership experience focused on business and organizational operations. Over the years, I have served actively on numerous boards and working committees within professional organizations, gaining valuable insight into effective governance and strategic planning.

In my current role at LifeNet Health, I have the privilege of regularly engaging with leaders from across AATB member organizations. These ongoing interactions have deepened my understanding of the diverse perspectives within our community. I believe this uniquely positions me to bring not only my own perspective but also those of many committed and talented AATB members to the board's work.

I am enthusiastic about the possibility of serving and supporting AATB's mission through this leadership position, and I appreciate your consideration."

Jeff Cartmell
MTF Biologics

Professional Bio
Jeff has proudly been part of the tissue transplant community for over two decades, dedicating his career to advancing the field and improving patient outcomes. Since joining MTF Biologics in 2003, he has held various technical, scientific, and leadership positions, each contributing to his comprehensive understanding of tissue banking and tissue transplantation.

During the first half of his career at MTF Biologics, Jeff managed research programs to enhance the basic scientific understanding of allografts. Concurrently, he led Product Development teams in creating innovative allograft-derived medical devices, driving advancements that have had a significant impact on the field. His work in research and development was instrumental in translating scientific discoveries into practical applications that benefit patients and healthcare providers.

Currently, Jeff is the Senior Director of Intellectual Property and Grants at MTF Biologics. In this role, he oversees the MTF Biologics Intellectual Property portfolio and leads the MTF Biologics peer-reviewed Allograft Innovation Research Grant Program. Both roles support groundbreaking research which push the boundaries of what is possible in tissue transplantation.

Jeff earned a BS in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Rochester and an MS in Bioengineering from The Pennsylvania State University. He completed his professional education by earning a PhD in Biomedical Engineering from Rutgers University, where his research focused on novel methods for using patellar tendon allografts in ACL reconstruction. Following his PhD, Jeff served as an NIH Post-Doctoral Research Fellow at the University of Pennsylvania, studying the structure-function relationship of tendon mechanics and healing. 

Jeff has been active in AATB for about 15 years, holding various scientific, leadership and governance roles, including STAC Chair (2013-2019) and PADC Chair (2017-2019). He is also active in other professional societies such as ASTM and the Orthopedic Research Society.

Jeff is a native of New Jersey and an avid sports fan. When not focusing on the needs of the allograft community, he enjoys spending time on the boardwalk with his wife and son, reading, or cheering on one of the many local sports teams.

Statement Outlining Vision and Goals for Serving in This Capacity
"As a candidate for the position of AATB Secretary-Treasurer, I am driven by a vision of advancing tissue banking through innovation, integrity, collaboration, and advocacy. With a robust background in research and development, intellectual property, and grant-making, I am uniquely positioned to contribute to the strategic growth and operational excellence of the AATB.

Vision: My vision is to foster a culture of continuous improvement and innovation within the AATB, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of tissue banking advancements, standards, and compliance. Central to this vision is the belief that collaboration and communication among all AATB stakeholders as well as strong advocacy efforts are keys to our success. By working together, sharing knowledge, and leveraging our collective expertise, we can effectively advocate for tissue banking while enhancing the quality and safety of donated tissues and tissue products, ultimately improving patient outcomes by advancing allograft science and clinical outcomes while serving donor families. 

Goals:

1. Enhance AATB’s Role as the Preeminent Cross-Industry Association for Tissue Banking.
2. Strengthen Regulatory & Legislative Advocacy and External Outreach. 
3. Promote Ethical Standards and Compliance.
4. Foster Member Engagement and Collaboration.
5. Ensure Financial Stewardship of the Association.

Leadership Experience: My prior leadership roles within the AATB have equipped me with unique insights and skills necessary to excel in the position of Secretary-Treasurer. As past Chair of the Scientific & Technical Affairs Committee (2013-2019), I led efforts to advance scientific research in tissue banking. Additionally, my prior three-year term on the Board of Governors (2017-2019) as Chair of the Processing & Distribution Council provided me with a deep understanding of the operational challenges and opportunities within the industry. These experiences have honed my ability to drive strategic initiatives, foster collaboration among diverse stakeholders, and advocate effectively for the tissue banking community.

Commitment to Servant Leadership: I am committed to the principles of servant leadership, prioritizing the needs of our members and stakeholders. By listening, empathizing, and empowering others, I aim to create an environment where everyone can thrive and contribute to the collective success of the AATB. My leadership approach is centered on serving the community, fostering growth, and building a solid foundation for future advancements in tissue banking.

By focusing on these goals and leveraging my leadership experience, I am committed to advancing the mission of the AATB and supporting our members in their vital work. Together, we can drive innovation, uphold the highest standards of quality and ethics, advocate for tissue banking and make a meaningful impact on the lives of patients and their families.

Thank you for considering my candidacy for Secretary-Treasurer of the AATB. I look forward to the opportunity to serve and contribute to the continued success of our organization."

Chris Agle
Legacy Donor Services Foundation

Professional Bio
Chris Agle has an extensive and impactful career in the tissue banking and donation community for 35 years, demonstrating a deep expertise of both the operational and regulatory aspects of the field. His enduring commitment to the American Association of Tissue Banks (AATB) and his leadership role at Legacy Donor Services Foundation underscore his dedication to advancing and shaping the industry.

In his current role, as President & COO, Chris has operational and executive oversight of all donation operations for recovery, acquisition, and Donor Partner Programs. He holds a pivotal role in strategic planning, regulatory compliance, and industry collaboration, ensuring the organization upholds the highest standards. His leadership is instrumental in driving efficiency, ethical practices and meaningful partnerships that enhance donor services. Chris holds a Masters in Health Science & Bachelors in Science from Regents College, an Associates in Science/Nursing and Associates in Science/Surgical Technology from Midlands Technical College.

Chris's educational background, coupled with advanced degrees in Health Sciences and specialized certifications in Science, Technology and Nursing gives him a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare and medical technology sectors. This combination of education and hands-on leadership allows him to address both the technical and operational challenges that come with the donation and tissue banking field.

AATB experience:

• Member AATB, 1990 – Present
• Member, Finance Committee, 2023 – Present
• Member, RADE Council, 2010 - Present
• Chair, Programs Committee, 2015 – 2019
• Member, Programs Committee, 2013 - 2019
• Member, Education Committee, 2006 - 2012
• Member and participant of various other councils over the years
• CTBS – 1993 to Present

Chris is excited and honored to run for this opportunity to serve the AATB. If elected he is deeply committed to making meaningful progress for its members and the tissue donation community. 

Statement Outlining Vision and Goals for Serving in This Capacity
See Bio.

Debra Cooper
Lifebanc

Professional Bio
Debra Cooper has 22 years of experience in the organ and tissue banking industry, currently serving as the Chief Quality Officer and Lab Director for Lifebanc. She joined the Lifebanc team in 2003 initially as the Director of Quality Systems, creating Lifebanc's Quality Systems department, Data Analytics department, and balanced scorecard system. Over the past 22 years, Debra has served on various committees and councils, such as the AOPO Standards and Accreditation Committee, the AOPO Impact Committee, and the OPTN OPO Committee, and is a current member of the AATB Quality Council. Before that, she served as the Field Operations/Branch Supervisor for Quest Diagnostics overseeing 20 independent collection and testing facilities across North East Ohio, as well as Assistant Director for QA and Compliance at the America Red Cross Blood Services in Cleveland, Ohio. Ms. Cooper holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Medical Technology as well as an MBA from Cleveland State University.

Statement Outlining Vision and Goals for Serving in This Capacity
Debra is passionate about saving and enhancing lives through donation and transplantation. As a donor family member, she has experienced all aspects of the donation process. She fully supports donor families, transplant recipients, healthcare workers, and industry partners in the important mission we all serve. Debra is excited about the opportunity to serve on the AATB Board and use her industry experience to assist the AATB in preparing for the exciting opportunities ahead.

Rick Kolovich
Infinity Legacy, Inc.

Professional Bio
Rick Kolovich has worked in both organ and tissue donation since 1986 and has served as the Director of Tissue & Ocular recovery services at the Living Legacy/Infinite Legacy OPO starting in 2005. He has been an integral part of building two successful tissue recovery programs between OPOs that merged in 2023, which has demonstrated 8 consecutive quarters of growth. 

He received his organ clinical training while serving as the Director of the Army/Navy transplant program at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. He has served as a transplant coordinator and clinical director at several OPO's throughout his career. Rick has participated in and led numerous workgroups, committees, and councils at national organizations such as NATCO, AOPO, NAME, and AATB. Within AATB, he has been a member of the Accreditation, Standards, and Education Committees. He is honored to have served as Chair of both AATB's Program Committee and Recovery and Donor Suitability (RADS) Council. He has also served on the AATB Board of Governor's as representative of the RADS Council. 

He earned his Maryland Nursing license from Montgomery College and is a Phi Theta Kappa Honors graduate, receiving his bachelor's and master's degrees in nursing from Kent State University. Rick also received his certificate in transplant leadership from the Wharton and Fox Schools of Business in 2018. He is grateful for the opportunity to have lectured internationally on best practices in physical assessment as it relates to improving opportunities for tissue donation at the European Association of Tissue Banking and dementia versus presumed prion related disease and tissue donation in S. Korea. 

Statement Outlining Vision and Goals for Serving in This Capacity
"Serving as an At Large Governor on AATB's Board of Directors would provide me an opportunity to work in tandem with an organization that has served the tissue transplant community since 1976. This partnership between membership and organizational leadership has led to an exponential growth in tissue donation and transplantation with an unparalleled safety record. Having served in both organ and tissue donation over several decades has afforded me an opportunity to work with many of you in the design and creation of this success. 

With that said, we are once again challenged by defending and justifying that we have the expertise and are the best advocates in improving patient and graft safety at the Federal level. I believe that this will be positively resolved through the hard work of AATB's membership, Physician's Council, and its Board members so that we can continue to provide transplantable tissue grafts to patients. In addition, there are many important initiatives that are currently in development at the AATB that lay the groundwork for our industry's future, which include standardization in procedures, training, competencies, and data sharing. 

My vision as a member of AATB's Board is to be an active participant in the discussion and promotion of these initiatives that secure the future of AATB, its mission and its membership. I will strive to support AATB's patient safety record through process improvement, practice sharing, standardization, education, and training."

Kelly Scott
DCI Donor Services Tissue Bank

Professional Bio
Kelly Scott has nearly 20 years of experience in the tissue banking industry, currently serving as the CEO of DCI Donor Services - Tissue Bank. She joined the DCI Donor Services team in 2009 initially as the Sr. Director of Quality Systems. Previously, she also served as the Vice President of Quality Systems for IZI Medical Products, a radiological medical device manufacturer, and the Manager of Regulatory Affairs for Osiris Therapeutics. Ms. Scott holds an MBA from Vanderbilt University, a Master of Science from The Johns Hopkins University, and a Bachelor's in Chemistry from Loyola University in MD. 

Kelly is passionate about saving and improving lives through donation and transplantation. She has served on the AATB Tissue Policy Group since 2010 and the Accreditation Committee from 2011-2017, including acting as chair. She has also served as a Tennessee Donor Services Advisory Board member since 2016. 

Statement Outlining Vision and Goals for Serving in This Capacity
As part of the AATB Board of Governors, Kelly's goals would include collaborating with regulatory agencies to ensure patient safety in ways that don't stifle innovation, as well as supporting the AATB's strategic plans.