In wake of VP resignation, what’s next for Komen?
The foundation’s mission to eradicate breast cancer has gotten muddied in a political melee. How can it regain its luster?
Handel’s decision comes in light of Komen’s defunding, then refunding, of breast exam programs at Planned Parenthood. In an unsuccessful 2010 run for governor of Georgia, Handel advocated defunding Planned Parenthood, and some news sources have reported she was behind Komen’s new rules, which briefly eliminated those funds.
Does Handel’s exit mean the crisis is over?
“I do believe that Karen Handel’s resignation will do much to calm the storm, but it is far from over for the foundation,” says Gerald Baron, principal at Agincourt Strategies and blogger. The foundation must assertively turn the conversation away from politics and back toward its efforts to find a cure for breast cancer, he says.
A weakened brand
Become a Ragan Insider member to read this article and all other archived content.
Sign up today
Already a member? Log in here.
Learn more about Ragan Insider.
