Dr. Krista Andersen - Event Chair
Dr. Krista Andersen is a two-time cancer survivor, having faced both breast cancer and bone cancer. Her cancer journey is deeply personal—she lost her mother to the disease at age 17, and years later found herself relying on the support and comfort of Hope Lodge during her treatment for bone cancer. These experiences have inspired her to become a passionate advocate for others affected by cancer, and today she proudly serves as the American Cancer Society Hope Gala Event-Chair in support of the Salt Lake City Hope Lodge.
An accomplished entrepreneur, Dr. Andersen brings expertise in conflict resolution, mediation, and organizational leadership. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management, a Master’s degree in Negotiation and Conflict Resolution, and a Doctorate in Interdisciplinary Leadership. Her research focuses on workplace policies that support women’s well-being, the benefits of apologies, and the influence of self-care on work-life satisfaction.
As the founder and CEO of Fiksal, Dr. Andersen leads the development of innovative software that transforms digital communication by integrating emotional awareness with real-time risk prevention, enabling organizations to detect, correct, and inform before issues escalate. Fiksal inspires meaningful and socially responsible connections both inside and outside the workplace.
A mother of eight, Dr. Andersen is dedicated to supporting families in need and championing hope for those facing cancer. She is thrilled to be a voice for healing, advocacy, and community at Hope Lodge.
Jeff Cartwright
Jeff is a graduate of the University of Utah and holds a law degree from Valparaiso University. His career has focused on helping fintechs and banks with regulatory compliance issues. Outside of work he enjoys national parks, camping, and the Utah Mammoth. Jeff lost his Dad to colon cancer in 2011.
Des Dougherty
Des Dougherty, is a passionate ICU Registered Nurse with over 20 years of experience in nursing and healthcare leadership. She currently serves as the Assistant Service Line Director for the Oncology Service Line in the Canyons Region of Intermountain Health, where she brings clinical expertise, compassionate leadership, and a deep personal connection to cancer care. As both a professional caregiver and someone whose life has been personally touched by cancer, she is proud to work alongside a team of dedicated caregivers who strive each day to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
Sid Groutage
Dr. Brad Hunter
Brad Hunter is an Associate Professor and the Director of Immune Effector Cell Therapy at Intermountain Health where he is also the Medical Director of Oncology Research. He is a medical oncologist focusing on the treatment of patients with leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma. He is a member of the leukemia and bone marrow transplant group at LDS Hospital. He is passionate about bringing cutting edge clinical trials to patients where they live, and minimizing the burdens of cancer care for patients throughout the state of Utah.
Lindsay Janke
Heather Jorgensen
With over 16 years of experience as a Project Manager and Software Consultant at FAST Enterprises—one of the most important software companies you’ve likely never heard of—I have led large-scale government technology projects, primarily partnering with the State of Utah to modernize and streamline public systems. My role bridges the gap between complex software solutions and the people they serve, ensuring successful implementations through strong leadership, collaboration, and a focus on long-term impact.
Beyond the tech world, I’m also the proud owner of a small sourdough bakery, where I channel my love of craft and community into every loaf. Balancing life as a business owner, wife, and mother of two, I bring a grounded, people-first perspective to everything I do—whether it’s launching enterprise software or pulling fresh bread from the oven.
David Perkins
VP Operations, North America
Americas
David stepped into the role of Vice President Operations, North America in November 2021 and has led our efforts to launch Thiess’s business in North America. A forward-thinking leader with a strong financial background, David brings with him nearly 30 years of leadership experience in mining industry to Thiess.
