East Cobb resident Dean Crowe has been named one of the 100 Most Influential CEOs in Oncology by OncoDaily, recognizing two decades of leadership in childhood cancer research, advocacy and family support.
Crowe is the founder and CEO of Rally Foundation for Childhood Cancer Research, a national nonprofit she launched twenty years ago after a personal experience changed the direction of her life.
That moment began on an East Cobb baseball field. Crowe’s husband, Reid, coached a thirteen year old travel baseball team called The Stars. One of the players, William, developed a close bond with his coach. After the season ended, William was diagnosed with brain cancer. Reid walked alongside him through treatment and recovery. When William later relapsed, Dean joined a small prayer circle of baseball moms and neighbors supporting the family.
During that time, Crowe asked William’s mother what she could do to help and made it clear she would not just make dinner. She wanted to do more. The response was direct: raise money for childhood cancer research and fund the best research, wherever it may be. Rally Foundation for Childhood Cancer Research was born.
Founded in Atlanta, Rally empowers volunteers nationwide to raise awareness and funds for childhood cancer research focused on developing better treatments with fewer long term side effects and, ultimately, cures. Under Crowe’s leadership, Rally has awarded $40.5 million in research grants and co funded research with seventeen childhood cancer organizations.
Crowe has also led Rally’s federal advocacy efforts, helping secure more than $317.5 million in funding through the U.S. Department of Defense’s Congressionally Directed Medical Research Program for cancers affecting children, adolescents and young adults.
In addition to research and advocacy, Rally provides direct support to families during treatment, delivering more than 148,000 meals to families in hospitals nation wide and providing financial assistance to more than 2,800 childhood cancer families.
In 2025, Rally Foundation marks its twentieth anniversary. The organization consistently earns top ratings from Charity Navigator and GuideStar and holds the Independent Charities Seal of Excellence. According to audited financials, ninety-three cents of every dollar raised supports its mission.
Crowe’s recognition by OncoDaily highlights how a leader rooted in East Cobb continues to shape the future of childhood cancer research nationwide.
