Speakers Series - Women For a Healthy Environment

June 9, 2026 – The Pittsburgh Golf Club
5:30 – 8:30 pm

Welcome

Join us as we welcome Dr. Jennifer Kay, whose 2024 landmark study identified 921 chemicals that could promote breast cancer development, with 90% found in consumer products, food, workplaces, and pesticides people use every day.

Her work is reshaping what prevention science looks like in practice.

This special evening will also honor the work of our Changemaker Impact awardees, the people making environmental health a priority in our communities.

Keynote Speaker

Dr. Jennifer Kay, Research Scientist

Dr. Kay has spent her career asking a question that affects all of us: what’s in our environment — and what is it doing to our bodies?

Her groundbreaking research has helped identify more than 900 chemicals that could promote the development of breast cancer Silent Spring Institute, and her work on environmental contaminants in pharmaceuticals has drawn international attention.

An MIT-trained scientist and recipient of the prestigious Karen Wetterhahn Memorial Award, Dr. Kay brings both rigorous science and a deep commitment to public health and environmental justice to everything she does.

Program

5:30 PM – 6:15 PM

6:15 PM – 8:15 PM

8:15 PM – 8:30 PM

Guest Arrival & Cocktail Reception – Light hors d’oeuvres and cash bar

Keynote, Fireside Chat & Changemaker Impact Awards

Closing Remarks & Farewell

Changemaker Impact Awardees

Edward C. Ketyer, MD, FAAP

President, Physicians for Social Responsibility Pennsylvania
Medical Advisor, Environmental Health Project

Dr. Ned Ketyer is a pediatrician and environmental health advocate based in the Pittsburgh region. After 26 years in private practice, he retired from clinical care in 2017 and now focuses on advancing public health through environmental advocacy and education.

Dr. Ketyer is President of Physicians for Social Responsibility Pennsylvania and serves as Medical Advisor for the Environmental Health Project. He is also an active member of the American Academy of Pediatrics Council on Environmental Health and Climate Change, serves on the Leadership and Advisory Board of Physicians and Scientists Network Addressing Plastics and Health (P-SNAP), and contributes to the Environmental Health Working Group for the Pennsylvania Cancer Coalition.

His work highlights the health impacts of shale gas development, petrochemical expansion, and plastic production in the Ohio River Valley, as well as the broader public health consequences of fossil fuel pollution and climate change. Through research, advocacy, and public education, Dr. Ketyer connects environmental exposures to real-world health outcomes affecting children, families, and communities.

Dr. Ketyer is widely recognized for his commitment to protecting public health and advancing awareness of environmental risks, working to ensure healthier futures for communities locally and globally.

Mona Minnie

President, Low Country Building Solutions

Mona Minnie-Branson is a seasoned construction and environmental management professional with more than 30 years of experience in project management, construction management, and community-focused development. As President of Low Country Building Solutions, she leads projects that improve housing quality, sustainability, and health outcomes for communities.

Throughout her career, Ms. Minnie-Branson has overseen more than $20 million in construction and rehabilitation projects. She works closely with clients, architects, and project teams to guide projects from concept to completion, ensuring high-quality workmanship, efficiency, and attention to detail. Her hands-on leadership style emphasizes delivering projects on time, within budget, and with long-term sustainability in mind.

Her work extends deeply into community impact, partnering with nonprofit organizations and public agencies on initiatives such as Weatherization Assistance Programs, Whole-Home Repair programs, Healthy Homes initiatives, and energy-efficiency improvements. These efforts support safer, healthier, and more affordable housing—particularly for underserved communities, seniors, and vulnerable residents.

Ms. Minnie-Branson is a strong advocate for sustainable construction and environmentally responsible building practices. Her work reflects a core belief that improving housing conditions is essential to strengthening communities and enhancing quality of life.

Melvena Daniels, EDD

Chief Strategy Officer, The Center that CARES
CEO, Beyond Blessed Catering, LLC

Dr. Melvena S. Daniels is a nonprofit leader, educator, entrepreneur, and community advocate with more than 15 years of experience in youth development, program leadership, and community engagement. She serves as Chief Strategy Officer at The Center that CARES, providing leadership in driving innovation, strengthening community relationships, and advancing the organization’s overall mission and impact..

In addition to her nonprofit leadership, Dr. Daniels is the CEO and Chef of Beyond Blessed Catering, LLC, a business committed to providing high-quality, affordable catering while fostering strong community relationships and delivering exceptional customer experiences.

A proud Pittsburgh native, Dr. Daniels is deeply committed to creating safe, healthy, and transformative spaces for young people and families in underserved communities. Through strategic partnerships and innovative programming, she has expanded opportunities that promote education, wellness, leadership development, and long-term success for youth.

Dr. Daniels recently earned her Doctorate in Education in Administration and Leadership and continues to champion equitable, community-centered approaches that strengthen schools, organizations, and neighborhoods.

Capri Thompson, DBA

Founder and Owner of Golden Rose Daycare

Dr. Capri Thompson is an entrepreneur, veteran, and community leader dedicated to advancing healthy early learning environments as the founder and owner of Golden Rose Daycare. His family-centered childcare organization serves hardworking families by providing a safe, nurturing, and health-conscious space where children can learn, grow, and thrive.

A native of Clairton, Pennsylvania, Dr. Thompson's work is grounded in discipline, resilience, and service. He served in the United States Air Force and holds a bachelor's degree in management science, a Master of Business Administration, and a doctoral degree in administration. These experiences inform his leadership and commitment to excellence in early childhood education.

Before his professional career, Dr. Thompson was a standout athlete and championship quarterback, leading Clairton High School to an undefeated state title season and one of the longest winning streaks in the nation. This background continues to shape his team-oriented, results-driven leadership style.

Through Golden Rose Daycare, Dr. Thompson prioritizes not only quality childcare, but also healthy indoor environments, including improved air quality and safe, child-focused practices. His work reflects a deep commitment to supporting families and advancing the long-term well-being of children and communities.