Who We Are.
Our foundation has deep roots. In 1986, Dr. Francis P. Arena, a renowned oncologist and hematologist, helped establish what is now The Arena Foundation for Medical Research, Inc. His vision was clear: to advance cancer research, provide education, and support compassionate patient care.
Over 30 years later, his daughter, Brittany Arena, a seasoned creative marketing professional, stepped in to help guide the foundation into a new era. Together, they realized that their mission had the greatest potential when they combined their strengths: his decades of medical expertise and her innovative communication and strategy skills.
Fueled by family values, a passion for healing, and a shared dream, they officially partnered to lead the foundation into its next chapter, uniting science, heart, and community under a renewed and even stronger purpose.
A Family Bond, A Community Mission.
Dr. Francis P. Arena is a nationally respected oncologist and cancer researcher who has dedicated more than three decades to advancing patient centered cancer care, with a steadfast focus on survivorship, long term outcomes, and quality of life. A graduate of Cornell University Medical College, he serves as Director of NYU Langone Arena Oncology, Clinical Professor of Medicine at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, and Co Founder, President, and Director of Research of The Arena Foundation for Medical Research, Inc., in Lake Success, New York.
Dr. Arena has played a pivotal role in the advancement of modern oncology through his leadership in clinical research, development of evidence based treatment protocols, and commitment to precision medicine. His work has helped shift many cancers from once fatal diagnoses to highly treatable and manageable conditions.
Beyond the clinic and laboratory, Dr. Arena is deeply committed to patient education and community outreach. He has led hundreds of cancer education seminars throughout the New York City and Long Island region, bringing together patients, caregivers, and nationally recognized experts to provide clarity, guidance, and hope.
Known for his compassion, integrity, and clinical excellence, Dr. Arena continues to bridge cutting edge research with whole person care, empowering patients and families at every stage of their cancer journey.
The Medical Expert.
The Marketing Professional
Brittany Arena is the Creative Director of The Arena Foundation for Medical Research, Inc., where she leads the Foundation’s communications, fundraising, and community engagement initiatives in support of cancer research and patient education.
She holds a degree in Communications with a concentration in Creative Media and a minor in Creative Writing, and brings a strong background in strategic marketing, branding, and storytelling shaped by her early career with Sotheby’s International Realty and Douglas Elliman, as well as her role as Co Founder and Creative Director of Arena Studios NYC, a creative agency specializing in editorial style photography and content for luxury hospitality and lifestyle brands.
At the Foundation, Brittany applies her multidisciplinary experience to elevate donor engagement, expand educational programming, and ensure the organization’s mission is communicated with clarity, integrity, and impact.