Tevogen Bio on Tuesday said it appointed Anthony Tarantino as patient advocate to Enhance Community Engagement and Patient Support. Tarantino brings extensive experience in representing and supporting high-risk groups, including first responders.
Previously, Tarantino served as president of the Newark Fire Officers Union and Legislative vice president of the Professional Firefighters Association of New Jersey. In these roles, he was instrumental in advancing policies for firefighter health, safety, and wellness.
One of his notable achievements was in advocating for and securing the passage of legislation in New Jersey mandating regular cancer screenings for firefighters. This legislation acknowledges the increased risk of cancer among firefighters due to their exposure to toxic substances and aims to provide critical early detection and healthcare support to those serving on the frontlines.
“Anthony’s longstanding dedication to improving the lives of frontline heroes aligns with our mission of advancing patient-centered health care. His leadership was pivotal in passing cancer screening legislation for firefighters in New Jersey, providing critical protection to those who are at increased risk due to their daily exposure to hazardous environments,” Dr. Ryan Saadi, founder and CEO of Tevogen Bio, said.
Tevogen Bio is a Warren-based clinical-stage specialty immunotherapy biotech developing off-the-shelf, genetically unmodified T cell therapeutics to treat infectious disease and cancers.
Tarantino’s appointment comes at a crucial time as Tevogen Bio advances its investigational therapy, TVGN 489, for the treatment of SARS-CoV-2 in cancer patients and those suffering with Long COVID. With his unique background in frontline safety advocacy, Tarantino will work closely with multiple stakeholders in the health care ecosystem and Tevogen’s leadership team to amplify the voice of patients and strengthen outreach programs.
