Meet Our Team: Emily Blackmer

Make it stand out

Your Name: Emily Blackmer

What is your day job? I am the social worker for outpatient hematology and CAR-T at Mayo Clinic as well as the Associate Program Director for the online social work program at Bethel University. I teach in the online BSW program as well as the MSW program.

When did you join the board? Fall 2022

Why did you join the board? I am passionate about creating avenues to minimize the financial toxicity of cancer for blood cancer and transplant patients. It is imperative that psychosocial barriers to treatment are addressed so that all populations have access to the care that they need.

If you could say one thing to patients battling blood cancers in Rochester, what would it be? Be open about the needs that you have so that providers and treatment teams can link you with available resources. We want to help address needs that would limit your ability to successfully undergo lifesaving treatment!

What are your favorite free-time activities? Spending time with my partner and our two-year-old daughter. We love adventure and are excited about exploring Alaska this Spring. I also enjoy cooking and see it as the expression of my creativity.

What is your favorite quote? Be the change you wish to see in the world. - Ghandi

Anything else you would like to share? It is such a privilege to part of a group that is invested in the holistic wellbeing of blood cancer patients. I am excited about the avenues we are exploring to improve our response to the needs of patients in Rochester.