Age: 55

Residence: Etna

Family: Two siblings; nephews and nieces; a 10-year-old mixed terrier rescue dog, Bella

Education: Bachelor’s degree from the State University College of New York at Brockport; master’s of social work from the University of Pittsburgh

Occupation: Executive director, Pittsburgh affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure

Noteworthy: The Pennsylvania Commission for Women invited Purcell and the Komen Pittsburgh affiliate to be part of the annual “pinking” of the area’s fountains in October for National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Since its inception in 1993, the Komen Pittsburgh affiliate has raised more than $18 million for the fight against breast cancer.

Quote: “I can’t help but be inspired when I think that Susan G. Komen for the Cure — a leading force in the fight against breast cancer — was started because of a promise between two sisters. It’s absolute proof that each of us can make a difference.”

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