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November 26, 2025

Longtime board president at New England Cancer Specialists to step down; successor named

By Alexis Wells

After eight years as board president of New England Cancer Specialists, the region's largest medical oncology group and cancer care provider, Chiara Battelii will step down from her role at the end of the year. 

Devon Evans, who is on the executive committee, will succeed Battelli as board president, effective Jan. 1.

Chiara Battelli
Photo / Courtesy of New England Cancer Specialists
Chiara Battelli

Battelli will remain an active member of the board and executive committee.

During her presidency, the organization became one of the first oncology practices in the nation to earn ASCO Medical Home Certification; became a founding member of the Oncare Alliance and the Oncology College; established a radiation therapy program; launched the Center for Breast Health;  and expanded operations in New Hampshire.

“It has been a tremendous honor to serve as board president and to witness the strength, compassion, and innovation that define this organization,” said Battelli. “What makes NECS so special is the collaboration between our physicians, staff, and community partners — all united by a shared commitment to deliver the best possible care for our patients. I am incredibly proud of how far we’ve come and excited for what lies ahead.”

About Devon Evans 

Devon Evans
Photo / Courtesy of New England Cancer Specialists
Devon Evans

Evans, a medical oncologist and hematologist, has been with NECS since 2007 and has served on the executive committee. 

He also serves on the boards of the Maine Cancer Foundation and the New England Oncology Foundation, bringing both a regional perspective and a deep understanding of the opportunities ahead for our organization.

The Cape Elizabeth resident earned his medical education from Jefferson Medical College. Completed his residency at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and completed his fellowship from Brown University School of Medicine. 

“I’m deeply grateful for Dr. Battelli’s leadership and the legacy of excellence she established,” said Evans. “NECS is a unique and inspiring organization—we are independent, innovative, mission-driven, and always focused on what’s best for our patients. I’m honored to help lead our continued growth as we expand access to high-quality cancer care across Maine and New Hampshire.”

The NECS is an independent medical oncology and hematology practice with 20 physicians and additional centers in Topsham and Kennebunk, as well as in Portsmouth, N.H. Its Scarborough facilities are now consolidating services at the new Westbrook location. In 2022, NECS became an affiliate of Boston’s Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. 

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