Connecting Sponsors with Sites, and Sites with Studies since 2003


The Why Behind Interspond
The Beginning
Years ago, physicians found out about new study opportunities through their personal relationships with people working at the Sponsor or CRO level. While this was very effective, it wasn’t very practical.
Kathy S. Cox, the founder of Interspond, saw an opportunity to build a better business model and create efficiencies in working with a network of Sites by providing centralized business development services.
The Present Day
Sites now have access to a plethora of studies that they may not have found on their own. Sponsors and CROs now have one point of contact for multiple Sites and are able to expedite the study start up process for their studies.
Interspond’s Story
The Birth of Interspond
The concept for Interspond was born out of observation, inspiration, and a vision for what could be. While working as a Clinical Research Coordinator at the University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, I recognized research Sites need a constant flow of studies. I came up with the idea of providing centralized business development services to several clinical research Sites and quit my job to launch the business model.
An Instant Success
The company was an instant success because investigators saw the need for the service. While physicians are wonderful clinicians, they typically don’t have time to dedicate resources to conduct business development activities.
I started one of the first Trial Management Organizations in the industry and soon thereafter the idea of Site Management Organizations followed. I am proud to say that almost 3 decades after creating the initial concept, I am still in business today providing the same great services, albeit in a slightly different way. We have had to keep up with the times over the years and continue to innovate as we are a Trusted, Connected, Leader.
.jpg)


Benefits of Working with Interspond
Sponsor
• Access to a network of highly experienced multi-therapeutic Sites
• Provide top enrolling, qualified Sites, and investigators for study participation
• Assist with feasibility and study startup documents
• One point of contact for budget and contract negotiations
• Work with a seasoned team of professionals
Site
• NO COST for our services
• Leverage our preferred network status with several Sponsors and CROs
• Use of our proprietary feasibility software CROWN that incorporates AI
• Access to a variety of study opportunities
Meet the Team

Executive Team
.jpg)
Kathy S. Cox, MS
President / CEO
Kathy received her Bachelor of Science in Education from UW-Whitewater in 1984 and earned a Master’s Degree in Exercise Physiology from UW-La Crosse in 1989. During her time at UW-La Crosse, while writing her thesis, Kathy discovered her passion for research. In 1989, she began her career in the clinical research industry, working as a coordinator at the VA Hospital in Madison, WI. She then moved to the University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, where she worked as a research coordinator on NIH-funded asthma research studies. In 1996, Kathy identified a need for centralized business development activities for clinical research sites and founded one of the first Trial Management Organizations (TMO) in the industry, a model she continues to lead today. Her reputation as a trusted and connected leader in the field is well-established. Kathy has two children, both graduates of the University of Wisconsin. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family, traveling, speaking at conferences, fishing, golfing, and playing pickleball.

Peg Cox, BS
Chief Commercial Officer
Peg graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point in 1986 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Communications and a minor in Business Administration. With 23 years of experience in sales and marketing, Peg joined Interspond in 2009, where she has contributed to various aspects of the business. Her roles have included Business Development, Site Liaison, Vice President, Chief Experience Officer, and now Chief Commercial Officer leading the Business Development team. She brings a wealth of expertise in business development, relationship building, solution-based thinking, and project management to the Interspond team. Peg is the proud mother of a daughter and twin boys, and two golden doodles. In her spare time, she enjoys cooking, traveling, and engaging in outdoor activities such as pickleball, golfing, and water-based sports. Spending time with her children, extended family, and friends is one of her favorite pastimes.

Beth Biedenbender
Chief Financial Officer
Beth Biedenbender is the oldest daughter in a family of three girls. She graduated from Waukesha North High School in 1979 and attended UW-Waukesha from 1979 to 1981. Beth started working at Waukesha State Bank in 1978, where she spent 15 years, advancing from a teller to Assistant Deposit Services Manager and Proof Manager. From 1993 to 1995, she took a break to care for her two children. In 1996, Beth started working part-time in the industry, which became a full-time position until 2004. In 2005, she purchased a company that focused on business development for clinical research sites, which she ran until 2007. In 2008, Beth joined Interspond as an Associate Project Manager. She steadily progressed to Project Manager, Executive Director of Finance, and is currently the Chief Financial Officer. Beth enjoys fishing with her husband, bowling, and spending time with their two dogs. She values the opportunity to work remotely from their 40-acre homestead in central Wisconsin.

Sara Woitte, MS
Chief Operating Officer
Sara received her undergraduate Bachelor of Arts degree in 1996 with a double major in psychology and human services and a minor in business management from Dakota Wesleyan University. She later earned a Master of Science degree in Community Counseling from Minnesota State University, Mankato, in 1998. Sara initially worked in the mental health field, specializing in group work. She then transitioned into manufacturing, where she spent 10 years as a Production Manager. Her background in group development and systems theory helped her create more efficient teams, fostering empowerment, celebrating diversity, and contributing to cultural change within the workforce. In April 2018, Sara joined Interspond as a Project Associate. She was promoted to Director of Strategic Site Relations in May 2019 and advanced to the role of Director of Operations in May 2023. Her diverse experiences and unique skills have been invaluable to the team. Sara, along with her wife and daughter own and operates Breakaway Stables, LLC, a horse boarding facility. In her spare time, she enjoys horse riding, hiking, camping, and spending time outdoors. With purple being her favorite color, Sara is also a proud supporter of the Minnesota Vikings.

Ryan Johnsen, BBA
Chief Technology Officer
Ryan graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater in 2006 with a Bachelor of Business Administration, focusing on management and entrepreneurship. After college, he began his career with Target, where he discovered his passion for technology in a leadership role. He pursued this passion further with HP and American Family Insurance, gaining over 10 years of experience in roles such as Business Specialist, Business Analyst, Sr. Business Analyst, and Sr. Systems Specialist. Ryan holds a Business Analysis Certificate from the Wisconsin School of Business and is certified in the Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) as a Project Manager and Scrum Master. In 2023, Ryan transitioned into clinical trials, where he leverages his expertise in development processes and his fresh perspective to help grow the Interspond brand. Ryan enjoys spending time with his wife and two young children, building forts, playing outside, and embracing his goofy side. He also enjoys golfing, playing darts, and is an avid NFL fan, cheering on the Green Bay Packers (Go Pack Go).

Connie Upchurch, MSM
Chief Compliance Officer
Connie joined the Interspond team as a Project Associate in November 2020 and transitioned to Project Manager in May 2021. In February 2024, she was promoted to Director of Policy & Procedures. Before joining Interspond, Connie had over 30 years of experience in telecommunications billing, with roles spanning customer service, client/vendor relations, and system design/maintenance. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration with a minor in Public Administration from the University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse and a Master of Science degree in Management from Cardinal Stritch College. Connie is married, has a grown daughter, and two cats. She enjoys traveling, cruising, reading, and spending time with her family.

Jayme Galanos
Chief Planning Officer
Jayme began her career in the technology sector, holding key positions with local industry leaders including Mid-Plains Telephone/TDS, Berbee/CDW, and Alliant Energy. Building a strong foundation in project and budget management, she later discovered an opportunity to combine her organizational expertise with a passion for creativity. In 2004, she founded Beyond Elegant Events/The Darling Wedding Co., an event planning firm where she developed a reputation for precision, logistical excellence, and client-centered service. As Chief Planning Officer at Interspond, Jayme brings more than two decades of leadership experience in managing complex initiatives, optimizing operational processes, and driving cross-functional collaboration. Her strategic insight and creative problem-solving contribute directly to Interspond’s mission of advancing clinical research through exceptional planning and execution. Outside of work, Jayme enjoys spending time with her husband, Dean, their two children, and their two fluffy dogs. In her spare time, she loves crafting, reading, and working with the charities she holds dear. A lifelong learner and planner at heart, she approaches each project—and each day—with enthusiasm, precision, care and a heap of sarcasm.
Business Development Team

Dawn Auerbach, MPA
Senior Director
Dawn Auerbach is recognized for her ability to identify strategic opportunities, drive measurable growth, and develop innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of clients. She specializes in building strong client partnerships, leading cross-functional teams, and aligning organizational resources to achieve business objectives. With over 30 years of experience in the healthcare and clinical trials industry, Dawn brings deep sector knowledge and insight to every initiative. She holds a Master of Public Administration (MPA) in Healthcare Finance from New York University and is committed to fostering collaboration, creating lasting value, and delivering results. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling and spending time with her husband, daughter, twin sons, two dogs, and her friends and family.

Dominic Costanzo, BBA
Senior Director
Dominic is a personable sales professional with a diverse background in both inside and outside sales. He began his career in inside sales at a promotional products supplier, eventually advancing to National Account Manager, overseeing key accounts. He then transitioned to the technology industry, working in Business Development for Zendesk during the Covid-19 pandemic. His experience spans both Account Management and Prospecting, making him a valuable asset to the Interspond Account Management Team. Dominic graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree. He joined the Interspond team as an Account Manager in March 2022. Dominic is passionate about making personal and professional connections with Sponsors and CROs to match them with the most qualified and vetted PIs for their studies. He lives in the Madison, WI area with his wife. Dominic is an avid golfer working towards a single-digit handicap and enjoys snowboarding in Colorado, particularly in Breckenridge, Vail, and Keystone during January and February.

James DeFalco, BS
Executive Director
James is a progressive sales executive known for being results-driven and successful in maximizing new business revenue and profitability. He excels in building long-lasting relationships with clients through trust, charisma, and collaboration, and works across divisions to secure wins that benefit the overall team. James graduated from King’s College in Wilkes-Barre, PA, with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. He joined Interspond after spending over four years at a large company within the industry. James is married to his amazing husband, and they live in Hamden, CT, with their five dogs. In his free time, James enjoys scuba diving, skiing, golfing, bowling, softball, and traveling, as well as spending time with friends and family.

Peg Cox, BS
Chief Commercial Officer
Peg graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point in 1986 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Communications and a minor in Business Administration. With 23 years of experience in sales and marketing, Peg joined Interspond in 2009, where she has contributed to various aspects of the business. Her roles have included Business Development, Site Liaison, Vice President, Chief Experience Officer, and now Chief Commercial Officer leading the Business Development team. She brings a wealth of expertise in business development, relationship building, solution-based thinking, and project management to the Interspond team. Peg is the proud mother of a daughter and twin boys, and two golden doodles. In her spare time, she enjoys cooking, traveling, and engaging in outdoor activities such as pickleball, golfing, and water-based sports. Spending time with her children, extended family, and friends is one of her favorite pastimes.
Finance Team

Ashley Biedenbender, BA
Finance Manager Department Manager
Ashley Biedenbender graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point in December 2011 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology. Ashley has held management positions across various customer service industries. She worked as an Administrative Assistant at Interspond from 2012 to 2013 before taking a five-year break to work at a state-run mental health institute. She rejoined Interspond in April 2019 as part of the finance team. Ashley is known for her keen attention to detail, organizational skills, and person-centered communication approach, which reflects her background in psychology and customer service. In her spare time, she enjoys bowling in leagues and state/national tournaments, playing softball, fishing, baking, hunting, and crocheting.

Beth Biedenbender
Chief Financial Officer
Beth Biedenbender is the oldest daughter in a family of three girls. She graduated from Waukesha North High School in 1979 and attended UW-Waukesha from 1979 to 1981. Beth started working at Waukesha State Bank in 1978, where she spent 15 years, advancing from a teller to Assistant Deposit Services Manager and Proof Manager. From 1993 to 1995, she took a break to care for her two children. In 1996, Beth started working part-time in the industry, which became a full-time position until 2004. In 2005, she purchased a company that focused on business development for clinical research sites, which she ran until 2007. In 2008, Beth joined Interspond as an Associate Project Manager. She steadily progressed to Project Manager, Executive Director of Finance, and is currently the Chief Financial Officer. Beth enjoys fishing with her husband, bowling, and spending time with their two dogs. She values the opportunity to work remotely from their 40-acre homestead in central Wisconsin.

Jacob Sturm, BS
Finance Associate
Jacob Sturm is from Freedom, WI, where he still resides. He graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in December 2022 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Applied Mathematics, emphasizing Actuarial Science. Jacob began his role as a Finance Associate with Interspond in March 2024 and is eager to apply his analytical and financial skills. In his free time, Jacob stays busy with a range of activities. He enjoys being outdoors and spends much of his time hunting, fishing, playing softball and volleyball, and relaxing at his cottage on a lake up north.

Joe Kitzke
Finance Associate
Joe joined the Interspond team in July 2023 as a Finance Associate Intern. He is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Business from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Before joining Interspond, Joe spent 7 years with a privately owned start-up in the food industry, where he gained experience in billing, logistics, vendor relations, and account management during a period of rapid company growth. Joe looks forward to contributing to Interspond's continued growth and expanding his skills. He is an avid golfer, enjoys playing softball, loves to travel, and values spending time with family and friends

Kyle Knutson, LPN, BS
Finance Associate
Kyle began his journey at Interspond in September 2023. Before joining Interspond, Kyle had nearly 20 years of experience in nursing, both in the military and civilian sectors. He served 9 years in the U.S. Army as a combat medic and LPN, with his main role as a member of a forward surgical team in Madison, where he assisted in initial resuscitation and stabilization of patients, as well as post-anesthesia care. In the civilian sector, he focused on long-term care and rehabilitation with geriatrics. Kyle holds a diploma in nursing and a B.S. in Information Science and Technology from UW-Milwaukee, where he achieved Dean’s List honors on several occasions. Outside of work, Kyle enjoys playing golf and poker, and he loves spending time with his wife and their two doodles.

Naomi Kowald, CAPSW
Finance Specialist
Naomi received her Bachelor’s in Social Work from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and her Master’s in Social Work from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She joined Interspond in June 2021 as a Finance and Contract Associate and transitioned to Finance Specialist in June 2023. Naomi has over 10 years of experience supporting the early identification of delays in children and connecting them to appropriate follow-up, working with health systems, community-based organizations, and families. Outside of work, Naomi enjoys spending time with her two young children and husband on their 16-acre farm in Southern Wisconsin. They raise Scottish Highland cattle and chickens, with plans to expand their farming operations. Naomi loves entertaining, cooking, gardening, canning, biking, and enjoying the outdoors.
Project Team

Brandon Lamp, BS
Project Manager
Brandon received his Bachelor of Science degree in Microbiology from UW-Madison in 2014. Before joining the Interspond team, Brandon had a nine-year tenure at Covance/Labcorp, where he honed his expertise across various functions, including six years in Drug Development and three years in Central Laboratory Services. Throughout his tenure, Brandon adeptly navigated roles encompassing project management, clinical study design, sample management, and data management, showcasing his multifaceted skill set and dedication to advancing research initiatives. Passionate about the preclinical and clinical research industry, Brandon thrives in facilitating connections between sites, CROs, and Sponsors, leveraging his comprehensive understanding of the sector to streamline study opportunities and facilitate project milestone completion through innovation and thoughtful collaboration. Brandon joined the Interspond team in April of 2024. Outside of his professional endeavors, Brandon finds joy in spending quality time with his wife and daughter, cherishing moments shared with his loved ones. He also enjoys golfing, Star Wars, and supporting the Wisconsin Badgers and San Jose Sharks hockey.

Mara Kukainis, BS
Project Manager
Mara graduated from the University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh in 2017 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Medical Laboratory Science. She spent 5 years working in microbiology and molecular diagnostics before transitioning to infection prevention. In these roles, she developed strong skills in leadership, process improvement, and problem-solving. Mara joined the Interspond team in May 2023 as a dedicated member of the Project Team. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family and her two yellow labs. She also loves reading, attending concerts, and gardening.

Mia Seeman, BS
Project Associate
Mia graduated from South Dakota State University in 2022 with a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology and a double minor in health science and mental health services. Mia was a 4-year starter on the South Dakota State University women’s golf team. In 2023 she earned a Graduate Certificate in leadership coaching from Lipscomb University in Nashville, Tennessee while also playing collegiately on the Lipscomb University women’s golf team. Being a student athlete has taught Mia many important life and business skills. After graduating from Lipscomb University, Mia spent a year living in Atlanta applying her golf knowledge to teaching others how to golf. She worked as a Player Development Professional at Braelinn Golf Club just South of Atlanta. While working at Braelinn Mia obtained many skills in organization, communication, leadership, and problem solving. She then realized that she has a passion for helping others and working with a team. Mia now resides in Madison, Wisconsin. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, playing golf, going to concerts, traveling, and gardening.

Susie Kitzke, BS
Senior Project Manager
Susie started at Interspond as a Project Associate in November 2020 and moved into the role of Project Manager in November 2022. She graduated from the University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse with a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education. With over 30 years of experience in education, predominantly as a fifth-grade teacher, Susie is eager to apply her skills in leadership, relationship development, and time management to her new role at Interspond. She is married with two grown sons and a red fox lab. Susie enjoys traveling, golfing, spending time with family and friends, and is an avid reader.
Budget & Contract Team

Aaron Speiss, BS
Sr Budget & Contract Specialist Department Manager
Aaron graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 2016 with a Bachelor of Science in Dietetics. During college, he played Ultimate Frisbee and remains very physically active. After graduation, Aaron worked as a Nutrition Technician at University Hospital in Madison, where he provided diet recommendations and helped patients develop health strategies. This role helped him build strong relationships with patients and honed his attention to detail. Aaron joined Interspond as a Project Associate in December 2019, where his skills in relationship building and meticulousness have been a valuable addition to the team. In his spare time, Aaron and his wife enjoy various outdoor activities, including rock climbing, gardening, and cooking, as well as spending time with their pets, friends, and family.

Brent Wood, BS
Budget & Contract Manager
Brent began his career with Interspond in February 2015. He brings nearly 30 years of professional experience from a diverse range of industries, including financial services, advertising sales, marketing, and printing. Brent holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater and an Associate of Applied Science Degree from Madison College.

Glynis Grochowski, BA
Budget & Contract Specialist
Glynis started her career with Interspond in 2021. Glynis brings 25+ years professional experience in contracting and customer service operations within a few major varied industries. She is looking forward to providing detailed, exceptional service to help enrich those we serve. Glynis graduated from Lakeland College with a double major (Business Administration and Marketing) and also has an Associate Degree in Industrial Electronics. Glynis and her wife are the proud parents of one son, who has recently become a Pharmacist, and another son who is working on his Electrical Apprenticeship. She enjoys spending time with family and friends, and working on home projects.

Miguel Cabrerizo, BA
Budget & Contract Specialist
Miguel joined the Interspond team in November 2024 as a Budget and Contract Specialist. Miguel has over 22 years of professional experience in revenue operations, research finance and clinical research budgets and contracts. Before joining the Interspond team, Miguel had a seventeen-year tenure at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center where he worked as a Revenue Operations Group Leader. He holds a degree in Public Administration from the Jaume I University in Castellon de la Plana, Spain. He currently resides in the Miami-Fort Lauderdale metro area. In his spare time, he enjoys traveling, spending time with family and friends, running, going to the beach and biking.

Wilson T. Burke, BHSA
Budget & Contract Specialist
Wilson joined the Interspond team in May 2024 as a Budget and Contract Specialist. With 20 years of professional experience in the research industry, Wilson specializes in research site operations, including operations management and financial processes across academic, hospital, and practice settings. He is also a veteran of the US Army and holds a degree in Health Services Administration from Florida International University. Originally from the Miami-Fort Lauderdale area, Wilson currently resides there with his wife of 23 years. He enjoys watching sports (NBA, NFL, boxing), traveling, movies, and is an avid reader of sci-fi and fantasy books.
Technology Team

Ryan Johnsen, BBA
Chief Technology Officer
Ryan graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater in 2006 with a Bachelor of Business Administration, focusing on management and entrepreneurship. After college, he began his career with Target, where he discovered his passion for technology in a leadership role. He pursued this passion further with HP and American Family Insurance, gaining over 10 years of experience in roles such as Business Specialist, Business Analyst, Sr. Business Analyst, and Sr. Systems Specialist. Ryan holds a Business Analysis Certificate from the Wisconsin School of Business and is certified in the Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) as a Project Manager and Scrum Master. In 2023, Ryan transitioned into clinical trials, where he plans to leverage his expertise in development processes and his fresh perspective to help grow the Interspond brand. Ryan enjoys spending time with his wife and two young children, building forts, playing outside, and embracing his goofy side. He also enjoys golfing, playing darts, and is an avid NFL fan, cheering on the Green Bay Packers (Go Pack Go).

Thomas Kay, AS
Lead Developer
Thomas joined our team as a software developer in 2023, bringing a sharp focus on modern web technologies. His passion extends beyond coding; he is committed to turning ideas into scalable digital products that have a meaningful impact. Thomas started his career in full-stack web development and has since contributed significantly to enterprise-level web applications. He has expanded his expertise to include mobile application development, making him a versatile asset for comprehensive project solutions. Thomas is guided by a philosophy of continual improvement, always aiming to enhance both the products he develops and the processes by which they are created. Outside of work, he enjoys quality time with family and friends, is a dedicated lifelong learner, and dreams of settling on a small hobby farm near the city, where he can balance his passion for innovation with tranquility.
Site Relations Team

Bria Rubo, BS
Site Relations Specialist
Bria received her Bachelor’s in Psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, with a minor in Family Studies and American Sign Language. She grew up in a small town in Northern Wisconsin and has spent the past 10 years working in the service industry, honing her communication, relationship-building, and time management skills. Additionally, she spent part of a school year interpreting sign language for a young boy. Bria joined Interspond in November 2022 as an Executive Assistant and transitioned to a Site Relations Specialist in May 2024. In her free time, Bria loves traveling, golfing, engaging in water sports, snowboarding in the mountains, and spending time with friends and family.

Sam Holterman, BS
Site Relations Specialist
Sam is a highly motivated individual moved by her love of science. She received her Bachelor of Science from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater in spring of 2022 and is obtaining her Master of Science in Education with an emphasis in Clinical Counseling from the University of Wisconsin-Superior via their online program. She is committed to bringing innovation and creativity to everything she does and has a strong passion for helping and working with people. She is a former employee of the auto industry where she enjoyed the challenge of an incredibly fast-paced environment and maintaining the highest levels of customer satisfaction. She is ecstatic to apply these experiences here at Interspond. In her free time you can find her curled up with a good book with her three cats or tending to her many, many plants.

Wayne Dorsey, BS
Senior Site Relations Specialist Department Manager
Wayne has a robust background in clinical research, having spent the early part of his career as a certified clinical research coordinator with the University of Wisconsin Office of Clinical Trials. In this role, he cultivated productive relationships with numerous Sponsors, CROs, and internal departments, ensuring the successful execution of clinical trial protocols. Wayne graduated from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse with a major in Recreational Therapy. During his studies, he utilized his CNA license to work at long-term care facilities and assisted living communities, building meaningful relationships with residents. Wayne joined the Interspond team in October 2024 as a Senior Site Relations Specialist. He lives in the Madison area with his wife and their two adorable cats. In his free time, Wayne enjoys playing rugby for the Wisconsin Rugby Club, fishing at his cottage in northern Wisconsin, and golfing with friends and family.