Brooks Bell

Brooks Bell is a technology entrepreneur, digital analytics specialist, and stage III colon cancer survivor whose career encompasses two significant chapters. Bell launched Brooks Bell Inc. by integrating her background in psychology with a focus on digital design, introducing A/B testing and optimization to the marketing industry. The Brooks Bell team generated more than $500 million in value for leaders in retail, financial services, media, and technology sectors.

Bell has been featured in publications including Inc. Magazine, Forbes, Washington Post, and Techonomy for her work in analytics and entrepreneurship. In addition to her firm, Bell co-founded HQ Raleigh, a co-working community supporting companies that drive job growth and social impact. She has spoken at the Democratic National Convention and has moderated events for Bill Clinton, venture capitalist Chris Sacca, and Chelsea Clinton.

Following a personal health crisis that led to a stage III colon cancer diagnosis, Bell stepped down as CEO of her company. After surgery and chemotherapy, her cancer went into remission. This experience motivated her to raise awareness about the increasing rates of colorectal cancer in young people. Bell established an awareness campaign and launched initiatives to encourage colorectal cancer screening.

Bell founded 50 Colonoscopies Under 50, a nonprofit focused on increasing colorectal cancer screening and funding research. This effort expanded into "Lead From Behind," created in partnership with Ryan Reynolds and Maximum Effort, and powered by the Colorectal Cancer Alliance. Through "Lead From Behind," Bell contributed to a campaign that resulted in a significant increase in colonoscopy appointments nationwide. She also created The Colonoscopy Gala, an event that raised funds for the Colorectal Cancer Alliance's programs.

Bell serves on the Board of Directors for the Colorectal Cancer Alliance, as well as the boards of the CDC Foundation and Research Triangle Park Foundation. As a colorectal cancer survivor and screening advocate, Bell has participated as a panelist at SXSW with Katie Couric and medical professionals to address the importance of colorectal cancer screening. Her entrepreneurial work continues with Worldclass Clothing, a brand owned by a nonprofit foundation that partners with the University of North Carolina Lineberger Cancer Center to increase colorectal cancer screening rates across North Carolina. Bell's efforts reflect her commitment to cancer prevention, digital innovation, and public health advocacy.