welcome! []...this year’s conference will equip, focus, energize and connect us in new, inspiring...

We are excited that you are joining us for the 2015 Society Leadership Conference. This is a unique opportunity for outstanding leaders in the MS movement to celebrate, motivate, inspire, learn, share, network and reenergize to change the world for people affected by MS.

Together we are stronger. This declaration encourages us to celebrate and reflect on the power of our shared experiences as leaders in the MS movement. It highlights our responsibility to inspire and empower others to leverage and extend their passion, skills and connections even further.

Through general sessions, workshops and formal and informal networking opportunities, we’ll connect with other leaders who make us stronger.

Keynote speaker Jason Saul, founder of the Center for What Works and a leading expert on measuring impact, will share how we are stronger when we create — and demonstrate — our impact.

The Tykeson Fellows Conference, held in conjunction with the Society Leadership Conference, brings together research and clinical fellows with senior scientists to learn about each other’s latest research efforts. There will be several opportunities for you to meet them, including a poster session Friday afternoon.

Society ambassadors Trevis Gleason and Janice Dean will help us honor some of our brightest stars with the fanfare they deserve on Friday evening. And the celebration doesn’t end there! We’ll enjoy a special concert by country music artist Julie Roberts on Friday night and take advantage of our time together to recognize key leaders and connections throughout the conference.

Be sure to rally your friends, family and colleagues after you leave Fort Worth. All attendees will receive post-conference materials to use and share with others throughout the year. And you can use #MSleadership on social media to share your experiences and follow conference happenings. See page 2 for details.

We look forward to learning, sharing and celebrating with you during this special time. This year’s conference will equip, focus, energize and connect us in new, inspiring ways so that people affected by MS live their best lives as we stop MS in its tracks, restore what has been lost and end MS forever.

Very truly yours,

Cyndi Zagieboylo, President and CEONational MS Society

Eli Rubenstein, National Board ChairNational MS Society

WELCOME!

2 | 2015 SOCIETY LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

ONLINE & MOBILEGET CONNECTED

GET SOCIALShare what you learn at the conference with your colleagues. Use the hashtag #MSleadership on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to share your experience and follow conference happenings.

GET UPDATESText MSleadership to 68686 to receive 2015 Society Leadership Conference updates via text message (message and data rates may apply).

GET THE APPDownload the mobile application for iPhone or Android to manage your schedule, keep track of your workshops, view floor maps of the hotel and more.

ntl.ms/msleadershipapp (text APP to 68686 to receive the link via text message)

GET AROUND TOWNEnjoy Fort Worth’s Digital Visitors Guide to help you make the most of your time.

fortworth.com

CONFERENCEWIRELESSINTERNETNetwork:SocietyConference

Password:society2015

#MSleadership | 3

WHAT’S INSIDESchedule of Events .....................................................................................................................................4

Daily Calendar ............................................................................................................................................8

Workshops ............................................................................................................................................... 11

Hotel Floorplans ....................................................................................................................................... 16

Volunteer of the Year ................................................................................................................................ 19

Philanthropist of the Year ......................................................................................................................... 20

Philanthropic Family of the Year ............................................................................................................... 21

Lifetime Achievement Honorees ............................................................................................................... 22

Volunteer Hall of Fame ............................................................................................................................. 26

Circle of Influence .................................................................................................................................... 36

Circle of Distinction .................................................................................................................................. 37

Chairman’s Circle ..................................................................................................................................... 40

Special Guests .......................................................................................................................................... 43

Our Sponsors ........................................................................................................................................... 49


SCHEDULE OF EVENTSWEDNESDAY, NOV 4PRE-CONFERENCE — SHERATON FORT WORTH HOTEL

11 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.Society Leadership and Management Team Meeting (Invitation only)Room: Magnolia Ballroom 1–3

THURSDAY, NOV 5PRE-CONFERENCE — OMNI FORT WORTH HOTEL

7 a.m. – 9 a.m.National Board of Directors Investment Committee & Breakfast (Invitation only)Room: Fort Worth 1 & 2

9:15 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.National Board of Directors Governance Committee (Invitation only)Room: Fort Worth 1 & 2

11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.National Board of Directors Chapter Relations Committee & Lunch (Invitation only)Room: Fort Worth 1 & 2

12 p.m. – 4 p.m.Registration/Information Desk OpenRoom: Foyer

12 p.m.– 4 p.m.Technology Cafe OpenRoom: Foyer

1:45 p.m. – 3:45 p.m.National Board of Directors Finance Committee (Invitation only)Room: Fort Worth 1 & 2

4 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.Opening General SessionRoom: Texas Ballroom

5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.Registration/Information Desk OpenRoom: Foyer

5:30 p.m. – 7 p.m.Welcome ReceptionRoom: Texas Ballroom Foyer

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8 a.m. – 4 p.m.Registration/Information Desk OpenRoom: Foyer

8:15 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.Morning General Session & BreakfastRoom: Texas Ballroom

9:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.Technology Cafe OpenRoom: Foyer

9:45 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.WORKSHOPS:

Feeling Your Best: Recognizing and Managing Depression in MS Room: Sundance 1

Part 1: Leading Powerful Fundraising Teams: Formulas of Successful Team Captains Room: Sundance 2

Ask, Ask, Ask! Room: Sundance 3

Building a More Powerful MS Movement: Mobilizing Your Community Room: Sundance 4

Leveraging Tools to Raise Money Room: Sundance 5

Volunteer Power!: How Your Talents and Community Network Create Impact Room: Sundance 6

9:45 a.m. – 12 p.m.New Chairs Meeting (Invitation only)Room: Fort Worth 5

9:45 a.m. – 12 p.m.National Board of Directors Meeting (Invitation only)Room: Fort Worth 6-8

11 a.m. – 12 p.m.WORKSHOPS:


Part 2: Leading Powerful Fundraising Teams: Formulas of Successful Team Captains Room: Sundance 2

MS Research: From Legislation to the Lab Room: Sundance 3

Addressing Gaps in MS Care Room: Sundance 4

Walk MS: We’re Stronger Together Room: Sundance 5

Volunteer Power!: How Your Talents and Community Network Create Impact Room: Sundance 6

12:15 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.General Session & LunchRoom: Texas Ballroom

1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.Sponsor ShowcaseTykeson PostersRoom: Texas Ballroom Foyer

1:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.Technology Cafe Open Room: Foyer

FRIDAY, NOV 6OFFICIAL CONFERENCE START — OMNI FORT WORTH HOTEL

n General Sessions n Workshops


1:45 p.m. – 5:15 p.m.Delegate Assembly Meeting (Invitation only)Room: Fort Worth 1-5

3:45 p.m. – 5 p.m.WORKSHOPS:

Current and Future Directions in Managing MS Room: Fort Worth 6-8


Leveraging Connections to Expand Society Corporate and CommunIty Relationships Room: Sundance 2

MS Research: From Legislation to the Lab Room: Sundance 3

Building a More Powerful MS Movement: Mobilizing Your Community Room: Sundance 4

Leveraging Tools to Raise Money Room: Sundance 5

Do it Your Way: Fundraising on Your Terms Room: Sundance 6

5 p.m. – 6:15 p.m.Tykeson Fellows Reception (Invitation only) Room: Sundance Patio and Foyer

5:30 - 6:15 p.m. Cocktail ReceptionRoom: Texas Ballroom Foyer

6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.Evening General Session, Dinner and Awards Ceremony (Cocktail attire)Room: Texas Ballroom

8:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.Julie Roberts Concert Room: Texas Ballroom

FRIDAY, NOV 6 — CONT.

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7:30 a.m. – 9 a.m.Networking BreakfastRoom: Foyer

8 a.m. – 9 a.m.Formal Networking Session* Rooms: Fort Worth Foyer and Ballroom 1-5**Bring breakfast from the Foyer to the networking session you selected (see page 15 for list of sessions) and join others who share your interest and passion over breakfast. Connect with friends and meet new people while you share experiences, ideas and strategies.

8 a.m. – 10 a.m.Technology Cafe OpenRoom: Foyer

8 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.National Board of Directors New Member Orientation (Invitation only)Room: Sundance 6

9:15 a.m. – 10:15 a.m.WORKSHOPS:

Accelerating Research Progress — How to Talk About It Room: Fort Worth 6-8

Access to High- Quality MS Healthcare Principles: The Society’s Advisory Committee on Access to Medications Room: Sundance 1

Leveraging Connections to Expand Society Corporate and Communty Relationships Room: Sundance 2

Ask, Ask, Ask! Room: Sundance 3

Operational Report Training: Metrics that Matter Room: Sundance 4

Current and Future Directions in Managing MS Room: Sundance 5

10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.Closing General Session & To-Go LunchRoom: Texas Ballroom

SATURDAY, NOV 7OMNI FORT WORTH HOTEL

n General Sessions n Workshops


7 a.m. – 8 a.m.7 a.m. – 9 a.m.

National Board of Directors Investment

Committee & Breakfast(Fort Worth 1 & 2)

8 a.m. – 9 a.m.

9 a.m. – 10 a.m.9:15 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

National Board of Directors Governance

Committee(Fort Worth 1 & 2)

10 a.m. – 11 a.m.

11 a.m. – 12 p.m.

11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.National Board of Directors Chapter

Relations Committee& Lunch

(Fort Worth 1 & 2)

12 p.m. – 1 p.m.

12 p.m.– 4 p.m.Registration/

Information Desk Open(Foyer)

Technology Cafe Open(Foyer)

1 p.m. – 2 p.m.

1:45 p.m. – 3:45 p.m.National Board of Directors Finance

Committee(Fort Worth 1 & 2)

2 p.m. – 3 p.m.

3 p.m. – 4 p.m.

4 p.m. – 5 p.m.4 p.m.–5:30 p.m.

Opening General Session

(Texas Ballroom)5 p.m. – 6 p.m.

5:30 p.m. –7 p.m.Welcome Reception

(Texas Ballroom Foyer)

5:30 p.m.– 6:30 p.m.Registration/


6 p.m. – 7 p.m.

n General Sessions n Key Activities n Workshops n Other Conference Activities n Invitation Only

DAILY CALENDARTHURSDAY, NOV 5

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7 a.m. – 8 a.m.

8 a.m. – 9 a.m.

8 a.m. – 4 p.m.Registration/


8:15 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.Morning General

Session & Breakfast(Texas Ballroom)

9 a.m. – 10 a.m.

9:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.Technology Cafe Open

(Foyer)

9:45 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.Workshops

9:45 a.m. – 12 p.m.New Chairs Meeting

(Fort Worth 5)

9:45 a.m. – 12 p.m.National Board of Directors Meeting

(Fort Worth 6-8)

10 a.m. – 11 a.m.

11 a.m. – 12 p.m.11 a.m. -12 p.m.

Workshops12:15 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.General Session

& Lunch(Texas Ballroom)12 p.m. – 1 p.m.

1 p.m. – 2 p.m.

1:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.Technology Cafe Open

(Foyer)

1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.Sponsor Showcase

Tykeson Posters(Texas Ballroom Foyer)

1:45 p.m. – 5:15 p.m.Delegate Assembly

Meeting(Fort Worth 1-5)

2 p.m. – 3 p.m.

3 p.m. – 4 p.m.

3:45 p.m. – 5 p.m.Workshops

4 p.m. – 5 p.m.

5 p.m. – 6 p.m.

5:30 p.m. - 6:15 p.m.Cocktail Reception

(Texas Ballroom Foyer)6 p.m. – 7 p.m.

6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.Evening General Session, Dinner,

Awards Ceremony(Texas Ballroom)

8 p.m. – 9 p.m.

8:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.Julie Roberts Concert

(Texas Ballroom)9 p.m. – 10 p.m.

FRIDAY, NOV 6


SATURDAY, NOV 7

DAILY CALENDAR

7 a.m. – 8 a.m.

7:30 a.m. – 9 a.m.Networking Breakfast

(Foyer)

8 a.m. – 9 a.m.

8 a.m. – 10 a.m.Technology Cafe Open

(Foyer)

8 a.m. – 9 a.m.Formal Networking

Session(Fort Worth Foyer and

Ballroom 1-5)

8 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.National Board of

Directors New Member Orientation(Sundance 6)9 a.m. – 10 a.m.

9:15 a.m. – 10:15 a.m.Workshops

(For Workshop information, refer to the program book

insert or download the conference app)

10 a.m. – 11 a.m.

10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Closing General

Session & To-Go Lunch(Texas Ballroom)

1 1 a.m. – 12 p.m.

n General Sessions n Key Activities n Workshops n Other Conference Activities n Invitation Only

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Accelerating Research Progress — How to Talk About It Audience: Everyone

Learn how to inspire others through impactful and easy to remember communications about promising areas of research and the Society’s role.

Join the Society’s head of research and a leading research donor/fundraiser to discuss recent advancements, emerging areas of promise, including international collaboration in progressive MS, and simple ways to share excitement and engage others.

Learning objectives:

• Celebrate and describe the impact of the NOW MS Research Campaign over the last five years

• Know where we’re going: emerging areas of promise

• Understand what’s happening in Progressive MS and learn about the International Progressive MS Alliance

• Learn about patient-centered research, and the growing avenues for people with MS to be involved in research

Access to High Quality MS Healthcare Principles: The Society’s Advisory Committee on Access to MedicationsAudience: Everyone

Discuss the issues that impact access to high quality MS healthcare and access to MS treatments, such as high medication costs. Learn how you can advocate for solutions to ensure that people with MS can live their best lives, and how you can spread the word.


• Understand the complexities of issues and stakeholders surrounding pricing and access to MS medications

• Learn how the Society’s “Access to Quality MS Healthcare Principles” provide the basis for the Advisory Committee’s work and fuel advocacy across the country

• Provide perspectives on the issues of price and access to medications to inform the Advisory Committee ’s work

WORKSHOPS


Addressing Gaps in MS Care Audience: Everyone

Learn about how the Society is addressing gaps in MS care by improving access to healthcare providers who are knowledgeable about MS and available resources; all of which are essential for people with MS to live their best lives.


• Understand and confidently communicate the barriers to MS care caused by the shortage of healthcare providers with MS experience, particularly in some geographic areas

• Learn about the ways the Society is expanding MS care throughout the country

Ask, Ask, Ask! Audience: Everyone

Learn how to more effectively tap into your network and influence new individuals and groups to join our movement and accelerate the progress toward solutions for people with MS. Training and discussion will focus on relationship building in advocacy and fundraising.


• Learn how to identify prospects and open the door to secure a meeting

• Understand how to leverage the tools, resources and tips to confidently communicate, assess areas of interest, and make a bold ask

• Learn how to share infectious enthusiasm and inspire others to get involved

Building a More Powerful MS Movement: Mobilizing Your Community Audience: Everyone

Learn how volunteer leaders power the MS movement and inspire and activate others to create change — people with MS and those who care about them, the general public, event participants, legislators, donors, health care providers and more.


• Learn how to confidently communicate about the power of the MS movement and the Society’s impact

• Understand how you can extend your impact by facilitating connections in your community through opportunities that fit your personal interests

• Learn about tools and techniques to inspire others to greater action and impact in your community

Current and Future Directions in MS Management Audience: Everyone

Learn about new approaches to symptom management and disease modification as well as the use of diet, exercise and lifestyle interventions to live your best life.


• Learn about what is known regarding lifestyle interventions such as diet, exercise and mindfulness

• Understand effective approaches to disease modification and symptom management

• Discuss the myelin repair strategies currently under investigation as potential treatments for MS

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Do It Your Way / DIY Fundraising Audience: Fundraisers

Learn how people across the country are raising critical funds and awareness in the ways they want through Do It Yourself (DIY) and Finish MS fundraising opportunities. Hear from a panel of our most successful and creative fundraisers who can show us all how to leverage our unique passions to achieve a world free of MS.


• Know how to use the Society’s online fundraising tools and resources to generate revenue and maximize awareness

• Understand the important ways to share your fundraising efforts through social media — and inspire others to do the same

Feeling Your Best: Recognizing and Managing Depression in MS Audience: Everyone

Learn about the causes of depression in MS, how to recognize the signs, and effective strategies. Hear about an individual journey with depression, and share/explore experiences with depression and its impact on relationships.


• Be equipped to recognize depression in yourself or your loved ones

• Understand the ways that mood changes can impact personal relationships

• Learn about and discuss effective treatment strategies for depression

Leading Powerful Fundraising Teams: Formulas of Successful Team Captains — Part 1 Audience: Team Captains and anyone aspiring to be a Team Captain

Learn how to become an even more powerful Team Captain. Take home tips from a panel of Team Captains that will inspire new members and motivate your team to reach for the stars.


• Learn how to create connections between people to grow your team

• Understand how to best leverage tools and resources to raise funds individually and for your team

• Learn how to tap community and corporate connections

• Understand how to organize your team for success and longevity through committees

Leading Powerful Fundraising Teams: Formulas of Successful Team Captains — Part 2 Audience: Team Captains and anyone aspiring to be a Team Captain

Building on Part 1 of “Leading Powerful Fundraising Teams”, you will learn about the variety of fundraising ideas to help become high performing teams.


• Learn how to host unique fundraising events to boost your team’s fundraising

• Understand how to enlist your employer to garner additional team fundraising support.

• Discuss creative fundraising ideas

• Learn how to take your high performing team farther, faster


Leveraging Tools to Raise Money Audience: Fundraisers and Staff

In this workshop, learn about our improved online fundraising tools and how to weave your personal story into using these tools effectively: create your own personal web page, use email templates, set and track fundraising goals, install Bike MS and Walk MS mobile apps, and connect and fundraise through Facebook.


• Leverage technology, including mobile apps, the Participant Center and other online tools to fundraise

• Amplify your fundraising and teambuilding efforts through the effective use of social media

• Learn from top fundraisers about how they use social media for maximum impact

• Learn the building blocks of a compelling story to inspire fundraising

Leveraging Your Connections to Expand Society Corporate and Community RelationshipsAudience: Everyone

Learn from other volunteers about how they’ve tapped into their personal and professional networks to expand Society relationships with corporate and community organizations to drive fundraising results and revenue.


• Understand the heart and soul of your personal community as a source for contacts

• Learn about the many different ways companies and communities can get involved and make a difference, in addition to sponsorships and donations

• Know how, and who to partner with, at the Society to turn introductions into powerful relationships

MS Research: From Legislation to the Lab Audience: Everyone

Learn how MS activists move MS research from legislation on Capitol Hill or state houses to laboratories around the world.


• Learn about a proposed federal system that will track the incidence and prevalence of MS, as well as emerging bills focused on broad medical innovations and cures

• Speak confidently about federal funding of MS research and the legislative process

• Understand the tools available to make legislative connections and impact MS research

Operational Report Training: Metrics that MatterAudience: Development and Special Event Staff

Learn how to use the new Phase II Metrics that Matter reports launching in November to identify gap areas and opportunities, prioritize work, and drive that work based on data contained in the reports.


• Preview the new operational reports, and learn how to navigate, review, and analyze information

• Understand the timeline of launch, including the training plan to support your staff

• Understand measures of success and how the reports support the achievement of our strategic goals

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Volunteer Power! How Your Talents and Community Network Create Impact Audience: Volunteers

Learn how your unique strengths and talents, and the strengths of those around you, can ensure community trust and confidence in the National MS Society so people affected by MS make life-changing connections.


• Learn how to Identify and describe the roles you need for success

• Understand the techniques to engage other volunteers, including how to match people to the skills and talents needed

• Learn how to effectively set goals and inspire fundraising at increasing levels

• Know effective ways to communicate work and progress, including successful approaches to recognition and stewardship

Walk MS: We’re Stronger Together Audience: Everyone

Learn how Walk MS is the largest connecting point for people affected by MS, and a fundraising experience like no other - we are stronger when we come together through Walk MS.


• Learn about the ways to make an impact of Walk MS and why your participation matters so much

• Learn how to connect with others who share your passion by forming a team of friends, family and co-workers

• Learn how to share your passion and inspire others to get involved

NETWORKING BREAKFAST SESSIONS

• Balancing the Responsibilities of Being a Team Captain

• Bike Committee Chairs• Bike MS: Creative Fundraising Ideas• Bike MS: Engaging Team Members• Bike MS: Team Logistics• Board Chairs• Building a Team Committee• Building and Maintaining a Balanced

Care Partnership

• Corporate Teams: Engaging Your Company• Creative Fundraising Ideas for Teams

and Individuals• Developing Your Leadership Potential• Engaging Healthcare Professionals• Engaging Legislators• Engaging Virtual Volunteers• Engaging Your Children in the MS Movement • Friends & Family Teams:

We’re Stronger Together• General Team Recruitment Strategies• How to Get Involved in State Advocacy• iConquerMS• Invisible Symptoms• Learn More About DIY• Metrics that Matter for Development Staff• National Teams: Building a

Nationwide Movement• Research Advocate Program• Research Questions• Teens Living with MS and their Families • Tips & Techniques of Successful Committees• Top Fundraisers: Secrets of Success• Walk MS: Creative Fundraising Ideas• Walk MS: Engaging Team Members• Wellness Strategies: Living Your Best Life• Year-round Fundraising for Your Team


HOTEL FLOORPLANS

Sundance 1 Sundance 2 Sundance 3 Sundance 4 Sundance 5 Sundance 6 3RD FLOOR — SUNDANCE ROOMS

Fort WorthBallroom 5

Foyer

Foyer

Foyer

Foyer

Registration








ESCALATORS DOWN

ELEVATORS

WOMEN’SRESTROOM

MEN’SRESTROOM

ESCALATORS UP

2ND FLOOR — FORT WORTH BALLROOM

OMNI FORT WORTH HOTEL

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Grand Ballroom Foyer

Registration

Texas Ballroom FTexas Ballroom E

Texas Ballroom A

Texas Ballroom B

Texas Ballroom C

Texas Ballroom D

Texas Ballroom I

Texas Ballroom H

Texas Ballroom G

Texas Ballroom J

2ND FLOOR — TEXAS BALLROOM

ESCALATORS DOWN

ELEVATORS

WOMEN’SRESTROOM

MEN’SRESTROOM

ESCALATORS UP

Foyer


SHERATON FORT WORTH HOTEL

HOTEL FLOORPLANS

#MSleadership | 19

VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR

William McNally Upper Midwest

As a person who has lived with MS for many years, William “Bill” McNally harnesses his experience of the often complex nature of this disease and related challenges in his substantial voice on behalf of the MS community. Bill provides high-level guidance as a trustee of the Upper Midwest Board, and joins the Society’s annual Public Policy Conference and State Action Days. He has served

on countless committees and advisory groups, including eight years on the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Program Peer Review Team where he has helped make important decisions about government MS medical research funding. As a former healthcare-industry insider and disability rights activist since the 1970s, Bill has negotiated with health plans and influenced legislation to reduce prescription drug co-payments, as well as built and leveraged relationships with key federal and state legislators. Now retired, Bill enjoys volunteering his time at local Society events and programs throughout the year, and is an around-the-clock MS ambassador. Bill rallies his peers to do more for the MS movement, leverages his personal and professional experience and connections, raises awareness, and engages new people in the Society’s mission.

19


PHILANTHROPIST OF THE YEAR

William Monahan Greater Delaware Valley

Bill Monahan’s deep and broad engagement in Society activities fostered his keen familiarity of Society priorities, culture, leadership and operations. That knowledge, combined with his leadership, influence and strategic thinking, positioned him to lead the NOW MS Research Campaign Cabinet, driving the success of the largest MS research fundraising effort in history. Bill contributes countless volunteer hours by serving on the National Board

of Directors, the Fast Forward Board, the Greater Delaware Valley Board of Trustees, and many Society committees. As father to a son diagnosed with MS, Bill is a passionate advocate for MS research. He takes every opportunity to speak to groups and individuals across the country about the progress and power of MS research, and the urgent need for funding. Bill has made significant personal contributions to advance the MS movement , and he challenges donors and fellow board members to match his gifts. He has also recruited his extended family to support a wide range of Society events and activities across the country. Bill is the retired president and CEO of Imation Corporation, a developer of removable data storage media products and accessories, and spent 25 years of his career with 3M Corporation.

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PHILANTHROPIC FAMILY OF THE YEAR

Alvord Family Greater Northwest

More than 50 years ago, Dr. Buster and Mrs. Nancy Alvord began a family legacy of leadership and commitment to the National MS Society.Dr. Buster Alvord devoted his life to basic MS research. His work on experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE) in animals helped to advance understanding of the disease process and subsequently propelled treatments for MS.

Dr. Alvord embodied the Society’s vision of a world free of MS, relentlessly pursuing the cause and cure. This passion and dedication was instilled in his children and they have in turn continued Buster and Nancy’s legacy with their own children. To date, three generations of the Alvord family have contributed more than $3 million to support the work of the National MS Society: Dr. Buster & Nancy Alvord, Elias & Karyl Alvord, Chap & Eve Alvord, Katharyn Alvord Gerlich, Carrie Rhodes, George Rhodes, Kalpana & Jamie Rhodes, Jean Rhodes, Rick & Nancy Alvord, and Alex Alvord.


LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT HONOREES

Connie Anderson Upper Midwest

Connie Anderson started volunteering with the Society more than 30 years ago, and quickly became so closely connected to people living with MS that she deepened her

commitment to the MS movement. She is a long-time volunteer at the Maple Lake MS Camp and local Society-sponsored exercise program. For more than two decades, Connie has also been central to the success of Walk MS: Twin Cities as the check-in supervisor, providing expertly coordinated customer services for participants while assisting and training other volunteers.

Duane Haverty Mid America

For the past three decades, Duane Haverty has been an invaluable volunteer on countless committees, and supported logistics and communications for Bike MS

and Walk MS. Duane is an experienced ham radio operator, and hosts tables at local radio operator events to recruit volunteers for MS events. Duane and his wife Pat jump in where assistance is needed, feeding their reputation to “get any job done.” Through his leadership and passion, Duane inspires others as well as helps everyone have fun and laugh along the way. From telling jokes, to encouraging strangers to allow their yards to be used as rest stops for Bike MS cyclists, Duane is determined to create a world free of MS.

Warren John Upper Midwest

More than 30 years ago, Warren John first learned of the National MS Society through a local agency that helps people with disabilities seize opportunities to live, learn and

work in their communities. He quickly became a jack of all trades for MS events, volunteering at Walk MS, Bike MS, Challenge Walk MS and MuckFest MS. Warren developed connections and friendships, and he continues to volunteer for many events each year, serving food to participants, staffing information tables and performing volunteer check-in. Warren also raises awareness for the Society at the Minnesota State Fair, interacting with hundreds of visitors each day. He is known for his nonstop enthusiasm and engaging personality — making him the perfect person to draw others into the MS movement.

Kathy Kahnke Upper Midwest

Since a few years after her diagnosis with MS in 1975, Kathy Kahnke has been a lifeline for people newly diagnosed with MS. Kathy has volunteered with the Bike MS planning

committee, at local MS camps and other special events, and co-led a support group. She is now the support group leader coordinator in the Redwood Falls, Minnesota area, and frequently visits groups and individuals to provide encouragement and ideas, as well as share her experience and expertise to help others build and maintain a thriving support system. Kathy enjoys talking one-on-one with people affected by MS, and says that she has grown to consider the people with MS and their care partners, who she meets with on a regular basis, as family.

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Barbara Katz National Capital Pacific South Coast

When Barbara Katz was diagnosed with MS over 40 years ago, she decided that she had to do something to

help others. Her late husband Bob was a trustee of the National Capital Board, and the pair served on the local Services Committee and created a highly successful speaker series called “MS Education Nights.” After Bob’s passing, Barbara was persuaded to serve as trustee in his place, and upon her move to California she joined the Pacific South Coast Board. Over the years, Barbara has led, served and participated in countless events, committees and women’s groups. She is also an MS activist — traveling to Washington, D.C. and Sacramento for legislative visits numerous times — as well as a fundraiser, donor and proud member of the Lawry Circle.

Bhupendra Khatri, MD Wisconsin

Dr. Bhupendra Khatri is the founding medical director of one of the largest MS clinical practices in the Midwest, and is internationally recognized for his expertise on MS. He

is actively involved in MS clinical research, is a leading authority on plasma exchange therapy and has served on the local Society Health Advisory Committee since 1991. Dr. Khatri has given numerous presentations about MS around the world and hosts a free educational series in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, called “Living Well with MS,” which focuses on diet, nutrition and therapies. His book, “Healing the Soul: Unexpected Stories of Hope, Courage, and the Power of the Mind,” was published in 2014.

Jim Maxen Ohio Buckeye

Jim Maxen joined the movement after one of his co-workers — a young mother of two little girls — was diagnosed with MS. Since that day, Jim has committed his time and

expertise to help people living with the disease. From his first Bike MS event in 1986 to his 1990 co-creation of the MS Walleye Fishing Tournament in Ohio, Jim has served in numerous leadership roles. He still serves on both events’ committees and volunteers his time at both events to ensure their success. Over the years, Jim has been elected and served as chair, secretary and treasurer of the Ohio Buckeye Board of Trustees, and continues to share his dedication and enthusiasm as a Society staff member: the Ohio Buckeye director of finance.

Richard and Theresa Mengel Upstate New York

Shortly after Theresa Mengel was diagnosed with MS in 1985, she and her husband Dick connected with the Society. Theresa joined a newly diagnosed support group, and

Dick joined the Upstate New York Board of Trustees. As founding partner of a Rochester accounting firm, Dick is always willing to lend an ear and offer sound advice; he eventually joined the National Board of Directors as treasurer and executive committee member. Theresa initiated a local Women Against MS luncheon, which she chaired for five years — personally recruiting two-thirds of the table captains each year. Dick and Theresa continue to share their talents to advance our mission, share their story to get others engaged, and attend and sponsor many special events and programs every year.


Curt Muller Upper Midwest

Curt Muller is part of the “Minnesota Mobile Escorts” group which provides safety services for various events. Shortly after the group started

volunteering at Bike MS 30 years ago, a wife of one of the members was diagnosed with MS. From that point on, Curt has been involved as an intersection safety volunteer at nearly every Upper Midwest Bike MS and Walk MS event. Curt leads the intersection safety team, trains new members and decides how to best allocate volunteer resources across hundreds of miles of route. His leadership makes events successful, safe and fun for thousands of participants. When he is not involved in intersection safety, he is an active participant and fundraiser for the event.

Doug Nelson Upper Midwest

Doug Nelson started volunteering as a ride marshal for the very first Minnesota Bike MS in 1980, and since then has been an integral part of the event. After volunteering and

participating for many years, Doug expanded his efforts to support the five-day Bike MS: TRAM ride and hasn’t missed one since (he’s the only person we’re aware of who has ridden in every single Bike MS: TRAM ride), also raising thousands of dollars for the MS movement. Doug has continued his dedication to the ride marshal position, which is a key role in the safety of Bike MS events. He has been a leader of the program and continues to enthusiastically educate, recruit and train other volunteers for this important role.

Jim O’Donnell Greater Northwest

During Jim O’Donnell’s 30-year tenure as a Society volunteer, he has established the local Dinner of Champions, chaired the Greater Northwest Board of Trustees and served on

the Society’s Peer Review Committee and National Board of Directors. In addition to donating his time and talent, Jim has contributed over a million dollars through personal and family foundation gifts, and was instrumental in shaping the Society’s scholarship program. Jim continues a high level of participation in local events, including hosting tables at the Dinner of Champions and On the Move Luncheon and organizing a team for Walk MS. A Society scholarship recipient describes Jim as, “the type of person who would likely give you the shirt off his back.”

Jeff Peier Mid America

Beginning with a 1984 request that he represent his company on the local Society Board of Trustees, Jeff Peier has dedicated his time and talents at MS special events, spoken

at Society events and community organizations, become a member of the Kansas Government Relations Committee and more. Jeff’s expertise and skill in chairing the former All America Board of Trustees was invaluable in effectively aligning territories and resources across the country. Jeff states that his natural curiosity keeps him coming back, “I was interested in and continue to be puzzled by this disease.” He is unfailingly optimistic and provides solid, consistent leadership; he is supportive and encouraging of other volunteers and a great mentor to staff.


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Rick Powell Virginia – West Virginia

When Rick Powell was first diagnosed with MS over 30 years ago he stopped by the Society office to get involved and connect with other people living with MS. An avid cyclist,

he had heard about an event called Bike MS being conducted in other parts of the country and worked diligently to get Bike MS started in his area. Rick continues to serve on the Bike MS Committee and regularly volunteers in the office. Rick recently began taking speaking engagements on behalf the Society, including service club meetings and high school assemblies. Rick’s knowledge of the disease, how it can progress and the important research in the pipeline makes him the perfect ambassador. You’ll find him at Society events telling people about living with MS and exciting advances in research.

Eli Rubenstein Greater New England

Eli Rubenstein is chair of the Society’s National Board of Directors. He has been a director on the Board since 1998 — the same year he

won the Norman Cohn MS Hope Award. Eli’s uncle passed away from fast-progressing MS in the 1930s, as did Eli’s father when Eli was only 5 years old. Eli recalls his first volunteer efforts for the Society, fundraising by taking a little hope chest from door to door. In the 1970s, Eli’s sister was diagnosed with MS, inspiring Eli to make whatever contribution he could over the years. Eli was a trustee of the Society’s Greater New England Board, serving as chair from 1994-1996. He was inducted into the Society’s Volunteer Hall of Fame in 2007 and joined the board of the MS International Federation in 2010.

Tobi Rogowsky New York City – Southern New York

Tobi Rogowsky was diagnosed with MS in 1973. She was recruited to be a part of the MS movement by Oscar and Marion Dystel in 1983 and

has been a steadfast volunteer ever since. Tobi served as chair of the Southern New York Board of Trustees and currently serves as the secretary of the New York City-Southern New York Board. Tobi is a member of Women on the Move and Dystel Memorial Golf Classic committees, and is known as a passionate fundraiser who does whatever it takes to engage, cultivate and attract new volunteers and donors to the MS movement. Tobi’s commitment to the cause and passion for getting others to give resulted in a significant 2014 gift to the Society by a local family.

Austin Sumner, MD South Central

Dr. Austin Sumner has been a stalwart volunteer with the Society since 1986 — throughout his career and across the world, from New Zealand to San Francisco and

Philadelphia to New Orleans. His leadership roles include serving as trustee on both the Louisiana and South Central Boards, at times holding the positions of chair, vice chair and governance chair. He has also served as a member of the Healthcare Advisory Committee, Special Committee on the Reserve Allocation Process, and Louisiana Leadership Council. In 1988 Dr. Sumner became a department head at Louisiana State University, where he has been involved in many aspects of the clinical, academic and research aspects of neurology.


David “Lee” Weathers Alabama – Mississippi

In 1985, Birmingham banking executive and wine enthusiast Lee Weathers helped create an MS fundraiser called Evening of Wines, a gala-style wine auction. Under Lee’s visionary

leadership and hard work — dedicating numerous hours each year to securing wine donations and

coordinating the event — the evening has grown into one of Alabama-Mississippi’s largest single events. It has raised nearly $3 million since its inception. Lee was invited to join the Board of Trustees in 1990 and has remained a member since, offering valuable knowledge and guidance to both the board and staff.

VOLUNTEER HALL OF FAMEADVOCACY HONOREES

Frank Austin Pennsylvania Keystone

A District Activist Leader and member of the Pennsylvania Government Relations Committee, Frank Austin is committed to achieving quality, affordable healthcare for all. As

a veteran living with MS, Frank is passionate about MS Congressionally Directed Medical Research Program funding and frequently utilizes social media to advocate for this and other priority issues. Frank annually secures MS awareness week proclamations across Pennsylvania and helps recruit new MS activists at Walk MS. Frank has testified at a Congressional roundtable about the importance of MS data to advance research and his Congressman frequently sought Frank’s input during the drafting of the 21st Century Cures Act. Frank lived in California from his diagnosis of MS until moving to Pittsburgh in 2012. In 2008 he was honored as the Pacific South Coast Activist of the Year.

Dan and Jennifer Digmann Michigan

Jennifer and Dan Digmann met at a National MS Society event in 2002. Jennifer had been diagnosed with MS 1997, Dan in 2000. The two

were married in 2005 and have dedicated their lives to MS activism and helping others live well with MS. Dan and Jennifer serve as District Activist Leaders, co-lead an MS self-help group, co-captain a Walk MS team, blog together and co-wrote the book, “Despite MS, to Spite MS.” They share their inspirational self-advocacy stories nationwide. They have worked tirelessly to advance federal legislation for Complex Rehabilitation Technology as well as Michigan funding of home-care options. In 2013, the couple received a “Declaration of Special Tribute” from the Michigan Senate, signed by the Governor, to recognize them for their “standout work and activism within the multiple sclerosis community.”


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Weyman Johnson, Jr. Georgia

Weyman Johnson is former chair of the Society’s National Board of Directors, and has been a member of the Georgia Board of Trustees since 1988, serving as chair from 1990-

1994. He joined the board of the MS International Federation in 2004 and currently serves as its chair. Weyman’s father and aunt lived with MS, his sister lives with MS, and Weyman received his own diagnosis of MS in 1990. Weyman is a persuasive advocate to increase funding levels at the National Institutes of Health and MS Congressionally Directed Medical Research Program, and more. At the Society’s 2015 Public Policy Conference, he led a panel discussion on the importance of determining the number of Americans that live MS — the Advancing Research for Neurological Diseases Act — to move research forward, faster.

Seth Morgan, MD National Capital

After treating hundreds of people with MS during his 23-year career as a clinical neurologist, Dr. Seth Morgan was diagnosed with MS in 2004. He retired two years

later and turned his focus to MS activism. Seth has attended the Society’s Public Policy Conference and Maryland State Action Day, and serves as a District Activist Leader. Seth is a long-time member and now chair of the of Montgomery County, Maryland Commission on People with Disabilities, which works to increase awareness of and action on disability issues, including the Americans with Disabilities Act. Seth is a consumer reviewer for the Department of Defense MS Research Program, has testified at U.S. Food and Drug Administration hearings and joined the Rally for Medical Research.

Tammy Quasius New Jersey Metro

A few years after her diagnosis with MS, Tammy Quasius attended an MS State Action Day at the New Jersey State Capitol. Since that day she has

been a passionate MS activist. Tammy shares her personal experience of living with MS as a young mother in order to compel legislators to support the MS movement. As a District Activist Leader, the relationships that Tammy has solidified with her representative and several other members of her state delegation have led to increased support of federal medical research, the MS Caucus and other legislative priorities. Tammy and her family support many Society events, including Women on the Move and Bike MS, and Tammy regularly invites legislators to attend and become more connected to our mission.

Doug Toelle Greater Northwest

After being diagnosed with MS in 2000, one of Doug Toelle’s first connections to the Society was a Walk MS event near his home in Fairbanks, Alaska. True to his

activist nature, Doug contacted the Society after the event to suggest improvements. Doug is a proactive and persistent advocate who has forged strong relationships with his local, state and federal legislators. He has helped advance priorities in Alaska including disability awareness training for first responders, creating an employment-first state, supporting Medicaid expansion and improving access to durable medical equipment. Doug is a long-time attendee of the Society’s annual Public Policy Conference and a mentor to other MS activists, in addition to being a self-help group leader and Walk MS fundraiser.


Teresa Wynne South Central

When Teresa Wynne was diagnosed with MS in 2003, she realized that she needed to restructure her life and priorities. While continuing

her successful career as a technical trainer, Teresa devoted her time, energy and considerable skills to the MS Society’s advocacy efforts. Teresa has advocated for affordable access to health insurance for all, Medicaid expansion, increased transparency in health insurance and much more. As District Activist Leader, Teresa regularly attends Town Hall meetings; her relationship with elected officials prompted Congressman Joe Barton to invite Teresa to join his Tarrant County Advisory Committee in 2012. Teresa serves on the Society’s Texas Government Relations Committee and State Activism Advisory Committee, as well as leads a Society self-help group and team for Walk MS.

FUNDING THE MISSION HONOREES

Lawrence Greenhall Connecticut

Soon after Larry Greenhall married his high school sweetheart, Robin, she was diagnosed with MS. Refusing to let the diagnosis get the best of them, the couple pressed

on, focusing on doing their part to end MS. In 1990, Larry noticed an opportunity to unite his passion for cycling with his commitment to help fund MS research. He joined a Bike MS team with a co-worker who also lived with MS, and quickly got up to speed, taking on the role of Team Captain after only a few years of riding. Larry also joined the Connecticut Board of Trustees, stepped up to support local events, and continued his creation of Bike MS corporate teams at each of his new employers.

Haggen Food & Pharmacy Greater Northwest

As a member of the Greater Northwest Board of Trustees and an executive at Haggen Food & Pharmacy, Glen Foresman — whose wife lives

with MS — wisely uses both platforms to expand support for Walk MS across Western Washington. As the presenting sponsor for Walk MS events in Western Washington since 2006, Haggen Food & Pharmacy hosts an in-store Walk MS fundraising campaign that has raised over $700,000 to date. The partnership has made a significant impact on communities across the state, spreading awareness and visibility of the MS movement to employees and customers in 38 retail stores throughout Washington.

Ernest Johnson South Central

In 2006, when someone close to him was diagnosed with MS, Ernest Johnson registered for the BP MS 150 Houston to Austin, hoping to do his part in creating a world free

of MS. New to cycling (and to “squishy shorts” as he calls them) Ernest joined the Houstonian Club Hammerheads team for guidance and support. Since joining, he has consistently been among the team’s top fundraisers with cumulative fundraising exceeding $376,000. From 2008 to 2014, Ernest demonstrated charismatic leadership through On the Move Luncheons, the NOW Campaign, Walk MS, Golden Circle and the Chapter Board of Trustees, including a term as Board Chair and currently leading the Nominating Subcommittee and leadership volunteer recruitment.

VOLUNTEER HALL OF FAME

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Devin Lynch Greater Carolinas

Devin Lynch joined the MS movement early, and at 5 years old wrote his first fundraising letter. By age 9, Devin was such a prolific fundraiser that he personally persuaded

the owner of a Golden Corral franchise to join the movement. As a result of his impassioned plea, the Greater Carolinas’ Golden Corral Scholarship Campaign has subsequently raised more than $288,000 and awarded scholarships to 129 students affected by MS. Devin’s passion to find a cure for MS stemmed from his relationship with his late uncle, Wayne, who lived with MS for many years. Now 16, Devin continues to captain his Walk MS team, CHarMS, which has raised more than $129,000 towards Devin’s personal goal of raising $1 million to advance MS research.

Brian Mason Virginia – West Virginia

Brian Mason got involved with the Society in 1999 after the son of one of his employees was diagnosed with MS. His company, Atlantic Bay Mortgage Group (ABMG),

provides substantial financial support to the Society in Virginia and West Virginia, including Walk MS and Bike MS. Brian currently serves on the Virginia-West Virginia Board of Trustees and was formerly chair of the Blue Ridge Board. In 2005 Brian was the recipient of the Norman Cohn Hope Award. Brian has also contributed generously, personally donating over $150,000 to support educational and connections programs for people with MS, including Weekend Escape: The Brian Mason Respite Camp — an opportunity for families affected by MS to enjoy time together in a safe, relaxing environment. Brian encourages ABMG staff to volunteer at the Camp, Walk MS and Bike MS events, as well as coordinates service projects like raking leaves for people with MS.

Don McCormack South Central

Don McCormack first connected with the Society in the early 1990s because a member of his family lives with MS. Don is a veteran cyclist, fundraiser, mentor, trustee

and friend, with lifetime fundraising in excess of $318,000. Don has ridden 21 consecutive years in the BP MS 150 Houston to Austin and several Bike MS: Cactus and Crude rides. Don currently serves on the South Central Board of Trustees as treasurer and Finance Committee Chair. Don and his wife, Joy, who serves on the Club 300 and On the Move Luncheon committees, host an annual “Crush Out MS” party at their home. With more than two decades of domestic and international experience managing acquisition integration and divestiture, accounting, treasury, planning, investor relations and information technology, Don is an invaluable asset to the Society.

Robin McGraw Greater New England

Captain Robert L.W. McGraw is a NOW MS Research Campaign Cabinet Member and a Greater New England Trustee. In his role on the NOW

Research Campaign Cabinet, Robin has traveled the country for community outreach, motivated countless Society trustees and made significant personal gifts to research. Robin’s commitment arose from his role as medical director for several Bike MS events. Following his niece’s diagnosis with MS, Robin redoubled his dedication to the mission, and has generated $1.2 million in personal and solicited donations. Robin is president of Blackrock Foundation, senior director of the Donald C. McGraw Foundation, and founder and president of Berkshire ParaRescue, and currently serves as a trustee for several medical organizations in Western Massachusetts.


Gary Pitts South Central

Gary knew little about MS until 2002 when a co-worker approached him about donating to a Walk MS event. A few months later that same co-worker asked Gary to

support her efforts to raise money for Bike MS. Gary was an avid cyclist and spin class instructor, and his interest was piqued. As he learned more about the 150-mile fundraising ride, Gary said, “I can do that,” and he did! Gary completed his first Bike MS event that July, raising just over $1,000. Thirteen years later, Gary has participated in approximately 25 rides with a lifetime fundraising total of nearly $350,000 and has made many friends living with MS. His approachable demeanor makes Gary a treat to work with and his leadership inspires others to consistently achieve improved results.

Chad and Tricia Smith Greater Illinois

Tricia was diagnosed with MS in 1997, and soon thereafter she and husband Chad became involved with the MS Society by forming a family team for Bike MS. Their

team, which became known as “Wheeler Dealers” in 2002, is annually among the top teams in Illinois in number of riders and fundraising, and has raised over $1.5 million since its inception. Chad has been a member of the Greater Illinois Board of Trustees since 2004, chair 2009-2011, and currently chairs the Governance Committee. Chad and Tricia are committed to funding the mission by donating and fundraising for other local Society events including Walk MS, Dinner of Champions, Cohn Weil Memorial MS Outing and Women on the Move.

HEALTH PROFESSIONAL HONOREES

Lilyana Amezcua, MD Southern California & Nevada

Dr. Lilyana Amezcua teaches clinical neurology at the University of Southern California MS Comprehensive Care Center and serves as

advisor and medical liaison for The Wellness Center at the Historical General Hospital in Los Angeles. Since 2007, Dr. Amezcua has been a member of the MS Society’s Latino/Hispanic Advisory Council, leading and participating in initiatives such as writing for the Conexión Hispana bilingual newsletter, developing community health educator training programs, and conducting a clinical and translational research project focusing on racial disparities in MS. She is also a Clinical Fellow. In addition to connecting her patients with the Society, volunteering and engaging the medical community, Dr. Amezcua involves her professional network in Walk MS each year.

Jeffrey Gross, MD Connecticut

Dr. Jeffrey Gross first encountered MS in the 1950s, but at the time was told not to ask about his neighbor because she was living with MS. He learned more about MS

while attending medical school and after entering private practice in the 1980s. Dr. Gross began speaking at MS support groups and was invited to join the local MS Society Healthcare Advisory Committee and Connecticut Board of Trustees. More recently, Dr. Gross joined the Financial Assistance, Government Relations and Dinner of Champions committees. Through it all, Dr. Gross continues to lead with a spirit of inclusion and willingness to work behind the scenes.


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Joseph Guarnaccia, MD Connecticut

Dr. Joseph Guarnaccia first joined the MS movement as director of the Yale MS Center in the late 1990s. In 2000 he opened his own clinic — the MS Treatment Center at

Griffin Hospital — and became involved with the Connecticut Healthcare Advisory Committee. More recently, Dr. Guarnaccia expanded his volunteerism into MS activism. “I received a Society email listing the legislative priorities with a request for feedback, and I shared my frustrations about my inability as a private practitioner to prescribe off-label drugs which I knew to be effective treatments.” Dr. Guarnaccia joined a small group of volunteers who, within a year, pushed through a change to the Connecticut General Statutes to broaden coverage for off-label medications.

Mary D. Hughes, MD Greater Carolinas

In 1997, Dr. Mary D. Hughes, then a neurology fellow at the Medical College of Georgia in Augusta, learned that her sister, Dora, had been diagnosed with MS. While

Mary knew little about treating MS at that time, Dora looked to her for advice about medication. Since then, Dr. Hughes has focused her career on research and treatment of MS, including access to care, patient self-management, therapies, psychological impact and disease progression. She addresses cultural differences in approach to healthcare, and encourages people in the African-American community to participate in clinical trials. Dr. Hughes’ volunteer contributions to the MS movement include many Society informational videos, service on the Federal Activism Advisory Committee, the National Board of Directors since 2008 and as chair of the Society’s African-American Advisory Council.

Stephen H. Kanter New York City Southern New York

Steve Kanter is director of rehabilitation at an MS specialty center. Steve helps people living with MS and their families learn about the

benefits of rehabilitation, and provides specific instruction and services to improve quality of life for people living with new symptoms or increasing disability. Steve is dedicated to educating rehabilitation students and professionals. He shares his practice as a mentorship site for professionals seeking to learn and is quick to accept professional presentation requests. Steve is the founder and leader of an MS Rehabilitation Network offering MS education, mentoring, and resource and information sharing among rehabilitation specialists.

Jesus Lovera, MD South Central

Dr. Jesus Lovera is assistant professor of neurology at Louisiana State University (LSU) in New Orleans and co-director of the LSU MS Clinic. He devotes his clinical

practice and research efforts to the diagnosis and treatment of MS. Dr. Lovera’s research focuses on neuro-protective agents for MS and evaluating new therapies for cognitive impairment and stress. Since 2007, Dr. Lovera has been a member of the Healthcare Advisory Committee, and he has served as co-leader of the Access to Care Committee since 2011. He works to keep the the healthcare community and medical students apprised of the Society’s volunteer and fellowship opportunities. Dr. Lovera graciously provides lab tours and supports a variety of Society led fundraising events.


Eugene May, MD Greater Northwest

Dr. Eugene May is a neuro-ophthalmologist at the Swedish Neuroscience Institute where he is co-founder and co-director of the MS Eye Clinic. Dr. May has been involved in

multiple clinical research studies of optic neuritis and MS. Dr. May is a member of the Greater Northwest Board of Trustees and heavily involved in advocacy efforts including the Washington State Action Day and the Public Policy Conference. He is a former chair and current member of the Washington Government Relations Committee and serves on the local Healthcare Advisory Committee. In addition to his local work, Dr. May serves on the National Medical Advisory Committee and chairs the State Activism Advisory Committee. Dr. May was inducted into the Society’s Volunteer Hall of Fame for Advocacy in 2009.

Amy Thiessen South Central

Amy specializes in neurologic physical therapy at the MS Center of Excellence at the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation (OMRF). Amy began her career as a physical

therapist almost 20 years ago and is a powerful force in her field, advocating tirelessly and fearlessly for her patients. Her effort to educate and train other healthcare professionals and students has made a significant impact on the quality of care provided to people living with MS. Amy has been a leader in creating innovative programs for healthcare professionals and for people with MS, such as a tele-rehab pilot project at OMRF in collaboration with the Society.

Pearl Werfel, PhD Northern California

Dr. Pearl Werfel is a clinical psychologist in San Francisco, California. Since she was diagnosed with MS 30 years ago. Dr. Werfel committed

much of her career to helping others live well with MS. Dr. Werfel has worked closely with the Society to develop wellness and educational programming for both people living with MS and professionals. She has been a consistent member of the local Healthcare Advisory Committee, sharing her passion for increasing access to mental healthcare for people with MS. Dr. Werfel co-developed a class on MS for doctor of psychology students at California School for Professional Psychology, and authored a book for clinicians on MS (published 2015).

PROGRAMS AND SERVICES HONOREES

Denise Belle Greater Carolinas

Denise Belle is a volunteer leader known for her exuberant optimism and determination to help others. Based on her positive experience in connecting with

the Society after her diagnosis with MS, Denise is passionate about connecting people — particularly underserved populations — to the resources provided by the Society. Denise initially became involved in 2002 on the planning committee for the first local African-American Conference: designed to address the unique challenges African-Americans with MS and their families face. As a public health expert, Denise has made equality in healthcare an important focus, and she has used her professional expertise to help the Society address healthcare disparities.


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Jody Burton-Slowins Michigan

For 30 years, Jody Burton-Slowins has led the weekly Ann Arbor MS Support Group encouraging discovery of self-coping and problem-solving techniques. For the past six

years, the group has kept a collective journal. As Jody explains, “People began taking it home, sometimes just to read it, sometimes to add their own thoughts or to paste in articles or quotes they’d found useful.” Jody has served as a trainer, mentor and role model for new Society self-help group leaders. She is a highly respected therapist, active in the local disability community, and knowledgeable about community and Society resources. As a member of the Client Programs and Special Exception committees, Jody asks tough questions and provides thoughtful input. Local Society staff consult with Jody on a regular basis and she serves as an advisor for educational programming for mental health professionals.

Ann Cabot, DO Greater New EnglandMS neurologist Dr. Ann Cabot routinely connects her patients with the Society and recruits her professional network to join Walk MS. She and her team raise awareness and funds to support

MS research and educational and wellness programs in New Hampshire. A member of the Greater New England Health Advisory Committee since 2008, Dr. Cabot became director of the MS Specialty Care Program at Concord Hospital in Concord, New Hampshire in 2011. Dr. Cabot is an enthusiastic speaker who has volunteered numerous times to address a variety of audiences at fundraising events and programs. Sincere and approachable, Dr. Cabot has helped many people living with MS and their families learn more about managing MS, MS research, and Society programs and services.

Jean Lawing Mid America

Jean Lawing has been a support group leader for 28 years, helping and guiding hundreds of people living with MS. When asked what has kept her and her group going for so long,

Jean replies, “It is not about me. The group is about the people who come. I want the group members to know that a diagnosis does not mean their life has to end. I want them to know with the support of others, they can move forward in living the fullest life possible.” Jean has done just that in her own life since her diagnosis with MS in 1984, leading her support group, connecting others to the Society, serving on the Mid America Board of Trustees, and volunteering with the Read-a-thon, Walk MS and Bike MS.

Barbara Leonard South Central

Barbara Leonard was in the first group of volunteers trained as a South Central Community Health Relations Representative in 2011, committing to four visits a

year with a neurologist in her area. She soon began reaching out to additional healthcare providers in New Mexico and working with Society staff to enhance program training. As Community Health Relations Program Manager, Barbara now facilitates phone trainings and mentors new volunteers. Her ongoing input helps improve the effectiveness of the program in working with healthcare professionals to connect their practice and patients with the Society, and educating other volunteers to engage in outreach. Also since 2011, Barbara has served as co-leader of the Access to Care Committee, leading Society initiatives and serving as a spokesperson in the community.


Renard Payne National Capital

Soon after his diagnosis with MS 20 years ago, Renard Payne began volunteering as a voice for and support to people living with MS, particularly African-American men. For 15

years, Renard has provided one-on-one peer phone support, creating space for peers to safely discuss MS related challenges. In 2005, Renard joined the National Capital Programs Committee, where he provides feedback about programs, evaluates services, brainstorms, and helped implement the local annual Men’s Day. His perspective as a father with MS has helped drive local focus on the needs of families. Renard has been an active member of the National African-American Advisory Council since it began in 2006, advising and supporting best approaches to engage the African-American community.

Karen Swartz South Central

Although Karen Swartz was diagnosed with MS in 1996, a trip to the Mayo Clinic in 2008 was the catalyst she needed to get involved with the MS Society. Her volunteer debut

was at the Chicago MuckFest MS event and, while she enjoyed it, she realized there was more she could do for others living with MS. Joining Chicago’s Deliver-a-Smile team to deliver gift baskets to people living in long-term care facilities turned out to be her calling, so much so that when she moved to Texas, she led implementation of the program there. Karen also leads a Walk MS team and is an avid activist for people living with MS. She serves on the Texas Government Relations Committee and as a District Activist Leader.

SCIENTIFIC RESEARCHER HONOREES

Aaron Field, MD, PhD Wisconsin

Dr. Aaron Field is a tenured professor of radiology and biomedical engineering, and chief of neuroradiology at the School of Medicine and Public Health, University of

Wisconsin-Madison. A world-renowned expert in MRI techniques for brain imaging, Dr. Field is developing methods to increase the sensitivity of scans to detect MS activity. His expertise has been called upon by several MS Society-funded researchers who call him the imaging “go-to guy.” Dr. Field’s research has been funded by the Society and he received a Congressionally Directed Medical Research Program grant from the U.S. Department of Defense to study lesion patterns found in MRIs, including pre-lesional changes in MS. Dr. Field has spoken at Society events, performed with his band at MS fundraisers and participated in Bike MS.

Albert Lo, MD, PhD Connecticut

Since his early career at Yale University Department of Neurology and the local Department of Veterans Affairs Hospital, Dr. Albert Lo has been dedicated to the MS

movement. He gives his time annually to present at local educational programs for people with MS as well as professional symposia. He is an active member of the Healthcare Advisory Committee, serving as liaison between the research community and clinicians. He is renowned for his ability to bridge the gap between scientific research and real, tangible therapies offered in MS care. Dr. Lo also contributes significant time and talents to serving on high-level international volunteer committees convened to determine the strategic direction of MS research. Most recently, he was part of the team that helped drive the Society’s wellness initiatives.


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Nancy Monson, PhD South Central

Since 1999, Dr. Nancy Monson has been recognized as a pioneer in the pursuit of innovative ways to move us closer to a world free of MS. Her training, experience and

innovation led to her recruitment to apply her knowledge of B cells to the field of MS. Dr. Monson’s expertise has brought new tools into the clinical setting that have resulted in a test currently in clinical trials in which a person’s antibody genes may reveal whether they will develop MS in the future. Dr. Monson has served on Peer Review and Advisory committees, speaks at events across South Central and is a Dallas Walk MS Team Captain. She is currently associate professor of neurology and neurotherapeautics, and immunology at UT Southwestern Medical Center.

Joel Pachter, PhD Connecticut

For more than 20 years, Dr. Joel Pachter has been a Society-funded researcher. He is recognized by the healthcare community for his wealth of knowledge on MS-related

topics, and helps raise awareness about MS and the Society’s work in the community. He has partnered with the Society for more than two decades on basic research as well as mentoring other researchers. As a senior investigator, his leadership is demonstrated in the growing number of MS-only projects as well as projects that will help advance MS research at the University of Connecticut. To date, there is more than $3 million in Society-funded projects and more than $1.2 million in state-funded MS research associated with Pachter and his colleagues.

Howard L. Weiner, MD Greater New England

Researcher, clinician, author and filmmaker, Dr. Howard L. Weiner has been at the forefront of MS research and treatment for more than 30 years. In 2004, he authored

the book “Curing MS,” and in 2008, he premiered his documentary film, “What Is Life? The Movie, exploring the big questions in life.” A renowned MS researcher, Dr. Weiner is the Robert L. Kroc professor of neurology at Harvard Medical School, director and founder of the Partners MS Center, and co-director of the Center for Neurologic Diseases at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. He is the 2007 recipient of the John Dystel Prize for MS Research awarded by the American Academy of Neurology, and in 2008 he received the Betty and David Koetser Memorial Prize awarded by the Betty and David Koetser Foundation for Brain Research.

Craig Walsh, PhD Pacific South Coast

Dr. Craig Walsh co-leads the University of California at Irvine (UCI) MS Research Center and has served on the Society’s California State Research Forum Planning

Team since 2014. A committed team member, Dr. Walsh helped recruit speakers, attendees and set direction for this year’s event. Additionally, Dr. Walsh has helped leverage Walk MS on the UCI campus to raise awareness about Society research. He and his staff helped educate walkers about the Society funded research being done on campus, led the UCI MS Walk team and Dr. Walsh participated in Walk MS with his family. He hosted a lab tour as an incentive for Walk MS fundraisers, garnering important media coverage and opportunities to educate donors and fundraisers on the vital research being done at UCI, all under Dr. Walsh’s leadership.


Members of the National MS Society’s Circle of Influence demonstrate their commitment to a world free of MS through financial leadership, extraordinary generosity and enduring trust. Each individual, corporation, foundation or team has given or raised $10 million or more to impact the lives of people living with MS.

Sam’s Club has a longstanding history of support for the National MS Society. Through associate and club fundraising, volunteerism grants, event sponsorship and in-kind contributions, Sam’s Club and the Walmart Foundation have contributed over $10 million to benefit people living with MS in the communities they serve. Over the course of three years alone, Sam’s Club raised nearly $5 million by mobilizing clubs across the country to raise money for the Society through grassroots efforts including hot chocolate and chili sales, balloon animals, employee bowling nights and more. Locally, Sam’s Club has served as the presenting sponsor for the Dallas-Ft. Worth, Bike MS: Sam’s Club Round Up Ride for 10 years with a commitment to continue in 2016.

CIRCLE OF INFLUENCE

2014 HONOREES

2015 HONOREE

#MSleadership | 37

CIRCLE OF DISTINCTION

Accenture

Acorda Therapeutics

Aetna

Alliance Energy

American Express

Anheuser Busch

Aon Benefield U.S.

Bank of America

Bayer HealthCare

Bimbo Bakeries / Sara Lee

Biogen

Blue Cross Blue Shield

BP

Cargill

Christopher & Banks

Clear Channel

Comcast

Cox Enterprises

Deloitte

EMD Serono

Enterprise

Ernst & Young

FedEx

Fidelity

First Potomac Realty Trust

GE

Genentech

Genzyme

Goldman Sachs

Harmon City

HealthSouth Corporation

IBM

IP (International Paper)

J.P. Morgan Chase

KPMG

Kroger

Macys

Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals

McDonald’s

Merck

Merrill Lynch

Microsoft

Members of the National MS Society’s Circle of Distinction demonstrate their commitment to the Society’s mission through extraordinary financial leadership and generosity. Each individual, corporation, foundation or team has given or raised $1 million or more to bring us closer to a world free of MS.

2004-2014 HONOREES

2015 HONOREESCORPORATIONSBarnes Jewish Christian

CH Robinson

Express Scripts

Falcon Jet

H-E-B

Lockton

Plano Cycling and Fitness

Salesforce

Vitamin Shoppe

INDIVIDUALS Mr. Brent Curran

Mr. and Mrs. William Marraccini

John G. Most

Fred Rothman and Family

Blake von Sprecken

TEAMS Team Apache

Team Calpine

Team CBC

Team Velox Rota

Team Wood Group

CORPORATIONS


Morgan Stanley

Noble Energy

Novartis Pharmaceuticals

Pee Dee Street Rodders

Pepsi Cola Bottling

Petroleum Marketers

Pfizer

Point B

Pure Protein

Sam’s Club

Teva Neuroscience

Travelers

TVI

UBS

Verizon

Wells Fargo

Wieden & Kennedy

INDIVIDUALS & FOUNDATIONSAnonymous

Mr. and Mrs. Charles Barancik

Mr. & Mrs. Vaughn L. Beals

Jenny Bradley

Mr. and Mrs. Abbott Buegeleisen

Scott Canepa

CFMS Fund Foundation

Mr. and Mrs. John Clay

Mr. and Mrs. Merwyn Dan

Order of the Eastern Star, Inc.

Mr. Louis Ross & Ms. Rosanne Esposito

Don Fraser

Freddie Mac Foundation

Friends of Multiple Sclerosis Society

Friends of the National MS Society

Gautreaux Family Foundation

The Gidwitz Family

Mr. and Mrs. Peter Goettler

The Sol Goldman Charitable Trust

Eugene and Emily Grant Family Foundation

Filomen M. D’Agostino Greenberg Foundation Corp.

The Hagan Family

Christian and Liliane Haub

Hawn Foundation Inc.

Peter F. Herschend

Conrad N. Hilton Foundation

Mr. Ralph Holden

Mary J. Hutchins Foundation, Inc.

Robin Kemper and Diane Goldman Kemper

Phil Keoghan

The Stephen Kaufer Family

Mr. and Mrs. James Knowles

Dennis Kuester

Mr. and Mrs. Michael Leeds

Elisa Levy and MS Hope for a Cure

Mr. A. Scott Logan

Fred and Joyce Lukas

The Andrew J. and Joyce D. Mandell Family Foundation

Dr. and Mrs. Francis Manlove

Mr. Phil G. McCarthey and Family

Donald C. McGraw Foundation

M T H Missouri Foundation for Health

The Ambrose Monell Foundation

Mr. and Mrs. John Moores

Mr. and Mrs. Dwight Morris

Dr. and Mrs. Michael Morykwas

The O’Donnell Family Foundation

Mrs. Barbara R. Palmer

Mary Parker

The Popper Family

In loving memory of Julie P. Power, the Power Family and the Kenrose Kitchen Table Foundation

Mr. and Mrs. Louis Rauh

RJM Foundation

Mr. Bob Schmidt

Mr. and Mrs. Richard Slifka

Mr. and Mrs. Richard Slone

Souers Charitable Trust

Ms. Elizabeth Stein

Ms. Flora Thornton and Mr. Eric Small

Mr. Jim Tidwell

Tuffli Family Foundation

TEAMSAnadarko

Baker Hughes

Barclays Chain Gang

Bechtel Cyling Team

Centerpoint Energy

CGG

CH Robinson

Chevron

Chuck’s Athletic Supporters

Coca-Cola

ConocoPhillips

Denim Riders

Donato, Minx & Brown

Dow Chemical Company

EOG Resources

ExxonMobil

Feisty Devils

FMC Cyclers

Ford

Frito Lay Cheesy Riders

Fugro

CIRCLE OF DISTINCTION

#MSleadership | 39

Gardere

General Motors

Giant Foods

Halliburton

Houston Builders

Houstonian Hammerheads

J Walkers

Jersey’s Team

Kaldi’s Coffee

Left Hand Brewery

Liam’s Lucky Charms

Lockheed Martin

Lyondell Bassell

Marathon Oil

Memorial Herman

MS Great 8

Mutual of America

National Oilwell Varco

Nestle - PowerBar

PwC

RawHinies

Real Estate Riders

Saint Arnold’s Bike Team

Schlumberger Cycling Team

Sonic Streamers - Sonic Foundry

Spin Inergy - Inergy Services

Spoons N Spokes Team

Team BHP Billiton

Team Bike Mart

Team Cameron

Team Disney

Team Donaldson

Team Engelman

Team Harmons

Team Hertz

Team Hess

Team HP

Team In Motion

Team J & J

Team Kinder Morgan

Team Michelob Ultra

Team Momentum/Bill’s Backers

Team MRE

Team Rocket Sprockets

Team SDCCU - San Diego County Credit Union

Team Shell Cycling

Team St. David’s

Team Stay Fit @ Hyatt

Team Sugar Bee

Team Sun & Ski Sports

Team Susman Godfrey

Team Texas Children’s

Team Toyota

Team United We Ride

Team Velox Rota

United Airlines

University of Pennsylvania Health System

Valero Energy Corporation

Western and Southern Financial Group

YMCA

Zimmerman Advertising


CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLEMembers of the Society’s Chairman’s Circle demonstrate their commitment to the Society’s mission through their exemplary financial leadership and generosity. Each individual, corporation, foundation and team has given or raised $500,000 or more to bring us closer to a world free of MS. Thank you to this group for their impactful leadership.

CORPORATIONS24 Hour Fitness

Aegon USA, Inc.

Best Buy

BBC Chartering

BMC Software by Byte

Citibank

Curves

David Weekley Homes

Fit Werx/MPB

GNC Nutrition Center

Katz’s Deli

Lime Rock

Magneco/Metrel

Medical Mutual

Mitzvah Squad

Motley Crew

Northern Trust

Northrop Grumman

Norton Rose Fulbright

Professional Women and Multiple Milers

PXU Energy

Ridgewood Cycle

Road Ruach

SDG&E

Statoil

The Cure S’Mylen Brite

Technip Titans

Walgreen’s

INDIVIDUALS & FOUNDATIONSMr. and Mrs. Ellsworth C. Alvord III

Mr. Tim Beaudin

Ms. Nicole L. Eiszner

Mr. Robert I. Glimcher

David Gross

Mr. Joshua Halpern

Mr. and Mrs. John and Jodi Most

Mr. Bill S. Onufrychuk

Mr. John R. Pearson

Ms. Andy Porrino

Mrs. Carolyn Protass

Mr. and Mrs. Bill Sample

Mr. Chuck E. Scherwinski

Seattle Foundation

Donald B. & Dorothy L. Stabler Foundation

Mr. Ely Tama

The Boston Foundation

TEAMSCurves

Deloitte

Missing Spokes

Monsanto Mavericks

Pentair


Stevie’s Wonders

Swedish Smyelin Babes

Team Believe

Team Fluor

Team Noble Drilling

TeaMsters

The Cure S’mylen

The Hot Flashes

TeaMsters

Wells Fargo

2015 HONOREES

#MSleadership | 41

CORPORATIONSAbbott Laboratories

Altria

Amalgamated Transit Union

AT&T

Bloomberg

Boeing

Booz, Allen & Hamilton

Citigroup Payment Services

Crawl for the Cure

David Allen Company

Delaware Park

Deutsche Financial Services

Diversified Project Management

Express Scripts

Gnc Nutrition Center

Great West

Haggen Food & Pharmacy

HP

Magneco Metrel

Medtronic

Mercedes-Benz

Mutual of Ohio

Newmont USA Limited

Noble Energy

PNC Institutional Investments

Praxair

Prudential Securities

Regions Financial

Revlon

Revolution Studios

Rexall Sundown

Secor Group

Sony

Structure Tone

Subaru of America

The Denver Post

The Pantry

The Starr Foundation

Time Warner

Twentieth Century Fox

TXU

Warner Music Group Service

INDIVIDUALS & FOUNDATIONSMrs. Lari J. Ainsworth

Albert’s Jewelers

Mrs. Nancy Alvord

The Annenberg Foundation

Brodsky Family Foundation

Mrs. JoAnn Cantalupo

Change A Life Foundation

Mrs. Laura Cohen

Dorothy and Sherrill Corwin Foundation

Crown Family Philanthropies (Arie and Ida Crown Memorial)

Mrs. Roxanne E. Davis

The Ford Fund

Mrs. Bianca Fraser-Johnson

The Greenhall Family

Gulf Coast Community Foundation of Venice

Ken Hoexter

The Helen Hoffritz Charitable Trust

Perry Ann Jeveli

Mr. William R. Klesse

Mr. and Mrs. Eli Lipcon

Mr. Charley D. Long

Mr. and Mrs. William J. Marraccini

Mars Research

Mr. Douglas C McAllister

Mitzvah Milers

Mr. and Mrs. Bryan Morgan

Mr. and Mrs. David Perren

Mr. Doug Quick and Ms. Janine Vanier

Regal Foundation

Mr. and Mrs. Fred Rothman

Mr. Anthony Rubino

Mr. and Mrs. Chad Smith

Mr. and Mrs. David Schulman

Mr. John and Mrs. Theresa Stewart

Mr. Stephen D Susman

Mr. Ely Tama

Tykeson Family Charitable Trust

Mr. Dave Van Der Linden

Mr. Robert and Mrs. Mary Zirlin

Rubin & Gladys Wollowick Family Foundation

Weingart Foundation

William T. Morris Foundation

ziMS Foundation

2014 HONOREES


TEAMS24 Hour Fitness / Well Spokn

Anthem Blue Cross Rebels

BBC Chartering

Calpine Cycling Team

Campbell’s Soup

Carney Men

Credit Suisse

D & Q Bike Shop

Deloitte Difference

Dick and Lynn Gordon

Direct Energy/HAA

Exterran

Houston Builders

Howard’s Team

Lime Rock/Tesco Corp

Lloyd’s Lagers

Lockton

Lockton Insurance

Monsanto Mavericks

Mustang/Wood Group

Norcal Street Walkers with Good Carma

Northrop Grumman

NRG Energy

Ol’ Army Cycling

Pep’s Peddlers

Plano Cycling


Spectra Energy

Starbucks

Statoil

Team Apache

Team Bad Ass Coffee

Team Basso

Team Canterbury

Team CBC

Team Chevron

Team Erica

Team Everst

Team FLH

Team Fluor

Team GLO

Team Granit-Petrobas

Team Katz’s Deli

Team KPMG

Team Menstrual Cycles

Team Newfield

Team Oxy

Team PricewaterhouseCoopers

Team SWN

Team Tacodeli

Team Total

Team Velo Valero

The Cure - S’Myelin Brite

Time Warner

Toyota

Transocean, Inc.

Urban Bicycle Gallery

Vitamin Shoppe

Winston Salem Flyers

CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE

#MSleadership | 4343

SPECIAL GUESTS

Cyndi Zagieboylo became president and CEO of the Society in 2011. She began her National MS Society career in 1985 and has held many responsibilities and positions in the Society. Cyndi has worked with every CEO of the organization, including the National MS Society founder, Sylvia Lawry, and has made achieving the Society mission her life’s work.

Cyndi serves on the Society’s National Board of Directors as CEO and president, on the National Health Council CEO group and Board of Directors, and on the Multiple Sclerosis International Federation CEO Advisory Group and Board of Directors. She is a founder of the International Progressive MS Alliance which was launched in 2013, and she provides leadership as chair of the executive committee. The Alliance was formed to expedite the development of therapies for progressive MS through connecting resources and experts around the world.

Born in Norfolk, Massachusetts, Cyndi received her bachelor’s degree in rehabilitation counseling and psychology from Springfield College, followed by a master’s degree in social psychology from the University of Connecticut. Currently, she lives in Honeoye Falls, NY.

Cyndi Zagieboylo President & CEO, National MS Society

Keynote Speaker

44 | 2015 SOCIETY LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE 44

Eli Rubenstein is chair of the National Board of Directors. He has been a member of the board since 1998; chaired the 2011 CEO search committee; served on the 2004 CEO search committee; and chaired the 2004 review of national leadership task force. In 2008, he served on the charting our future task force and in 2014 on the Strategic Plan Development task force. As chair of the board, he serves ex officio on all board committees and chairs the executive and compensation committees.

Eli has been a member of the Greater New England Chapter since 1980, serving as board chair from 1994–1996. He received the Norman Cohn Hope Award in 1998. In 2010, he joined the board of the Multiple Sclerosis International Federation. In 2013, Eli was the Greater New England Milestones Gala honoree.

Eli received his B.A. degree from Columbia College and his J.D. from New York University School of Law. He is a partner in the law firm of Goulston & Storrs in Boston. His community involvement includes the Board of Visitors of Dimock Community Health Center and member of the board of the American Jewish Committee, Massachusetts Chapter.

Eli Rubenstein National Board Chair, National MS Society Keynote Speaker

SPECIAL GUESTS

#MSleadership | 45

Jason Saul is an expert on measuring social impact. As the CEO of Mission Measurement, a strategy consulting firm, he advises corporations, nonprofits and public sector clients on how to measure and improve their social impact.

He is the author of numerous books and articles on social strategy and measurement, including: Benchmarking for Nonprofits: How to Manage, Measure and Improve Performance; Social Innovation, Inc.: Five Strategies to Drive Business Value through Social Change; and The End of Fundraising: How to Raise More by Selling Your Impact.

Jason is also the founder of the Center for What Works, a national nonprofit focused on benchmarking and performance measurement. He was awarded the Harry S. Truman Scholarship for leadership and public service and was selected as a Leadership Greater Chicago fellow. In 2010, he was named by Businessweek Magazine as one of the Nation’s 25 Most Promising Social Entrepreneurs. In 2011, Jason was appointed as an academic advisor to the Chief Marketing Officer’s Council and Advisory Board. Jason previously practiced as a public finance attorney at Mayer Brown LLP in Chicago.

Jason is a lecturer on corporate social responsibility and nonprofit management at Northwestern’s Kellogg School of Management. He also serves on the faculty of Boston College’s Center for Corporate Citizenship. Jason received a J.D. from the University of Virginia School of Law, an M.P.P. from Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government, and a B.A. from Cornell University.

Denise has earned a BS degree in Community Health Education from North Carolina Central University, a MPH degree from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and is presently pursuing a PhD in Public Health from Walden University. Her current professional role as the Director of Community-Based Outreach Programs with Rural Health Group, Inc. allows her to tap into and serve the needs of rural, underserved communities in Northeastern North Carolina.

Denise is an active volunteer in Greater Carolinas. She is a member of three Society Advisory Councils (National African-American Advisory Council, National Programs and Activities Council, National Federal Activism Advisory Committee) and has been called upon to serve on various Society subcommittees addressing issues surrounding rural health.

Denise credits her persistence to her beautiful mother whom she cites as her hero. She also shares her life with her four-legged “son” Jackson (dog) and a cluster of friend and family. Ms. Belle is grateful for the paths she has traveled, is committed to the work of the Society, and is excited about future possibilities, including a world free of MS.

Denise G. Belle

Master of Ceremonies

Jason Saul Keynote Speaker


As a child, Chris Nettleton aspired to be a comedian. He also loved participating in sports and, being born and raised in Minneapolis, Minnesota, he especially loved hockey. When he graduated college, both passions coalesced when he began his career in broadcast journalism, spending 15 years working in broadcast news, and more than a decade as a local TV Sports Anchor. He liked to say he had the best job: He got to watch sports and get paid for it.

His career in TV took him to many towns in many states, landing him in Missoula, Montana in 2004 — one of his most important stops, as it turns out. It was there that he met his wife, Megan, who was attending the University of Montana as a senior. He now had a partner to join him on his travels.The pair were married in 2007, and later moved to Duluth, Minnesota. On the shores of Lake Superior, Chris continued to live his dream — make people laugh while sharing his love of sports. He may have also mixed in some hockey time, playing goalie for a local pick-up team on weekends.

One day in 2008 while at work, Chris had something strange happen; both of his feet went completely numb. He could still walk, but was tripping constantly, and couldn’t tell where they were in space. This lasted about one month. During this time, he saw multiple doctors who put him through many tests, including electrical muscle stimulation, and tests that involved driving probes directly into his calves.

Finally, he was sent to a neurologist, who performed an MRI, and based on the results, informed him he either had a brain tumor or MS.

He and his family went home and had to wait 24 hours for the definitive results. There were many tears and very little sleep. When Chris was finally told he had MS, in a strange twist of fate, he was actually relieved. It was scary, but it wasn’t a death sentence. With this diagnosis, he felt like there was at least hope.

Chris takes his health very seriously, so he immediately went on a therapy. Soon after, his job in TV sports took him and his family to Boise, Idaho. It was here that he decided to go public with his diagnosis. He became his station’s MS ambassador and also became the official emcee for the local National MS Society’s Walk MS event. He now felt a pull to really make a difference, especially in the realm of MS research. His wife, Megan, also began to feel connected to the cause, and began working at the National MS Society. He emceed the local Walk MS, and she ran it — a match made in heaven!

Because MS in an unpredictable disease, Chris recently decided to put away his microphone and go back to school to get his MA and PhD in Journalism and Mass Communications, with hopes of becoming a professor. He is currently attending the University of Minnesota.

He and his wife have an adorable five-year-old named Quinlan, or “Q” as they call him. They truly believe that a cure for MS is within their lifetime, and it is this fact that drives them to play an important role in the MS movement.

Chris Nettleton Master of Ceremonies

SPECIAL GUESTS

#MSleadership | 47

Janice Dean is a well-known Senior Meteorologist for Fox News Network, where she’s been predicting the weather since 2004. Janice has also been living with multiple sclerosis since 2005. Janice describes finding out about her diagnosis ten years ago as life-altering and initially devastating. However, as she learned about MS and sought treatment, Janice realized her career and life were far from over. In the process of doing research, Janice found hope and she has become passionate about sharing her story to encourage others who are diagnosed with MS to live their best lives as well.

In addition to predicting the weather with Fox, Janice is the author of the popular children’s series, “Freddy the Frogcaster.” Before Fox, Janice had a long career working at various radio and TV stations as a DJ, anchor and host. Janice received an honors diploma from Algonquin College in Radio & Television Broadcasting. Janice is a member of the American Meteorological Society and was awarded the AMS Seal of Approval in 2009. She and her husband, Sean, live in New York with their two sons, Matthew and Theodore.

Born in Grand Rapids, Michigan in 1966, writer Trevis L. Gleason had lived a life many would consider quite full by the time he was diagnosed with secondary progressive multiple sclerosis in 2001 at the age of 35. Trevis was a decorated U.S. Coast Guard veteran and a former U.S. Agency for International Development Goodwill Ambassador to the Ukraine. He was also a food journalist, published author, an award-winning chef and culinary instructor who taught at institutions such as Cornell University, New England Culinary Institute and California Culinary Academy.

After his MS diagnosis, Trevis embarked on a new challenge being an ambassador for the MS movement and launching his award winning Life with MS Blog which earned him the #1 Online Influence ranking on the topic of MS. Trevis’ love of the culinary arts, however, has once more burgeoned and his recently published book, “Chef Interrupted” is receiving rave reviews. Trevis divides his time between Seattle, Washington and County Kerry, Ireland with his wife Caryn, and their two Wheaton Terriers.

Janice Dean Ambassador and Special Guest

Trevis L. Gleason Ambassador and Special Guest


Julie Roberts Ambassador and Special Guest

Being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis when she was 26 was just one of a series of challenges that country music star Julie Roberts has faced in the last ten years. While working on the release of her second album “Men and Mascara”, in 2006, the follow up to her critically acclaimed debut album “Julie Roberts” (2004), Julie received her MS diagnosis and then lost the backing of her record label, despite the universal critical acclaim of her work. Less than four years later, Julie watched the 2010 “One Thousand Year Flood” in Nashville, Tennessee destroy her home and car. On top of that, she was injured leaping into a rescue boat which was sent to save Julie, her mom, sister and four dogs. None of this, however, could keep Julie down — or away from her fans. She stayed close to them via social media sites like Facebook and Twitter and

created her own label, Ain’t Skeerd, to release her third album, “Alive”, in 2011. Then in the fall of 2013, Julie released her fourth, career-defining album, “Good Wine and Bad Decisions”, on the legendary Sun Records, home to Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Roy Orbison and the early Elvis. The album and her full scale tour debuted in New York City at the renowned Joe’s Pub. Despite her hectic schedule, Julie wants people both with and without MS to know that she can and does still move forward with her life on all fronts and is an active participant in Walk MS. Julie is currently working on her 5th studio album with producer Shooter Jennings, son of legendary country music artist, Waylon Jennings.

SPECIAL GUESTS

#MSleadership | 49

OUR SPONSORSTHANK YOU TO OUR 2015 SOCIETY LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE SPONSORS.

PLATINUM SPONSORS

GOLD SPONSORS

SILVER SPONSOR

CHARGING STATION SPONSOR

TYKESON SPONSOR

TECHNOLOGY CAFE SPONSOR

CONTRIBUTING SPONSORS

Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation researches, develops, manufactures and markets innovative medicines aimed at improving patients’ lives. We offer a broad range of medicines for cancer, cardiovascular disease, endocrine disease, inflam-matory disease, infectious disease, neurological disease, organ transplantation, psychiatric disease, respiratory disease and skin conditions. The company’s mission is to improve people’s lives by pioneering novel healthcare solutions.

Novartis proudly

supports the National

Multiple Sclerosis

Society in its efforts

to assist people with

MS and their families.

Novartis is proud to be the

innovative force that’s bringing

new hope and optimism to our

world in so many ways.

www.pharma.us.novartis.com

13997-14 NMSS Two Page Ad-17x11-AD.indd All Pages 10/8/14 9:33 AM

SUPPORT FOR YOURMS IS LOOKING UP

© 2015 Biogen. All rights reserved. 09/15 FCH-US-0890

Get extra support from the Above MS program. Sign up now at AboveMS.com or call 1-800-456-2255.

The Above MS™ program from Biogen™ is here for you with tips, tools, and inspiration for your multiple sclerosis (MS)—and so much more.

There are many benefits to joining the Above MS program. As a member, you’ll get extra help from those who understand MS, including:

• One-on-one MS support over the phone

• A community of peers

• Tips from people living with MS who are also experts in a relevant field, like cooking and exercise

• Information about Biogen relapsing MS treatment options

• Financial and insurance support, if eligible

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Please keep in mind that your doctor is always your primary resource when it comes to your MS and your treatment.

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© 2015 Biogen. All rights reserved. 09/15 FCH-US-0947

Caring deeply about those around usWe know that living with multiple sclerosis (MS) can present some pretty

large challenges. At Biogen™, we are committed to patients through

ongoing research and support services to help meet unmet needs in

the management of MS.

Visit Biogen.com, or call 1 800 456 2255.

Living with MS: Tracey, Lisa (center, right), Brooke, Imani, Galen, Brian, Joe (center), Lisa, William, and David (center)

People with MS can live their best lives as we stop MS in its tracks, restore what has been lost and end MS forever.

Bayer® proudly supports the great work of the National MS Society.

Raising awareness through education or fundraising to find a

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National MS Society AD.indd 1 10/6/15 11:40 AM

Jacki, patient

We believe in more than the big breakthroughs. And more than the next big thing.

We believe in the day-in day-out work of making science happen. And the millions of little victories — and failures — in between the breakthroughs. Because to us, it’s the daily effort of everyday people that changes the future. So we don’t stop. We keep working. Every day.

©2013 Genzyme Corporation, a Sanofi company. All rights reserved. MS.US.PO1140.1212 February 2013

1-855-676-6326 www.genzyme.com

We’re steadfast in our commitment to the MS community, with experts dedicated to finding new approaches for confronting this disease.

Genzyme is committed to working harder for our patients—because in the fight against MS, we’re all in this together. And guess what? We’re not backing down.

Multiple sclerosis is not just a disease—it’s a challenge

Genzyme is committed to helping address the needs of people living with MS

beyond their therapy.

We are proud to support the 2015 National Leadership Conference, and look forward

to continuing our work with the National Multiple Sclerosis Society in supporting the

needs of those living with this disease.

Better health for a better world

Ask your pharmacist for more information or visit us at mylanbetterhealth.com

We all share one wish.

To go where our dreams

take us.At Mylan, we’re committed to

helping people live their dreams by providing access to quality

healthcare for the world’s 7 billion people, one person at a time.

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www.acorda.com

Acorda Therapeutics is a proud sponsorof the 2015 National MS Society LeadershipConference. We support the Society’s visionof a world free of MS.

Performance Marketing AgencyData-Driven | Technology-Enabled

Better health for a better world

Ask your pharmacist for more information or visit us at mylanbetterhealth.com

We all share one wish.

To go where our dreams

take us.At Mylan, we’re committed to

helping people live their dreams by providing access to quality

healthcare for the world’s 7 billion people, one person at a time.

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WE SUPPORTMore than $300,000 donated directly to Bike MS teams through Primal Gives Back

Learn more about Primal's custom team jersey program:www.primalwear.com/custom

Proud national sponsor of Bike MS

®

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®

Assistance FundMaking Access a Reality ®

Mallinckrodt, the “M” brand mark and the Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals logo are trademarks of a Mallinckrodt company. © 2015 Mallinckrodt. June 2015

We view challenges as opportunities. See how at Mallinckrodt.com

Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals is proud to be a sponsor of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society’s 2015 Leadership Conference.

MORE THAN 40 YEARS IN

specialty careWhere science is aimed at difficult-to-treat diseases,

like multiple sclerosis and cancer

A heritage built upon helping protect and preserve vision.A commitment to advancing the Science of Rejuvenation.™A devotion to help improve patients’ lives through urologics.Helping people with skin conditions face the world.A dedication to enabling patients to live life without compromise and to their fullest potential.

It would look like Allergan.Allergan is a multi-specialty health care company established more than 60 years ago with a commitment to uncover the best of science and develop and deliver innovative and meaningful treatments to help people reach their life’s potential. We have highly dedicated and talented employees, global marketing and sales capabilities with a presence in more than 100 countries, a rich and ever-evolving portfolio of pharmaceuticals, biologics, medical devices and over-the-counter consumer products, and state-of-the-art resources in R&D, manufacturing and safety surveillance that help millions of patients see more clearly, move more freely and express themselves more fully. From our beginnings as an eye care company to our focus today on several medical specialties, including ophthalmology, neurosciences, medical aesthetics, medical dermatology, breast aesthetics, and urologics, Allergan is proud to celebrate more than 60 years of medical advances and proud to support the patients and physicians who rely on our products and the employees and communities in which we live and work.

To find out more about Allergan, visit www.allergan.com

Copyright 2015 Allergan, Inc., Irvine, CA 92612. TM and ® marks owned by Allergan, Inc. APC46AI15

What would the best of medicine look like?

welcome! []...this year’s conference will equip, focus, energize and connect us in new, inspiring...

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