BreakthroughT1D Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

BreakthroughT1D has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, and advocacy.

Driven by a commitment to a world without type 1 diabetes, BreakthroughT1D invests in research, advocates for policy changes, and empowers the T1D community, significantly impacting lives globally.

Leadership Roles at BreakthroughT1D

  • Chief Executive Officer - Aaron Kowalski
  • Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director - Mike Wilson
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Alan Lewis
  • Chief Financial Officer - David Mutthumani
  • JDRF Board President and Gala Chairwoman, Northern Indiana - Rhonda Bursley
  • Advocacy Team Chair(ATC), Research Information Volunteer (RIV), Northern Indiana Board President - Elizabeth Kerr
  • President & Volunteer - Tony Ferlauto
  • Board President for Oklahoma - Brett Stone
  • President & Board Member - Patrick Marks
  • Executive Council Chair, Volunteer, Board President, Rider, Concerned Parent - Carver Smith
  • Aaron Kowalski - Chief Executive Officer

    Aaron Kowalski, the Chief Executive Officer at BreakthroughT1D, directs the organization's overarching strategy and global operations. Kowalski spearheads initiatives focused on accelerating research breakthroughs and enhancing the daily lives of individuals with type 1 diabetes. This leadership role involves guiding investment in promising scientific advancements and fostering collaborations across the research community. Aaron Kowalski ensures the organization's advocacy efforts align with its mission to drive progress and secure critical resources. The Chief Executive Officer's purview extends to shaping the strategic direction for cure-focused research and community support programs. By overseeing the execution of strategic plans, Kowalski drives the organization toward its ultimate goal of a world without type 1 diabetes. This involves managing key partnerships and ensuring operational excellence across all departments.

    Mike Wilson - Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director

    Mike Wilson, the Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director at BreakthroughT1D, oversees the strategic direction and operational management of the organization. Wilson drives the execution of programs aimed at improving life with type 1 diabetes and advancing research toward a cure. This executive position involves leading cross-functional teams to achieve organizational objectives and expand the impact of BreakthroughT1D's initiatives. Mike Wilson ensures that financial resources are allocated effectively to support critical research and advocacy efforts. The Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director's responsibilities include fostering innovation and ensuring the organization remains at the forefront of type 1 diabetes solutions. By directing operational strategies, Wilson enhances the organization's capacity to serve the T1D community and accelerate progress toward a cure. This leadership role demands a keen focus on strategic partnerships and sustainable growth.

    Alan Lewis - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Alan Lewis, the President & Chief Executive Officer at BreakthroughT1D, directs the organization's strategic vision and operational execution. Lewis champions the mission to improve lives affected by type 1 diabetes and drive progress toward a cure. This leadership position involves overseeing all aspects of the organization's research investment, advocacy efforts, and community support programs. Alan Lewis ensures that BreakthroughT1D remains a leading force in the global fight against type 1 diabetes. The President & Chief Executive Officer's role encompasses fostering key relationships with researchers, policymakers, and community stakeholders. By guiding strategic initiatives, Lewis accelerates the pace of scientific discovery and policy advancements. This executive leadership ensures the organization's continued impact and commitment to empowering individuals facing type 1 diabetes.

    David Mutthumani - Chief Financial Officer

    David Mutthumani, the Chief Financial Officer at BreakthroughT1D, directs the organization's financial strategy and fiscal management. Mutthumani oversees all financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting, ensuring robust fiscal health. This critical role involves managing investments in research and advocacy programs to maximize their impact and sustainability. David Mutthumani ensures compliance with all financial regulations and maintains transparency in financial dealings. The Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities include developing financial models that support long-term organizational growth and operational efficiency. By providing strategic financial insights, Mutthumani enables informed decision-making across all departments. This leadership ensures the financial stability required to advance BreakthroughT1D's mission toward cures and improved lives for those with type 1 diabetes.

    Rhonda Bursley - JDRF Board President and Gala Chairwoman, Northern Indiana

    Rhonda Bursley, the JDRF Board President and Gala Chairwoman, Northern Indiana at BreakthroughT1D, leads regional board operations and spearheads fundraising initiatives. Bursley drives engagement within the Northern Indiana community, fostering support for BreakthroughT1D's mission. This significant volunteer role involves organizing and executing the annual gala, a key event for generating critical funds. Rhonda Bursley ensures local advocacy efforts align with national priorities, amplifying the voice of the T1D community. The JDRF Board President and Gala Chairwoman's focus includes cultivating donor relationships and expanding the organization's reach within the region. By leading these efforts, Bursley directly contributes to advancing research and improving lives affected by type 1 diabetes. This position requires strong leadership and community-building skills.

    Elizabeth Kerr - Advocacy Team Chair(ATC), Research Information Volunteer (RIV), Northern Indiana Board President

    Elizabeth Kerr, the Advocacy Team Chair(ATC), Research Information Volunteer (RIV), Northern Indiana Board President at BreakthroughT1D, champions policy change and community education. Kerr leads the Northern Indiana advocacy team, driving engagement with policymakers on issues impacting the type 1 diabetes community. This multifaceted volunteer role involves disseminating crucial research information to empower individuals and families. Elizabeth Kerr also presides over the Northern Indiana Board, ensuring local strategic alignment with BreakthroughT1D's broader objectives. The Advocacy Team Chair(ATC), Research Information Volunteer (RIV), Northern Indiana Board President's work directly supports the organization's mission to improve lives and accelerate cures. By advocating for progress and educating the public, Kerr plays a vital part in advancing the fight against type 1 diabetes.

    Tony Ferlauto - President & Volunteer

    Tony Ferlauto, the President & Volunteer at BreakthroughT1D, leads key initiatives and contributes essential volunteer support. Ferlauto drives engagement and operational effectiveness within assigned areas, ensuring alignment with the organization's core mission. This role involves active participation in strategic planning and execution of programs designed to improve life with type 1 diabetes and advance research toward a cure. Tony Ferlauto provides dedicated volunteer leadership, contributing expertise and time to critical projects. The President & Volunteer's commitment ensures that BreakthroughT1D's efforts to fund research and advocate for progress are consistently supported. By actively contributing, Ferlauto strengthens the organization's capacity to serve the T1D community and achieve its ambitious goals.

    Brett Stone - Board President for Oklahoma

    Brett Stone, the Board President for Oklahoma at BreakthroughT1D, directs regional board activities and strategic initiatives within the state. Stone leads efforts to advance BreakthroughT1D's mission of improving lives and driving toward cures for type 1 diabetes in Oklahoma. This leadership position involves fostering community engagement and supporting fundraising efforts crucial for research investment. Brett Stone ensures that the Oklahoma chapter's operations align with the organization's national goals and priorities. The Board President for Oklahoma's responsibilities include cultivating relationships with local stakeholders and volunteers. By guiding the Oklahoma board, Stone significantly contributes to the broader impact of BreakthroughT1D's work. This role is pivotal in expanding the organization's reach and influence.

    Patrick Marks - President & Board Member

    Patrick Marks, the President & Board Member at BreakthroughT1D, provides strategic leadership and governance oversight. Marks directs key board initiatives focused on advancing research and improving the lives of individuals with type 1 diabetes. This executive role involves contributing to the organization's overall strategic direction and ensuring fiscal responsibility. Patrick Marks actively participates in shaping policies that support the T1D community and accelerate progress toward a cure. The President & Board Member's commitment ensures that BreakthroughT1D remains a leading force in the fight against type 1 diabetes. By guiding the board, Marks enhances the organization's ability to fund critical research and advocate for necessary changes. This leadership is essential for sustained impact.

    Carver Smith - Executive Council Chair, Volunteer, Board President, Rider, Concerned Parent

    Carver Smith, the Executive Council Chair, Volunteer, Board President, Rider, Concerned Parent at BreakthroughT1D, drives multifaceted engagement and leadership. Smith chairs the Executive Council, guiding strategic priorities and fostering collaboration across various volunteer groups. This extensive volunteer role involves active participation as a Board President, ensuring regional objectives align with the organization's mission to improve lives and find cures for type 1 diabetes. Carver Smith also contributes as a Rider, participating in fundraising events that directly support critical research. The Executive Council Chair, Volunteer, Board President, Rider, Concerned Parent's dedication amplifies BreakthroughT1D's impact. By leading, volunteering, and participating, Smith significantly advances the organization's goals and strengthens its connection with the T1D community.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding BreakthroughT1D Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads BreakthroughT1D?
    BreakthroughT1D is led by Aaron Kowalski (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Mike Wilson (Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director) and Alan Lewis (President & Chief Executive Officer).
    Who is part of BreakthroughT1D’s executive team?
    The executive team of BreakthroughT1D includes leaders such as Aaron Kowalski (Chief Executive Officer), Mike Wilson (Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director), Alan Lewis (President & Chief Executive Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does BreakthroughT1D have?
    BreakthroughT1D has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in BreakthroughT1D’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of BreakthroughT1D includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director, President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, JDRF Board President and Gala Chairwoman, Northern Indiana.