Muscular Dystrophy Association Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

The Muscular Dystrophy Association has 5 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, marketing, operations, and legal.

Driven by a commitment to eradicating neuromuscular disease, Muscular Dystrophy Association funds vital research, provides essential medical services, and educates the public and health professionals to improve the lives of those affected.

Leadership Roles at Muscular Dystrophy Association

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Sharon Hesterlee
  • Chief Financial Officer - Pamela Kournetas
  • Chief Operating Officer & Chief Legal Officer - Henry Lanman
  • President - Heather Urick
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Morgan Roth
  • Sharon Hesterlee - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Sharon Hesterlee, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Muscular Dystrophy Association, directs the organization's overarching strategy and mission to combat muscular dystrophy, ALS, and related diseases. Hesterlee spearheads the critical initiatives focused on advancing scientific research, ensuring the delivery of comprehensive medical and community services, and fostering robust educational programs for healthcare professionals and the public. This leadership role involves setting the strategic vision for the organization's growth and impact, guiding resource allocation to maximize research funding and service provision across the United States. Hesterlee's executive oversight ensures alignment with the core objectives of improving the lives of individuals and families affected by neuromuscular diseases. The President & Chief Executive Officer drives the organization's engagement with stakeholders, including donors, researchers, and patient advocacy groups, solidifying the Muscular Dystrophy Association's position as a leader in the fight against these debilitating conditions. Sharon Hesterlee's strategic direction is paramount to achieving breakthroughs and enhancing patient care.

    Pamela Kournetas - Chief Financial Officer

    Pamela Kournetas, the Chief Financial Officer at Muscular Dystrophy Association, manages all financial operations and fiscal strategy for the non-profit organization. Kournetas oversees budgeting, financial planning, accounting, and reporting, ensuring the responsible stewardship of funds dedicated to research, medical services, and public education. This executive position involves developing financial models to support long-term sustainability and growth, optimizing resource allocation to maximize the impact of donations. The Chief Financial Officer plays a crucial role in maintaining financial transparency and compliance with all regulatory requirements, safeguarding the organization's integrity. Kournetas works closely with other C-suite leaders to align financial resources with strategic objectives, supporting the mission to combat muscular dystrophy and related diseases. By implementing robust financial controls and driving efficiency, Pamela Kournetas ensures that the Muscular Dystrophy Association can continue its vital work across the United States, funding critical research and providing essential support services to affected families.
    Henry Lanman, the Chief Operating Officer & Chief Legal Officer at Muscular Dystrophy Association, directs both the operational efficiency and the legal framework of the organization. Lanman oversees the day-to-day administrative functions, ensuring smooth execution of programs and services across the United States, while also managing all legal affairs, compliance, and risk management. This dual executive role requires a strategic approach to operational scaling and a deep understanding of the legal landscape governing non-profit organizations. The Chief Operating Officer & Chief Legal Officer ensures that all activities align with the organization's mission to combat neuromuscular diseases and adhere to the highest standards of governance. Lanman's responsibilities include optimizing internal processes, managing contracts, and providing legal counsel to support the strategic goals of the Muscular Dystrophy Association. By integrating operational excellence with rigorous legal oversight, Henry Lanman safeguards the organization's resources and enhances its capacity to fund research and deliver critical medical and community services.
    Henry Lanman

    Heather Urick - President

    Heather Urick, the President at Muscular Dystrophy Association, provides executive leadership and strategic direction for key organizational initiatives. Urick focuses on advancing the mission to eradicate muscular dystrophy, ALS, and related diseases through robust research funding and comprehensive patient support services. This leadership position involves guiding program development and implementation, ensuring that the organization effectively meets the needs of individuals and families affected by neuromuscular conditions across the United States. The President collaborates closely with other senior leaders to foster innovation and drive progress in scientific discovery and healthcare delivery. Heather Urick's role is critical in strengthening partnerships with research institutions, healthcare providers, and advocacy groups, amplifying the impact of the Muscular Dystrophy Association's work. By championing the organization's goals, Urick ensures sustained focus on improving quality of life and advancing treatments for those impacted by these diseases.

    Morgan Roth - Chief Marketing Officer

    Morgan Roth, the Chief Marketing Officer at Muscular Dystrophy Association, leads all marketing, communications, and brand strategy initiatives. Roth is responsible for developing and executing campaigns that raise public awareness about muscular dystrophy, ALS, and related diseases, driving engagement and support for the organization's mission. This role involves overseeing digital marketing, public relations, content creation, and social media strategies to effectively communicate the impact of the Muscular Dystrophy Association's work. The Chief Marketing Officer collaborates with fundraising and program teams to ensure cohesive messaging and maximize donor acquisition and retention. By crafting compelling narratives and highlighting patient stories, Morgan Roth amplifies the organization's reach and influence across the United States. This executive leadership ensures that the critical work of funding research and providing medical services is effectively communicated to a broad audience, fostering greater understanding and support for the cause. Roth's strategic marketing efforts are vital to advancing the organization's objectives.
    Morgan Roth

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Muscular Dystrophy Association Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Muscular Dystrophy Association?
    Muscular Dystrophy Association is led by Sharon Hesterlee (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Pamela Kournetas (Chief Financial Officer) and Henry Lanman (Chief Operating Officer & Chief Legal Officer).
    Who is part of Muscular Dystrophy Association’s executive team?
    The executive team of Muscular Dystrophy Association includes leaders such as Sharon Hesterlee (President & Chief Executive Officer), Pamela Kournetas (Chief Financial Officer), Henry Lanman (Chief Operating Officer & Chief Legal Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Muscular Dystrophy Association have?
    Muscular Dystrophy Association has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Muscular Dystrophy Association’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Muscular Dystrophy Association includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer & Chief Legal Officer, President, Chief Marketing Officer.