National Multiple Sclerosis Society Executive and Leadership Team

Timothy Coetzee, the President & Chief Executive Officer at National Multiple Sclerosis Society, directs the overarching scientific and operational strategy to accelerate MS research. Overseeing the organization's investment in clinical trials and basic science, the President & Chief Executive Officer ensures that resources align with the mission of discovering new therapeutic approaches. This leadership role involves collaborating with global medical institutions to expand the boundaries of treatment possibilities. By prioritizing high-impact research initiatives, Timothy Coetzee directly influences the pace of scientific discovery and the development of innovative care models. The President & Chief Executive Officer maintains a focus on translating complex disease mechanisms into practical patient outcomes. Through rigorous oversight of funding allocations, Coetzee secures the financial and intellectual capital necessary to sustain long-term progress in disease management, ultimately fostering a more robust support network for the entire MS community.

Lisa Gerrol, the President & Chief Executive Officer at National Multiple Sclerosis Society, manages the operational infrastructure and service delivery networks that support individuals living with multiple sclerosis. Focusing on the expansion of direct support initiatives, the President & Chief Executive Officer coordinates counseling, educational resources, and practical assistance programs across the organization. This leadership role requires constant interaction with the Board to ensure that community-based services remain accessible and effective for diverse patient populations. By optimizing the delivery of peer support groups and community events, Lisa Gerrol strengthens the connection between patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. The President & Chief Executive Officer drives the implementation of nationwide programs that address the daily challenges of MS, ensuring that the organization provides comprehensive care beyond medical intervention. Gerrol maintains a commitment to operational excellence, ensuring that every resource effectively improves the quality of life for those navigating their diagnosis.

Bob Bryan, the Chapter President, Eastern NC Chapter at National Multiple Sclerosis Society, directs regional operations and community-based support services within the Eastern North Carolina territory. Overseeing local fundraising efforts and patient engagement programs, the Chapter President, Eastern NC Chapter ensures that the national mission translates into tangible assistance for local families. This leadership role involves building partnerships with regional healthcare providers and organizing community events that foster connection among patients and caregivers. By managing the local network of volunteers and resources, Bob Bryan addresses the specific needs of the MS community in the region. The Chapter President, Eastern NC Chapter facilitates the delivery of educational resources and practical support, ensuring that individuals have access to necessary care options. Through consistent local advocacy and outreach, Bryan strengthens the presence of the Society, driving regional participation in national research initiatives and support programs.

Rhonda Richardson, the Executive Asistant To President at National Multiple Sclerosis Society, manages the complex scheduling and administrative priorities of the executive office. Overseeing the flow of high-level correspondence and meeting preparation, the Executive Asistant To President ensures that the leadership team remains focused on strategic objectives related to research and patient care. This role involves coordinating interactions between the President and key stakeholders, including board members and medical partners. By maintaining the integrity of executive workflows, Rhonda Richardson enables the efficient execution of organizational goals. The Executive Asistant To President facilitates communication across departments, ensuring that administrative tasks support the broader mission of the Society. Through proactive management of the President's time and resources, Richardson contributes to the overall effectiveness of the leadership team, allowing for seamless coordination of the organization's extensive network of programs and services designed to meet the diverse needs of the MS community.

Julie Leggett, the President, Chapter at National Multiple Sclerosis Society, leads regional initiatives focused on local fundraising and community support for individuals affected by multiple sclerosis. Overseeing the implementation of national programs at the chapter level, the President, Chapter ensures that patients and caregivers receive consistent access to counseling and educational resources. This leadership role involves cultivating relationships with local donors and medical professionals to sustain the organization's mission. By organizing regional events and peer support groups, Julie Leggett fosters a sense of community and connection among those navigating their diagnosis. The President, Chapter drives the execution of local outreach strategies that align with the Society's broader goals of advancing research and improving quality of life. Through dedicated regional management, Leggett ensures that the organization's resources effectively reach the local level, providing practical assistance and fostering a supportive environment for all members of the MS community.

Nicholas Mageras, the Chapter President at National Multiple Sclerosis Society, manages regional operations and service delivery to support the MS community within the assigned territory. Overseeing the coordination of local support groups and educational workshops, the Chapter President ensures that individuals have the tools necessary to navigate their treatment options. This leadership role involves mobilizing local resources and volunteers to enhance the impact of national initiatives. By fostering partnerships with regional healthcare institutions, Nicholas Mageras facilitates better access to care and clinical trial information for local patients. The Chapter President drives fundraising efforts that support the Society's research funding cornerstone, ensuring that local contributions directly impact the discovery of new treatments. Through active community engagement and regional advocacy, Mageras strengthens the organization's ability to provide comprehensive support, ensuring that the needs of patients and their families remain a top priority in the local area.

Yasmin Nielsen, the President, Jersey Metro at National Multiple Sclerosis Society, directs the strategic operations and community outreach efforts within the Jersey Metro region. Overseeing the development of local support networks, the President, Jersey Metro ensures that individuals affected by MS receive timely access to counseling and practical assistance. This leadership role involves managing regional fundraising campaigns that contribute to the Society's national research funding goals. By coordinating with local medical professionals and community leaders, Yasmin Nielsen builds a robust support system that addresses the unique challenges of the regional patient population. The President, Jersey Metro drives the implementation of educational programs that empower patients and caregivers to navigate their diagnosis effectively. Through consistent regional advocacy and resource management, Nielsen ensures that the organization's mission of advancing research and care remains a central focus, providing essential services that improve the quality of life for the local MS community.

Sharon Grossman, the Chapter President at National Multiple Sclerosis Society, leads regional efforts to provide support and resources to individuals living with multiple sclerosis. Overseeing the administration of local programs, the Chapter President ensures that the organization's mission of advancing research and care is effectively communicated and implemented within the community. This leadership role involves managing local volunteer networks and coordinating events that foster connection among patients and caregivers. By facilitating access to educational resources and counseling, Sharon Grossman helps individuals navigate their treatment options and improve their daily quality of life. The Chapter President drives regional fundraising initiatives that support the Society's commitment to scientific advancement and clinical trials. Through active participation in local healthcare networks, Grossman ensures that the organization remains a vital resource for the MS community, providing the necessary support and advocacy to drive meaningful progress in disease management and patient outcomes.

Maura Burns, the Senior Vice President, Chief of Staff at National Multiple Sclerosis Society, coordinates executive operations and facilitates cross-departmental alignment to advance the organizational mission. Overseeing internal communications and strategic planning, the Senior Vice President, Chief of Staff ensures that leadership initiatives remain consistent with the goals of research and patient support. This role involves managing the flow of information between the C-suite and the broader organization to maintain operational efficiency. By streamlining decision-making processes, Maura Burns enables the executive team to focus on high-priority projects such as clinical trial partnerships and community outreach. The Senior Vice President, Chief of Staff monitors the execution of key performance indicators, ensuring that the organization meets its objectives regarding resource mobilization. Through meticulous management of administrative functions, Burns supports the overall stability of the Society, allowing the leadership team to effectively address the evolving needs of the MS community.

Francesco Flaviis, the Chief Marketing & Communications Officer at National Multiple Sclerosis Society, architects the brand strategy and public awareness campaigns that amplify the organization's impact. Overseeing all external messaging, the Chief Marketing & Communications Officer ensures that the mission of advancing research and care reaches a broad audience of stakeholders, donors, and patients. This leadership role involves developing digital campaigns and educational content that simplify complex medical information for the public. By managing media relations and community engagement platforms, Francesco Flaviis fosters a strong public identity for the Society. The Chief Marketing & Communications Officer drives initiatives that increase visibility for clinical trials and support services, ensuring that individuals affected by MS understand the resources available to them. Through strategic storytelling and data-driven outreach, Flaviis expands the reach of the organization, securing the necessary public support to sustain long-term research and advocacy efforts across the country.