NEW
YORK, July 18, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The
National Multiple Sclerosis Society, the largest MS organization in
the world, is pleased to announce Dr. Tim
Coetzee as its new President and CEO following a robust
search and rigorous selection process. Dr. Coetzee has 24 years of
experience with the organization, most recently serving as Chief
Advocacy, Services & Science Officer.
Under his leadership, the Society will continue its mission to
cure MS while helping those affected by MS live their best lives.
Since its founding in 1946, the Society has united people living
with MS, their families, healthcare professionals, researchers,
advocates, policymakers, fundraisers and volunteers, paving the way
for every effective MS treatment available today.
"Tim brings a deep understanding of MS and commitment to the
National MS Society," says Peter
Porrino, National MS Society board chair. "He is a trusted
voice of the global MS community, a highly respected scientist, and
we are excited for him to bring his transformative leadership to
drive us into our next era to achieve a world free of MS."
Early in his career, Dr. Coetzee was instrumental in elevating
the Society's research program. He established a robust career
funding initiative, investing over $30
million in researchers working to advance MS therapies
worldwide. He also founded Fast Forward, LLC, the Society's
commercial research venture, which has invested more than
$25 million in 54 projects to
expedite the development of new MS treatments.
Dr. Coetzee has played a crucial role in driving revenue to
advance the Society's work, working closely with individual and
corporate giving teams to secure significant financial gifts. In
the last four years alone, he has been directly involved in
securing over $50 million in
large-scale donations. Additionally, he created the Barancik Prize
for Innovation in MS Research, the largest global prize in MS,
endowed by the Chuck and Margery Barancik Foundation.
Dr. Coetzee has fostered global collaboration with other MS
organizations and scientific leaders leading to the formation of
the International Progressive MS Alliance — a one-of-a-kind global
research network aimed at accelerating the development of new,
effective treatments for progressive MS — and Pathways to Cures
Roadmap, a plan that aligns worldwide resources and research to
help accelerate discoveries.
Throughout his career, Dr. Coetzee has been a respected voice in
the MS movement and health advocacy. He has raised awareness
through numerous interviews with news outlets and podcasts, and by
testifying before the U.S. Congress.
"Serving the MS community has been a driving force in my life,"
says Dr. Coetzee. "I am inspired by the passion and commitment of
staff, volunteers, supporters and healthcare professionals who move
our mission forward. I am excited to build upon the great
achievements we've made together to realize our vision of a world
free of MS."
About Multiple Sclerosis
Multiple sclerosis is an unpredictable disease of the central
nervous system. Currently there is no cure. Symptoms vary from
person to person and may include disabling fatigue, mobility
challenges, cognitive changes, and vision issues. An estimated 1
million people live with MS in the United
States. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to
minimize disability. Significant progress is being made to achieve
a world free of MS.
About the National Multiple Sclerosis Society
The National MS Society, founded in 1946, is the global leader
of a growing movement dedicated to creating a world free of MS. The
Society funds cutting-edge research for a cure, drives change
through advocacy and provides programs and services to help people
affected by MS live their best lives. Connect to learn more and get
involved: nationalmssociety.org, Facebook, X (formerly
known as
Twitter), Instagram, YouTube or 1-800-344-4867.
Contact: Angelika Seaman
Phone: (603) 504-8554
Email: angelika@thetascgroup.com
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SOURCE National Multiple Sclerosis Society