Up Front: An Unrelenting Passion to Answer the Needs of Others
By Gina Ross Murdoch
MSAA President and CEO
I am delighted and honored to begin my new position here at MSAA. This organization has grown tremendously under the leadership of the recently retired President and CEO Doug Franklin, along with the help of MSAA’s Board of Directors and the recently retired Chief Operating Officer Robert Rapp. I look forward to building upon that solid foundation to further support our vital mission of Improving Lives Today for the entire MS community.
My tenure with MSAA is truly a return to my roots. In my previous experience, I spent 14 years with the National MS Society focusing on helping all people affected by MS. It was those experiences that led me back to the MS community, and to MSAA. In addition, I have dedicated my career to making an impact in people’s lives through my time at the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and American Diabetes Association. These experiences have given me an unrelenting passion to answer the needs of others with a particular commitment to the needs of the MS population.
MSAA had a wonderful opportunity to raise awareness of multiple sclerosis by ringing the Nasdaq Opening Bell on March 11th!
I officially became MSAA’s President and CEO on January 4, 2016… and spared no time before getting started! During my first month, I met with the entire home-office and regional staff, as well as took part in a major MSAA Board Meeting to exchange ideas and develop plans for the future. These include plans for our vital programs and services, plus important fundraising opportunities to make these programs and services possible.
I am inspired to see so many exciting things happening at MSAA! In February, we launched our newly updated and completely responsive (mobile-friendly) website at mymsaa.org. This extensive resource enables us to engage our mission across the country, providing the opportunity to educate, support, and empower members of the MS community. March was MS Awareness Month, and in addition to a host of educational programs and other important activities, we focused our attention on managing the symptoms of MS – a critical topic for anyone diagnosed with this challenging disorder. Also in March, we held our “2016 Improving Lives Benefit,” where we honored Susan Russo, MSAA Art Showcase Artist, and Doug Franklin, our past president and CEO, while raising much-needed funds for programs.
Brimming with enthusiasm, I look forward to my tenure here at MSAA. Working together with our wonderful staff, I will do everything possible to support our mission of Improving Lives Today for the entire MS community!
Gina Ross Murdoch is a seasoned executive in non-profit management. Her career includes leadership positions with chapters of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society as well as the American Diabetes Association. Earlier, she spent 14 years overseeing development activities at a large chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, leading explosive growth initiatives and ground-breaking strategic projects. An active member of the community, Ms. Murdoch has held several town positions and volunteers for her college alma mater, Drew University.