A Message from Donna Kohli, President and CEO

Dear Friends,

After many years of being in the midst of the battle to find a cure for scleroderma, I’ve learned that one of the most important truths we all live with is that change is always inevitable.

With this truth in mind—and after much soul-searching and careful consideration—I have tendered my resignation as the President/CEO of the Scleroderma Foundation, effective today, February 17.

This has been a very difficult decision to make, especially when I consider the friendships I’ve made over the years and the impact so many of you have had on me personally and professionally.

Thank you for the honor of working with you over the past five years. In that time we have started many new projects—like this eLetter—that takes news of the Foundation and scleroderma research worldwide. It has been a great joy to watch the number of people who receive this letter increase, and to receive comments from around the world from people who are learning about our disease and appreciate the resources we provide.

At times I know the tendency of organizations is to pull back when leadership changes. It is my hope we keep the momentum going. I know you will continue to support the Foundation and its mission of hope through support, education and research.

In the interim, retired board member and long-time scleroderma community leader Walter Coyle will oversee the daily operations at the National Office. Walter has more than 30 years of service to the Foundation and its predecessor organization, the Scleroderma Federation.

His leadership experience, both as the president/CEO of a major corporation and as a founder, board member, volunteer fundraiser, and past treasurer of Scleroderma Foundation, will help us to ensure a smooth transition period while the search for my successor is undertaken.

I wish to thank you for your support of the Foundation and the people it serves, especially as we go through this transition period.

It’s never easy to move on, especially from an organization and a cause I so firmly believe in. It has been an honor and a privilege to be a part of the Scleroderma Foundation.

Wishing you well and continuing to hope for a cure,