Transitions on the Association’s Board of Directors

Over the past 22 years, the CFIDS Association has been enriched by the leadership provided by 83 individuals who have contributed their “time, talent and treasure” to shape and build this organization. They have brought varied perspectives, as persons with CFS, parents, close friends and caregivers, and as professionals in fields relevant to the Association’s work.

Susan Jacobs

At the end of 2009, two directors will retire from Board service as they reach the six-year limit on directors’ terms. Susan Jacobs, Esq., who served as chairman 2005-2007, will be missed for the experience she brings from her legal training and service to other nonprofit boards. Susan was drawn to the cause by her former college roommate who was diagnosed with CFS in the mid-1990s.

Lynn Royster, PhD

Lynn Royster, J.D., Ph.D., will also retire at year-end. Lynn’s adult son Patrick has been the inspiration for her service. In addition to serving as chairman of several Board committees, Lynn served as vice chairman from 2005-2008. Among Lynn’s many contributions was leading the effort to develop the Association’s first written long-range strategic plan in 2005-2006.

Joining the Board in January will be three professionals with personal connections to CFS. Diane Bean is a U.S. Foreign Service officer whose daughter Lauren has CFS. Diane previously served on the Board in 2005, although career demands forced her to step down before her term ended. She is eager to resume her service again.  

Vicki Boies, PsyD, and her husband Bill have been active supporters since 1995 out of concern for their daughter Carolyn, who has CFS. Vicki is a clinical psychologist and has been active in several community organizations and with the Chronic Illness Initiative established by Lynn Royster at DePaul University.

Bob Raidt is a senior executive at Leo Burnett, an international consumer products advertising agency. Bob has extensive marketing experience as worldwide account head for McDonald’s. Bob has worked with the March of Dimes in Chicago and has several connections to CFS that motivate his interest in serving.

Jennie Spotila

We’ll also see new Board leadership as Jennifer Spotila, J.D. steps down as chairman after serving in this crucial, but demanding post for two years. Adam Lesser, the current vice chairman, will begin his term as chairman on January 1 and Amy Divine will become vice chairman. Jennifer will continue service on the executive committee as Board secretary, replacing Susan Jacobs, who retires at year-end. Bruce Allshouse will continue as treasurer and Katrina Berne, PhD, will begin her term as chairman of the Nominating Committee, a leadership position elected by the Board.

These transitions follow “best practices” for Board leadership observed by the nation’s most trusted nonprofit organizations. Read more about the dedicated individuals who serve on the Board at http://www.cfids.org/about/board-of-directors.asp.

____________________________________________________________________________

Support validating CFS research with your gift to the CFIDS Association of America. Donate now!