Sansum Diabetes Research Institute (SDRI) has announced recent leadership changes, as well as developments for its capital campaign, Innovative Research, Inspiring Hope.
SDRI closed 2023 honoring the retirement of executive director Ellen Goodstein. Her career has been characterized by commitment to advancing the mission of SDRI, notably in championing research initiatives for women whose pregnancy was complicated by diabetes.
During Goodstein’s tenure, SDRI worked with key industry partners to test the safety and efficacy of continuous glucose-monitoring systems, which transformed technology and eliminated the use of finger sticks.
Elizabeth Thompson has been named chief executive officer at SDRI. Thompson is nationally recognized for her abilities to engage diverse stakeholders to set a common agenda for impact, to raise money for research, and to advocate for evidence-based high-quality and high-value care.
“I am honored to join Sansum Diabetes Research Institute as the new CEO,” she said. “Together with our dedicated team, I am committed to driving advancements in diabetes research, education, and clinical care.
“By fostering collaboration and innovation, we will work tirelessly to make a tangible difference in the lives of people impacted by diabetes.”
Dr. Samuel Klein is transitioning from his role as chief scientific officer at SDRI and will begin serving as an advisor in March. Dr. Klein will maintain oversight of the Plant Forward research studies, focused on type 2 diabetes within the Hispanic community.
A newly established Community Advisory Board will play a pivotal role in disseminating information and raising awareness about the significance of SDRI’s research studies.
The initiative is paramount to SDRI, holding the potential to generate research data that could drive tangible improvements in clinical care for our Hispanic community members.
Regarding Thompson’s CEO appointment, Dr. Kenneth Waxman, board president, said, “We extend a warm welcome to Liz. She is a talented and proven leader, and we believe with her expertise in the areas of scientific research, patient programming, and development, she is the right leader for SDRI at this time of great opportunity.
“Liz joins us as our campaign reaches an important juncture. We are thrilled to announce that we are moving forward with construction on our building at 2219 Bath Street, a significant milestone in our efforts to enhance research capabilities and patient care.
“We look forward to the positive impact these developments will bring to our community and beyond.”
The money SDRI has raised to date for its capital campaign will fund a modern facility to conduct state-of-the-art research and to provide clinical care in a welcoming environment equipped with the experienced staff, technology, and equipment that quality research and contemporary patient care require, SDRI reports.
Learn more about Sansum Diabetes Research Institute at www.sansum.org.