Lynda Baris - Gateway Area Chapter
Through fifteen years as a dedicated Board member, Lynda has raised over $460,000 to help move us closer to a world free of MS. In addition to serving on the Finance Committee for four years, she has served as a chair for the Corporate Achievers campaign, a Walk MS and Bike MS participant, and a Sports Celebrity Dinner and Women on the Move Luncheon attendee. Her strong will and dedication inspires others and has led to the successful recruitment of additional board and committee members.

Rosanne Esposito - Greater Northwest Chapter
As a Greater Northwest Chapter Trustee, Rosanne Esposito thought deeply about how she might show her support for the MS Movement. As a person with MS, Rosanne has realized how fortunate she is to have excellent health care coverage. This realization spurred Rosanne and her husband, Lou, to make a generous gift of more than $80,000 to the National MS Society, Greater Northwest Chapter to establish the Prescription Assistance Program. Since that first gift, Rosanne has invited many of her personal friends and colleagues to join the movement by giving to the Prescription Assistance fund. Her vision led this program to become a nationwide model while greatly impacting people with MS in Washington State.

Dr. Ted Higgins - Mid America Chapter
Since 1992, Dr. Ted Higgins has passionately accepted the Bike MS challenge. After he witnessed the effects MS had on a friend, he embarked on a dedicated journey to find a cure. Annually, he raises funds and matches pledges dollar for dollar, applying it all to MS research. Dr. Higgins epitomizes the dedicated fundraisers who propel MS research – and the MS Movement – forward.

Michael Houlihan - Gateway Area Chapter
Michael’s enthusiasm and dedication to a world free of MS has brought over $150,000 to the mission. He has also served in vital leadership roles on the Executive, Governance, and Donor Development Committees; he engages many others by cultivating fundraisers for all Chapter campaigns and recruiting board and other committee members. Michael is an Ambassador for the Chapter and spreads awareness through speaking engagements and sharing his inspirational story with others.

Bill Klesse - South Central Chapter
Bill not only has been leading Valero since January 2006, but his unwavering support for organizational and individual volunteerism reigns supreme. Bill regularly challenges his employees to return the blessings they enjoy by helping those in need. He looks forward to Bike MS each year, and is often seen training on steep hills around San Antonio, encouraging other riders he encounters: “You can do it!” He’s a walking ambassador for the ride and the Society.

The Hon. Nicholas J. Maiale - Greater Delaware Valley Chapter
Nick Maiale is a shining example of trustee involvement for the Greater Delaware Valley Chapter. He chairs the finance committee, co-chairs the Dinner of Champions and connects the chapter with the local business community. His leadership has increased the organization’s awareness and support in the community, connecting new friends and funds that propel programs, services, and MS research forward.

Barry Roberts - Eastern North Carolina Chapter
Barry Roberts is a passionate fundraiser whose personal connection to MS drives his commitment to funding the mission. Through his personal efforts, Barry has raised over $220,000 for the mission and has facilitated additional donations of over $250,000 for research. He also plays a vital leadership role with the Chapter, serving as a Bike MS Team captain, Trustee, and Fundraising Committee Chair. Barry’s passion has drawn others to the mission and raised awareness about MS.  

Jack and Susan Turben - Ohio Buckeye Chapter
John and Susan Turben have unselfishly dedicated themselves to the MS movement by helping to raise awareness and donating more than $350,000 to the National MS Society. They have made individual contributions and provided unwavering support through the John and Susan Turben Foundation. Funds have provided for many programs and services, with emphasis on family wellness programs to meet the needs of families living with MS. The couple has also been instrumental to the success of the Dinner of Champions Gala.