After almost 10 years leading the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA), Richard J. Geswell, the CEO and President of the Foundation, will be retiring at the end of the year (2015). Geswell’s leadership and vision completely transformed both CCFA’s research and patient support into advanced, cutting-edge programs that have altered the landscape for patients suffering with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD).
Maura C. Breen, the CCFA National Board of Trustees’ Chair, said in a press release: “It is always difficult to see an outstanding leader go, especially one who has dedicated a remarkable career of nearly 40 years serving nonprofits in the pursuit of finding cures and making lives better for others. We are grateful for the passion and dedication Rick has given to all of us at CCFA during his tenure and know that the organization will continue to thrive in the years to come.”
Established in 1967, the CCFA is a private nonprofit national organization committed to finding cures for IBD and to improving the quality of the lives of both children and adults who suffer from the diseases.
During the time Geswell led the CCFA, about $555 million was raised for research and patient programs; $163 million of which was exclusively given to research. Revenue increased from $37 million and now, under Geswell’s leadership, the CCFA provides patient education and support to more than 300,000 patients each year.
Sandler Search, along with a national board members will be conducting the search for the best candidate to assume Geswell’s responsibilities. Additionally, Geswell will stay involved in the process to ensure a smooth transition.
“It has been a privilege to work with the most passionate and dedicated volunteers and staff I have ever encountered. It’s been a remarkable journey that has lead to incredible progress in our search for cures,” Geswell said in a press release.
The CCFA’s mission is to address the unmet needs of Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis by finding a cure for these conditions and by improving the lives of both adults and children with the diseases. The Foundation raised funds to support research projects, and to provide educational resources to families and patients and all sort of medical assistance that can ease those afflicted with IBD.