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Our mission is to empower people living with neuromuscular diseases to live longer, more independent lives.
Muscular Dystrophy Association Names Pamela Kournetas as Chief Financial Officer
New York, NY – Tuesday, April 7, 2026 – After a nationwide search, the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) has announced the appointment of Pamela Kournetas as Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Kournetas brings a wealth of experience leading finance operations in complex global nonprofit organizations.
“In today’s rapidly evolving nonprofit environment, a CFO must combine strategic insight with operational excellence, and Pamela exemplifies both,” said MDA President and CEO Sharon Hesterlee, PhD. “She understands both the strategy and the day-to-day discipline required to keep an organization strong. Her experience guiding financial performance will help to ensure we can meet our ambitious vision for the future of research and care.”
As CFO, Kournetas will oversee MDA’s financial and risk management operations. She will work closely with MDA’s governance and leadership teams to strengthen systems, improve operational efficiency, and support the financial health to sustain MDA’s mission. Kournetas will also serve on the executive leadership team, helping guide major decisions and long-term strategies for the organization.
“I’m excited to join the Muscular Dystrophy Association and build on the strong foundation this organization has created,” Kournetas said. “I look forward to building on the financial systems and practices that will carry MDA’s legacy forward as the organization leads the evolution of research, advocacy, care, and community-building for people living with neuromuscular disease.”
Kournetas has extensive leadership experience from prominent nonprofit organizations, including her most recent role as Chief Financial Officer at Covenant House International. She previously served as Deputy CFO at the Girl Scouts of the USA and as Senior Director for Budget and Financial Planning at the International Rescue Committee. Kournetas began her career on Wall Street doing research on the buy-side with a valuation-driven approach grounded in detailed financial modeling and forecasting. Kournetas earned an MBA from the Wharton School and a Bachelor of Arts from Duke University. She resides in New York City.
Media contact press@mdausa.org.
About Muscular Dystrophy Association
Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) has been at the center of progress for people living with muscular dystrophy, ALS, and over 300 other neuromuscular conditions for 75 years. We unite researchers, clinicians, advocates, and families to speed the pace of discovery, improve access to expert care, and ensure inclusion in every aspect of life. Our mission is simple: give the people we serve the tools and opportunities to live longer, more independent lives. To learn more visit mda.org. Follow MDA on social media on Instagram, Facebook, X, Threads, Bluesky, TikTok, LinkedIn, and YouTube.
