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Donald S. Wood, PhD to Retire as Muscular Dystrophy Association’s President and CEO After Decades of Impactful Leadership

Muscular Dystrophy Association’s EVP and Chief Research Officer Sharon Hesterlee, PhD, appointed interim President and Chief Executive Officer.

New York, Monday, May 5, 2025 – After a remarkable tenure of transformative leadership, Donald S. Wood, PhD, will retire as President and CEO of the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA). Dr. Wood has made lasting contributions to the field of neuromuscular disease, overseeing critical initiatives that have brought both scientific advancements and comprehensive support programs to families living with these conditions. Under his leadership, MDA achieved several key milestones, including elevating a signature standard of multidisciplinary care across the MDA Care Center Network, the acceleration of research leading to FDA-approved therapies, and the development of groundbreaking programs such as MDA Kickstart and the MDA Gene Therapy Support Network for families and physicians.

“We are deeply grateful for Dr. Wood’s leadership and the profound difference he has made in the lives of adults, children, and families living with neuromuscular diseases,” said Governor Brad Henry, Chair of the Board of Directors at MDA. “His vision, commitment, and legacy are an essential part of MDA’s ongoing work, and his leadership has positioned us for continued progress as we move into this organization’s next 75 years of distinguished service to people living with neuromuscular disease.”

Dr. Wood was appointed President and Chief Executive Officer of the Muscular Dystrophy Association on November 12, 2020. Prior to his appointment as CEO, Dr. Wood had a long-standing association with MDA, including serving as Vice Chair of the Board from 2017 to 2020. His extensive history with the organization also includes roles such as Director of Research and Director of Science and Technology. While serving as Chief Research Officer in the 1980s, he led the MDA Task Force that propelled scientific discovery and changed the course of genetic medicine with the discovery by Louis Kunkel, PhD, of the gene that caused Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

“It has been the honor of my life to serve the Muscular Dystrophy Association and the families who inspire everything we do,” said Dr. Wood. “As MDA marks its 75th anniversary, I’ve reflected on the tremendous progress we’ve made together and the formidable momentum now propelling the organization forward. This is the right moment to pass the baton. I have every confidence in the strength of MDA’s mission, exceptional leadership by Governor Henry and the Board of Directors, and the incredible community that powers our work every day.”

As part of the planned transition, MDA’s Board of Directors has named Sharon Hesterlee, PhD, MDA’s Chief Research Officer, as interim President and CEO. Dr. Hesterlee, a respected leader with more than two decades of experience in neuromuscular research and organizational leadership, will guide the organization during this transition.

“The Board of Directors is entirely confident in Dr. Hesterlee and the MDA executive team to move forward seamlessly, and I know Dr. Wood shares that sentiment,” said Governor Henry. “This team is visionary, determined, and is meeting this moment of transition with their sleeves rolled up.”

Dr. Hesterlee’s leadership in the scientific and clinical research community will support MDA’s ongoing mission to accelerate the development of therapies for neuromuscular diseases and to enhance care services for those affected. She brings invaluable expertise, having previously held leadership roles in both nonprofit and biotech sectors, where she drove progress in neuromuscular disease research and clinical care programs.

“I’m deeply honored to serve as interim President and CEO of the Muscular Dystrophy Association and continue the important work we are doing for the neuromuscular disease community,” said Dr. Hesterlee. “Thanks to the work Dr. Wood has done to build footing for mission growth and innovation, we are entering a new chapter with strength, realism, and resolve. MDA is committed fully to advancing Dr. Wood’s legacy through the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. The work we do now will strengthen MDA’s foundation and expand our reach for generations to come.”

• Visit Dr. Wood’s tribute page mda.org/DrWood
• Watch Dr. Wood’s tribute video here.

Media contact press@mdausa.org.

About Muscular Dystrophy Association

Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) is the #1 voluntary health organization in the United States for people living with muscular dystrophy, ALS, and over 300 other neuromuscular conditions. For 75 years, MDA has led the way in accelerating research, advancing care, and advocating support and inclusion of families living with neuromuscular disease. MDA's mission is to empower the people we serve to live longer, more independent lives. To learn more visit mda.org and follow MDA on Instagram, Facebook, X, Threads, Bluesky, TikTok, LinkedIn, and YouTube

About Muscular Dystrophy Association’s 75^th Anniversary

In 2025, the Muscular Dystrophy Association proudly marks 75 years legacy, impact and momentum in the fight against neuromuscular diseases. Since our founding, MDA has been at the forefront of research breakthroughs, providing access to comprehensive care, and championing the rights of people living with muscular dystrophy, ALS, and over 300 other neuromuscular diseases. This milestone has been made possible by generations of dedicated support from people living with neuromuscular disease, their families, researchers, clinicians, volunteers, and donors—who boldly drive our mission forward. As we look ahead, we remain committed to honoring this legacy, building on the impact we’ve made together, and continuing our momentum toward transformative progress for people living with neuromuscular disorders. Learn more at MDA75.org.