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Muscular Dystrophy Association Announces Appointment of Chief Development Officer

MDA strengthens leadership team with strategic appointment to propel mission goals forward.

NEW YORK, November 27, 2023 – The Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) announced today the appointment of Ruth Ann Dailey to the role of Chief Development Officer. Ms. Dailey will work with leadership and staff to grow the MDA fundraising program to ensure continued mission progress for people living with neuromuscular disease. Ms. Dailey will be instrumental in driving MDA's strategic growth and cultivating transformative partnerships to accelerate research, advance care, and advocate for independence and inclusion for people living with neuromuscular diseases.

Headshot of a woman with the MDA logo
Ruth Ann Dailey, Chief Development Officer, Muscular Dystrophy Association

"We are delighted to welcome Ruth Ann Dailey as our Chief Development Officer. Her remarkable track record, extensive expertise, and strategic acumen in cultivating diverse revenue streams through corporate partnerships, major gift initiatives, and impactful special events make her an invaluable asset to our team," said Donald S. Wood, Ph.D., President and CEO, Muscular Dystrophy Association.

With over 25 years of progressive leadership in both the non-profit and healthcare industries, Ruth Ann is a strategic visionary and passionate advocate for mission-driven causes, known for her exceptional ability to achieve tangible results. Prior to joining the Muscular Dystrophy Association, Ms. Dailey spent over two decades at the American Cancer Society, where she held various leadership roles. Most notably, she served as Senior Vice President for Philanthropy, where her strategic prowess led to a remarkable 50% growth in philanthropic revenue within just three years. Her visionary leadership included the conception and implementation of a comprehensive enterprise-level major gift strategy, engaging influential individuals and foundations. Throughout her career, she has consistently forged influential connections, demonstrating her ability to drive meaningful change and impact.

"Joining the Muscular Dystrophy Association is an incredible honor, and I am excited to contribute to an organization that has such a profound impact on individuals and families, medical professionals and scientists, volunteers and supporters in the neuromuscular disease community," said Ruth Ann Dailey, Chief Development Officer, Muscular Dystrophy Association. "I am looking forward to the innovation this organization will continue to make in fundraising with this incredibly committed team, and I look forward to leveraging my experience to advance the organization's mission and drive positive change."

"We look forward to achieving new heights under Ruth Ann's leadership as we work to increase critical funding for our mission in this new era of treatments. for neuromuscular disease.” said Dr. Wood.

Ms. Dailey will be reporting directly to the President and CEO, Dr. Wood, and is based in Barrington, NJ.

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 related neuromuscular diseases. For over 70 years, MDA has led the way in accelerating research, advancing care, and advocating for the support of our families. 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, TikTok, LinkedIn, and YouTube.