
Volunteer
Making a Difference
Volunteers are an important part of the work we do and allow us to maximize our capacity as a small nonprofit. In addition to our Board and committees, the following are a few key volunteer programs.
Student Ambassador Program
Launched in 2021, the UMSDF Student Ambassador program brings together a group of engaged advocates from around the United States to learn about Multiple Sulfatase Deficiency and bring awareness to their communities. Each Student Ambassador has the opportunity to participate in a number of committees and take on independent projects based on their strengths, knowledge, network, and interest.
Project Examples from Previous Student Ambassador Classes
The Student Ambassador Program is open to anyone who has not yet completed their terminal degree (undergraduate students, students in a gap year(s), individuals still in professional school).
Applications are closed for the 2025-26 Cohort but will open in June 2026!
Student Ambassadors

Nasikah Ahmed
Arizona, USA

John Alex
New York, USA

Dany Cano Torrecillas
Nuevo León, Mexico

Charlotte Chui
California, USA

Hope Fan
Illinois, USA

Rachel Frank
Ohio, USA

Lillie Garrett
Georgia, USA

Sarah Ghoddoussi
Michigan, USA

Loretta Granum
Virginia, USA

Maison Guerra
Texas, USA

Hayley Havens
Texas, USA

Jess Iller
Pennsylvania, USA

Natalie Lilien
New York, USA

Ashley Lira-Rivera
Tennessee, USA

Kinslee Millican
Texas, USA

Isabel Nevez
California, USA

Quinn Olson
New York, USA

Emily (Gaines) Sandlin
Alabama, USA

Carly Sauter
Ohio, USA

Brooklyn VanGorder
California, USA

Malaika Vaz
Ohio, USA
Professional Ambassador Program
Our re-launched Professional Ambassador program is a great way for those who love the Foundation’s mission to get more involved. This program pulls working professionals from across the U.S. and abroad to strengthen the Foundation’s network and grow awareness of MSD and our mission.
As a Professional Ambassador, you will receive:
Our re-launched Professional Ambassador program is a great way for those who love the Foundation’s mission to get more involved. This program pulls working professionals from across the U.S. and abroad to strengthen the Foundation’s network and grow awareness of MSD and our mission.
As a Professional Ambassador, you will receive:
In exchange, we ask our Professional Ambassadors to:
Does this sound like the perfect volunteer and engagement opportunity for you? Send us an email and let’s chat!
Current Professional Ambassadors

Dawn Agar
Realtor
Mississippi, USA

Kara Anseth
Early Childhood Special Education Teacher, Colorado Springs School District 11
Colorado, USA

Buffy Butler
Managing Director, Nextaff
Florida, USA

Nayeem Choudhury
Clinical Research Project Manager, ICON Strategic Solutions
Texas, USA

Bethanie Mauerman M.Ed., LPC
Kent State University and First Step Recovery
Ohio, USA

John Snellings
Co-founder and CEO, Nextaff
Colorado, USA

Diane Tucker
Professor Emerita, University of Alabama at Birmingham
Alabama, USA 

Dr. William Van Wurm
Pediatrician, MS Pediatric Associates
Mississippi, USA

Chisom Pius
Founder, Rare Disease Awareness 
Support Foundation
Lagos, Nigeria

Allison Milicia
Genetic Counseling Student, Mount Siani
New York, USA
Annual Zebra Run for Rare Disease
Zebra Run is a fundraising and community-building event that raises critical funds to further MSD research and family support. There are many ways for individuals to participate in this annual event.
Let’s Connect
Connect with MSD families and get valuable information from medical researchers and doctors.