Volunteer

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  

• “What is MSD” presentation to groups in their respective communities  
• Deep dive into the newborn screening process in all 50 states  

• Creation of resources, such as flyers targeted to MSD families 
• Participation in the annual Zebra Run fundraiser  
• Participating in legislative advocacy 
• Communication with Foundation donors 

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 will open in June 2027 for the 2027-28 Cohort. Please check back at that time.

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

At the United MSD Foundation, our committees play a vital role in driving our mission forward, providing strategic guidance, and advancing our search for treatments. We are seeking passionate, qualified individuals who bring expertise in key areas to help guide our foundation’s work and make a lasting impact on families affected by MSD.

We invite leaders and dedicated advocates to serve on one of our four core committees:

Finance Committee
Help ensure the long-term financial health, sustainability, and transparency of our foundation. Members assist with budgeting, financial oversight, fiscal planning, and resource allocation to maximize the impact of every donation.

Family Outreach Committee
Serve as a vital platform for MSD patients and families to have a direct voice in the foundation’s endeavors—including research, treatment, and funding priorities. Members collaborate closely with our family community to advocate for, support, and elevate every voice across our global network.

Research Committee
Provide critical strategic guidance to monitor funded projects, stay abreast of advancements across the lysosomal storage disease landscape, and evaluate high-impact proposals. Members actively advise executive leadership as we navigate groundbreaking milestones, including preparing for historic clinical trials for the MSD community.

Development Committee: Quarterly Stewardship Team
Focus on building meaningful, long-term relationships with our supporters through dedicated donor stewardship initiatives. Members help craft meaningful donor recognition efforts, express impact-driven gratitude, and ensure every champion of our mission feels deeply connected to the progress we achieve together.

Get Involved

If you have professional expertise in one of these areas and a passion for our mission, we would love to hear from you. To express your interest in committee service, please contact our Executive Director, Sarah Cortell Vandersypen. 

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, including serving on the Planning Committee or as one of our dozens of day-of-volunteers.

LEARN MORE