Summit Team
Summit for Stem Cell Foundation (Summit) has an established board of professionals and distinguished community leaders which meets regularly to provide strategic direction, operational oversight, advocate for Parkinson’s disease and other neurodegenerative conditions, manage operations, guide fundraising activities, advocate for grants along with seeking public and private funding. Summit for Stem Cell is a 501(c)(3) tax exempt organization.
If you wish to contact anyone on the Board, please email: [email protected]
BOARD OF DIRECTORS,
Summit for Stem Cell Foundation
Kathy Brombacher
Kathy Brombacher,
Director,
Development Committee
Kathy Brombacher is the Founding Producing Artistic Director of Moonlight Stage Productions in Vista, CA, North County’s premiere regional musical theatre organization. Kathy is a noted professional theatrical director/producer whose work at Moonlight extended through 31 years of development and growth of the theatre. She additionally has served on the volunteer boards of the San Diego Performing Arts League, Intrepid Shakespeare Theatre, and as advisor to the Moonlight Cultural Foundation non-profit board as well as the Oceanside Theatre Company board. Kathy has proudly worked on fund-raising and cultivation events for Summit for Stem Cell Foundation since 2017; served for two years on their advisory board; and has served on the Board of Directors since 2019.
Development Committee
Rita Ceponiene
Rita Ceponiene, M.D., Ph.D.
Director,
Medical Advisor
Dr. Ceponiene is American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology certified member of the American Academy of Neurology and the Movement Disorders Society. Dr. Ceponiene is originally from Vilnius, Lithuania where she obtained Medical Doctor’s degree. She then completed a PhD program in Cognitive Neuroscience at the Helsinki University, Finland, followed by a post-doctoral research at the University of California, San Diego. In addition to her doctoral thesis, she has published over 40 peer – reviewed research articles during her academic career. She returned to clinical work after completing neurology residency and movement disorders fellowship at the University of California, San Diego, under the mentorship of the world – renown leader in the field, Professor Irene Litvan. Dr Ceponiene’s goal of returning to clinical work was to be able to integrate her academic and clinical backgrounds for the direct benefit of the patients. She maintains active ties with the academic community via joint conferences and participation in educational events. She is passionate about educating patients and colleagues about the ongoing research into the nature and treatment of Parkinsonian disorders and about connecting patients with research study opportunities. One of them is the promise of the autologous dopamine neuron replacement therapy that is being developed via a rigorous, years of research community-vetted, data-backed scientific approach.
In addition to providing care to patients with movement disorders, dementias, dysautonomia and gait/balance issues using conventional medical therapies, botulinum toxin therapies, and Deep Brain Stimulation, Dr Ceponiene is a passionate promoter of Exercise As Medicine, the only currently known possibly disease modifying therapy for the many manifestations of Parkinsonian disorders. Her philosophy is to tend to all, motor and non-motor, symptoms of the disease in order to assist patients to have the best quality of life now, with the careful planning for the future.
Dr. Ceponiene is also a member of Board of Governors for Summit's newest project, The Wellness Center for Parkinson's.
Director
Medical Advisor
Stanley Cohen
Stanley Cohen,
Treasurer,
Financial Advisor
Stanley D. Cohen is a managing partner of Atlantic | Pacific Companies and serves as the Executive Vice President of its West Coast division. Mr. Cohen originally hails from Miami Beach, Florida but has lived in the San Diego area since the early 1990’s. He received his Bachelor of Science degree from Duke University (Phi Beta Kappa) and his Masters of Business Administration from the University of California of Los Angeles. Mr. Cohen holds a California Real Estate Broker’s License. He has been involved for 25 years with the City of Vista’s Moonlight Stage Productions.
Mr. Cohen brings his business knowledge, expertise, and community involvement to Summit’s Board.
Mr. Cohen is also a member of the Board of Governors for Summit's newest project: The Wellness Center for Parkinson's.
Stanley Cohen,
Treasurer
Financial & Business Advisor
Liese Cornwell
Liese Cornwell,
Director,
Financial Advisor
Ms. Cornwell is an experienced business consultant and CFO with expertise in strategic planning, forecasting, and business development. She has a proven track record of guiding companies to develop sustainable business models. Liese's professional career includes several years in the healthcare industry as well as the non-profit sector.
Liese is also a member of Board of Governors for Summit's newest project, The Wellness Center for Parkinson's.
Liese Cornwell,
Director
Financial & Business Advisor
Jana Greene
Jana Greene,
Director,
Donation Management
I am a real estate agent at Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty and am consistently recognized for my excellence in service and professional accomplishments. I have dedicated my career real estate for two decades helping clients buy and sell property. My sales have been a top producing agent in the San Diego county real estate community since 1995. Prior to becoming a realtor®, I have worked in related industries including escrow, title and mortgage. My multifaceted industry and market knowledge have been beneficial in helping my clients.
I have dedicated my time and resources to Bells of Freedom, Navy Seal Foundation, Pro-Kids, Challenged Athletes Foundation, Summit for Stem Cell as well as any efforts to support research and awareness of Ataxia-telangiectasia Syndrome, a rare multi symptom disorder of which my nephew was diagnosed.
In my free time I enjoy walking, playing tennis, hiking, and boxing.
Director
Donation Management
Melissa King
Melissa King, M.B.A.
Director
MELISSA J. KING
Dynamic leader with an outstanding record of achieving success for high stakes initiatives focused on healthcare, medical research and technology, and the strategic vision, team building and communications expertise to create, manage and grow organizations that improve people’s lives. Highlighted by:
- Expertise in medical research & healthcare, public policy, communications and organizational design for global, national and state programs, with extensive experience optimizing performance at all levels.
- Proven talent for inspiring others to dedicate themselves and work together to achieve transformational goals. Especially skilled at bringing together stakeholders from varied backgrounds.
- Recognized proficiency as the engine to form cohesive work groups (Boards, volunteer and patient advocacy groups) build collaboration between them and motivate them to go the extra mile.
- Masterful strategist and implementor for communications, public relations and industry analyst relations.
Executive Director, AMERICANS FOR CURES, Palo Alto, CA, 2018 to present
Lead executive at advocacy agency for medical research and therapy development that made possible the passage of CA Prop 14 in 2020 to continue funding the research at the state level in California.
- Develop and deliver curriculum for Patient Advocacy, Public Policy and Science Communications components required for stem cell biology undergraduate and masters students at various campuses.
- Built and continue to manage coalition of hundreds of patients, patient advocates, organizations, scientists, industry professionals and elected officials who endorsed and supported CA Prop 14.
- Created foundation for successful ballot initiative that brought $5.5 Billion in renewed funds for CIRM, the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine.
Campaign Lead / Head of Field Operations, YES ON 14: CALIFORNIANS FOR STEM CELL RESEARCH, TREATMENTS & CURES, 2019 to 2020
Successful 2020 ballot initiative passed to renew funds for California regenerative medicine research agency.
- Mobilized and grew coalition that communicated with millions of Californians to secure $5.5 Billion in funds for the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine (CIRM).
- Achieved ballot qualification for the ballot by immovable deadline under COVID-19 conditions which made 2020 the most challenging year in history to qualify for the ballot.
Executive Director, CIRM (California Institute for Regenerative Medicine), 2004 to 2011
Founding executive at $3 billion state agency.
- Directed robust workflow with tight deadlines for 29-member Board that included world-class academics, internationally-recognized industry executives, political leaders and patient advocates.
- Successfully led agency through 1500+ hours of public board and committee meetings, setting the standard operating procedures for awarding $3 billion in grants.
- Led creation of Facilities Grant Program leveraging $271M to attract $880M in support for $1 billion in scientific research facilities.
MELISSA J. KING (page 2)
Chief Operating Officer, BRAIN WINDOW, INC, Medical device company, Sherman Oaks, CA, 2018
Vice President of Operations, ICANN, Domain Name System management, Los Angeles, CA, 2015 to 2017
Chief of Staff, KQED PUBLIC MEDIA/NPR & PBS, Public media, San Francisco, CA 2013 to 2015
Vice President, OUTCAST COMMUNICATIONS, Integrated marketing firm, San Francisco, CA 2003-2004
Director Internet Communications, PHASE TWO STRATEGIES, Tech PR firm, San Francisco, CA 2001-03
- Gained expertise in strategy and communications needed at all life-cycle stages of public and private organizations and companies.
- Honed knowledge of global business and policy while launching companies and leading board and team workflows in locations on six continents.
- Created communications programs for enterprise software, consumer technology and visible executives driving award-winning product launches, positive executive profiles and highly successful company exits.
- Developed competitive landscapes enabling execution to achieve milestones important to organizations surviving, evolving and thriving.
EDUCATION
MBA Stanford University Graduate School Of Business, Business Administration; Certificate in Public Management and Social Innovation
BA Wellesley College, Philosophy with focus on Philosophy of Mind and Artificial Intelligence (AI)
VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE
Mentor, SHE-CAN, 2019-Present
Non-profit with mission to build female leadership in post-conflict countries by equipping and empowering young women with the education, mentorship and leadership skills needed to change their nations and the world. Serve as mentor to Liberian scholar attending college in the US.
Chair, Vice-Chair, Regional Chair WELLESLEY BUSINESS LEADERSHIP COUNCIL, 2010-Present
An invitation-only organization of approximately 220 members chosen from business leaders within the Wellesley College alumnae network. Chair 2018-2019; current Northern California regional chair.
Board Member, Finance Chair WELLESLEY COLLEGE FRIENDS OF ART, 2017-Present
An organization that supports the existence of a world-class art museum on the college campus. Board Member 2017-present; Finance Chair 2020-2022.
PERSONAL INTEREST
- Avid open water swimmer. Member of the Dolphin Club San Francisco. Swam on first ever all-women relay from Golden Gate to Farallon Islands, Maui Channel all-women fundraising relay to support rehabilitation and protection for monk seals & on relay across Catalina Channel.
- Climate Reality certified. Educated and trained by Vice-President and Nobel Laureate Al Gore & The Climate Reality Project team in 2020.
Business Advisor
Abigail Lawler
Abigail Lawler, M.D.
Director; Medical Advisor
Dr. Lawler is a board-certified member of the American Board of Psychiatry and neurology and is a member of the American Academy of Neurology and the Movement Disorders Society.
Dr. Lawler is originally from Ohio where she completed undergrad at Ohio University and also studied abroad through Duke University in Costa Rica where she completed a Spanish immersion program. She came back to Ohio for medical school at University of Toledo and them went on to complete her residency training in neurology at Medstar Georgetown University Hospital in Washington D.C., where she served as chief resident.
Dr. Lawler stayed at Georgetown University to complete a fellowship in Movement and Memory Disorders at the highly acclaimed Translational Neurotherapeutics Program where she was extensively involved in clinical research, including the pivotal ongoing study using Nilotinib for treatment of Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's Disease, helped start the first ever Parkinsonism and Dementia clinic, and participated in baseline cognitive and neurologic assessments of retired NFL platers for the NFL Players association. Dr. Lawler has published a variety of papers and posters on topics improving the use of Nilotinib in the treatment of Parkinson's disease and Lewy Body Disease.
Dr. Lawler is experienced in treating many different neurologic conditions but specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of Movement Disorders, offering a wide variety of treatment options beyond traditional medical management for Parkinson's disease including programming and management of Deep Brain Stimulation and the Duopa LCIG infusion pump. Dr. Lawler also specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of a variety of Autonomic conditions, muscle dystonia an spasticity using Botulinum toxin injections, as well as all of the various types of Dementia.
Dr. Lawler is very passionate about the care and treatment of patients with memory disorders and plans to start a new program and center of excellence with the goal of not only improving patient care and treatment options but starting a nationwide campaign of awareness.
Dr. Lawler is also a member of the Board of Governors for Summit's newest project, The Wellness Center for Parkinson's.
Director,
Medical Advisor
Jeanne Loring
Jeanne Loring, Ph.D.
Director
Science Advisor
Jeanne F. Loring is the Professor Emeritus at the Scripps Research Institute where she was founding Director of the Center for Regenerative Medicine. She is also founder of two stem cell-based biotechnology companies, Arcos Bioscience (now part of Viacyte) and Aspen Neuroscience, a biotechnology company developing a neuron replacement therapy for Parkinson disease. Dr. Loring has more than 30 years of experience in both biotechnology and academic research, focusing on stem cells, genomics, embryology and neurobiology. She holds five patents on stem cells and genomics, and has published more than 100 research articles in scientific journals that have been cited in scientific publications more than 14,000 times. She serves on both scientific advisory and bioethics boards, and advises governmental and private granting agencies in several countries. Through her laboratory courses, she has trained more than 400 scientists in stem cell technology.
In addition to her work on Parkinson disease, Dr. Loring investigates multiple sclerosis and autism, and works with the San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research in an effort to rescue the Northern white rhinoceros from extinction using stem cell technology. She is also involved in a project on the International Space Station to study neurogenerative disease.
Dr. Loring is an advocate for patients and an outspoken critic of stem cell clinics that operate outside of ethical or scientific oversight. She speaks out against unregulated stem cell therapies that have caused severe injuries and even death, and the clinics who convince desperately ill patients to pay for treatments that are not effective.
Dr. Loring is also a member of Board of Governors for Summit's newest project, The Wellness Center for Parkinson's.
Jeanne Loring, Ph.D.
Director
Science Advisor
Doug McQueen
Doug McQueen,
Director,
Marketing Advisor
Doug McQueen is founder and partner of Target River, a company that builds brand strategies and advanced target marketing campaigns for large and emerging organizations in commercial, non-profit, education and political sectors. Doug brings vast knowledge, skill set and expertise in his field to the Summit Board. Doug has a B.A. from UC Riverside and from San Diego State University, Management Accountant Certification from the Masters of Accountancy Program.
Doug is excited about the impact Summit's programs will have on Parkinsonian patients and their future.
Doug is a member of Board of Governors for Summit's newest project, The Wellness Center for Parkinson's.
Doug McQueen
Director,
Marketing Advisor
Sally Muir
Sally Muir, Ph.D.
Secretary
Sally Muir is a retired professional with experience in environmental chemistry and the gas and electric industry. She has been project manager for the installation of photovoltaic systems on energy efficient green buildings and overseen environmental cleanup projects. Sally was born in Australia and has lived in San Diego since 1987. She has a Bachelor of Science (with Honors) from the University of Melbourne and a Master of Business Administration from San Diego State University. Sally has been volunteering with Summit for Stem Cell Foundation since 2019 and is proud to serve on the Board since 2021.
Sally Muir, Ph.D.
Secretary
Matt Rattner
Matt Rattner,
Director,
Business Advisor
Mr. Rattner is a co-founder and has served as an executive of Karl Strauss Brewing Company (KSBC) since its inception in 1988. KSBC opened in 1989 as the first new brewery in the city of San Diego since prohibition. Today, KSBC is recognized as a leading regional brewery in the state of California and as the grandfather of the vibrant San Diego Craft beer scene. Mr. Rattner has served on the Communications Committee of the National Brewer’s Association, the Board of Directors for the San Diego Brewer’s Guild and has been an advocate for craft beer in San Diego for over 25 years. Matt is also co-founder and Chairman of the Board for Endeavor Bank. (Stock Symbol “EDVR”) – the first new bank in San Diego County in almost a decade. He has also been involved in a variety of tech start-ups and was listed as one of the 90 San Diegan’s to watch in 1990 by San Diego Magazine. He has also been listed as one of the 500 most influential business leaders in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal in both 2018 & 2019. Mr. Rattner is a graduate of Stanford University, where he holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics with Distinction and a Master of Science degree in Industrial Engineering (1985). He also holds an MBA from Stanford Graduate School of Business (1987), where he first helped develop the craft brew concept for what would become Karl Strauss Brewing Company.
Matt is also a member of Board of Governors for Summit's newest project, The Wellness Center for Parkinson's.
Matt Rattner,
Director
Financial & Business Advisor
Jenifer Raub
Jenifer Raub,
President
Jenifer Raub is co-founder and President of Summit for Stem Cell Foundation, Inc.(Summit), a 510(c)(3) charitable organization working to benefit approximately 10 million people worldwide struggling with Parkinson's disease (PD) and 1 billion living with a neurodegenerative disease. Jenifer spoke before the FDA as one of five representatives for PD in support of iPSC-based regenerative medicine as a treatment option.
When told she "might have" Parkinson's 15 years ago, Jenifer spent two years trying to negate or confirm the "iffy" diagnosis. A DaTscan (Dopamine transporter scan) finally confirmed the diagnosis. Jenifer with drew from her life trying to figure out how to go forward. Coincidentally, in her past, she had voraciously read about the identification of neurotransmitters and, in particular, Curt Freed's work transplanting fetal tissue to replace dopamine in Parkinson's disease. She began to search for a "stem cell solution" for Parkinson's disease.
In 2014, barely able to walk without the aid of two canes, Jenifer found a fledgling Parkinson's focused research project in the lab of Dr. Jeanne Loring, which needed funding. Three weeks later, Jenifer, her husband, a small group of Parkinson's advocates, and some friends hosted an event and raised $1.3 million. This provided the needed cash infusion for the project working towards an autologous dopamine neuron replacement therapy for Parkinson's disease.
From that day forward Summit evolved and became the organization it is today. Jenifer is a tireless advocate for Parkinson's disease breaking down barriers and bridging gaps by educating professionals and the public alike about regenerative medicine. Having Parkinson's disease herself, she understands what it is to have Parkinson's disease. She is dedicated to alleviating patients' frustrations when trying to navigate the maze of information, and to separate hope from hype, by providing reliable evidence-based information.
After fighting to improve the quality of her own life through exercise and other means, Jenifer began down a determined road and vowed to keep others from the same experience by changing the status quo for PD patients.
Since those earliest days of the organization, Summit has successfully funded, promoted and launched the autologous dopamine neuron replacement therapy into the private sector to hasten its progress from bench to bedside. The developing therapy is now in the hands of Aspen Neuroscience, and Summit, on of its co-founders, monitors and provides information on the cell therapy's progression.
Jenifer is excited to be working on Summit's next big projects, including building out more programming for patients with PD, and using her knowledge of living with PD to develop plans to help patients in numerous ways. She is especially excited about Summit's latest project, The Wellness Center for Parkinson's. She encourages anyone and everyone to donate in support of this new and highly needed Summit endeavor.
Jenifer Raub is co-founder and President of Summit for Stem Cell Foundation, Inc.(Summit), a 510(c)(3) charitable organization working to benefit approximately 10 million people worldwide struggling with Parkinson's disease (PD) and 1 billion living with a neurodegenerative disease. Jenifer spoke before the FDA as one of five representatives for PD in support of iPSC-based regenerative medicine as a treatment option.
When told she "might have" Parkinson's 15 years ago, Jenifer spent two years trying to negate or confirm the "iffy" diagnosis. A DaTscan (Dopamine transporter scan) finally confirmed the diagnosis. Jenifer with drew from her life trying to figure out how to go forward. Coincidentally, in her past, she had voraciously read about the identification of neurotransmitters and, in particular, Curt Freed's work transplanting fetal tissue to replace dopamine in Parkinson's disease. She began to search for a "stem cell solution" for Parkinson's disease.
In 2014, barely able to walk without the aid of two canes, Jenifer found a fledgling Parkinson's focused research project in the lab of Dr. Jeanne Loring, which needed funding. Three weeks later, Jenifer, her husband, a small group of Parkinson's advocates, and some friends hosted an event and raised $1.3 million. This provided the needed cash infusion for the project working towards an autologous dopamine neuron replacement therapy for Parkinson's disease.
From that day forward Summit evolved and became the organization it is today. Jenifer is a tireless advocate for Parkinson's disease breaking down barriers and bridging gaps by educating professionals and the public alike about regenerative medicine. Having Parkinson's disease herself, she understands what it is to have Parkinson's disease. She is dedicated to alleviating patients' frustrations when trying to navigate the maze of information, and to separate hope from hype, by providing reliable evidence-based information.
After fighting to improve the quality of her own life through exercise and other means, Jenifer began down a determined road and vowed to keep others from the same experience by changing the status quo for PD patients.
Since those earliest days of the organization, Summit has successfully funded, promoted and launched the autologous dopamine neuron replacement therapy into the private sector to hasten its progress from bench to bedside. The developing therapy is now in the hands of Aspen Neuroscience, and Summit, on of its co-founders, monitors and provides information on the cell therapy's progression.
Jenifer is excited to be working on Summit's next big projects, including building out more programming for patients with PD, and using her knowledge of living with PD to develop plans to help patients in numerous ways. She is especially excited about Summit's latest project, The Wellness Center for Parkinson's. She encourages anyone and everyone to donate in support of this new and highly needed Summit endeavor.
Jenifer Raub,
President
BOARD OF GOVERNORS, THE WELLNESS CENTER FOR PARKINSON'S, A Summit for Stem Cell Foundation Project
Summit is proud to announce its newest project on by founding The Wellness Center for Parkinson’s in the San Diego area. The Board of Governors for The Wellness Center for Parkinson’s, our newest project (Summit). The Board of Governors is working together with Summit’s Board of Directors to create a Center addressing all aspects of Parkinson’s disease.
This project furthers their mission in support individuals diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD).The vision for the Center is to provide a place where people with Parkinson’s disease can find the tools, knowledge, resources and the resulting empowerment to live their best lives possible.
Program development has already begun with an experienced team of neurologists, scientists, healthcare specialists, business advisors, and patient advocates.
Please help us open the doors to The Wellness Center by donating today!
If you wish to contact anyone on the Board of Governors, please email: [email protected]
Rita Ceponiene
Rita Ceponiene, M.D., D.Phil.
Member, Medical Advisor
Dr. Ceponiene is American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology certified member of the American Academy of Neurology and the Movement Disorders Society. Dr. Ceponiene is originally from Vilnius, Lithuania where she obtained Medical Doctor’s degree. She then completed a PhD program in Cognitive Neuroscience at the Helsinki University, Finland, followed by a post-doctoral research at the University of California, San Diego. In addition to her doctoral thesis, she has published over 40 peer – reviewed research articles during her academic career. She returned to clinical work after completing neurology residency and movement disorders fellowship at the University of California, San Diego, under the mentorship of the world – renown leader in the field, Professor Irene Litvan. Dr Ceponiene’s goal of returning to clinical work was to be able to integrate her academic and clinical backgrounds for the direct benefit of the patients. She maintains active ties with the academic community via joint conferences and participation in educational events. She is passionate about educating patients and colleagues about the ongoing research into the nature and treatment of Parkinsonian disorders and about connecting patients with research study opportunities. One of them is the promise of the autologous dopamine neuron replacement therapy that is being developed via a rigorous, years of research community-vetted, data-backed scientific approach.
In addition to providing care to patients with movement disorders, dementias, dysautonomia and gait/balance issues using conventional medical therapies, botulinum toxin therapies, and Deep Brain Stimulation, Dr Ceponiene is a passionate promoter of Exercise As Medicine, the only currently known possibly disease modifying therapy for the many manifestations of Parkinsonian disorders. Her philosophy is to tend to all, motor and non-motor, symptoms of the disease in order to assist patients to have the best quality of life now, with the careful planning for the future.
Dr. Ceponiene is also a member of Board of Directors for Summit for Stem Cell Foundation.
Rita Ceponiene, M.D., D.Phil.
Member
Medical Advisor
Stanley Cohen
Stanley Cohen,
Member,
Treasurer
Stanley D. Cohen is a managing partner of Atlantic | Pacific Companies and serves as the Executive Vice President of its West Coast division. Mr. Cohen originally hails from Miami Beach, Florida but has lived in the San Diego area since the early 1990’s. He received his Bachelor of Science degree from Duke University (Phi Beta Kappa) and his Masters of Business Administration from the University of California of Los Angeles. Mr. Cohen holds a California Real Estate Broker’s License. He has been involved for 25 years with the City of Vista’s Moonlight Stage Productions.
Mr. Cohen brings his business knowledge, expertise, and community involvement to Summit’s Board.
Mr. Cohen is also a member of the Board of Directors for Summit for Stem Cell Foundation.
Stanley Cohen,
Treasurer,
Business & Financial Advisor
Liese Cornwell
Liese Cornwell,
Member, Business & Financial Advisor
Ms. Cornwell is an experienced business consultant and CFO with expertise in strategic planning, forecasting, and business development. She has a proven track record of guiding companies to develop sustainable business models. Liese's professional career includes several years in the healthcare industry as well as the non-profit sector.
Liese is also a member of Board of Directors for Summit for Stem Cell Foundation since 2016.
Member
Business & Financial Advisor
Alberto Espay
Alberto Espay, M.D., M.Sc., FAAN, FANA
Member
Medical Advisor
Dr. Alberto Espay is Professor and Endowed Chair of the James J. and Joan A. Gardner Center for Parkinson’s disease at the University of Cincinnati. He has published over 250 research articles as well as 7 textbooks, including Common Movement Disorders Pitfalls, which received the Highly Commended BMA Medical Book Award in 2013. His most recent book Brain Fables, the Hidden History of Neurodegenerative Diseases and a Blueprint to Conquer them, was coauthored with Parkinson patient and advocate Ben Stecher and published by Cambridge in August. He has served as Chair of the Movement Disorders Section of the American Academy of Neurology, Associate Editor of Movement Disorders, and in the Executive Committee of the Parkinson Study Group (PSG). He currently serves the International Parkinson and Movement Disorders Society (MDS) as Chair of the Task Force on Technology and as Secretary of its Pan-American Section. With colleagues at the University of Cincinnati and several international collaborators, he recently launched the first biomarker study of aging (CCBPstudy.com), designed to match people with neurodegenerative disorders to available therapies from which they are most biologically suitable to benefit.
About Dr. Espay’s research:
The Cincinnati Cohort Biomarker Program* (CCBP) embraces the idea that there are likely dozens of biological pathways that lead to neurodegenerative diseases and that we must find and target each separately if we are ever going to get therapies that can alter these diseases in the individuals affected. The purpose of CCBP is to separate neurodegenerative diseases into their biological subtypes and then match each to therapies capable of slowing disease progression. In the first 5 years, the program will recruit 5000 people (4000 patients and 1000 healthy controls). Subsequent analysis will be anchored on bioassays selected to match people to existing therapies.
*Summit for Stem Cell Foundation provides funding and support for this research program.
Alberto Espay, M.D., M.Sc., FAAN, FANA
Member
Medical & Science Advisor
Claire Henchcliffe
Claire Henchcliffe, M.D., D.Phil.
Medical Advisor
Claire Henchcliffe, M.D., D.Phil. is the Chair and Stanley van den Noort Professor of Neurology, at the University of California, Irvine. She completed neurology residency and fellowship at the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Columbia University in New York City, prior to joining Weill Cornell Medical College, New York City in 2003 as Assistant Professor. At Weill Cornell Medical College she developed a clinical and research program in Parkinson’s disease with a focus on clinical trials including stem cell-based therapeutics, eventually serving as Professor of Neurology and Neuroscience, and Vice Chair for Clinical Research.
Member
Medical & Science Advisor
Melissa King
Melissa King, M.B.A.
Member
Project Manager, COO
Melissa Summit's newest member of the Board of Directors for Summit for Stem Cell Foundation, is a Dynamic leader with an outstanding record of achieving success for high stakes initiatives focused on healthcare, medical research and technology, and the strategic vision, team building and communications expertise to create, manage and grow organizations that improve people’s lives. Highlighted by:
- Expertise in medical research & healthcare, public policy, communications and organizational design for global, national and state programs, with extensive experience optimizing performance at all levels.
- Proven talent for inspiring others to dedicate themselves and work together to achieve transformational goals. Especially skilled at bringing together stakeholders from varied backgrounds.
- Recognized proficiency as the engine to form cohesive work groups (Boards, volunteer and patient advocacy groups) build collaboration between them and motivate them to go the extra mile.
- Masterful strategist and implementor for communications, public relations and industry analyst relations.
Executive Director, AMERICANS FOR CURES, Palo Alto, CA, 2018 to present
Lead executive at advocacy agency for medical research and therapy development that made possible the passage of CA Prop 14 in 2020 to continue funding the research at the state level in California.
- Develop and deliver curriculum for Patient Advocacy, Public Policy and Science Communications components required for stem cell biology undergraduate and masters students at various campuses.
- Built and continue to manage coalition of hundreds of patients, patient advocates, organizations, scientists, industry professionals and elected officials who endorsed and supported CA Prop 14.
- Created foundation for successful ballot initiative that brought $5.5 Billion in renewed funds for CIRM, the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine.
Campaign Lead / Head of Field Operations, YES ON 14: CALIFORNIANS FOR STEM CELL RESEARCH, TREATMENTS & CURES, 2019 to 2020
Successful 2020 ballot initiative passed to renew funds for California regenerative medicine research agency.
- Mobilized and grew coalition that communicated with millions of Californians to secure $5.5 Billion in funds for the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine (CIRM).
- Achieved ballot qualification for the ballot by immovable deadline under COVID-19 conditions which made 2020 the most challenging year in history to qualify for the ballot.
Executive Director, CIRM (California Institute for Regenerative Medicine), 2004 to 2011
Founding executive at $3 billion state agency.
- Directed robust workflow with tight deadlines for 29-member Board that included world-class academics, internationally-recognized industry executives, political leaders and patient advocates.
- Successfully led agency through 1500+ hours of public board and committee meetings, setting the standard operating procedures for awarding $3 billion in grants.
- Led creation of Facilities Grant Program leveraging $271M to attract $880M in support for $1 billion in scientific research facilities.
MELISSA J. KING (page 2)
Chief Operating Officer, BRAIN WINDOW, INC, Medical device company, Sherman Oaks, CA, 2018
Vice President of Operations, ICANN, Domain Name System management, Los Angeles, CA, 2015 to 2017
Chief of Staff, KQED PUBLIC MEDIA/NPR & PBS, Public media, San Francisco, CA 2013 to 2015
Vice President, OUTCAST COMMUNICATIONS, Integrated marketing firm, San Francisco, CA 2003-2004
Director Internet Communications, PHASE TWO STRATEGIES, Tech PR firm, San Francisco, CA 2001-03
- Gained expertise in strategy and communications needed at all life-cycle stages of public and private organizations and companies.
- Honed knowledge of global business and policy while launching companies and leading board and team workflows in locations on six continents.
- Created communications programs for enterprise software, consumer technology and visible executives driving award-winning product launches, positive executive profiles and highly successful company exits.
- Developed competitive landscapes enabling execution to achieve milestones important to organizations surviving, evolving and thriving.
EDUCATION
MBA Stanford University Graduate School Of Business, Business Administration; Certificate in Public Management and Social Innovation
BA Wellesley College, Philosophy with focus on Philosophy of Mind and Artificial Intelligence (AI)
VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE
Mentor, SHE-CAN, 2019-Present
Non-profit with mission to build female leadership in post-conflict countries by equipping and empowering young women with the education, mentorship and leadership skills needed to change their nations and the world. Serve as mentor to Liberian scholar attending college in the US.
Chair, Vice-Chair, Regional Chair WELLESLEY BUSINESS LEADERSHIP COUNCIL, 2010-Present
An invitation-only organization of approximately 220 members chosen from business leaders within the Wellesley College alumnae network. Chair 2018-2019; current Northern California regional chair.
Board Member, Finance Chair WELLESLEY COLLEGE FRIENDS OF ART, 2017-Present
An organization that supports the existence of a world-class art museum on the college campus. Board Member 2017-present; Finance Chair 2020-2022.
PERSONAL INTEREST
- Avid open water swimmer. Member of the Dolphin Club San Francisco. Swam on first ever all-women relay from Golden Gate to Farallon Islands, Maui Channel all-women fundraising relay to support rehabilitation and protection for monk seals & on relay across Catalina Channel.
- Climate Reality certified. Educated and trained by Vice-President and Nobel Laureate Al Gore & The Climate Reality Project team in 2020.
Melissa King, M.B.A.
Member
Project Manager
Abigail Lawler
Abigail Lawler, M.D.
Member
Medical Advisor
Dr. Lawler is a board-certified member of the American Board of Psychiatry and neurology and is a member of the American Academy of Neurology and the Movement Disorders Society.
Dr. Lawler is originally from Ohio where she completed undergrad at Ohio University and also studied abroad through Duke University in Costa Rica where she completed a Spanish immersion program. She came back to Ohio for medical school at University of Toledo and them went on to complete her residency training in neurology at Medstar Georgetown University Hospital in Washington D.C., where she served as chief resident.
Dr. Lawler stayed at Georgetown University to complete a fellowship in Movement and Memory Disorders at the highly acclaimed Translational Neurotherapeutics Program where she was extensively involved in clinical research, including the pivotal ongoing study using Nilotinib for treatment of Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's Disease, helped start the first ever Parkinsonism and Dementia clinic, and participated in baseline cognitive and neurologic assessments of retired NFL platers for the NFL Players association. Dr. Lawler has published a variety of papers and posters on topics improving the use of Nilotinib in the treatment of Parkinson's disease and Lewy Body Disease.
Dr. Lawler is experienced in treating many different neurologic conditions but specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of Movement Disorders, offering a wide variety of treatment options beyond traditional medical management for Parkinson's disease including programming and management of Deep Brain Stimulation and the Duopa LCIG infusion pump. Dr. Lawler also specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of a variety of Autonomic conditions, muscle dystonia an spasticity using Botulinum toxin injections, as well as all of the various types of Dementia.
Dr. Lawler is very passionate about the care and treatment of patients with memory disorders and plans to start a new program and center of excellence with the goal of not only improving patient care and treatment options but starting a nationwide campaign of awareness.
Dr. Lawler is also a member of the Board of Directors for Summit for Stem Cell Foundation.
Abigail Lawler, M.D.
Member
Medical Advisor
Jeanne Loring
Jeanne Loring, Ph.D.
Member
Science Advisor
Jeanne F. Loring is Professor Emeritus at the Scripps Research Institute where she
was founding Director of the Center for Regenerative Medicine. She is also founder of two stem cell-based biotechnology companies, Arcos Bioscience (now part of Viacyte)
and Aspen Neuroscience, a biotechnology company developing a stem cell-derived
neuron replacement therapy for Parkinson disease. Dr. Loring has more than 30 years of experience in both biotechnology and academic research, focusing on stem cells, genomics, embryology and neurobiology. She holds five patents on stem cells and genomics, serves on both scientific advisory and bioethics boards, and advises governmental and private granting agencies in several countries.
Through her laboratory courses, she has trained more than four hundred scientists in stem cell technology.
In addition to her work on Parkinson disease, Dr. Loring investigates multiple sclerosis and autism,
and works with the San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research in an effort to rescue the
Northern white rhinoceros from extinction using stem cell technology. She is also involved in a
project on the International Space Station to study neurogenerative disease.
Dr. Loring is an advocate for patients and an outspoken critic of stem cell clinics that operate outside of ethical or scientific oversight. She speaks out against unregulated stem cell therapies that have caused severe injuries and even death, and the clinics who convince desperately ill patients to pay for treatments that are not effective.
Dr. Loring is also on the Board of Directors for Summit for Stem Cell Foundation.
Jeanne Loring, Ph.D.
Member
Science Advisor
Doug McQueen
Doug McQueen,
Member,
Marketing Advisor
Mr. McQueen brings executive marketing expertise in both non-profit and for-profit enterprises. Organizations, globally leverage the services of Target River, a target marketing firm founded by Mr. McQueen. The firm brings Summit a unique ability to efficiently reach audiences impacted by Parkinson disease and other neurological diseases. Doug is a passionate servant leader committed to serving the community.
Doug is also on the Board of Directors for Summit for Stem Cell Foundation.
Doug McQueen
Member,
Marketing Advisor
Matt Rattner
Matt Rattner,
Director,
Business Advisor
Mr. Rattner is a co-founder and has served as an executive of Karl Strauss Brewing Company (KSBC) since its inception in 1988. KSBC opened in 1989 as the first new brewery in the city of San Diego since prohibition. Today, KSBC is recognized as a leading regional brewery in the state of California and as the grandfather of the vibrant San Diego Craft beer scene. Mr. Rattner has served on the Communications Committee of the National Brewer’s Association, the Board of Directors for the San Diego Brewer’s Guild and has been an advocate for craft beer in San Diego for over 25 years. Matt is also co-founder and Chairman of the Board for Endeavor Bank. (Stock Symbol “EDVR”) – the first new bank in San Diego County in almost a decade. He has also been involved in a variety of tech start-ups and was listed as one of the 90 San Diegan’s to watch in 1990 by San Diego Magazine. He has also been listed as one of the 500 most influential business leaders in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal in both 2018 & 2019. Mr. Rattner is a graduate of Stanford University, where he holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics with Distinction and a Master of Science degree in Industrial Engineering (1985). He also holds an MBA from Stanford Graduate School of Business (1987), where he first helped develop the craft brew concept for what would become Karl Strauss Brewing Company.
Matt is also a member of Board of Governors for Summit's newest project, The Wellness Center for Parkinson's.
Matt Rattner,
Director
Business & Financial Advisor
Jenifer Raub
Jenifer Raub,
President, Founder,
Patient Advocate
Jenifer Raub is co-founder and President of Summit for Stem Cell Foundation, Inc.(Summit), a 510(c)(3) charitable organization working to benefit approximately 10 million people worldwide struggling with Parkinson's disease (PD) and 1 billion living with a neurodegenerative disease. Jenifer spoke before the FDA as one of five representatives for PD in support of iPSC-based regenerative medicine as a treatment option.
When told she "might have" Parkinson's 15 years ago, Jenifer spent two years trying to negate or confirm the "iffy" diagnosis. A DaTscan (Dopamine transporter scan) finally confirmed the diagnosis. Jenifer with drew from her life trying to figure out how to go forward. Coincidentally, in her past, she had voraciously read about the identification of neurotransmitters and, in particular, Curt Freed's work transplanting fetal tissue to replace dopamine in Parkinson's disease. She began to search for a "stem cell solution" for Parkinson's disease.
In 2014, barely able to walk without the aid of two canes, Jenifer found a fledgling Parkinson's focused research project in the lab of Dr. Jeanne Loring, which needed funding. Three weeks later, Jenifer, her husband, a small group of Parkinson's advocates, and some friends hosted an event and raised $1.3 million. This provided the needed cash infusion for the project working towards an autologous dopamine neuron replacement therapy for Parkinson's disease.
From that day forward Summit evolved and became the organization it is today. Jenifer is a tireless advocate for Parkinson's disease breaking down barriers and bridging gaps by educating professionals and the public alike about regenerative medicine. Having Parkinson's disease herself, she understands what it is to have Parkinson's disease. She is dedicated to alleviating patients' frustrations when trying to navigate the maze of information, and to separate hope from hype, by providing reliable evidence-based information.
After fighting to improve the quality of her own life through exercise and other means, Jenifer began down a determined road and vowed to keep others from the same experience by changing the status quo for PD patients.
Since those earliest days of the organization, Summit has successfully funded, promoted and launched the autologous dopamine neuron replacement therapy into the private sector to hasten its progress from bench to bedside. The developing therapy is now in the hands of Aspen Neuroscience, and Summit, on of its co-founders, monitors and provides information on the cell therapy's progression.
Jenifer is excited to be working on Summit's next big projects, including building out more programming for patients with PD, and using her knowledge of living with PD to develop plans to help patients in numerous ways.
She is especially looking forward to Summit's latest project, The Wellness Center for Parkinson's, a vision that is becoming a reality.
She encourages anyone and everyone to donate in support of this new and highly needed Summit endeavor.
Jenifer Raub,
President & Founder
Patient Advocate
Jennifer Sharma
Jennifer Sharma, M.D.
Member
Medical Advisor
Jennifer Sharma is a neurologist who specializes in Movement Disorders. While she is a Canadian citizen, she considers the United States a second home. She graduated medical school from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, OH in 2014 and finished her neurology residency at Queens University in Kingston, Ontario. Serendipitously, she heard Dr. Alberto Espay speak about movement disorders at a conference and was instantly inspired. She went on to finish her Movement Disorders fellowship with Dr. Espay and Dr. Duker at University of Cincinnati in Cincinnati, OH. She recently graduated in June 2021 and is currently on staff at Kingston General Hospital in Kingston, Ontario. She is passionate about creating connections between individuals and institutions and strongly believes in providing healthcare access to all.
Jennifer Sharma, M.D.
Member
Medical Advisor
Benjamin Stecher
Benjamin Stecher,
Member,
Patient Advocate
Benjamin Stecher - Bio
Benjamin Stecher was born in Nairobi, Kenya but grew up just outside Toronto, Canada. He studied history and philosophy at the University of Guelph, but as soon as he graduated he took off and spent most of the next decade living and working in East Asia as an education consultant.
All that changed when, at 29 years old, Benjamin was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. The promising future he had been building towards suddenly faded and was replaced by a gloomy fog of uncertainty and despair. As his disease progressed, he realized that he needed to come back home to learn how to better manage his disease.
But, as he started visiting labs and attending conferences, he soon found himself enthralled by the rampant pace at which biomedical science has progressed in the 21st century. He spent the next couple of years traveling the world visiting research centers and pharmaceutical companies to learn from the top minds in the field all that he could about this disease and what therapies were on the horizon.
He now speaks regularly at academic centers and biotech companies on issues related to neurodegenerative diseases, research advocacy and healthcare. He is also the founder of Tomorrow Edition (tmrwedition.com), and a patient advisor to several organizations including the Toronto Western Hospital Movement Disorder Clinic and the World Parkinson's Congress. Benjamin has also authored several peer-review papers and serves on the editorial board of the Journal of Parkinson’s. Ben and Dr. Alberto Espay co-authored the recently released book, “Brain Fables” (published by Cambridge University Press).
Invited Speaker at:
Aligning Science Across Parkinson’s Workshop, Chan Zuckerberg Initiative’s Neurodegeneration Challenge Network Meeting, StemCellTalks Toronto, Partnerships in Clinical Trials Europe 2018, 2019 World Parkinson’s Congress, 2019 ADPD Congress – Roche sponsored talk, Alkahest, Biolegend, Lysosomal Therapeutics, Abbvie’s Sharing for Better Caring Symposium, University of Toronto Neuroscience Rounds, McGill (multiple classes), EPFL Open Science Summer Camp 2019, University of Cincinnati Neuroscience Rounds, Tanenbaum Open Science Initiative, 2018 & 2019 Rallying to the Challenge at Grand Challenges in Parkinson’s Symposium, 2018 & 2019 Parkinson’s Canada Research Symposium, European Parkinson’s Disease Association’s YOPD Symposium at the European Union Headquarters, 2018 Ontario Brain Institute Research Summit, The Buck Institute, 23andMe, System1 Biosciences, Duke-NUS, NIH Neuroscience Rounds, Aspen Biosciences, Porridge for Parkinson’s.
Ben is also a collaborator with Summit for Stem Cell Foundation and author of many articles on THE SCOOP. THE SCOOP is a Summit webpage on this site where articles, blogs, and opinions are posted.
Benjamin Stecher,
Member,
Patient Advocate
Advisory, Collaborative Affiliations, & Staff
Summit’s is grateful to it’s brilliant advisors, collaborators, and staff for their dedication to a Victory Over Parkinson’s. Each is committed to bringing excellence to the organization. Summit seeks their advice and counsel on information, accuracy and definition.
We treasure and place great value on our the members of our teams for their efforts, advice, counsel and support.
We are proud to be associated with these noted leaders in their fields and their communities.
Summit feels that it is through the collaboration of its Teams that great deeds can be/are accomplished.
Andres Bratt-Lean
Andres Bratt-Lean, Ph.D.
Science Advisor
Andres Bratt-Lean, Ph.D.
Science Advisor
Andres Bratt-Lean
Photo Coming Soon..
Bets Glaudini,
Staff,
Administrative Assistant
Bets Glaudini,
Staff,
Administrative Assistant