Inspiring Change at the Kopp Foundation's First Hybrid Fundraising Gala

On October 8, 2025, the Kopp Foundation for Diabetes (KFD) made history with its first hybrid fundraising gala and national virtual leadership forum, an event dedicated to improving Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) awareness and access to care. This innovative event brought together a diverse group of policymakers, physicians, scientists, and student leaders from across the country.

Held at the picturesque Blue Bell Country Club, the in-person gala kicked off with a powerful address by Pennsylvania State Representative Gina H. Curry. She highlighted the foundation's unique approach, emphasizing the critical role of youth in reshaping public health initiatives. "When youth take the lead, they transform awareness into action," Rep. Curry stated, showcasing how the Kopp Foundation empowers young individuals to create meaningful change.

Simultaneously, participants from near and far joined the Virtual Leadership Forum, hosted by Max Kopp, the founder of KFD. The featured keynote presentation was delivered by Dr. Conan Tu, who used his platform to reflect on the rich history of insulin development, a topic that has profound implications for diabetes care today. His speech, titled “Leadership and Success Augmented Through Adversity and Ingenuity,” traced a century of advancements in diabetes treatment, highlighting the resilience and innovation that have defined the field.

The program was further enriched by insights from KFD's diverse Board of Directors, which includes advocates and professionals from various fields. Elena Mack, a mother to a T1D child, shared her passion for advancing diabetes awareness through community-driven initiatives. Kevin Matasich, a retired executive from Merck, and Dr. Alexander Stojadinovic, a U.S. Army physician, also contributed valuable perspectives, stressing the importance of collaboration in achieving health equity. Dr. Maria Kondratyev, a cell therapy scientist, rounded out a panel that underscored the intersection of science, advocacy, and community effort in addressing diabetes care.

College Chapter Presidents across the nation also took the spotlight during the event. Aditya (AJ) Jayamohan, who leads the KFD Chapter at UMass Amherst, detailed the proactive measures his team has taken, including submitting their Registered Student Organization application and initiating fundraising efforts to promote T1D awareness. Other leaders from colleges such as UCLA, Pitt, and UCSD shared their innovative strategies to engage their campuses in diabetes advocacy, illustrating the grassroots movement fostered by KFD.

The hybrid fundraising gala and leadership forum stand as a testament to the Kopp Foundation's commitment to understanding and addressing the complexities of Type 1 Diabetes. By uniting a diverse range of voices—from dedicated advocates to passionate youth leaders—the KFD not only honored the legacy of insulin but also set the stage for a brighter future in diabetes care. As they continue to inspire the next generation, the Kopp Foundation is paving the way for lasting change in public health.

To learn more about the Kopp Foundation for Diabetes and its initiatives, please visit Kopp Foundation Website.