Accelerated Cure Project Appoints Cristal Balis as Marketing Director

Accelerated Cure Project's New Chapter

The Accelerated Cure Project for Multiple Sclerosis (ACP) has recently taken a significant step forward in its mission to advance research and support individuals affected by multiple sclerosis (MS). Announcing the appointment of Cristal Balis as its inaugural Director of Marketing and Communications, ACP aims to enhance its brand presence and outreach to diverse stakeholders within the MS community.

A Commitment to Impact

Founded as a national nonprofit, ACP has been pivotal in accelerating research that improves the lives of those impacted by this challenging condition. With 2025 marking its 25th anniversary, the organization is strategically poised to broaden its influence and enhance its initiatives. Cristal Balis steps into this newly created role, tasked with leading marketing strategies, brand development, and digital communications. Her expertise is expected to position ACP’s iConquerMS initiative, the only people-powered research network focused on MS, at the forefront of community-centered research.

In her new role, Balis will work to elevate ACP’s visibility among patients, researchers, and partners in the healthcare industry, ensuring that the story of ACP’s impactful work reaches a broad audience. The mission-driven storytelling that Balis will spearhead will help articulate the organization’s commitment to fostering an inclusive research environment, a crucial aspect for communities historically underrepresented in medical research.

An Experienced Leader Joins the Team

Cristal Balis brings a wealth of experience from various sectors, particularly in the nonprofit arena. She was previously part of the senior leadership team at The Emancipator, a nonprofit newsroom focused on racial equity initiated by The Boston Globe and Boston University. Her career trajectory has also included notable positions at organizations such as Howard Brown Health Center, AIDS Rides, and major global brands like Leo Burnett, Starcom, and The Walt Disney Company. Her diverse background provides her with a unique perspective to navigate the complexities of nonprofit communications and outreach.

Sara Loud, the CEO of ACP, expressed enthusiasm regarding Balis's appointment, highlighting her blend of strategic foresight, creativity, and alignment with ACP’s mission. Loud emphasized that Balis's leadership will be instrumental in reaching new demographics while enhancing existing stakeholder relationships—so vital for the ongoing support of the MS community.

A Vision for the MS Community

Reflecting on her responsibilities, Balis remarked on the extraordinary work ACP has conducted over nearly 25 years, often behind the scenes. She recognizes the need to amplify ACP's existing initiatives and showcase its dedication to patient-centered research. Balis envisions a future where ACP’s leadership in this space is recognized and where research reflects the diverse needs of the MS community.

As ACP embarks on this new chapter, its commitment to expand research initiatives and strengthen partnerships within the broader MS ecosystem is clear. The organization continues to engage with the over one million Americans living with MS, seeking collaborative efforts that enrich their quality of life and health outcomes.

About Accelerated Cure Project

To learn more about the Accelerated Cure Project, explore its dedicated resources and initiatives aimed at supporting the MS community. With an emphasis on scientific collaboration, CP curates vital data, biosamples, and participant resources that can lead to breakthroughs in the understanding and treatment of multiple sclerosis. Its major programs, including the ACP Repository and the iConquerMS network, illustrate the organization's commitment to innovative research that is inclusive and diversity-driven.

For additional information, visit Accelerated Cure Project's website.