Breakthrough T1D Unveils New International Board Leadership, Paving the Way for T1D Advancements

Breakthrough T1D Welcomes New Leadership in Its International Board of Directors

On April 15, 2026, Breakthrough T1D, previously recognized as JDRF, announced significant changes in its International Board of Directors with the election of Karen Shishino Jordan as Chair and Carlton McMillan as Vice Chair. This leadership transition emerges during a notably transformative period for type 1 diabetes (T1D) advocacy and research, as innovative therapies and scientific advancements begin to reshape the landscape of this autoimmune condition.

The newly appointed Chair, Karen Jordan, has been closely involved with Breakthrough T1D since her daughter's diagnosis with T1D in 2008. Her own diagnosis with the disease in 2023 has granted her a profound understanding of the challenges faced by individuals living with T1D. For over a decade, she has contributed her expertise to various Board Committees, including her former role as Chair of the Research Committee and her current position as Chair of the Finance and Investment Committee. Furthermore, Karen has been recognized for her leadership contributions through accolades such as the John Brady Award for Innovation.

"I am honored to continue to serve Breakthrough T1D and the global T1D community," stated Jordan. "The passion and dedication of our community are critical in driving our mission forward. We have seen remarkable progress in T1D research and therapy development, and together we are advancing toward our goals of curing, preventing, and better treating this condition."

Alongside Jordan, Carlton McMillan takes on the role of Vice Chair. His involvement with the organization began with his wife Ansley's diagnosis of T1D at the young age of five. Since joining the IBOD in 2023, he has contributed as a member of the Finance and Investment Committee, and has played a vital role in developing partnerships between organizations. His professional journey includes significant stints at Airbnb, where he was instrumental in the company's scaling process and in establishing Airbnb.org, which addresses emergency housing needs.

Reflecting on his journey, Carlton expressed, "Seeing my wife manage the daily challenges of type 1 diabetes with relentless strength has imbued me with a deep respect for the urgency in advancing T1D research and improving overall care. I am excited to work with such a committed board, continuing to build on the incredible momentum we are experiencing within this field."

The leadership of Jordan and McMillan comes at a time when scientific advancements are helping to redefine possibilities for individuals living with T1D. According to Aaron J. Kowalski, Ph.D., CEO of Breakthrough T1D, this period is marked by a surge in transformative medical innovations. "Karen and Carlton’s leadership will be crucial in our endeavors to drive life-altering breakthroughs forward for the T1D community," he emphasized.

Breakthrough T1D is dedicated to enhancing daily life for those affected by type 1 diabetes while striving for a cure. This mission involves investing in promising research projects, advocating for policy changes that benefit the T1D community, and providing education to empower individuals impacted by the condition.

Understanding type 1 diabetes is crucial, as it affects an estimated 9.5 million individuals around the globe. This autoimmune disorder results in the body either insufficiently producing insulin or stopping its production altogether, leading to a reliance on insulin therapy. Furthermore, the condition poses significant risks for both acute and chronic complications, underscoring the need for ongoing scientific evaluation and new treatment options. While T1D is frequently diagnosed during childhood, adult diagnoses are also common, representing nearly half of all cases.

As they embark on this leadership journey, both Karen and Carlton are expected to not only guide Breakthrough T1D but also to mobilize community efforts toward generating a future where type 1 diabetes can be more effectively managed, and potentially cured. The shared vision encompasses developing a unified approach to navigating the challenges and complexities bound to the condition, ensuring that those impacted by T1D have access to the best possible resources and support.

This strategic change at Breakthrough T1D highlights the organization's ongoing commitment to fostering a robust scientific environment and advocating for the worldwide T1D community. With the fresh leadership in place, Breakthrough T1D is set to continue its essential mission.