Cyndi Zagieboylo

Cyndi Zagieboylo is a prominent American nonprofit executive known for her transformative leadership in health advocacy. She served as the President and Chief Executive Officer of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society from 2015 until her retirement in 2023. Under her guidance, the organization significantly advanced its mission of funding research, providing services, and advocating for people affected by multiple sclerosis.

Early life and education

Zagieboylo completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where she developed a foundational interest in health and community service. She later pursued a Master of Science in Public Affairs at the McCormack Graduate School of Policy and Global Studies, equipping her with expertise in nonprofit management and public policy. Her academic background provided a strong platform for a career dedicated to organizational leadership within the health sector.

Career

Her professional journey began with roles at several influential health-focused organizations. Zagieboylo held significant positions at the American Cancer Society, where she gained extensive experience in fundraising, program development, and volunteer engagement. She later served as the Executive Director of the Massachusetts Affiliate of the American Heart Association, further honing her skills in affiliate management and public health advocacy. Prior to joining the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, she was the Chief Development Officer for JDRF (formerly the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation), leading nationwide fundraising initiatives.

Leadership at the National Multiple Sclerosis Society

Appointed President and CEO in 2015, Zagieboylo steered the National Multiple Sclerosis Society through a period of strategic growth and innovation. She championed the organization's flagship research initiatives, including targeted investments in myelin repair and progressive MS through the Society's Promise: 2010 campaign and subsequent strategic plans. Under her tenure, the society intensified its advocacy efforts, successfully lobbying for increased federal research funding through the National Institutes of Health and influencing policy on issues like Medicare and accessibility. She also oversaw the expansion of critical client programs, such as the MS Navigator program, and mobilized the community through events like the Walk MS and Bike MS fundraising series.

Awards and recognition

In recognition of her impactful leadership, Zagieboylo has received several notable honors. She was awarded the John Dystel Prize for Multiple Sclerosis Research for her organizational support of scientific advancement, though the prize typically honors individual researchers. The National Organization for Rare Disorders has also acknowledged her contributions to the broader patient advocacy community. Her work has been featured in publications like The NonProfit Times and she has been a frequent speaker at conferences including those held by the American Academy of Neurology.

Personal life

Zagieboylo maintains a private personal life, with available information focusing on her professional accomplishments. She is known to reside in the New England region and has been actively involved in various community and philanthropic circles beyond her national role. Her career reflects a deep, sustained commitment to improving lives through health advocacy and nonprofit excellence.

Category:American nonprofit executives Category:University of Massachusetts Amherst alumni Category:University of Massachusetts Boston alumni Category:National Multiple Sclerosis Society