Foundation for Sarcoidosis Research Staff Members
Mary McGowan, MHRM
President and CEO
Mary joined the Foundation for Sarcoidosis Research as the organization's first-ever President and Chief Executive Officer in 2020. As President and CEO, Mary serves as the primary representative and spokesperson for FSR and leads the organization's strategic vision with patient engagement, strategic partnerships, fundraising, advocacy efforts, program direction, and an aggressive communications and research agenda.
Mary brings 35 years of nonprofit leadership and management experience to the role. Prior to joining FSR, she served as Executive Director at The Myositis Association (TMA.) As Executive Director of TMA, McGowan was featured and highlighted as a preeminent rare disease leader by numerous entities including American Autoimmune Related Diseases Association, Global Genes and the National Organization for Rare Diseases for her innovative national campaigns including Women of Color and Myositis and her leading telemedicine initiatives for autoimmune patients during COVID-19.
Prior to her time at TMA, Mary served as CEO of WomenHeart: The National Coalition for Women with Heart Disease. During her 8 years with WomenHeart, McGowan ensured the organization's long-term growth and sustainability as the leading voice for the 48 million American women living with or at risk of heart disease. McGowan also served as Executive Director of the Allergy & Asthma Network, the leading nonprofit organization dedicated to eliminating suffering and death due to asthma, allergies and related conditions. She held various positions with the American Academy of Pediatrics during her service of 18 years. McGowan earned a Master's Degree in Human Resources Development from the George Washington University and a B.A. from Trinity University.
To view Mary's reflections from her first year as CEO, read her blog here.
Tricha Shivas, MBe
Chief of Staff and Strategy
Tricha Shivas joined the Foundation for Sarcoidosis Research (FSR) in December of 2020. As the Chief of Staff and Strategy, she works with various stakeholders including individuals living with sarcoidosis and their loved ones, academic researchers, clinicians, industry partners, regulators and policy-makers to advance FSR’s mission to support patients and accelerate sarcoidosis research in the search for a cure.
Tricha is a collaborative and strategic leader with over 15 years of non-profit results-driven experience. Tricha has dedicated her career to improving the lives of those with complex chronic illness and rare diseases. Tricha has served patients in her roles with the Washington Regional Transplant Community, The Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA), The National Quality Forum (NQF), WomenHeart - the National Coalition for Women with Heart Disease, and The Myositis Association (TMA). In these roles, she helped build comprehensive patient engagement and awareness programming, developed robust diversity, inclusion, and equity programming, worked with the NIH, FDA, and industry to expand therapeutic pipelines and to increase patient centricity in drug develop, and worked with the CDC, HHS, regulators, and state and federal legislators to improve national health policy strategies, patient access to care, and healthcare quality measures.
Tricha received her bachelors in American Studies from Albright College and her Masters of Bioethics from University of Pennsylvania. She currently serves on Drexel University’s Health Administration Department Advisory Council and Global Skin’s Rare Disease Steering Committee. Tricha lives in Ohio with her husband, Daryl, and her dog, Dooley.
Elise Hoover, MPH
Vice President of Research
Elise Hoover joined the Foundation for Sarcoidosis Research in May of 2024. She is a strategic leader with a decade of experience in rare disease research initiatives and national collaborative partnerships. As VP of Research, she convenes clinicians, researchers, patients and their families, and other stakeholders to elevate FSR’s research agenda and the initiatives that support acceleration of sarcoidosis research discoveries.
Elise is dedicated to supporting the researcher pipeline to encourage collaboration and mentorship between established researchers and younger investigators, addressing the unmet needs in the diagnostic journey, and ensuring patient-centered research priorities. She worked at the Polycystic Kidney Disease Foundation for six years, launching both patient registry and centers of excellence programs, and bringing patient stakeholder reviewers into the grant review process. Elise has also held an epidemiology fellowship at the NIH and worked in clinical research coordination for clinical trials.
Elise received her bachelor’s degree from New York University and her master’s degree in public health from Boston University. She currently serves as the Co-Chair of the Health Research Alliance’s Registry and Biorepository Community. Elise lives in Denver, CO.
J. Matt Craig, PhD
Head, Innovation and Translational Research
Dr. Matt Craig joined the Foundation for Sarcoidosis Research (FSR) in April of 2026. As Head of Innovation and Translational Research, Matt is responsible for shaping FSR’s research priorities and related scientific endeavors by leading efforts to develop and accelerate cutting-edge programs that bring transformational diagnostic tools and therapeutic interventions from bench-to-bedside on behalf of sarcoidosis patients. Matt’s work serves to foster collaboration among key stakeholders from within the patient, regulatory, clinical, research, and industry communities to catalyze scientific discoveries and advance innovative technologies that ultimately improve health outcomes for those living with sarcoidosis.
Matt brings to FSR a wealth of experience in leadership roles across the academic, government, and non-profit sectors.
Immediately prior to joining FSR, Matt served as the Director of Research for the Jaeb Center for Health Research, a preeminent non-profit clinical coordinating center that manages patient registries, observational studies, and clinical trials of therapies to treat diabetes, cystic fibrosis, and a variety of eye diseases. Matt also spent the better part of 8 years in the extramural program at the NIH’s National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, initially as the Program Director for Pulmonary Fibrosis and Lung Transplantation. In that role, Matt led the development of a consortium to advance novel research models of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and established a clinical research network to better understand the impact of lung transplant selection criteria and clinical management strategies on donor lung utilization and outcomes in lung transplant recipients. Matt went on to become Chief of the Lung Biology and Disease Branch within the Division of Lung Diseases, and subsequently the Acute and Infectious Lung Diseases Branch, collectively overseeing a research and research training portfolio that encompassed sarcoidosis, pulmonary fibrosis, and other interstitial lung diseases, pulmonary hypertension, lung development, regeneration, and transplantation, acute lung injury and critical care including acute respiratory distress syndrome, pneumonia, and sepsis, as well as pulmonary host responses to infections of the lung.
Matt received his Ph.D. in Molecular Microbiology and Immunology from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health where his research focused on characterizing mechanisms of immune-mediated inflammation in response to pulmonary infections. Matt also completed a Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award (NRSA) Individual Postdoctoral Fellowship at Johns Hopkins in the Department of Environmental Health Sciences, where his research focused on the intersection of lung immunology, inflammation, and physiology in the context of emphysema, pulmonary fibrosis, and acute lung injury/acute respiratory distress syndrome. Matt lives in the Tampa, FL area with his wife and two sons.
David Fischer
Senior Director of Operations
David joined the Foundation for Sarcoidosis Research team in March 2024. As Director of Operations, he will collaborate with FSR’s senior leadership and management team in the development of long-term operational plans, policies, and standard operating procedures to increase efficiencies and ensure smooth completion of the organizations day-to-day activities.
David graduated from Loras College in Dubuque, IA with bachelor’s degrees in business management and marketing. Prior to FSR, he spent his professional career working in pharmacy and retail operations. Through this 20-year career he focused on change management and execution strategies that supported operations for small to large programs and projects. David was drawn to FSR for their dedication to finding a cure for sarcoidosis and improving care for sarcoidosis patients through research, education, and support. David lives near Chicago, IL with his wife Erin and children, Mary Jo and Patrick.
Sarah Sandison, MA, MSc
Senior Director of Global Clinical Engagement
Sarah Sandison joined the FSR team in September 2025. As Senior Director of Global Clinical Engagement, she leads innovative programming and strategies to drive and expand FSR’s Global Sarcoidosis Clinic Alliance, a member program of clinics, hospitals, and individual providers committed to finding a cure and offering evidence-based, patient-centric care for those living with sarcoidosis while advancing research and awareness worldwide.
Sarah brings over 15 years of international public health leadership to FSR with deep expertise in driving research initiatives, accelerating access to biomedical products, and translating complex strategies into real-world health impact. Prior to joining FSR, Sarah held senior roles at the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), where she managed multi-million-dollar global health programs, led collaborative strategy development for the HIV/AIDS research program, and mentored cross-functional teams to deliver measurable health outcomes in diverse geographic regions.
Sarah is passionate about advancing global research for chronic and rare diseases and is honored to join FSR to help improve outcomes for those living with sarcoidosis – a cause particularly close to her heart, as a member of her family was diagnosed with sarcoidosis over a decade ago. Sarah holds a Master of Science (MSc) in Public Health Nutrition and a Master of Arts (MA) in Law & Diplomacy from Tufts University. She lives in Fort Worth, TX with her family.
Cathi Davis
Director of Communications and Marketing
Cathi Davis joined the Foundation for Sarcoidosis Research team in April 2021, inspired by a friend affected by sarcoidosis. As Director of Communications and Marketing, she manages the strategy for all external communications, website, and public relations messages and collateral to consistently articulate FSR's mission.
Cathi graduated from Roosevelt University in Chicago, IL with a bachelor's degree in Integrated Marketing Communications. Prior to FSR, she spent her professional career creating content and marketing campaigns for several non-profits, mainly focused on efforts that support people with disabilities. Working in the nonprofit industry, she has learned how to build effective communication strategies to reach a variety of audiences. She hopes to continue using her skills to increase awareness for sarcoidosis research to help accelerate treatments and possibly a cure.
Ethan Fechter-Leggett, DVM, MPVM
Director of Data Analysis and Strategy
Ethan Fechter-Leggett joined the FSR in July 2025. As a Data Analyst, he will turn FSR registry and program data into insights that advance sarcoidosis research, improve care for people with sarcoidosis, and support FSR’s partnerships and goals.
Ethan’s favorite way to describe himself is as a veterinarian by training, an epidemiologist by practice, and a health equities advocate by heart. As a data-driven public health professional with over a decade of experience leading complex studies focused on respiratory health, environmental/occupational exposures, and health equity, Ethan brings deep expertise in data analysis, study design, and science communication to support FSR’s mission of improving the lives of people with sarcoidosis. Prior to joining FSR, Ethan served as a Research Epidemiologist at CDC’s National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), where he led studies investigating the links between workplace exposures and lung health.
Ethan earned his bachelor’s degree in animal science from the University of Vermont, a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) from Tufts University, and a Master of Preventive Veterinary Medicine (MPVM) from the University of California, Davis. Ethan now lives in Vermont with his spouse, three children, and two cats, Simba and Nala.
Kate Anastasia
Director of Global Patient Programs
Kate Anastasia joined the Foundation for Sarcoidosis Research in June of 2025. As Director of Global Patient Programs, she is responsible for developing, communicating, executing, and sustaining strategic initiatives that advance all of FSR’s patient education and support programs, including educational webinars, patient conferences, peer-led support groups, patient navigation programs and other initiatives to support, educate and empower the patient community.
She has more than 25 years of experience working in the nonprofit sector and extensive knowledge and expertise in community engagement, volunteer management, and program development. She has worked at the National Scleroderma Foundation, Alzheimer’s Association, the Arthritis Foundation, and the SLE Lupus Foundation.
Kate received her bachelor’s degree from State University of New York College at Cortland and her master’s degree in public administration from Long Island University at CW Post. Kate lives in Lido Beach, NY with her husband Tom and rescue dog, Mishka.
Angela O'Malley
Corporate and Donor Relations Specialist
Angela first joined the FSR team in 2017 supporting the organization’s mission as Director of Development. Throughout her tenure at FSR, Angela has helped lead strategic growth initiatives, cultivating high-impact partnerships, and driving revenue through innovative fundraising and business development strategies.
As the Corporate and Donor Relations Specialist, Angela works with the team to advance and grow strategic fundraising opportunities, donor engagement, and long-term partnership development. She is passionate about the sarcoidosis community and the organization’s efforts to improve patient care through research, education, and support. Angela lives with her family in the Chicagoland area.
Timothy Legenzoff
Senior Research Manager
Timothy joined the FSR in September 2023. As Senior Research Manager, he executes strategic and operational plans for research development and growth. He is dedicated to accelerating sarcoidosis research through collaboration with clinical research partners, and management of the Foundation’s research grant giving program. Timothy also supports the FSR registry, public health engagement projects, and big data and AI efforts.
Timothy graduated from the University of Pittsburgh in 2019 with his Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry. During this time, he became passionate about scientific research through his independent studies on enzyme kinetics. He was drawn to medicine from his time volunteering in local hospitals and motivated by his family’s battle with autoimmune and immunological diseases.
Timothy served as Clinical Research Coordinator for nearly four years where he coordinated clinical trials, observational research, and quality assurance and quality improvement projects in autoimmunity, rheumatology, nephrology, pulmonology and critical care, and infectious disease. Timothy specialized in research data management and supported the development of rare disease research registries. Tim lives near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania with his wife, Jenna, and pug, Milena.
Julie Collins
Senior Coordinator of Global Clinical Engagement
Julie joined the FSR team in November of 2024 as the Senior Coordinator of Global Clinical Engagement. In her role, she provides support for the FSR Global Sarcoidosis Clinic Alliance. She became interested in the rare disease field after a close family member struggled to get a diagnosis. She is passionate about being involved in providing educational opportunities for clinicians who treat patients living with a rare disease, especially sarcoidosis.
Julie earned her bachelor's degree in public affairs from Indiana University. In her previous role with the Alzheimer's Association, she worked to provide education and support to patients, families, clinicians and the community. Julie has a deep interest in the importance of informing underrepresented populations about opportunities that are available to participate in research. She enjoyed being an advisory board member in conjunction with Indiana University and the Alzheimer's Association for the R24 Collaborative for Aging, Research and Engagement. It was created to increase awareness about brain health, dementia and healthy aging in African American/black communities in Indiana. Julie enjoys spending time with her family and their dog Hondo, cat Fern and her "grand kitty", Walter.
Taylor Harwood
Senior Research Coordinator
Taylor earned her bachelor's degree in Women and Gender Studies, with a minor in Sociology, from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro in 2016. After graduating, she began her career in healthcare, working as an ophthalmic technician and scribe for three years before relocating to Philadelphia in 2020. She joined Wills Eye Hospital, where she spent five years and ultimately transitioned into a full-time clinical research coordinator role. Taylor served as the lead clinical research coordinator for a newly established lab focused on innovative diagnostic testing for glaucoma and other ocular diseases. With a strong foundation in research, patient care, and a deep passion for supporting underserved communities, Taylor is excited to bring her expertise to the FSR team.
Kristen Vargas
Senior Coordinator for Global Patient Programs
Kristen Vargas joined FSR in July 2025 as the Senior Coordinator for Global Patient Programs. She brings nearly three decades of experience in retail pharmacy, where she held a range of store and corporate leadership roles across diverse geographic regions.
Kristen’s career has been shaped by a deep commitment to health equity and improving access to care, particularly for historically underserved and overlooked communities. Following her own diagnosis of neurosarcoidosis in 2022, she became a passionate advocate for individuals living with sarcoidosis. Her personal journey inspires her commitment to developing impactful programs that empower patients and enhance their quality of life.
Kristen holds a Bachelor of Science in Education from Missouri Southern State University and a Master of Science in Health Administration from Bellevue University.
Jackie Horne
Senior Development Coordinator
Jackie came to FSR as a temporary contractor in May 2025 and quickly felt at home. Inspired by the team’s dedication and the impact of FSR’s mission, she joined the organization full-time as a Senior Development Coordinator. In her role, Jackie supports the Development team by streamlining operations and strengthening fundraising capacity to help drive FSR’s goals forward.
Before joining FSR, Jackie held roles in operations and development at various nonprofit organizations, contributing to causes ranging from animal welfare to environmental conservation. She has a passion for service and a commitment to making a positive difference in the world. Jackie earned her Bachelor of Arts in Biology from Connecticut College. She lives near Boulder, CO with her husband and their dog, and in her free time fosters puppies through a local rescue.
Ashanti Simmons
Operations and Membership Coordinator
Ashanti joined the Foundation for Sarcoidosis Research in March 2026. She earned her bachelor's degree in applied diplomacy and a Master of Public Policy from DePaul University. During her graduate studies she worked for an urban education and community partnership office.
As the program coordinator, she connected students to nonprofits throughout Chicago providing internships and professional development. Ashanti has also completed a graduate fellowship with the Cook County Bureau of Economic Development, where she worked in policy, strategy, and stakeholder engagement. She is excited to leverage her skills in community engagement and operations to support the mission of FSR.
Henry Ayeni
Social Media and Marketing Coordinator
Henry is a digital marketing professional specializing in social media management, content marketing, digital communications, and campaign strategy. With experience across healthcare and nonprofit-focused organizations, he develops and supports data-driven marketing initiatives that strengthen audience engagement and brand visibility.
Since joining the Foundation of Sarcoidosis Research in April, Henry supports marketing and communications efforts through content creation, social media coordination, digital campaigns, and community engagements. He brings a strong background in digital marketing operations, marketing automations, creative storytelling, with a focus on delivering impactful and engaging campaigns.
Khaleelah Cohen
Stakeholder Engagement Consultant
Khaleelah is a seasoned professional dedicated to advancing health equity and improving outcomes for marginalized communities. As the Stakeholder Engagement Consultant at FSR, she drives the strategic direction and execution of the Ignore No More Initiative, a multifaceted series of campaigns aimed at reducing health disparities and enhancing care for Black patients living with sarcoidosis.
In her role, Khaleelah fosters collaboration and engagement across various stakeholders and oversees several pivotal leadership committees, including the Women of Color and ACTe Now! Patient and Clinical Advisory Committees, and the Coalition for Clinical Trial Equity.
With over six years of research and collegiate teaching experience, Khaleelah brings a wealth of knowledge to her role. Her professional background in non-profit program development and volunteer services spans over 15 years, during which she has led the enhancement and execution of numerous public health initiatives, national training conferences, awareness campaigns, and community-based education and peer support programs.
In 2017, Khaleelah launched her consulting business, where she has provided invaluable expertise to clients such as WomenHeart: The National Coalition for Women with Heart Disease and The Myositis Association. She continues to passionately serve her community through her role in Community Health at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital and her positions on the Boards of Directors for Open My Heart Foundation and The Talking Drum, Incorporated.
Khaleelah earned her Masters in Sociology from the University of Maryland, College Park, and completed her Bachelors from the University of California, Riverside. A California native, Khaleelah now resides in the District of Columbia with her husband and four children.