A letter from Executive Director – Tim Newman

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Hello!

For many of you, this is my first opportunity to reach out to you and introduce myself. My name is Tim Newman, and in May I became the new Executive Director for the Western Wisconsin Chapter of JDRF. I’m extremely excited to be starting this new position and to become a part of the Madison community, as well as the surrounding communities. I’m originally from a small town in Arkansas that lies along the Mississippi River. From that point, I’ve been fortunate to live and work in many cities across the US but always with an eye towards helping others and making a difference in my community. I look forward to continuing that service here in Madison and I hope to see you out whether it be on a bike along the Capital City Trail or at Great Dane Pub & Brewery.

I’ve had the privilege of working in the non-profit sector for 20 years with some truly impactful organizations. I’ve long been an admirer of the work and impact that JDRF produces. It’s an organization that stands by its mission and does more than just talk the talk, it walks the walk. Since 1970, JDRF has focused on finding a cure while making sure that people living with type 1 diabetes (T1D) feel supported, visible, and hopeful. JDRF sets the global agenda and is the largest private funder of T1D research in the world. We are not about science projects; we are about delivering life-changing therapies to patients on the path to delivering a cure. In 2017, JDRF directly and indirectly attracted $300 million toward T1D research. But not only is JDRF leading the way in research and patient support, JDRF is about the power of community and that is where real change happens.

As a supporter of JDRF, you are the organization’s most valuable asset. The commitment that you’ve made to support JDRF and the cause to end T1D is important, worthwhile, and truly a gift. I want to say thank you and that I am honored to be partnering with you in pursuit of this goal.

At the recent Board of Directors Annual Meeting, I shared an African proverb that I felt embodied the spirit of JDRF. It says, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” There are many ways, large and small to have impact, but by working together and supporting one another and getting engaged – whether it be through fundraising, volunteering, or becoming an advocate—we can turn Type One into Type None!

I look forward to working alongside you. Thank you all for all you do and for being a part of JDRF!

Tim Newman