The Cystinosis Research Network has announced new board member updates.
At the last Board Meeting, the nominating committee proposed a new slate of board and executive committee members for open positions and a vote was held. As a result, we are proud to announce the following:
Jonathan Dicks – President
Shortly after his daughter’s cystinosis diagnosis, Jon knew he couldn’t sit on the sidelines and let this disease run the show. He immediately began advocating for his daughter, Eleanor (Elle), and has not looked back. For the past few years, Jon has held the position of CRN VP of Development. He took the responsibility to heart and dove in head first, proving he was a dedicated asset to our community. Please help us in welcoming Jon into his new position as President.
Learn more about The Dicks Family in an article from the storybook pregnancy through diagnosis here on page 19.
Tim Wyman – Treasurer
Professionally, Tim is the Managing Partner and Certified Financial Planner professional at Center for Financial Planning, Inc. He has received national recognition including the Forbes’ Best-In-State Wealth Advisors List in Michigan, as well as, Financial Times 400 Top Financial Advisor. This skill set will make for a natural transition from CRN Interim President to Treasurer. Personally, Tim and his wife, Jen, have three children. Their youngest child, Kacy, was diagnosed with cystinosis in 2005, had a successful kidney transplant in 2015 and is attending Grand Valley State University this fall.
Karen Gledhill – Secretary
Karen is one of the founding members of the Adult Leadership Advisory Board (ALAB), a group comprised entirely of adults living with cystinosis. Karen’s willingness to tackle challenging topics with empathy and sensitivity makes her an important voice to have in the room. We look forward to including her perspective on the Board during her term as Secretary. (Karen’s mother documented her and her sister’s late onset cystinosis diagnosis in a letter back in the 70’s. Learn more on page 36.)
Kristina Sevel – Director
Kristina rounds out our newest CRN slate as a Director. Relatively new to the cystinosis community, her daughter (Grace) was diagnosed in 2020. Shortly after, the Sevels connected with the CRN and held their first fundraiser. During a whirlwind year, Kristina and her husband, Mike, shared some of their story via The Cystinosis Advocate newsletter. You can learn more about the Sevels and “meet” sweet Grace here.
We’d also like to recognize outgoing Secretary, Ina Gardener, and outgoing Treasurer, Jenni Sexstone, for their service and countless volunteer hours. However, we know this is not goodbye, it’s see you later!