Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America Announces President & CEO Richard J. Geswell's Retirement

NEW YORK, Feb. 3, 2015 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- After nearly 10 years of leading the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA), Richard J. Geswell, President & CEO, will be retiring at the end of 2015. Geswell's vision and leadership transformed CCFA's research and patient support into cutting edge programs that have changed the landscape for patients with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD).

"It is always difficult to see an outstanding leader go, especially one who has dedicated a remarkable career of nearly 40 years serving nonprofits in the pursuit of finding cures and making lives better for others," said Maura C. Breen, Chair, CCFA National Board of  Trustees.  "We are grateful for the passion and dedication Rick has given to all of us at CCFA during his tenure and know that the organization will continue to thrive in the years to come."

Established in 1967, CCFA is a private, national nonprofit organization dedicated to finding cures for IBD and improving the quality of life of children and adults affected by these diseases.

During Geswell's tenure, CCFA raised $555 million for research and patient and professional programs -- $163 million of which went solely into research. Revenue increased from $34 million to $71 million. Additionally, under Geswell's direction, CCFA now provides patient support and education to more than 300,000 patients annually.

Sandler Search (Sandlersearch.org) has been retained to conduct the search along with a select group of national board members to ensure that the very best candidate is selected. Geswell will stay involved with CCFA until the end of 2015 to ensure a smooth transition.

"It has been a privilege to work with the most passionate and dedicated volunteers and staff I have ever encountered," Geswell said. "It's been a remarkable journey that has lead to incredible progress in our search for cures."                         

About CCFA
The Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA) is the largest voluntary non-profit health organization dedicated to finding cures for Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD). CCFA's mission is to cure Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, and to improve the quality of life of children and adults who suffer from these diseases. The Foundation works to fulfill its mission by funding research, providing educational resources for patients and their families, medical professionals, and the public, and furnishing supportive services for those afflicted with IBD. For more information, visit www.ccfa.org, call 888-694-8872, like us on Facebook, find us on LinkedIn or follow us on Twitter. 

Photo - http://mma.prnewswire.com/media/172901/rickheadshot.jpg

SOURCE Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA)

Related Links

http://www.ccfa.org