Arthritis Foundation Names President And CEO

ATLANTA, Sept. 23, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Arthritis Foundation announces the appointment of Ann M. Palmer as president and CEO of the national organization, headquartered in Atlanta.  Effective today, Palmer will lead the Foundation in its commitment to finding a cure and ending arthritis, the nation's leading cause of disability. Palmer succeeds Dr. John H. Klippel, who retired in August.

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"This is an exciting time for the Foundation and with Ann's leadership capability we will be well positioned to continue our efforts supporting and advocating on behalf the 50 million Americans with arthritis," said Daniel T. McGowan, chair of the Arthritis Foundation board of directors. "I am confident this the right time and she is the right leader to move us forward as we continue investing in research for a cure."

Palmer is widely regarded for 30 years of leadership and success in voluntary health agencies, including the American Cancer Society, American Diabetes Association and most recently, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation where she was senior vice president of field management.

During the last 12 years at the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Palmer led volunteers and staff in 80 offices across the country and was responsible for $120 million of net revenue. Earlier, she served in regional vice president roles at both the American Diabetes Association and the American Cancer Society.

"I am exceedingly proud to have the opportunity to lead a team of passionate and committed volunteers and staff to address the needs and challenges of those with arthritis," said Palmer.

A graduate of the University of Delaware, Palmer earned a Bachelor of Science degree in education.

About the Arthritis Foundation
Striking one in every five adults and 300,000 children, arthritis is the nation's leading cause of disability. The Arthritis Foundation (www.arthritis.org) is committed to raising awareness and reducing the unacceptable impact of this serious and painful disease, which can severely damage joints and rob people of living life to its fullest.  The Foundation funds life-changing research that has restored mobility in patients for more than six decades; fights for health care policies that improve the lives of the millions who live with arthritis; and partners with families to provide empowering programs and information.

SOURCE Arthritis Foundation