Patients & Families are Our Focus

Learn More About Us

Our Story

For more than 25 years, UMDF has built a network of the top clinicians, hospitals and researchers dedicated to fighting mitochondrial disease. We are driven by a nationwide community of ambassadors solely focused on supporting patients and families affected by mitochondrial disease. Together, we are committed and energized to make a difference by funding the best science no matter where it is found in the world and providing critical programs and services to the patient families we serve.

Our Mission

Promote research and education for the diagnosis, treatment and cure of mitochondrial disorders and to provide support to affected individuals and families.

How We Make a Difference

Our Impact

ambassadors across the US to support patient families

research labs with funded projects

million dollars generated in goverment grants as a result of our investment

How We Make a Difference

Our Impact

ambassadors across the US to support patient families

research labs with funded projects

million dollars generated in goverment grants as a result of our investment

The work done through UMDF is making an impact. Our Community Impact Report shares courageous stories, difference makers and how your donations are put to work every day.

See our latest audited financial statements and Form 990 reports here.

Meet Our People

UMDF Leadership Team

Philip Yeske, PhD

Philip Yeske, PhD

Interim Managing Director and Science & Alliance Officer

Kara Strittmatter MA/CMM

Kara Strittmatter MA/CMM

Director of Education and Support Services

Maria Porto

Maria Porto

Director of Finance & Operations

Andy Dearth

Andy Dearth

Director of Marketing & Communications

Tania Hanscom

Tania Hanscom

Associate Director of Development

Margaret Moore

Margaret Moore

Associate Director of Support & Education

We Are An Experienced Team

Our Staff

Bethany Bonner

Support &
Education Associate

Barb Cullaj

Administrative
Assistant

Cassie Franklin

Community Engagement
Specialist

Jeff Gamza

Multimedia
Manager

Monika Hancock

Development
Coordinator

Dan Meola

Database
Manager

Donna Nameth

Data Entry
Manager

Janet Owens

Executive Administrative
Assistant

Angela Sommer

Development
Coordinator

Nicole Wilson

Program
Manager

Industry Advisory Council Leadership

Our Many Thanks

Honorary Board 

Jack Black

John DiCecco

Salvatore DiMauro

Charles Hoppel

Dan Wright

Proud to Partner

Affiliate Organizations

Join our Team!

UMDF is always looking for talented individuals.