Meet The staff

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The Dedicated Team at Diabetes Research Connection

Christine Rhoads

Executive Director

Christine Rhoads

Christine joins DRC with over 25 years of non-profit development experience, including 16 years in the Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) research field. “The tremendous progress I’ve seen over the last decade in advancing T1D cures and improving T1D management inspires and motivates me. I’m delighted to join this dedicated team of caring people who work tirelessly to advance breakthroughs and solve new pieces of the complex diabetes puzzle. I have hope of seeing T1D eradicated in my lifetime and will join you in celebrating when that vision is realized!”

Andrea Partida

Office Manager

Andrea Partida

Andrea’s background in administration, medical billing, and over 15 years of experience in fundraising for various youth non-profit organizations, makes her a great asset to our DRC team. “I am proud to be a part of the dedicated DRC family and look forward to collaborating with this enthusiastic team to fund research to cure T1D.” In her free time, Andrea enjoys pickleball with her husband and friends, staying active in our beautiful city, and family time with her two grown sons and adorable rescue dog, Trudy.

Sonny Nguyen

Director of Operations & Finance

Sonny Nguyen

With over a decade of experience in healthcare operations, Sonny brings a strong focus on building efficient systems that support mission-driven work. A USC graduate, he applies his background in healthcare management and business strategy to streamline workflows, enhance financial oversight, and help the team focus on advancing type 1 diabetes research.

Kaleigh Rhoads

Marketing and Communications Manager

Kaleigh Rhoads

Kaleigh brings a background in nonprofit leadership, science communication, and public engagement to her role at DRC. With a passion for making research accessible and meaningful, she supports the organization’s mission through strategic storytelling, social media campaigns, grant writing, and digital communications. Kaleigh recently completed her MSc in Science Communication and Public Engagement at the University of Edinburgh and is driven by a lifelong commitment to fostering compassionate, informed communities.

Brooklynn Hamilton

Development Coordinator

Brooklynn Hamilton

Since being diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D) at the age of 3, Brooklynn has been a passionate advocate for T1D research, representing the T1D community at many events and media appearances and helping to raise over $600,000 for T1D research. In her role as a T1D Youth Ambassador, she spoke at the JDRF Children’s Congress in Washington, D.C., Stanford University, and Americans for Cures event to promote funding for stem cell research initiatives and the NIH Special Diabetes Program. Brooklynn graduated from Texas Christian University in 2022 with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. She is now excited to use her skills and voice as DRC’s Development Coordinator to continue to drive research forward and advance breakthroughs in T1D cures for herself and the millions of others living with T1D.

Ellie Lundquist

Development Coordinator

Ellie Lundquist

Originally from Seattle and now based in San Diego, Ellie Lundquist is passionate about advancing innovative work that makes a real difference in people’s lives. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Neuroscience from the University of San Diego in 2022 and her MBA from San Diego State University in 2025, where she focused on ethics, corporate governance, and sustainable innovation. Ellie also brings hands-on experience in hospitality management, where she honed her skills in event management, organization, communication, and building meaningful connections. She approaches her work with curiosity, compassion, and a focus on creating impact. Outside of work, she enjoys being active outdoors, cheering on the Seahawks, and spending time with her kitten, Lily. Ellie is excited to channel her energy into supporting groundbreaking diabetes research and helping connect passionate scientists and donors with the people who stand to benefit most from their discoveries.

Veronica “Roni” Veksler

Research Grant Coordinator

Veronica “Roni” Veksler

Veronica Veksler, Ph.D., serves as the Research Grant Coordinator at the Diabetes Research Connection. Trained as an immunologist, Veronica brings a deep appreciation for scientific innovation and a commitment to supporting early-career researchers studying type 1 diabetes. Outside of work, she enjoys running, yoga, and visiting art museums.

We grant up to $75,000 to support
each research project

Each project selected by our committee is eligible to receive up to $75,000 in funding, providing the essential resources needed for groundbreaking research in diabetes care, treatment, and finding a cure.

A few words from our researchers

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Melanie Shapiro

Can the Inhibition of One Specific Body Gene Prevent Type 1 Diabetes?

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Dr J. Dwyer

Skip navigation Search Create 9+ Avatar image Taming a Particularly Lethal Category of Cells May Reduce/Eliminate the Onset of T1D

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Dr. Leonardo Ferreira

A Potential Second Cure for T1D by Re-Educating the Patient’s Immune System

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Dr. Ann Kahkost

Stakeholder-Engaged Precision Health for Longevity and Healthy Aging with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D)

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Dr. Han Zhu's Project

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Dr. Sandra Mara

Ferreira's Project

We grant up to $75,000 to support each research project

#InnovativeDiabetesResearch

Diabetes Research Connection: Our Mission and Vision

The Diabetes Research Connection (DRC) is a passionate non-profit organization committed to accelerating the discovery of cures and improved treatments for Type 1 Diabetes (T1D). Our core mission is to empower early-career researchers and foster innovation by providing crucial funding for groundbreaking projects.

We envision a future where Type 1 Diabetes is eradicated, and our dedicated team works tirelessly to support the scientific community in achieving this vital goal. Through strategic grant allocations, we aim to fuel the research that will lead to a world free from T1D.

Meet Our Executive Director: Christine Rhoads

As the Executive Director of the Diabetes Research Connection, Christine Rhoads leads our organization with a profound dedication to advancing Type 1 Diabetes research. Her vision and leadership are instrumental in guiding our efforts to support innovative scientific endeavors.

Christine's commitment stems from a deep-seated hope of seeing T1D eradicated in her lifetime. She actively inspires the team and our supporters, driving us forward with the shared goal of celebrating a future where T1D is a thing of the past.

The Role of Sonny Nguyen: Director of Operations & Finance

Sonny Nguyen serves as the Director of Operations & Finance at the Diabetes Research Connection, bringing a wealth of expertise in healthcare management and business strategy. His role is crucial in ensuring the efficient and effective operation of the organization.

A graduate of USC, Sonny focuses on streamlining workflows and enhancing financial oversight, allowing the DRC team to concentrate on their primary objective: advancing Type 1 Diabetes research. His strategic approach ensures that resources are optimally utilized to support impactful projects.

Kaleigh Rhoads: Marketing and Communications Manager

Kaleigh Rhoads spearheads the Marketing and Communications efforts at the Diabetes Research Connection, leveraging her passion for making research accessible and meaningful. She plays a key role in sharing the DRC's story and impact with a wider audience.

With a background that includes advocacy for stem cell research and the NIH Special Diabetes Program, Kaleigh utilizes strategic storytelling, social media, and digital communications to support the organization's mission. Her efforts aim to engage the community and highlight the importance of T1D research funding.