Our Team

Executive Director and Chief Science Officer

Kristophe Diaz, PhD
diaz@curepsp.org | 646-725-1453

Kristophe Diaz, Ph.D., is the Executive Director and Chief Science Officer of CurePSP. Dr. Diaz leads CurePSP, its programs and partnerships to continue building the three foundational pillars of the organization: providing information, support and financial aid to those living with PSP, CBD and MSA (Care), increasing awareness and education to accelerate diagnosis (Consciousness), funding research while building enabling collaborations to advance critical discoveries towards new leads, new biomarkers and treatments (Cure). Dr. Diaz works closely with patients, care partners, advocates, scientists, clinicians, biotechnology companies and other foundations to make sure important advances and innovative technologies in neuroscience also address the unmet needs critical to PSP, CBD and MSA. Prior to joining CurePSP, Dr. Diaz led multidisciplinary neuroscience programs at Cohen Veterans Bioscience, a nonprofit organization founded by industry veterans focused on solving trauma-related brain disorders. He received his Ph.D. in molecular and cellular biology at the University of Massachusetts, Boston.

Director, Marketing and Communications

Sabrina Da Rocha

darocha@curepsp.org | 443-578-5668 

Sabrina Da Rocha is the Director of Marketing and Communications at CurePSP. Sabrina is responsible for a wide range of duties including managing all digital and print marketing, brand identity, overseeing key vendor relationships, and producing and editing content. She also oversees the organization’s website and social media channels, and is always looking for ways to improve and expand their online presence. Fueled by her passion for making a real difference in the lives of those affected by the disease, she works hard to develop and execute strategies that will drive support for the organization. Sabrina has a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) with a major in marketing from Iona College, where she was also a dedicated division 1 rower for four years. Sabrina’s dedication to her work and her passion for making a difference are evident in everything she does. She is committed to continuing to make a positive impact for the organization and its mission.

Director, Clinical Affairs and Advocacy

Jessica Shurer, MSW, LCSW
shurer@curepsp.org | 919-525-8355

Jessica Shurer, MSW, LCSW is the Director of Clinical Affairs and Advocacy at CurePSP, where she oversees the Centers of Care network and our programs and resources aimed at increasing support, education and awareness of PSP, CBD and MSA. In her prior role, she served as the Center Coordinator & Clinical Social Worker of the Movement Disorders Center at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, a CurePSP Center of Care and Parkinson’s Foundation Center of Excellence. During her tenure at UNC, she developed a particular passion for working with those living with PSP, CBD and MSA through the support groups she facilitated, the interdisciplinary clinic she coordinated and the countless patients and families from which she had the honor of learning. She was a member of the CurePSP Board of Directors from February 2020 until joining the team at CurePSP in October 2021. She holds degrees in psychology, gerontology and human development & family studies from the Pennsylvania State University and a Master of Social Work from UNC Chapel Hill. Her clinical and research interests include the psychosocial needs of navigating neurodegenerative disease, integrated healthcare models, and palliative and end-of-life care.

Director, Development

Rich Spain
spain@curepsp.org | 347-326-1689

Rich Spain is the Director of Development at CurePSP after serving as a volunteer for years. In this role, he will add to his personal connection to PSP by building relationships with others who have been affected by rare neurological diseases. Rich will further CurePSP’s long term sustainability in its mission and programs. Rich’s background in development includes successful missions at the University of Virginia, Rice University and most recently Virginia Commonwealth University where he led a team responsible for securing funding for every school and unit on both medical and main campuses. Rich is also involved with his undergraduate alma mater, East Carolina University, and recently served as Chair of their Alumni Association Board of Directors. He received his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from ECU and his Masters in Education in Sport Leadership from VCU. Rich currently resides in Richmond with his wife and two children.

Associate Director, Scientific Affairs and Partnerships

Jennifer Brummet, PhD
brummet@curepsp.org | 347-382-6659

Jennifer Brummet is the Associate Director, Scientific Affairs and Partnerships at CurePSP. In her capacity, she’ll manage CurePSP grant programs, several key partnerships and other initiatives pertinent to CurePSP Cure pillar. Jennifer was most recently the Research Manager at the American Epilepsy Society where she supported the Society’s early career grant programs, professional development programs and other research initiatives. Her previous roles include working at the Society for Neuroscience where she managed science policy and advocacy programs, and the National Science Foundation where she was responsible for supporting behavioral and cognitive science grant programs and conducting analyses of program outcomes. Jennifer received her PhD in Behavioral Neuroscience from Michigan State University, and a BA in psychology from Illinois Wesleyan University. She is an auxiliary board member with C2ST (the Chicago Council on Science and Technology) and volunteers with the Health Research Alliance.

Associate Director, Education

Courtney Malburg
malburg@curepsp.org | 646-343-9922

Courtney Malburg is the Associate Director of Clinical Affairs and Advocacy at CurePSP. In her role, Courtney oversees the development of our outreach programs and educational materials, in both print and digital. She also supports people affected by PSP, CBD and MSA through connection to care and resources, engagement with volunteers, and growing CurePSP’s initiatives aimed at raising awareness among the general community, healthcare providers and policy makers. Courtney has a Bachelor of Social Work from Michigan State University and an advanced graduate certificate in Public Policy and Public Administration from CUNY School of Labor and Urban Studies. She is passionate about empowering those with atypical parkinsonisms to advocate for themselves and their loved ones and providing accessible educational materials. She lives in New York City and considers herself an aspiring writer — she enjoys writing poems, short stories, and working on her monthly newsletter.

Manager, Support Programs

Joanna Teters
teters@curepsp.org | 347-294-2871

Joanna Teters is the Support Programs Manager, and since joining CurePSP has worn many hats within the Patient and Carepartner Advocacy Department. She supports and provides resources to people affected by a diagnosis of PSP, CBD and MSA and their families. As the Manager of Support Programs, Joanna has focused her attention on meeting the needs of the CurePSP community through programs like the CurePSP Quality of Life Respite Program, the Brain Bank Donation Program, and support groups. She received her degree in professional music and business from Berklee College of Music in Boston, MA, and is an established vocalist, songwriter and performer. If she is not at her desk at CurePSP, she is probably touring with SunDub, Childish Japes or Carrtoons or working on her next album.

Manager, Social Media

Denise Forero
forero@curepsp.org | 347-294-2876

Denise Forero is the Social Media manager and works directly with the Director of Marketing and Communications, Sabrina Da Rocha, in assisting with various campaigns, promoting news and events, and creating digital content. Denise currently manages social media channels, builds and executes social media strategies through research, messaging and audience identification, and maintains a strong voice through various digital platforms. Denise received her bachelor’s degree from Stony Brook University in a Multidisciplinary Study focusing on Health Science, Psychology, and Sociology. After graduating she was an assistant teacher and focused her time on photography, volunteering, and various freelance projects.

Senior Manager, Donor Relations

Alisa A. Hansen
hansen@curepsp.org | 443-578-5670

Alisa Hansen is the Donor Relations Senior Manager. Hansen has been employed in the non-profit sector for fifteen years. Thirteen of those years have been in database management. She has a B.S. in Business Management and Economics from SUNY Empire State College.

Manager, Community Resources

Kelsey Woods
woods@curepsp.org | 443-578-5667

Kelsey Woods is the Community Resource Manager at CurePSP and serves as the Chair of the Community Advisory and Advocacy Committee. Kelsey provides those diagnosed and their families resources on all aspects of the journey through direct phone connections, educational materials, and support groups. She also oversees the national/international volunteer network of support group leaders and peer supporters. Kelsey obtained a BFA in Musical Theatre from Montclair State University.

Manager, Operations

Nancy Caccappolo
caccappolo@curepsp.org | 443-578-5676

Nancy Caccappolo is the Operations Manager at CurePSP. Nancy graduated from Cornell University with a BS in Engineering. She spent 10 years in the professional workforce managing large computer installations, left to move abroad and eventually settled in NYC to raise her two boys.  Nancy spent 15 years in office administration/admissions at a small private preschool in Greenwich Village. When seeking her next career, Nancy focused on the non profit sector and has happily found a home at CurePSP.

Senior Executive Assistant

Deb Walker
walker@curepsp.org 

Deb Walker is the Senior Executive Assistant at CurePSP, playing a pivotal role in supporting Kristophe Diaz, Executive Director and Chief Scientific Officer. She ensures smooth operations and facilitates strategic initiatives that advance the organization’s mission and growth. With a diverse career background, Deb brings a wealth of skills and perspectives that enhance her ability to manage administrative and operational tasks while contributing to broader organizational goals.  Beyond her professional role, Deb has a deep passion for travel and enjoys exploring the back roads of the United States on her motorcycle - an adventurous spirit that mirrors the vibrant energy of New Orleans, the city she calls home.  

Senior Manager, Special Events & Fundraising

Christine Sandford
sandford@curepsp.org | 646-343-9662 

Christine Sandford is the Special Events and Fundraising Senior Manager at CurePSP. She works on the ideation and execution of events that promote fundraising, education, and support within the CurePSP community. Cristine attended Johnson & Wales University in Providence, RI, where she obtained an Associate’s Degree in Baking & Pastry, B.S. in Sports & Event Management, and M.S. in Sport Leadership. Before joining CurePSP, she assisted with the logistics and on-site execution for multiple large-scale sporting events, including the NYC Marathon. When she’s not working, you can find Christine baking, reading, or exploring her local food scene.

Specialist, Marketing and Communications

Oscar Sullivan
sullivan@curepsp.org | 646-204-3742

Oscar Sullivan is the Marketing and Communications Specialist at CurePSP, where he works directly with the Director of Marketing and Communications, Sabrina Da Rocha, as well as the Marketing and Social Media Manager, Denise Ferero, to assist in the day-to-day functions of media relations and all social media channels. He seeks to tell stories and amplify the voices of those within the CurePSP network, strengthening the identity of the organization through newsletters, articles and press releases. Oscar received his bachelor’s degree in English and a minor in Media Studies from Occidental College. He has worked as an Editorial Assistant for the tennis publication Racquet Magazine and is passionate about storytelling. 

Manager, Marketing

Devin Long
long@curepsp.org | 347-387-1121

Devin Long is the Marketing Manager at CurePSP, where he works directly with the Director of Marketing and Communications, Sabrina Da Rocha, and the marketing team to collaborate on a diverse range of marketing initiatives, including website management, social media content, and digital and print campaigns. He contributes to the organization's digital presence through backend website updates, creative content development, photography, and video production while helping maintain meaningful connections with the CurePSP community through various platforms. Drawing from his experience as a former Marketing Specialist at the University of North Carolina Charlotte, Devin brings valuable expertise in event planning, digital communications, and audience engagement to CurePSP. Devin holds a bachelor’s degree in advertising from the University of South Carolina. Driven by his commitment to meaningful work and creating positive change, he applies his creative and technical skills to support CurePSP's mission of improving the lives of those affected by neurodegenerative diseases.

Coordinator, Events

Grace Madover
madover@curepsp.org | 631-708-7110

Grace Madover is the Events Coordinator, where she works with donors and volunteers who are looking to organize local events. She works with Christine to raise awareness in local communities. Grace graduated from University of Maryland with a bachelor’s degree in Communication and a minor in Leadership Studies. During her downtime, she enjoys reading, cycling, and yoga.

Analyst, Healthcare Data & Outcomes Research

Saira Mehra
mehra@curepsp.org 

Saira Mehra is the Healthcare Data & Outcomes Research Analyst at CurePSP, where she partners with stakeholders to develop patient engagement strategies for clinical trials and drive initiatives to assess the economic burden of PSP, CBD, and MSA utilizing data-driven methodologies and community outreach. With a passion for the intersection of science and business, Saira holds a double major in Neuroscience and Economics. Saira is committed to advancing patient health and aspires to pursue an MBA in healthcare to further her impact in the field. 

Information Security Officer

James Bernard
bernard@curepsp.org | 917-922-4126

James Bernard is the Information Security Officer at CurePSP. He has nearly 25 years of experience as a New York City-based financial advisor. He serves high-net-worth investors and corporations through analyzing market trends and comprehensively addressing all aspects of goals-based wealth planning and asset management through Stifel’s full-service platform. James is an active secure member of InfraGard’s New York Metro Chapter (affiliated with the FBI) and an active member with ISACA (Information Systems Audit and Control Association) and OWASP (Open Web Application Security Project). He is a mentor for iQ4’s centralized applied learning platform as a subject matter expert on The Insider Threat, helping students in the Cyber Security programs at Brooklyn College, University at Albany – State University of New York, and The City University of New York. He is also a recent graduate of New York University’s Advanced Diploma in Cybersecurity program. James leverages his knowledge of information technology and governance sector to help ensure best practices and due diligence are continually implemented throughout the wealth management process. James earned a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations from Boston University (BU) and is an active mentor and alumni advocate, as well as a regular host and speaker at the BU Business Networking Breakfast series in New York.