Meet the National Council of College Leaders

National Council of College Leaders (NCCL) works to increase awareness of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis through youth-focused advocacy and fundraising. Youth leaders become advocates for patients through local and national campaigns. Council members also identify new fundraising opportunities on their campus and are responsible for meeting a minimum fundraising goal each year, while supporting and increasing support for existing programs. NCCL members will develop leadership skills and prepare for even larger roles as advocates for people with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

 

Jacqueline Park - NCCL Co-Chair

School: University of Utah

Major: Computer Science with Minors in Psychology and Disabilities Studies

Hometown: Salt Lake City, Utah

 

Hi everyone! My name is Jacqueline Park, but everyone calls me Jacque. I'm a sophomore at the University of Utah. I'm pursuing Computer Science in hopes of being a part of the data analysis side of medical research, specifically within autoimmune disorders diagnosed in pediatrics. I was diagnosed with indeterminate colitis in January of 2020, so I just passed my three year anniversary of my diagnosis! At first, I just wanted to be normal; I tried to hide my illness behind a facade of normalcy because I didn't want my peers to see me differently. But as I continued to get sicker, and my hospital visits became more frequent, it became harder to pretend I was okay. Eventually, after a year of suffering in silence, I told my story via social media, and the outpour of love and support was overwhelming.

 

Sharing my experience with IBD with the people I care about helped me accept my diagnosis and the life-altering effects it will have. Overall though, the last three years have been an absolute rollercoaster; I've had multiple scopes and procedures and too many needle pokes to count. I've tried different steroids and three different biologics before I found one that seems to work (I've been on it for a year and a half now!). Now, my inflammation levels are down and I'm in clinical remission, which means I've been able to resume regular daily activity. IBD forced me to grow up at a speed much faster than my peers as I became accustomed to medical jargon, a different life regime, and constant medication changes and visits, but I also became more emotionally resilient and strong in the face of adversity.

 

Being diagnosed with IBD has given me this newfound confidence in who I am. This is why I joined the NCCL; I wanted to use my voice, and my experiences, to advocate for such a negatively stigmatized disease. Now, as the co-chair of the group, I'm excited to continue our efforts to find a cure for IBD! I'm so thankful for this group of amazingly strong individuals!

Macy Stahl - NCCL Co-Chair

School: University of Virginia

Major: Kinesiology

Hometown: Fairfax, Virginia

 

My name is Macy Stahl, and I am a senior at the University of Virginia. I have always been fascinated by science, and my experiences with IBD have inspired me to pursue a kinesiology major on the path towards a career in exercise physiology and clinical research. During my time at UVA, I have become fascinated by the impact that lifestyle factors like physical activity and nutrition can play in someone's journey with Crohn's. I plan to continue my studies after I graduate by studying the impact that these lifestyle factors have on inflammatory conditions like IBD.

 

My personal journey with IBD began when I was diagnosed at age eight. I was quickly launched into a confusing world of medications, doctors, and symptoms. Through the years, my journey with IBD has had many highs and lows. From hospitalizations to frightening biologic reactions, Crohn's has been a tough beast to fight, but I have also gained immense strength and lifelong bonds as a silver lining. Over time, I have made the effort to not let IBD dictate my actions, but I have allowed it to drive my passions. Through my years with Crohn's I have recognized the power of community in fighting a chronic illness. These experiences have shaped my desire to cultivate a community of awareness that reaches all those who have been diagnosed with IBD. Although all of our stories may be vastly different, we are all in need of support and love.

Rebecca Knuteson - NCCL Co-Chair Elect

School: Indiana University

Major: Human Biology with Minor in Spanish

Hometown: Indianapolis, IN

 

Hi! My name is Becca Knuteson. Currently, I am a freshman at Indiana University majoring in nursing. My diagnosis of Crohn’s Disease has inspired me to pursue a career as a pediatric gastroenterologist nurse practitioner. I am passionate about advocating for children and teenagers with IBD who need a voice, and as a nurse practitioner, I want to make a direct impact in the lives of patients by becoming their source of care and a friend to walk alongside them on their journey. 
My personal journey with Crohn's Disease began when I was 17. In January of 2023, I was diagnosed with Crohn's after multiple stays in the hospital and my fair share of endoscopies and testing. On my day of diagnosis, the doctor walked into the hospital room with a massive folder. I soon discovered that the folder had over ten brochures from the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation inside of it, and I spent the next hour reading every word and learning everything I possibly could about my disease. From that day on, I knew I wanted to be a part of the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation because on my worst day, it was my only source of knowledge and hope. I am so excited to be a member of the NCCL and be a part of an amazing team providing resources and hope to patients just like me. 

Aaron Orgel - NCCL Advocacy Chair

School: Vanderbilt University

Major: Biochemistry with Minor in Medicine, Health and Society

Hometown: Lincoln, MA

 

Hi – I’m Aaron Orgel and I’m currently a sophomore at Vanderbilt University studying biochemistry with a minor in public health. I am following a pre-med track and I am hoping to pursue a career in medicine. I was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease when I was six years old after experiencing intense symptoms that many are all too familiar with: stomach pain, frequent bathroom trips, and a general inability to focus on typical activities of a first grader. In fact, that first year, I missed more than half the school year. After years of trying new medications with hopes of success and succumbing to failure, I finally found the right combination to keep me healthy. I’m happy to say that I’ve been in remission for nearly five years! 

My 13 year struggle with Crohn's has repeatedly taught me that in the physical battle between my stomach and my will, my stomach might win at any given moment, but it is my will that defines me. Today, my battle with Crohn’s is a success story, but I know that some people are not as lucky. I’m excited to be on this board to help promote advocacy, awareness and fundraising, and shed light on the illness and how it affects me and millions of others, with the ultimate goal of one day finding a cure.

Saanvi Gupte - NCCL Marketing & Communications Chair

School: North Carolina State University

Major: Biochemistry

Hometown: Cary, North Carolina

 

Hi everyone! My name is Saanvi and I’m a sophomore at NC State University. I was diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis in June 2020. My symptoms came on around the same time we entered the pandemic. Starting from March 2020, I faced about 3 1/2 months of uncertainty with what was going on within my body. My grandfather also has Ulcerative Colitis but his diagnosis was over 40 years ago, when the only option was surgery, so my family didn’t really know what exactly I was going through.

 

Due to the family history, I was lucky enough to get diagnosed within the first few appointments. This didn’t make it any easier however. The amount of information that was thrown at me, was overwhelming, we were all in lock down and I felt very isolated. I couldn’t explain what was occurring to my friends, because I feared they wouldn’t understand. The first medication I was placed on worked for about 6 months, during those 6 months I faced extreme denial. I assumed since this medication was working, I was fixed, I was back to being who I was just one year ago. That was not the case. Soon enough, I entered another flare, the medication was no longer working. After a switch of medication, in 4 months I was able to reach some stability once again.

 

Thanks to my doctor, I was able to feel less alone. I joined my hospital’s IBD patient support group where I was introduced to the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation. I was amazed to see how many people shared similar experiences and feelings, it made me feel more connected and less alone. My first real involvement with the Foundation was through the NCCL. I’m so thankful for this opportunity because it allowed me to connect with others my age and also be the voice for people who are currently facing the same fears that I did just two years ago.

 

My diagnosis pushed me to want to pursue a career in research, as a way to give back to those who have done so much to me. It’s not easy going through an IBD diagnosis, especially if you don’t fully understand what’s going on. You may feel isolated and frustrated that you have no one to connect with on this. I’m so grateful to have found this community that makes me feel supported and am grateful for the opportunity to advocate, educate, and raise awareness for IBD. I hope that sharing my story can help others, as the way other’s stories once did for me!

Divya Mehrish - NCCL Education Chair

School: Stanford University

Major: Comparative Literature & Science, Technology, and Society

Hometown: New York, New York

 

My name is Divya Mehrish, and I am a student at Stanford University. Fascinated by interdisciplinary studies, I am pursuing a double major in Comparative Literature and Science, Technology, and Society. I was diagnosed with fulminant Ulcerative Colitis in 2015, when I was thirteen years old. Just avoiding a colectomy, I struggled through colonoscopies, trials of various biologics, and extensive hospitalizations. It was then that storytelling became my vessel. Building new universes and characters, I reinterpreted difficult memories from new perspectives. I learned to feel outside of myself.

 

Creative writing is a form of cathartic communication—it’s a way to tell one’s story. I’ve used writing to teach others about empathy, promote understanding about chronic illness, and reduce stigma. Writing has helped me advocate for myself at school, at home, and in medical settings. My experiences have helped me appreciate that each person faces unique circumstances, struggling in their own way. The connections I have formed with others inspire me to use language with a sensitive heart and to embolden others to be revolutionary with their own words.

 

To that end, I plan to focus on Medical Humanities. This field draws on the humanities’ creative and intellectual strengths to influence healthcare and day-to-day medical practice by focusing on the humanity behind a patient’s unique experience with illness. I want to revolutionize how medicine engages—physically, emotionally, and spiritually—with patients. My ulcerative colitis has become my platform, my secret weapon—the strength I’ve gained in my journey has made me more confident in my voice and more resilient. But while these experiences contribute to my identity, they do not define me. I’m more than a chronic illness. I’m an individual who grows, learns, and evolves daily.

Johnnie Murphy - NCCL Revenue Chair

School: Miami University 

Major: Business- Human Capital, Management, and Leadership

Hometown: North Canton, Ohio

 

My name Is Johnnie Murphy, I am a freshman at Miami University studying Business- Human Capital, Management, and Leadership.  I was diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease in second grade. Before my diagnosis, I stopped growing, could not eat, and had near-constant stomach pain. I endured about 4 months of testing before being diagnosed with Crohn’s disease. Shortly after my diagnosis, I went to Camp Oasis. At Oasis I made many friends and a community of IBD warriors. I also used many Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation resources to learn more about Crohn's Disease and treatments for the disease. I found, with the help of my Gastroenterologist, that a gluten-free diet combined with an autoimmune suppressant and many vitamins helped reduce my symptoms.

 

I was so grateful for the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation that my 3 best friends and I started a fundraising team for Take Steps. We have continued to fundraise every year since. The Take Steps event has further expanded my IBD warrior community. I have also participated in state and federal level Day on the Hill events to lobby Congress for crucial legislation for the IBD community.

 

The Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation has inspired me to pursue a career in nonprofit business and has grown my passion for helping others. I am also passionate about hockey, mountain biking, hiking, reading, and musical theater. I am so excited to be a member of the NCCL and hope to inspire others to build communities for support and empowerment.

Anna Noto

School: University of the Pacific

Major: Computer Engineering

Hometown: Long Island, New York

 

My name is Anna and I am a third year student at University of the Pacific in Stockton, California, but I’m from New York! I am majoring in Computer Engineering and a Brother in Theta Tau, a Co-Ed Professional Engineering Fraternity. I am also a member of Pacific Legal Scholars which is like an honors version of pre-law. I hope to one day have a career that connects technology and criminal justice. I am involved with both the Long Island and Greater New York Chapter at the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation and am so honored to be a member of the NCCL where I am part of the Advocacy Workgroup.

 

I was diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis when I was 16 years old but had been showing symptoms since I was 5 years old. While I have not yet achieved remission, I am hopeful that it is in my near future. I currently receive infusions every 7 weeks and take daily medication to help manage my disease. I have struggled a lot mentally with IBD, but have been helped by Camp Oasis, connections I’ve made through NCCL, and the foundation's support groups. Camp Oasis is something I look forward to all year! I was once an LIT and am now a Cabin Counselor. While camp is only one week out of the year, the family I have created there is constant.

 

My journey has had highs and lows, but it has only made me stronger in the long run. IBD has allowed me to develop my passion for advocacy and education, especially in the undiagnosed community. I love meeting with legislators during Day on the Hill as I believe having legislation to protect IBD patients is one of the most important things to advocate for. Aside from legislative advocacy, I was also a Mission Moment Speaker for a donor event with the Long Island Chapter. I was able to share my story and how the foundation has helped me throughout my journey with so many people. Being able to see the immediate response at this event made me feel like all the education, advocacy, and fundraising work I do is truly working.

Carter Cojei

School: University of Michigan

Major: Business Administration - Focusing in Strategy + Marketing

Hometown: South Lyon, Michigan

 

Hello! My name is Carter Cojei, and I am a Junior at the University of Michigan. I was diagnosed in 2005 at the age of four with Crohn’s Disease. I was quickly put on medications, some of which helped for a short period while others didn’t work at all. After trying everything from diets, tube feedings, and medications, I had a severe flare that led to me being hospitalized in 2009. I continued to get worse during this admission, rapidly losing significant amounts of blood and weight. About a week into this admission, I was left with no choice but to have my colon removed and have an ileostomy created. Of course, being only eight years old at the time, I was extremely nervous about having an ileostomy and what my life would look like with it. Fortunately, a few months later, I was back to playing soccer and running around like a reckless kid, which I’m sure freaked out my parents a little bit.

 

From here, things got better for about a year until my symptoms started slowly creeping back. After performing many tests, the doctors saw that my Crohn’s had spread into my small intestine. I was quickly put back on a biologic that previously hadn’t worked for the Crohn’s affecting my colon. Luckily, this time it worked for my small intestines, and I am currently still on this biologic twelve years later. Of course, I've had several bumps in the road since the removal of my colon in 2009. One year after my ileostomy was created, I had a prolapse of my small intestine, which required surgery. Also, I have had two stoma revision surgeries (2018 and 2019) and one peristomal hernia surgery (2020). But, most recently, in 2021, I had the rest of my rectal stump removed after the disease had spread severely and caused many problems. With that surgery, my ileostomy is now permanent. But, my ileostomy has improved my quality of life dramatically, and I can’t see living life without it!

 

Through all of this, I had participated in several events with the foundation, like the Take Steps events. I am incredibly excited to be a part of the NCCL and represent the foundation going forward to help all those suffering from IBD!

Connor Hubbe

School: University of Pennsylvania

Major: Politics, Philosophy, and Economics

Hometown: New York, New York

 

My name is Connor Hubbe and I am a freshman at The University of Pennsylvania. For years I have witnessed my Mom’s struggle with Crohn’s disease searching for a way to help her and one day find a cure. I began in 2015 by participating in Take Steps walks and joining a Crohn’s and Colitis teen group to think of ways to raise awareness in high schools across New York City. As my Mom struggled to find medication that was right for her, going in and out of hospitals for treatment, I became determined to increase my involvement. By the time I started high school I created a non-profit sock company called Socks For Change, where all the profits would be donated towards research. The use of colorful designs and branded ‘Take Steps’ socks were meant to spark discussion and raise awareness. I also had the chance to approach advocacy from a legislative side, lobbying on Capitol Hill for the Safe Step Act and Medical Nutrition Equity Act. Speaking with other patients and lobbyists inspired me to continue my advocacy as a caregiver. I could relate many of their stories to the struggles I witnessed my Mom go through, and heard of some that were even worse. I am excited to continue to tackle raising awareness at Penn and creating a better future for patients like my mom as a member of the NCCL.

Kaylaa' White

School: New York University

Major: Dramatic Writing

Hometown: Prince George, Virginia

 

Kaylaa’ White is an ulcerative colitis warrior, writer, and creative, always looking for avenues to learn more while creating spaces and advocating for those from underrepresented backgrounds. 
After being diagnosed with ulcerative colitis in May 2020, and trying various medication treatments, she decided to undergo a three-step IPAA/J-pouch surgery. Due to complications, her number of surgeries has increased from three, but she's hoping she'll be able to return to college and continue her studies on campus. 
Since she's been diagnosed she's experienced a wide variety of trauma directly related to ulcerative colitis, a lack of understanding and/or believing that her illness was serious, having her rights as a patient ignored and minimized by providers, and has witnessed the spread and effects of misinformation about IBD. Through the NCCL she is hoping to aid others with navigating these obstacles while promoting diversity in the IBD community. 
She is currently pursuing a BFA in Dramatic Writing at New York University’s Tisch School of The Arts. To follow her work more closely and connect, you can find her on Instagram and TikTok @wildflouwir 

Nathan Marohn

School: Butler University

Major: Chemistry (Pre-Med)

Hometown: Saint Joseph, Michigan

 

HI! My name is Nathan Marohn and I am a sophomore at Butler University in Indianapolis, Indiana. I am majoring in Chemistry on a Pre-Medical track with a minor in Biology. This is my second year on the NCCL Board and I am so excited to have the opportunity to share my voice with the IBD world and make a difference! I was diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis when I was in 6th grade (12 years old). I was on numerous medications and constantly in and out of the hospital. At the start of my freshman year of high school, I had to have surgery due to my body developing antibodies against all of my medications and I was left with no more medication-therapy options. I ended up having my large intestine, appendix, and all but 0.5cm of my rectum removed and I lived with an ileostomy for almost all of high school. Now, I have gotten rid of my ostomy and feel awesome!

 

This terrible 9 year battle with my Ulcerative Colitis really opened my eyes to how severe a disease like this can be and to what extent it can have on an individual's life both physically and mentally. By joining this board, I feel like I am able to share my story on a much bigger scale and help spread awareness about this disease so that individuals do not have to go through what I had to go through during my teenage years of life. I want to be an advocate for the IBD community as a whole and I am passionate about making change in the IBD world!

Nathan Moy

School: University of Southern California

Major: Biological Sciences

Hometown: Los Altos, California

 

My name is Nathan Moy and I am from Los Altos, California. I am currently a junior at the University of Southern California, majoring in Biology and minoring in Applied Analytics. I am interested in IBD research and patient care, and hope to pursue a career in medicine in the future. I was diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis (soon changed to Crohn’s) in 2018, following a sudden onset of symptoms during my junior year of high school. After moving through first line treatments, I was put on a long course of steroids to try to control my disease. However, side effects and complications soon made it a struggle to get through the school day and swim practice. I eventually switched to infusion treatment that finally got me on the path towards remission. Just when I had finally begun to settle into my life with Crohn’s, the Covid-19 pandemic began.

 

As an immunocompromised person, it was scary to navigate such an unprecedented situation. However, one thing it helped me realize is that I wanted to get more involved with the Crohn’s and Colitis community to make sure others are aware of the resources and support available to them. As a NCCL member, I have been able to directly contribute IBD outreach and awareness. This platform has allowed me to educate others about my condition, and I am grateful to work with such a driven and like minded group of people. I want to show other young adults with IBD that you don’t have to let your condition hold you back. You can achieve anything you want, and we will be there to support you!

Rachael Lanning

School: University of South Carolina

Major: Biology with Minor in Anthropology

Hometown: Victor, New York

 

My name is Rachael Lanning and I have been a student at the University of South Carolina since Fall 2022. I am an Anthropology major and History minor and am in the Honors College. In the future, I hope to go into museum work! I am from Victor, NY, and my passions include dance, yoga, hiking, and music. I am an on-air DJ and rarely am I not listening to music!
I was diagnosed with Crohn's disease at 5 years old and have been in remission since I was around 6. It is hard to remember life without Crohn's, and I currently manage symptoms through medications. Since being in college, my view of IBD has really changed because I never realized how much my symptoms would affect my social life. 
I have really found a lot of things in the past year that have helped my mental health because my symptoms increase a lot when I am stressed or anxious, it's easy to find me doing yoga or going for a walk! Realizing the impact IBD has had in my life has made me very motivated to help others find a community with similar experiences.

Ram Sundaram

School: Boston University

Major: Biology & Public Health

Hometown: St. Charles, Missouri

 

My name is Ram Sundaram. I am a Junior studying Biology and Public Health at Boston University. I was diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease at the start of 2019. After failing many medications, therapies, and lifestyle changes; we have now found what works for me and I am back to doing a lot of the things I love. Prior to finding this combination, I was in a flare that spanned over years and landed me in the hospital a bunch during that time. I initially refused to accept that this disease was part of me; I just longed for normalcy, to be able to get back to sports, school, and going out with friends properly. As my hospital stays went on, I witnessed chronically ill children, just about half my age, with smiles on their faces and enjoying their lives as much as they could. Only then did I accept the fact that this disease would be a part of me for the long run, and that I shouldn’t let it define me but rather make the most of the situation like those kids.

 

All in all, this has been a humbling experience, I learned to not take anything for granted, from things as simple as getting out of bed to eating food. I also really learned the value of not wanting more but rather giving; the endless support I received from a few people meant the world to me and really helped me get through my rough times. The NCCL allows me to return this support and be there for those who need it, and raise much-needed awareness.

Riya Bahadur

School: University of California Berkeley

Major: Molecular and Cell Biology and Business

Hometown: Sherborn, MA

 

Hi! My name is Riya Bahadur, and I am a student at the University of California, Berkeley. I am currently pursuing a double major in Molecular and Cell Biology, with an emphasis on Immunology and Molecular Medicine, and Business Administration. I was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis in 2016 when I was 12 years old. My interest in biology stems from my experiences of living with a chronic illness and my desire to conduct research and make a difference in the realm of IBD, searching for insight into my own disease and others. There is much unknown about the disease, especially in pediatrics, and which possible treatments are the most effective and available. I have yet to find a combination of therapeutics that would work for me, even after seven years, and I know that my experience is not uncommon either. It is the frustrations and challenges that I have faced as a result of IBD that motivate me to tackle these issues for future generations. As a patient, I have become a student of the human body in relation to my illness and have participated in fundraising efforts to fund research into my disease. In addition, since my diagnosis, I have been heavily involved in Camp Oasis, a summer camp for children with inflammatory bowel disease, first as a camper and now as a leader. It was surprising to me how fast campers, who had never met each other before, became comfortable talking about the most intimate aspects of their lives. The community built around the shared experience of living with an invisible chronic illness was vibrant, allowing its members to feel like normal kids. Being in the presence of people who can fully empathize with you and understand what you go through makes you feel lighter and as if there is a weight lifted off your shoulders. I always aim to make individuals feel as comfortable as possible and hope to foster a culture of kindness and respect in every space I am in. Also, my involvement in this community provided me with the strength and support to cope with the realities of my disease. I am honored to be a part of NCCL and excited to work alongside the inspiring student leaders to make an impact and advocate for those like me.

 

What is Expected of the NCCL:

Through a variety of initiatives, the NCCL increases awareness via the following areas:

 

Advocacy: During the Foundation’s annual legislative Day on the Hill in Washington, D.C., the NCCL will engage (virtually or in-person) with the IBD community.

 

Marketing and Communications: In an effort to increase awareness and reach to college-aged students, the NCCL will use on-line tools such as social media and the Campus Connection website to help connect patients to helpful resources offered by the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation.

 

Education: Members of the NCCL will introduce their efforts on campus by hosting educational programs and student forums that aim to provide an introduction to inflammatory bowel diseases, told through the experiences of each council member, while connecting patients with other peers. The activity can be used in various formats, including live didactic presentations, webcasts, and theatrical performances.

 

Revenue: Council members will lead efforts in raising funds to find a cure for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Council members can participate in Team Challenge Campus, a local 5K program focused on raising mission critical funds while having fun and being physically active.

Applicant Eligibility & Requirements

At the time of application, the applicant must:

  1. Be a Freshman or Sophomore in college
  2. Be a patient with Inflammatory Bowel Disease OR be a sibling, child, or caregiver of a patient with IBD
  3. Demonstrate qualifications in the following areas:
    • Dedication to volunteerism (including with the Foundation if applicable)
    • Leadership experience
    • Academic strength
  4. Demonstrate enthusiasm for advocacy and impacting the lives of peers in the IBD community

Selected council members are expected to attend at least two annual meetings (selected locations across the country), participate in monthly update calls, become involved with a local chapter, and serve as a Foundation leader/liaison to other youth in the IBD community.

Application Review Process

All applications are reviewed by a review committee based on the demonstrated qualifications outlined above. Qualified candidates will then be scheduled for a phone interview, and final decisions are announced in late-March. Please be advised that incomplete applications are not reviewed or accepted. Youth leaders serve as advocates for patients through local and national campaigns. The NCCL also creates new fundraising opportunities, while supporting and increasing support for existing programs. Members develop leadership skills and prepare for even larger roles as advocates for people living with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

 

In addition, the Foundation and its youth leadership also provides support for college students who are living with Inflammatory Bowel Disease. When a student goes off to college, they are living on their own for the first time and will face many new challenges including new doctors, new teachers, new friends, as well as new food choices. At most campuses across the country, there is little support to help these students. As a result, the Foundation created an online community to close this gap.

 

The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation is committed to accelerating efforts within our organization and within the healthcare community to root out systemic racism and support communities of color. IBD impacts everyone regardless of gender, race, or ethnicity and we want to ensure the National Council of College Leaders (NCCL) reflects the diversity of the IBD Community. We are seeking applicants with a wide range of experiences and our goal is to ensure applicants from all backgrounds are encouraged to consider applying for and serving on the NCCL.