FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Mynelly Perez
Director of Marketing & Communications
Huntington’s Disease Society of America (HDSA)
mperez@hdsa.org | (212) 242-1968
Huntington’s Disease Society of America Welcomes Robert Shaw as Chief Development and Field Officer
New York, NY — [November 17, 2025] — The Huntington’s Disease Society of America (HDSA) is proud to announce that Robert Shaw has joined the organization as its new Chief Development and Field Officer.
Robert brings more than 28 years of nonprofit leadership, strategic development, and organizational transformation experience to HDSA. Throughout his distinguished career, he has built a reputation for advancing mission-driven organizations through vision, innovation, and collaboration.
Most recently, Robert served as Chief Executive Officer of Camp Kudzu, Inc., a leading nonprofit dedicated to supporting youth and families living with type 1 diabetes (T1D). During his tenure, he transformed the 25-year-old organization into a robust, year-round operation, expanding its reach from 530 campers to more than 1,500 participants annually.
Robert also played a key leadership role during the merger of the National Parkinson Foundation (NPF) and the Parkinson’s Disease Foundation (PDF). As a member of the Senior Leadership Team for the newly formed Parkinson’s Foundation, he oversaw all national development efforts for the organization’s $30 million fundraising portfolio. Previously, as NPF’s National Director of Signature Events, Robert led the nationwide expansion of Moving Day, A Walk for Parkinson’s—building it into a multimillion-dollar campaign that engaged more than 80,000 participants across the country.
Robert’s earlier leadership roles include President & CEO of the Arthritis Foundation’s Georgia Chapter, Senior Regional Vice President for the Southeast Region, and Executive Director of the Georgia Chapter for Breakthrough T1D (JDRF), where he achieved double-digit revenue growth year over year and launched a successful major gifts program. He began his nonprofit career with the American Heart Association, where he rose through regional leadership roles and managed large-scale community fundraising initiatives.
A strategic and people-focused leader, Robert is recognized for his expertise in operational excellence, financial management, strategic partnerships, and culture development. His leadership philosophy centers on empowering teams, fostering collaboration, and creating sustainable impact for the communities he serves.
“Robert’s proven track record in fundraising innovation and organizational growth, combined with his deep commitment to mission-driven work, make him a tremendous addition to HDSA’s leadership team,” said Amy Gray, President & CEO of HDSA. “We are thrilled to welcome him as we continue to expand our reach, strengthen our field network, and advance our mission to improve the lives of everyone affected by Huntington’s disease.”
Robert holds a Bachelor of Science in Journalism from the University of Florida and completed executive studies at Columbia University’s Institute for Not-for-Profit Management.
“I am deeply honored to join HDSA and contribute to its powerful mission,” said Shaw. “The work being done to support families, advance research, and drive advocacy for the Huntington’s disease community is truly inspiring. I look forward to working alongside the dedicated HDSA team and partners across the country to help accelerate progress and create lasting impact.”
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About the Huntington’s Disease Society of America (HDSA)
The Huntington’s Disease Society of America is the premier nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of everyone affected by Huntington’s disease (HD). From community support and education to advocacy and research, HDSA is leading the way to a better life for people with HD and their families. To learn more, visit www.HDSA.org.
