Our Leadership

Guided by experience, compassion, and hope.

Our Board of Directors brings together experience in healthcare, education, business, finance, community advocacy, nonprofit leadership, and life with multiple sclerosis. Each board member contributes a unique perspective while sharing one commitment: helping people affected by MS feel supported, capable, and connected.

Founder & Executive Director

Michelle Keating, RN, MSCN

President and Executive Director

Michelle Keating is a registered nurse, MS-certified educator, advocate, and founder of MS Bright Spots of Hope. Her career includes oncology nursing, patient education, counseling, treatment training, and years of emotional and medical support for people living with MS.

Diagnosed with MS in 1981, Michelle combines professional knowledge with decades of lived experience. Her work has included patient and professional education, published contributions, national presentations, and programs designed to show how connection, creativity, wellness, and positive role models can strengthen hope.

In 2016, she established MS Bright Spots of Hope to turn that belief into an enduring community resource.

Read Full Biography

The Board

Leadership rooted in the community.

Our board helps guide the mission, programs, governance, partnerships, and long-term direction of MS Bright Spots of Hope. Several members live with MS or support someone they love who has MS; others contribute professional skills that keep our programs responsible, inclusive, and aligned with the people we serve.

Cathy Daugherty

Secretary

An educator and Assistant Professor at St. Charles Community College. Diagnosed with MS in 2019, Cathy found MS Bright Spots of Hope while searching for connection during the pandemic.

Read Cathy Daugherty's full bio

She first participated through virtual programs and later became involved in fitness, cycling, dance, social events, and community activities. She serves on the board because she believes deeply in the organization’s mission and wants others to experience the support, hope, and friendship she found in the community.

Gina Fletcher

Board Chair & Programs Administrator

A retired business executive, sales coach, trainer, author, and speaker. After decades living with MS, Gina is known for her hopeful perspective and her encouragement of others facing adversity.

Read Gina Fletcher's full bio

She is the author of Stumble to Rise: My Life Surviving and Thriving With MS and is actively involved in support groups, fundraising, program organization, adaptive cycling, and community outreach. Gina helps plan and support programs while serving as an ambassador for the organization’s message of resilience and possibility.

Dan Shaul

Director

Brings extensive experience in legislative affairs, grocery-industry advocacy, public service, and strategic leadership. His connection is also personal—his wife, Kim, lives with MS.

Read Dan Shaul's full bio

The organization has provided their family with community and support. Dan joined the board to stand alongside people with MS and their support partners while contributing his leadership, advocacy, and community-building experience.

Laurie LeSage-Knight

Treasurer

Brings more than 20 years of experience in accounts payable, accounting, reporting, and analysis. After her MS diagnosis, Laurie found connection through the local MS community and MS Bright Spots of Hope.

Read Laurie LeSage-Knight's full bio

Accessible activities helped her rediscover movement, fitness, and community participation. As Treasurer, Laurie contributes her accounting background, attention to detail, perseverance, and positive energy to the organization.

Rudy Yanuck, MD

Director Emeritus

A retired physician, U.S. Navy veteran, speaker, advocate, and father of six. Diagnosed with MS in 1994, Rudy shares personal stories of challenge, adaptation, triumph, and hope.

Read Rudy Yanuck, MD's full bio

He believes that hearing how others continue to live meaningful lives with chronic illness can be deeply encouraging. Rudy supports the organization’s mission of empowerment, positive connection, and inspiration.

Russ Miller

Director Emeritus

A banking professional and nonprofit volunteer with extensive management experience. His wife lives with MS, giving Russ firsthand understanding of its effect on individuals and families.

Read Russ Miller's full bio

He supports MS Bright Spots of Hope by contributing financial-industry experience, nonprofit knowledge, and a strong belief in the importance of community for people with MS and their support partners.

Governance

Our commitment to responsible leadership.

The Board of Directors is committed to responsible governance, thoughtful stewardship, inclusive community engagement, and the continued delivery of programs that reflect the organization's mission and the needs of people affected by MS.

Annual report and community impact information
Financial transparency information
Governance and conflict-of-interest policies, where appropriate
Contact the board or express interest in board service

Help strengthen our mission.

We welcome partnerships with professionals, community organizations, healthcare leaders, volunteers, sponsors, and advocates who share our commitment to the MS community.

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