Arthritis Foundation Awards Advocate Volunteers at Advocacy Summit
The Foundation’s biennial event for Advocates educates, empowers and elicits congressional change for the arthritis community while honoring some of its most dedicated members.
By Ayesha Ahmed | Sept. 25, 2025
Nearly 110 Advocates from over 30 states gathered for the Arthritis Foundation’s Advocacy Summit, sponsored by Novartis and Bristol Myers Squibb. The Advocacy Summit is the biennial signature event that brings together patients, caregivers and providers, preparing them to visit Capitol Hill and advocate on behalf of key priority issues that create a life without limits for patients with arthritis on a legislative level. The event also recognizes Advocates who go above and beyond to drive change for the arthritis community.
“While data and research inform policy, it is personal stories that bring urgency and humanity to the issues at hand,” says Arthritis Foundation President and CEO Steven Taylor. “By speaking openly about your experiences, you give lawmakers a deeper understanding of the real impact of their decisions — and you help pave the way for meaningful change. Change depends on people like you — courageous enough to speak, committed enough to act and united enough to be heard. Together, we can make sure arthritis remains not just seen but also impossible to ignore.”
Emerging Leader in Advocacy Award: Inspiring the Next Generation
The Arthritis Foundation’s Emerging Leader in Advocacy Award honors outstanding young individuals (21 and under) who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to advancing the arthritis cause. These young Advocates step forward as powerful voices in their communities by raising awareness, engaging elected officials and inspiring peers to act. Their efforts not only elevate the Foundation’s mission but also pave the way for the next generation of arthritis champions.
Gabriella R. received the 2025 Emerging Leader in Advocacy Award. Gabriella, of Utah, is a 14-year-old Junior Ambassador. Her diagnosis with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) and ankylosing spondylitis at age 9 has shaped her into a passionate Advocate and leader.
Gabriella faced many hardships through her chronic illness journey, but she turned her ailments into action. She has spoken before her city council, met with her mayor to discuss accessibility for people with hidden disabilities and shared her story with federal lawmakers, encouraging them to support legislation benefiting families like hers. One of her most impactful moments was testifying at a Utah state judiciary committee hearing in favor of a copay assistance bill, where she spoke between representatives of the state’s largest insurance carriers. Witnessing politics firsthand strengthened her passion for legislative advocacy.
This Emerging Leader is involved in her local community by meeting with school superintendents and school officials to spread awareness about JIA and how school systems can support students living with arthritis. Despite her diagnosis, she maintains a 4.0 GPA, is on the honor roll and is proud to be a Level 6 gymnast in the USA gymnastics program. Gabriella sets an extremely high standard for future Junior Ambassadors and continuously meets and exceeds the high caliber of dedication, performance and passion previous Emerging Leader awardees have always demonstrated.
Edward M. Kennedy Advocacy Leadership Award: Honoring Service Through Advocacy
The Arthritis Foundation’s Edward M. Kennedy Advocacy Leadership Award is presented in memory of Sen. Kennedy’s lifelong dedication to public service and his enduring commitment to those in need. This award recognizes individuals who exemplify outstanding leadership in arthritis advocacy, demonstrating both passion and perseverance in advancing the mission of the Arthritis Foundation. Through measurable action, these individuals embody the values of service, leadership and advocacy that Sen. Kennedy championed throughout his career.
Rosann Winn, of Colorado, received an Edward M. Kennedy Advocacy Leadership Award. Rosann became involved in arthritis advocacy after her daughter Emily was diagnosed with systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis in 2009 at the age of 8. Rosann and Emily first attended the Advocacy Summit together in 2017. Since then, Rosann has continued to attend, and she has been a Platinum Ambassador since 2018.
Additionally, Rosann has served as the Colorado arthritis advocacy chair and on the local leadership board for the Colorado and Wyoming region since 2019. As Colorado state advocacy chair, Rosann has demonstrated exceptional leadership, guiding her state through the coordination of August Recess activities and ensuring that new families feel supported and welcomed into the advocacy community. Rosann has also played a pivotal role in mentoring college-level Advocates, helping them remain engaged as they transition from the Junior Ambassador program. In a state marked by dynamic legislation, studies and listening sessions, this leader has consistently risen to the occasion, often addressing advocacy needs before requests even reach her. Rosann’s proactive commitment and unwavering dedication have made her an invaluable champion for arthritis advocacy.
Lauren McAllister, of Tennessee, also received an Edward M. Kennedy Advocacy Leadership Award. She says that advocacy gave her an outlet for her passion for conquering arthritis, inspired by her little sister and best friend, Kristen (“Kmac”), who battles lupus daily. Lauren has emerged as a powerful voice for the arthritis community, serving as both a speaker and panelist at numerous events, including the Arthritis Foundation’s JA Family Summit.
She is relentless in her efforts to advance arthritis research — whether through emails, social media, testimony on Capitol Hill or sharing her personal story whenever possible. As state advocacy chair, Lauren is dedicated to raising awareness and keeping advocacy efforts at the forefront. Always eager to contribute, she volunteers for surveys, interviews and new initiatives, ensuring the arthritis community’s voice is heard. With a welcoming spirit and a heart of gold, Lauren has an extraordinary ability to put others at ease, mentor new families and foster a sense of belonging within the Arthritis Foundation. Lauren has co-captained Kmac’s Crew for the Knoxville Jingle Bell Run alongside her sister, the 2015 national honoree. Together, the sisters have raised more than $100,000 in Kristen’s name. Lauren also serves on the Tennessee Arthritis Foundation board and Jingle Bell Run planning committee for Knoxville and she is a Platinum Ambassador.
Pam Fields Legacy Award: Carrying the Torch of Advocacy
The Arthritis Foundation’s Pam Fields Legacy Award honors volunteers, staff and stakeholders who embody the lasting spirit of advocacy. Inspired by Pam Fields’ more than 20 years of dedicated service, this award recognizes those who, like Pam, build meaningful connections with patients, elevate their stories and help tailor advocacy strategies that make a difference. Awardees reflect Pam’s enduring legacy of compassion, leadership and commitment to advancing the mission of the Arthritis Foundation.
Deb Constien, of Wisconsin, was presented with the Pam Fields Legacy Award. She was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis at just 13 and has transformed her journey into a lifelong mission of service. A medically retired registered dietitian with degrees in dietetics and biology, she has dedicated herself to advocacy at every level. She currently serves on the Platinum Ambassador taskforce, the national advocacy committee and is a nine-time Platinum Ambassador. She also co-chairs the national advocacy committee, guiding the efforts and strategic direction of the Arthritis Foundation advocacy program. Her leadership extends further as advocacy state chair of Wisconsin and as a committed member of the Wisconsin coalition for All Copays Count, as well as using her dietetic degree to help design menus for JA Camps. She has spoken at press conferences, testified before both legislative houses and lent her voice to the International Foundation for Autoimmune & Inflammatory Arthritis (AiArthritis) to amplify patient perspectives. Deb’s leadership will leave a lasting legacy on the Arthritis Foundation advocacy program.
Congressional Leadership Award: Champions on Capitol Hill
The Arthritis Foundation also presented the Congressional Leadership Award to Sens. Maggie Hassen (New Hampshire) and Lisa Murkowski (Alaska) for their efforts on the Safe Step Act. This award is presented to members of Congress or legislative staff who have demonstrated outstanding commitment to advancing policies that benefit the arthritis community. By championing legislation, shaping policy and working to ensure the voices of patients are heard, these leaders play a vital role in moving the needle for millions impacted by arthritis.
Nearly 110 Advocates from over 30 states gathered for the Arthritis Foundation’s Advocacy Summit, sponsored by Novartis and Bristol Myers Squibb. The Advocacy Summit is the biennial signature event that brings together patients, caregivers and providers, preparing them to visit Capitol Hill and advocate on behalf of key priority issues that create a life without limits for patients with arthritis on a legislative level. The event also recognizes Advocates who go above and beyond to drive change for the arthritis community.
“While data and research inform policy, it is personal stories that bring urgency and humanity to the issues at hand,” says Arthritis Foundation President and CEO Steven Taylor. “By speaking openly about your experiences, you give lawmakers a deeper understanding of the real impact of their decisions — and you help pave the way for meaningful change. Change depends on people like you — courageous enough to speak, committed enough to act and united enough to be heard. Together, we can make sure arthritis remains not just seen but also impossible to ignore.”
Emerging Leader in Advocacy Award: Inspiring the Next Generation
The Arthritis Foundation’s Emerging Leader in Advocacy Award honors outstanding young individuals (21 and under) who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to advancing the arthritis cause. These young Advocates step forward as powerful voices in their communities by raising awareness, engaging elected officials and inspiring peers to act. Their efforts not only elevate the Foundation’s mission but also pave the way for the next generation of arthritis champions.
Gabriella R. received the 2025 Emerging Leader in Advocacy Award. Gabriella, of Utah, is a 14-year-old Junior Ambassador. Her diagnosis with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) and ankylosing spondylitis at age 9 has shaped her into a passionate Advocate and leader.
Gabriella faced many hardships through her chronic illness journey, but she turned her ailments into action. She has spoken before her city council, met with her mayor to discuss accessibility for people with hidden disabilities and shared her story with federal lawmakers, encouraging them to support legislation benefiting families like hers. One of her most impactful moments was testifying at a Utah state judiciary committee hearing in favor of a copay assistance bill, where she spoke between representatives of the state’s largest insurance carriers. Witnessing politics firsthand strengthened her passion for legislative advocacy.
This Emerging Leader is involved in her local community by meeting with school superintendents and school officials to spread awareness about JIA and how school systems can support students living with arthritis. Despite her diagnosis, she maintains a 4.0 GPA, is on the honor roll and is proud to be a Level 6 gymnast in the USA gymnastics program. Gabriella sets an extremely high standard for future Junior Ambassadors and continuously meets and exceeds the high caliber of dedication, performance and passion previous Emerging Leader awardees have always demonstrated.
Edward M. Kennedy Advocacy Leadership Award: Honoring Service Through Advocacy
The Arthritis Foundation’s Edward M. Kennedy Advocacy Leadership Award is presented in memory of Sen. Kennedy’s lifelong dedication to public service and his enduring commitment to those in need. This award recognizes individuals who exemplify outstanding leadership in arthritis advocacy, demonstrating both passion and perseverance in advancing the mission of the Arthritis Foundation. Through measurable action, these individuals embody the values of service, leadership and advocacy that Sen. Kennedy championed throughout his career.
Rosann Winn, of Colorado, received an Edward M. Kennedy Advocacy Leadership Award. Rosann became involved in arthritis advocacy after her daughter Emily was diagnosed with systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis in 2009 at the age of 8. Rosann and Emily first attended the Advocacy Summit together in 2017. Since then, Rosann has continued to attend, and she has been a Platinum Ambassador since 2018.
Additionally, Rosann has served as the Colorado arthritis advocacy chair and on the local leadership board for the Colorado and Wyoming region since 2019. As Colorado state advocacy chair, Rosann has demonstrated exceptional leadership, guiding her state through the coordination of August Recess activities and ensuring that new families feel supported and welcomed into the advocacy community. Rosann has also played a pivotal role in mentoring college-level Advocates, helping them remain engaged as they transition from the Junior Ambassador program. In a state marked by dynamic legislation, studies and listening sessions, this leader has consistently risen to the occasion, often addressing advocacy needs before requests even reach her. Rosann’s proactive commitment and unwavering dedication have made her an invaluable champion for arthritis advocacy.
Lauren McAllister, of Tennessee, also received an Edward M. Kennedy Advocacy Leadership Award. She says that advocacy gave her an outlet for her passion for conquering arthritis, inspired by her little sister and best friend, Kristen (“Kmac”), who battles lupus daily. Lauren has emerged as a powerful voice for the arthritis community, serving as both a speaker and panelist at numerous events, including the Arthritis Foundation’s JA Family Summit.
She is relentless in her efforts to advance arthritis research — whether through emails, social media, testimony on Capitol Hill or sharing her personal story whenever possible. As state advocacy chair, Lauren is dedicated to raising awareness and keeping advocacy efforts at the forefront. Always eager to contribute, she volunteers for surveys, interviews and new initiatives, ensuring the arthritis community’s voice is heard. With a welcoming spirit and a heart of gold, Lauren has an extraordinary ability to put others at ease, mentor new families and foster a sense of belonging within the Arthritis Foundation. Lauren has co-captained Kmac’s Crew for the Knoxville Jingle Bell Run alongside her sister, the 2015 national honoree. Together, the sisters have raised more than $100,000 in Kristen’s name. Lauren also serves on the Tennessee Arthritis Foundation board and Jingle Bell Run planning committee for Knoxville and she is a Platinum Ambassador.
Pam Fields Legacy Award: Carrying the Torch of Advocacy
The Arthritis Foundation’s Pam Fields Legacy Award honors volunteers, staff and stakeholders who embody the lasting spirit of advocacy. Inspired by Pam Fields’ more than 20 years of dedicated service, this award recognizes those who, like Pam, build meaningful connections with patients, elevate their stories and help tailor advocacy strategies that make a difference. Awardees reflect Pam’s enduring legacy of compassion, leadership and commitment to advancing the mission of the Arthritis Foundation.
Deb Constien, of Wisconsin, was presented with the Pam Fields Legacy Award. She was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis at just 13 and has transformed her journey into a lifelong mission of service. A medically retired registered dietitian with degrees in dietetics and biology, she has dedicated herself to advocacy at every level. She currently serves on the Platinum Ambassador taskforce, the national advocacy committee and is a nine-time Platinum Ambassador. She also co-chairs the national advocacy committee, guiding the efforts and strategic direction of the Arthritis Foundation advocacy program. Her leadership extends further as advocacy state chair of Wisconsin and as a committed member of the Wisconsin coalition for All Copays Count, as well as using her dietetic degree to help design menus for JA Camps. She has spoken at press conferences, testified before both legislative houses and lent her voice to the International Foundation for Autoimmune & Inflammatory Arthritis (AiArthritis) to amplify patient perspectives. Deb’s leadership will leave a lasting legacy on the Arthritis Foundation advocacy program.
Congressional Leadership Award: Champions on Capitol Hill
The Arthritis Foundation also presented the Congressional Leadership Award to Sens. Maggie Hassen (New Hampshire) and Lisa Murkowski (Alaska) for their efforts on the Safe Step Act. This award is presented to members of Congress or legislative staff who have demonstrated outstanding commitment to advancing policies that benefit the arthritis community. By championing legislation, shaping policy and working to ensure the voices of patients are heard, these leaders play a vital role in moving the needle for millions impacted by arthritis.
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