This session will showcase concrete, case-based examples of how funders and research organizations meaningfully engage patients in research funding and other core initiatives, such as including patient advocates in peer review, forming patient advisory groups, and co-developing research projects. Speakers will walk through real initiatives, highlighting common challenges and demonstrated impact. An individual with lived experience will open the session with their experience participating in research.

Moderator

• Carolyn Giannopoulos, MS –Research Grants Manager, American Brain Tumor Association
  Carolyn Giannopoulos, MS is the Research Grants Manager at the American Brain Tumor Association, where she manages the grant funding for innovative brain tumor research for early career investigators. She’s passionate about advancing research that makes a real difference for patients and leads the Patient Advocate Reviewer Program to ensure their voices are heard and reflected throughout the research process.
  

Speakers

• Jennifer Brummet, PhD, CAE – Director, Scientific Affairs and Partnerships,  CurePSP
  Jennifer Brummet, PhD CAE, is the Director, Scientific Affairs and Partnerships at CurePSP, a nonprofit whose mission is to raise awareness, build community, improve care, and find a cure for three neurodegenerative conditions: progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), corticobasal degeneration (CBD), and multiple system atrophy (MSA). In this role, Jennifer oversees CurePSP’s grant programs, scientific conferences, partnerships with nonprofit and industry organizations, and other work relevant to CurePSP’s Cure Pillar. Jennifer earned her PhD in behavioral neuroscience from Michigan State University. Prior to joining CurePSP, Jennifer was 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 and the National Science Foundation.

• Carol Chapman, MPH – Associate Director, Research Engagement, Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation
  Carol Chapman, MPH is the associate director, research engagement at the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation. They are a non-profit, volunteer fueled organization dedicated to finding cures for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis and improving the quality of life of children and adults affected by these diseases. Carol leads patient engagement activities that aim to integrate patient and caregiver experiences throughout the research process to align patient and research priorities.  Her background in clinical research, public health, and community engagement helps her to develop and implement patient-centered research programs.

• Bri Salsman – ICF Professional Certified Coach & Author
  Bri is an ICF Professional Certified Coach & brain tumor survivor who guides people through the identity evolution that follows diagnosis. In 2017, she went from a headache on Monday to surgery on Friday. The years that followed launched her into a deep re-examination of her life, leading her to leave education & become a coach. Since 2020, Bri has been actively involved in the brain tumor community, serving as a patient mentor, attending brain tumor events, & serving on the Patient & Caregiver Advisory Board at the Malnati Brain Tumor Institute. In 2025, Bri experienced tumor growth, deepening her understanding of the non-linear nature of survivorship. Her work is grounded in the belief that identity evolves, agency matters most where control is limited, & all emotions deserve space.

• Dwayne Taliaferro, PhD – Program Manager, Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP), United States Army
  Dr. Dwayne Taliaferro currently serves as a Program Manager at the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP) in Fort Detrick, MD.  As Program Manager, Dr. Taliaferro oversees the solicitation, review, and management of biomedical research. Dr. Taliaferro holds a Ph.D. degree in biology from University of Maryland in Baltimore County, B.S. degree in biology from the College of William and Mary, and Science and Technology Management Level II certification.