Arthritis Research Canada/Arthrite-recherche Canada names new executive director

January 12, 2021 (Vancouver) – Arthritis Research Canada is pleased to announce the appointment of Rob Appleton as its new executive director.

Appleton joins the organization following six years at the helm of the Sarah McLachlan School of Music and, before that, over five years as executive director of the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre. But his career in the charitable sector spans more than 25 years.

“Appleton brings a wealth of experience in the charitable and healthcare sectors. He understands their needs and is well positioned to move Arthritis Research Canada forward during these unprecedented times,” said Dr. Diane Lacaille, Arthritis Research Canada’s Scientific Director.

Appleton has also worked extensively at healthcare-focused charities and organizations such as Canuck Place Children’s Hospice, Canadian Blood Services, BC Children’s Hospital Foundation, BC Children’s Hospital, and more.

“I am excited to join Arthritis Research Canada at a time when the need for vital arthritis research has never been higher,” Appleton said. “The COVID-19 pandemic has placed significant stress on people living with all types of arthritis and research is key to finding answers for millions of Canadians struggling with pain and disability caused by this disease.”

Under Appleton’s direction, Arthritis Research Canada/Arthrite-recherche Canada will continue to accelerate discoveries aimed at preventing arthritis, facilitating early diagnosis, providing new and better treatments, and improving quality of life.

Appleton succeeds Shauneen Kellner, who led Arthritis Research Canada as executive director for the past 15 years.

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ABOUT ARTHRITIS RESEARCH CANADA:

Arthritis Research Canada is the largest clinical arthritis research institution in North America. Our mission is to transform the lives of people living with arthritis through research and engagement. Arthritis Research Canada’s scientific director, Dr. Diane Lacaille is leading a team of over 100 researchers, trainees and staff whose world recognized research is creating a future where people living with arthritis are empowered to triumph over pain and disability. Arthritis Research Canada is conducting research across Canada in British Columbia, Alberta and Quebec and is affiliated with five major universities: University of British Columbia, Simon Fraser University, University of Calgary, Université Laval, and McGill University. Arthritis Research Canada is leading research aimed at arthritis prevention, early diagnosis, new and better treatment, and improved quality of life.

For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact:

Heather Caulder
Marketing and Communications Coordinator
604-207-4010 or hcaulder@arthritisresearch.ca
www.arthritisresearch.ca