New CEO for FAAN

FAIRFAX, Va., Dec 01, 2008 /PRNewswire-USNewswire via COMTEX/ -- The Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network (FAAN) today named Julia E. Bradsher, Ph.D., as its new CEO, replacing Founder Anne Munoz-Furlong, who is retiring.

Dr. Bradsher brings to FAAN extensive knowledge of anaphylaxis, a severe, potentially fatal allergic reaction. For the past six years, as Senior Director of Marketing, she led the marketing team and strategic planning for all Dey Pharmaceutical products, including EpiPen(R), an autoinjector device containing epinephrine, a drug that can stop an anaphylactic reaction. In that role, she has dealt extensively with leaders in the allergy-related scientific community. She has also conducted research on the needs of those who suffer from food allergy and anaphylaxis.

Frank Yiannas, FAAN's Chairman of the Board, said, "Julia's background in the treatment of anaphylaxis, her knowledge of the allergy community, and her passion for protecting food-allergic individuals are what made her an ideal candidate for this position. She is well positioned to help set FAAN's strategic agenda for the next five years."

Hugh Sampson, M.D., FAAN's Medical Director, said, "Julia's background in health policy and administration, her understanding of anaphylaxis and its effects on patients and their families, and her appreciation of the history and culture of FAAN make her an ideal candidate to lead the organization over the coming years. With Julia, our patients' welfare and scientific accuracy will remain at the forefront of FAAN's mission."

Bradsher holds a Ph.D. in medical sociology from the University of Miami and a master's in business administration from the Sawyer School of Management at Suffolk University in Boston. She has authored 10 journal articles, seven book chapters, and other solicited publications, and she has held research and faculty appointments in private research institutes and universities.

Anne Munoz-Furlong, FAAN's Founder and CEO for its first 18 years, said, "We have been searching for someone who can provide the intellectual leadership and the compassion for the families affected by food allergy and anaphylaxis. Julia has both and will lead FAAN into the next phase of its growth."