MICHIGAN LUPUS FOUNDATION APPOINTS NEW MEMBERS TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
(Michigan – December 16, 2024) – The Michigan Lupus Foundation is pleased to announce two new members were recently appointed to its Board of Directors: Erica Lynn of Lansing, MI and Kris Mackson of Clarkston. Each new member will help the foundation serve its mission to improve the quality of life for those living with lupus through support, education and research with the goal of finding a cure.
“We are excited to expand our board with two new members whose talents, expertise and energy are welcomed additions to our fight against lupus,” said Board President Harry Bhogal. “The new members are enthusiastic advocates for lupus awareness and will help the foundation make new and meaningful connections and advancements in the lupus community throughout the entire state.”
About Erica Lynn
Erica Lynn is a Lansing resident and has an extensive background in the nonprofit sector. In 2015, she was diagnosed with lupus, which ignited a commitment to lupus awareness, support and a passion for helping others navigate their lupus journey.
Erica enjoyed a 17-year career with the American Cancer Society in leadership roles involving project and people management, fundraising and consulting. She is currently a Senior Project Coordinator in the Center for Racial and Social Justice at the Michigan Public Health Institute and is engaged in projects that center public health and social justice in the child protection, juvenile justice and criminal justice systems, working to develop strategies for prevention, reduction of justice involvement, reentry and well-being.
In 2019, Erica co-founded The Village Lansing; a non-profit dedicated to combating gun violence through prevention efforts, intervention with those at risk and supporting those affected. She is currently the Vice President of The Lansing Empowerment Network, an organization committed to building a stronger, safer community by addressing root causes of violence, poverty and inequities through a collaborative, data-driven, public health approach.
Erica is deeply committed to creating a positive impact in the Lansing community, actively participating in neighborhood meetings, city council sessions, and council committee meetings. She is focused on building capacity and fostering resilience through mission-driven work. Her personal journey and professional background have given her both the skills and the compassion to make a meaningful difference in her community and in the lives of those living with lupus.
About Kris Mackson
Kris Mackson is a Clarkston resident and was diagnosed with lupus in 2015. Her journey with lupus hasn’t been easy, but she has a desire to help others and increase awareness of lupus.
Kris has over 20 years of experience in nursing with a specialty in labor & delivery and is board certified as a holistic RN and a health coach. She is also a member of the American Holistic Nurse Association and has always been inspired by health, wellness and fitness.
Kris’ goal is to educate others by utilizing her extensive history as a nurse, mother and lupus warrior. She is a mother to three beautiful children.
Kris especially wants to be involved with lupus advocacy, lupus awareness walks and educating others about lupus. She is thrilled to support the Michigan Lupus Foundation in her board role.
For more information about lupus and the Michigan Lupus Foundation, visit http://milupus.org.
About Lupus
Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes the body to attack its own healthy tissues and organs. It can affect any part of the body causing widespread pain and inflammation. Common symptoms include crippling fatigue, fever and joint pain. Lupus affects each person differently and may go into periods of flares and remissions. More people have lupus than cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, sickle-cell anemia and cystic fibrosis combined. It is estimated that over 14,000 Michiganders have been diagnosed with the disease and between 322,000 and 1.5 million people in the entire United States. Lupus primarily affects young women between the ages of 15-45 years old and occurs more frequently in women of African American, Hispanic, or Asian descent. There is currently no cure for lupus.
About the Michigan Lupus Foundation
The Michigan Lupus Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that exists to improve the quality of life for those living with lupus through support, education and research with the goal of finding a cure. The foundation provides financial and informational resources for patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers. The MI Lupus Foundation has been continually serving Michigan since 1974 and is working to build a brighter future for all lupus patients and their families. For more information, visit http://milupus.org.
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Are you interested in joining our Board of Directors?
The Michigan Lupus Foundation seeks new, enthusiastic and committed volunteers. Learn more here.