NDRI Elects Richard D. Hasz, Jr. to the Board of Directors
The National Disease Research Interchange (NDRI) is proud to announce the election of Richard D. Hasz, Jr., MFS, CPTC, to its Board of Directors. As the President and CEO of the Gift of Life Donor Program, Hasz is recognized as a leader in the organ procurement field in the United States. He will serve a three-year term, beginning immediately, harnessing his extensive experience in organ and tissue donation.
Welcoming a Respected Leader
Bill Leinweber, President and CEO of NDRI, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "It is a privilege to welcome Rick as a member of the NDRI Board of Directors. He is a respected member of the OPO community, bringing over 30 years of life-saving endeavors in his industry. Rick's contributions to various NIH-supported research initiatives are commendable, and we anticipate great collaboration with him in his new role."
Hasz’s Notable Career and Contributions
Joining Gift of Life in 1993, Hasz has garnered national respect for his knowledge and capabilities in organ donation and transplantation. As the organization's President and CEO since 2022, he has been pivotal in driving initiatives that ensure exceptional donation processes and transplant outcomes across the country. His approach has involved establishing significant partnerships both within the Gift of Life organization and with healthcare leaders nationwide.
Commitment to Research and Innovation
Reflecting on his new role, Hasz stated, "Gift of Life has championed medical research from the start of our program 50 years ago, and we have proudly partnered with NDRI since it began in 1980. This collaboration has allowed us to present donors and their families with the chance to create lasting legacies through significant medical research that benefits countless individuals. As a board member, I am eager to further advance NDRI’s essential research missions."
Engagement in National Organizations
Hasz’s involvement extends beyond his executive role; he actively participates in numerous national committees and organizations focused on donation and transplantation. His board memberships include prominent groups such as the Organ Donation and Transplantation Alliance, and the Association for Organ Procurement Organizations. Additionally, he contributes to the OPTN Membership and Professional Standards Committee and serves as a National Faculty Member for the CMS/HRSA End Stage Renal Disease Treatment Choices Learning Collaborative.
Support from NDRI Leadership
Dr. Mary J.C. Hendrix, Ph.D., Chair of the NDRI Board and President of Shepherd University, has also conveyed her support for Hasz’s appointment, stating, "We are thrilled to welcome Rick to the NDRI Board of Directors. His deep understanding of organ and tissue donation will enhance our mission and benefit researchers, donors, and sites across the nation."
About NDRI
NDRI stands as the nation’s leading source for human tissues, cells, and organs for scientific research. As a not-for-profit organization established in 1980 and funded by NIH, as well as public and private foundations, NDRI operates 24/7. It collaborates with over 130 tissue source sites, including organ procurement organizations, tissue banks, eye banks, and hospitals. By bridging the gap between procurement sources and researchers, NDRI supports groundbreaking discoveries aimed at advancing treatments and cures for human diseases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Richard D. Hasz, Jr.?
Richard D. Hasz, Jr. is the President and CEO of the Gift of Life Donor Program and has been elected to the NDRI Board of Directors.
What is NDRI?
NDRI is the leading source of human tissues, cells, and organs for scientific research in the U.S., established to support medical research and innovation.
What is Hasz’s experience in the industry?
Hasz brings over 30 years of experience in organ donation and transplantation, recognized for his leadership in the field.
What organizations is Hasz involved with?
Hasz serves on various boards including the Organ Donation and Transplantation Alliance and the Association for Organ Procurement Organizations.
How does NDRI support research?
NDRI connects procurement sources with researchers to facilitate groundbreaking medical innovations aimed at treating human diseases.
