LOUISVILLE, Ky. (October 29, 2025) – The National Stem Cell Foundation (NSCF) has announced the addition of three executives to its team: Heather Russell-Simmons as Chief Program Officer; Sarah Graves as Chief Development Officer; and Allie Cornwell as Administrative Assistant.
Russell-Simmons brings more than 20 years of experience in grant development, research editing, project management and communications within healthcare and academic institutions. Most recently she worked with researchers at the University of Kentucky where she championed innovation, education and discovery.
In her role, Russell-Simmons will oversee programs in adult stem cell and regenerative medicine research, foster the next generation of scientists through the National STEM Scholar Program, and expand access to clinical trials for children with rare diseases. She holds a bachelor’s degree in integrated strategic communication, a master’s degree in communication, and an MBA from the University of Kentucky.
Graves joins NSCF with more than a decade of experience in fundraising, marketing and sales. She previously served as Chief Development Officer at Perception Institute and the Louisville Urban League. In her role, she is responsible for elevating NSCF’s giving programs and strategies to support NSCF programs in research, education and advocacy.
A 2023 Forty Under 40 Louisville honoree, Graves specializes in relationship-building and advancing the work of mission-driven organizations. She holds a bachelor’s degree in political science and Spanish from Saint Louis University in Madrid, and a master’s degree in diplomacy and international commerce from the Patterson School of Diplomacy and International Commerce at the University of Kentucky.
Cornwell brings more than three years of administrative experience supporing teams at Houchens Insurance Group, Proem Ministries, and Waterfront Financial Group. After providing part-time administrative support at NSCF, she now transitions to a full-time role with the organization.
Cornwell serves as Program Manager for WOC & WWAR, a Louisville-based community group. A 2021 graduate of Western Kentucky University, she holds a bachelor’s degree in public relations with a minor in digital advertising. Alongside her professional work, she is also a portrait and wedding photographer.
“We are delighted to welcome Heather, Sarah and Allie to the team,” said Dr. Paula Grisanti, CEO of the National Stem Cell Foundation. “Their extensive experience and leadership will be invaluable to NSCF as we continue to fund groundbreaking research, transform futures through STEM education, and provide access to clinical trials for children of limited means.”
About the National Stem Cell Foundation
The National Stem Cell Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that funds adult stem cell and regenerative medicine research, underwrites the National STEM Scholar Program for middle school science teachers inspiring the next generation of STEM pioneers nationwide, and covers copays and deductibles for children participating in clinical trials for rare diseases when those out-of-pocket costs are beyond a family’s means. For more information, visit www.nationalstemcellfoundation.org.