In September, the University of Michigan’s Brehm Center and Caswell Diabetes Institute (CDI) were honored to host colleagues from the American Diabetes Association (ADA), along with ADA donors and friends, for an engaging afternoon of scientific exchange and partnership at the Brehm Towers.
The event showcased the breadth and impact of ADA-funded research at Michigan. Key presentations were given by Chelsea Helpler, PhD, and Steve Parker, PhD, both ADA-supported investigators whose innovative work is advancing our understanding of diabetes and its complications. Dr. Hepler received the 2024 ADA Pathway grant for her research, Integration of Circadian and Inflammatory Pathways in Metabolic Homeostasis, which will delve deeper into emerging evidence indicating that circadian disruption is a major contributor to metabolic disease. Dr. Parker was awarded the ADA’s prestigious Outstanding Scientific Achievement Award in 2024 for his work in genetic predisposition in diabetes and related traits.
Following the presentations, guests participated in a lively roundtable discussion with several University of Michigan ADA-funded scientists, including Bill Herman, MD, MPH, Chuck Burant, MD, PhD, Ormand MacDougald, PhD, Briana Mezuk, PhD, and Kevin Joiner, PhD, among others. The conversation highlighted emerging discoveries, collaborative opportunities, and the shared commitment to translating research into meaningful improvements in diabetes prevention, care, and outcomes.
The University of Michigan deeply values its longstanding partnership with the American Diabetes Association, a collaboration that fuels innovation, fosters mentorship, and accelerates progress toward a future free of diabetes. We are grateful for the ADA’s continued investment in our scientists and for the generosity of its donors who make this important work possible.
Dr. Chelsea Hepler
Dr. Steve Parker