Youth Visionary Max Kopp Leads a National Movement for Diabetes Innovation and Advocacy
At just 18, Kopp’s leadership unites policymakers, doctors, and students through the Kopp Foundation for Diabetes’ first hybrid gala and national leadership forum.
Blue Bell, PA – When 18-year-old Max Kopp stood before a room filled with doctors, elected officials, parents, and peers at The Belle at Blue Bell on October 8, 2025, he wasn’t simply hosting an event — he was defining a movement. More than 150 participants joined in person and online for the Kopp Foundation for Diabetes (KFD) inaugural Hybrid Fundraising Gala and National Leadership Forum, a milestone for the youth-led nonprofit he founded to reimagine how the next generation addresses Type 1 Diabetes (T1D).
A high school senior at Germantown Academy, Kopp founded KFD to bridge science, empathy, and innovation. “I saw how diabetes touches every part of a person’s life — and how often families feel isolated,” he explained. “I realized young people could help change that by combining awareness with action.”
From those beginnings, KFD has become a growing national network of students, mentors, and professionals dedicated to improving lives through education, advocacy, and access to care. The organization’s initiatives — including the Youth Ambassador Program, Innovation Hub, and Access to Care Initiative — are designed to inspire student leaders and connect them with medical experts to drive innovation and outreach.
An Inspiring Evening in Blue Bell
The Oct. 8 hybrid gala blended professionalism with purpose. Guests gathered under warm lights while online participants tuned in from across the U.S., unified by a shared goal: advancing awareness and equity for people affected by diabetes. The evening opened with remarks from State Representative Gina H. Curry, who praised KFD’s youth-driven model of service and collaboration.
“When youth take the lead, they transform awareness into action,” said Rep. Curry. “The Kopp Foundation shows how young people’s compassion and ingenuity can reshape public health for the better.”
Throughout the event, a diverse lineup of speakers — from physicians to student leaders — demonstrated how KFD has become a bridge between generations. Dr. Conan Tu, diabetologist and KFD Board Director, delivered a powerful keynote titled “Leadership and Success Augmented Through Adversity and Ingenuity.” His speech traced the 100-year evolution of insulin therapy and celebrated
Guided by a Distinguished Board
Behind KFD’s growth stands a team of seasoned professionals who bring unique expertise to every facet of its mission:
- Elena Mack, a Type 1 Diabetes mother and advocate, focuses on strengthening family education and support.
- Kevin Matasich, a retired Merck executive with over 30 years in life sciences, guides strategy and outreach.
- Dr. Alexander Stojadinovic, a U.S. Army physician and West Point graduate, brings discipline, teamwork, and medical insight to youth mentorship.
- Dr. Maria Kondratyev, a cell therapy and regenerative medicine scientist, emphasizes biotechnology and the empowerment of young researchers.
- Dr. Conan Tu, Chairman of the Membership Committee for the American College of Diabetology, reinforces the Foundation’s scientific mission and vision.
“Our Board represents every aspect of progress — science, service, leadership, and compassion,” said Rachel Horvath, KFD’s Director of Operations and Strategy. “They’ve helped transform Max’s vision into a sustainable, national model for youth engagement.”
Youth Leadership in Action
During the virtual segment of the event, KFD’s college chapter presidents shared their progress from campuses across the country — including UCLA, UC San Diego, the University of Pittsburgh, and UMass Amherst. They spoke about balancing rigorous academics with their passion for service, reflecting the same leadership spirit that inspired Kopp to start KFD.
“Seeing leaders like Rep. Curry, Dr. Tu, and our student ambassadors come together reminds me why I started this foundation,” said Max Kopp. “Young people don’t just want to be heard — they want to build solutions. This event showed what’s possible when innovation, empathy, and determination meet.”
KFD’s fast-growing chapter network continues to provide youth with mentorship and resources to lead diabetes-related initiatives on their campuses and in their communities. The organization plans to expand to additional universities in 2026, strengthening its national impact and partnerships.
Looking Ahead: A Run for Change
Building on the energy of October 8, KFD’s next milestone is the World Diabetes Day Virtual Run/Walk on November 14, 2025. The nationwide event will bring together students, families, and supporters to complete 3K or 5K walks and runs in their own communities, raising awareness and promoting healthy living.
“The November 14 run isn’t about competition — it’s about connection,” Kopp said. “Each step we take represents our shared commitment to better understanding, stronger research, and more compassionate care.”
As the evening in Blue Bell concluded with applause both in the ballroom and online, it was clear that KFD has become much more than a nonprofit. It’s a movement — one that proves when young people lead with empathy, they can inspire the world to change.
About the Kopp Foundation for Diabetes
The Kopp Foundation for Diabetes (KFD) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit empowering young leaders to transform Type 1 Diabetes awareness, education, and innovation. Through its Youth Ambassador Program, campus chapters, and community partnerships, KFD bridges science, technology, and social impact to improve lives worldwide.
About the Creator
Oliver Jones Jr.
Oliver Jones Jr. is a journalist with a keen interest in the dynamic worlds of technology, business, and entrepreneurship.
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Comments (1)
This is such an inspiring profile. Max Kopp’s dedication to diabetes advocacy and innovation shows how one person’s vision can spark a nationwide movement. It’s a great reminder of the impact young leaders can have when they combine passion with action.