Continuing the Vision of June Halper: What's Next for CMSC

The death of June Halper, long-time chief executive officer of the Consortium of Multiple Sclerosis Centers (CMSC), signified the beginning of a new era for the organization. Its board of governors and staff faced a momentous task: Who could replace the woman who had led the organization for over 30 years? In January 2025, they named Kathleen Costello to the role of interim CEO. She will be the first to tell you that she is not replacing Halper, “No one can fill those shoes. June was unique…. I have my own way of doing things…[including] a deep desire to continue her legacy, but also to continue to evolve the CMSC.” Costello began her career as a staff nurse at a community hospital then moved to an academic acute neurology unit and then to a specialized MS clinic. Through the clinic, she was introduced to and became involved with the CMSC and was a founding member of the International Organization of Multiple Sclerosis Nurses (IOMSN). She eventually took on leadership roles with both groups, serving on the CMSC board of governors and as president of the IOMSN. Her strong clinical background was an asset when she shifted into the realm of advocacy with a position at the National Multiple Sclerosis Society and then Can Do MS, where she was named chief operating officer in late 2022. It was this strong resume covering clinical care, advocacy, and leadership as well as familiarity with IOMSN and CMSC that made Costello the CMSC’s choice as it moved into its future. Costello was a thrilling choice for CMSC director Tina Trott. Jeff Wilken, CMSC president, says Costello is a “nice bridge between what was there before…and where we need to go in the future.” In this video, Costello comments on Halper's legacy, the transition, and her plans for the CMSC with commentary about her selection from Wilken and Trott.