Karen Jefferson Morrison Named 2024 Honoree at Annual Breakthrough T1D Gala

COLUMBUS, OH – Breakthrough T1D, formerly known as the Central Ohio JDRF, is pleased to announce that Karen Jefferson Morrison, President, OhioHealth Foundation and Senior Vice President, OhioHealth, has been named the 2024 Honoree and recipient of The Steven A. Davis Philanthropic Leadership Award. The Breakthrough T1D Central Ohio Gala will be held on Saturday, October 19, 2024, at 6 p.m. at The Exchange in Dublin, Ohio.

A prestigious honor among the central Ohio community, the annual honoree is recognized for their steadfast commitment to improving the lives of those living with type 1 diabetes (T1D). Morrison has been instrumental in linking healthcare professionals in the community with Breakthrough T1D to collaborate and share resources and research. Under her leadership, OhioHealth physicians are more engaged with current research, clinical trials and healthcare initiatives to better serve patients with diabetes. Morrison has also led the way in utilizing OhioHealth Wellness on Wheels, a national model for mobile healthcare, for T1D screenings and patient education. By providing these screenings, more patients can be identified as being at risk for diabetes, allowing Breakthrough T1D to reach more diverse communities.

Morrison states, “It is an honor to be recognized as this year’s recipient of the Steven A. Davis Philanthropic Leadership Award. Steven was a friend, corporate colleague, and trusted mentor. I am humbled to be able to further his commitment and legacy to advance innovation in diabetes research and care. At OhioHealth, we recognize the impact that chronic disease, especially diabetes, can have in the most underserved areas, where there are disparities in prevention and access to care. Through community health partnerships, such as ours with Breakthrough T1D, we can thoughtfully support OhioHealth’s vision to provide exceptional care for all.”

In addition to her leadership role at OhioHealth, Morrison has received many awards including being the inaugural recipient of the Columbus Business First, Women of Influence Award as the “Businesswoman of the Year” in May 2023. In November 2023,  Morrison was recognized as a “Director to Watch” by Directors & Boards.

The community is invited to join us at the annual Breakthrough T1D  Gala as we honor Karen Morrison and celebrate the advancements made in T1D technology.  The evening will feature a dinner, live entertainment, and a night of fundraising all in support of Breakthrough T1D and its mission.

For more information about the Breakthrough T1D Central Ohio Gala, please visit our website or contact Kristy Roby at kroby@breakthroughT1D.org.