ALEXANDRIA, VA, Jul 01, 2009 (MARKETWIRE via COMTEX) -- The American Diabetes Association announced today that David M. Kendall, MD, has been named Chief Scientific and Medical Officer for the American Diabetes Association, effective September 21, 2009. Dr. Kendall is currently Medical Director and Chief of Clinical and Professional Services at the International Diabetes Center in Minneapolis, MN, and succeeds Richard A. Kahn, PhD, who retired from the Association on June 30, 2009.

As Chief Scientific and Medical Officer for the American Diabetes Association, Dr. Kendall will provide oversight for the Association's research grant program, certification programs, clinical guidelines, professional education programs, and general information resources.

"David brings an impressive range of clinical and scientific expertise to this position, along with a collaborative spirit and strong strategic vision," said Larry Hausner, Chief Executive Officer, American Diabetes Association. "I am confident that through his leadership, the Association will continue to reinforce its position as the authoritative voice and trusted leader in the diabetes community."

In addition to his work at the International Diabetes Center in Minneapolis, MN, he has previously served as a Consultant in Endocrinology for the Park Nicollet Clinic and holds an academic appointment as Associate Professor of Medicine at the University of Minnesota. Dr Kendall is an active clinical investigator and has authored over 150 original manuscripts, chapters and professional reviews.

He remains active in both medical education and clinical research -- with clinical and research interests focused on the management of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, emerging and novel therapies for diabetes care, the treatment and prevention of cardiovascular complications of diabetes and studies of models of diabetes care delivery.

Over the next few months, Dr. Kendall will be transitioning out of his current position. During this time, Sue Kirkman, MD, Vice President, Clinical Affairs, will be the Association's acting Chief Scientific and Medical Officer.

The American Diabetes Association is leading the fight against the deadly consequences of diabetes and fighting for those affected by diabetes. The Association funds research to prevent, cure and manage diabetes; delivers services to hundreds of communities; provides objective and credible information; and gives voice to those denied their rights because of diabetes. Founded in 1940, our mission is to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes. For more information please call the American Diabetes Association at 1-800-DIABETES (1-800-342-2383) or visit www.diabetes.org. Information from both these sources is available in English and Spanish.

Contacts: Colleen Fogarty (703) 549-1500 ext. 2146 cfogarty@diabetes.org

Diane Tuncer (703) 299-5510 dtuncer@diabetes.org

SOURCE: American Diabetes Association

 	CONTACT:          mailto:cfogarty@diabetes.org   

                   mailto:dtuncer@diabetes.org  

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