Leading AMD Has Been a Great Privilege: An Announcement from our Executive Director

Dear AMD Community,

Kylie Gagan, Alicia Torborg, and Dr. Rick Godley

After much thought, I’ve made the difficult but exciting decision to retire and will step down from my role as Executive Director of the Association of Migraine Disorders at the end of this year.

It’s hard to put into words what the past 10 years have meant to me. When I joined AMD, I could not have imagined how much this organization would grow, how many lives we would touch, how many friendships I would make, or how deeply this work would become a part of my life.

I am especially grateful to Dr. Godley for giving me the opportunity to lead AMD and for trusting me with such an important role. Who would have thought that seeing my doctor, who was treating me for migraine, would lead me to the most rewarding job of my career? I will always be grateful that our paths crossed and that he opened the door to this extraordinary journey.

Leading AMD has been a great privilege, and I am incredibly proud of what our team has accomplished. I am especially proud that AMD is in such a strong position for its next chapter.

As I transition out of my role, I am thrilled that Kylie Gagan will become Executive Director of Education and Melissa Calise will take on the role of Executive Director of Operations. Together, they will divide and conquer the responsibilities and provide strong leadership for AMD’s future.

Alicia, Leigh Serth, and Melissa Calise

Kylie has been with AMD for more than six years and has quickly grown into her role as Director of Education. She will continue to lead our patient and provider education initiatives and manage our sponsor relationships. Many of you know Melissa from the five years she previously spent with AMD as our Director of Communications. She knows this organization and our community well, and I am delighted to welcome her back in this new leadership role.

Both Kylie and Melissa bring experience, dedication, and a passion for AMD’s mission. I have great confidence in them and look forward to seeing all that they will accomplish together.

While I will no longer be engaged with the migraine community on a daily basis, I will always care deeply about the people and families affected by migraine. For me, it is simply time for the next chapter, one that will include more travel, more time with family and friends, and the opportunity to enjoy more of life’s special moments.

Thank you to everyone who has been part of this journey. Thank you for your trust, encouragement, friendship, hard work, and belief in our mission. I am proud of what we achieved, grateful for the memories and relationships that will stay with me, and excited for what lies ahead for AMD and for me.

Alicia and furry friend Tucker

With Gratitude,

Alicia Torborg

Executive Director, Association of Migraine Disorders