Research Leaders Recognized at the 2025 MDA Clinical & Scientific Conference
The Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) recognized 2 legacy award recipients at the 2025 MDA Clinical & Scientific Conference. The awardees were honored based on their significant contributions to clinical research and community advocacy.
The 2025 MDA Legacy Award for Achievement in Clinical Research was presented to Katherine Mathews, MD, Professor of Pediatrics and Neurology at Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine at the University of Iowa. Dr. Mathews has made significant contributions to the diagnosis and treatment of neuromuscular diseases by advancing the field’s understanding of neuromuscular disorders, including Friedreich ataxia (FA), Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), facioscapulohumeral dystrophy (FSHD), and limb-girdle muscular dystrophy (LGMD). Her accomplishments include identifying the genetic cause of FSHD and documenting the natural history of various muscular dystrophies. According to a statement from the MDA, Dr. Mathews has served as a Principal Investigator for more than 30 industry-sponsored clinical trials that have advanced both clinical care and scientific understanding. She has also mentored emerging clinical researchers and served on the MDA's Research Advisory Committee.
The 2025 MDA Legacy Award for Community Impact in Research was presented to Donavon Decker, a research advocate living with LGMD and member of the MDA Coordinating Committee and LGMD Community Advisory Board. Mr. Decker was recognized for his lifelong commitment to clinical research, having participated in gene therapy trials for muscular dystrophy since 1999. According to a statement from the MDA, Decker's efforts have improved LGMD understanding and inspired others, exemplifying the power of grassroots advocacy in scientific progress.
“The Muscular Dystrophy Association is pleased to honor both Dr. Katherine Mathews and Donavon Decker for their extraordinary contributions to the field of neuromuscular diseases,” said Sharon Hesterlee, PhD, EVP, Chief Research Officer of the MDA. “Both exceptional individuals embody the MDA’s mission of accelerating progress for people living with neuromuscular diseases.”