Yvonne was diagnosed with Parkinson's alongside her husband Fred. After this she became a fierce advocate for the PD community, using her expertise in corporate governance and non-profit leadership to serve the community.
Yvonne brings a unique and impactful blend of professional leadership and deeply personal dedication to the Parkinson's community. For four decades, she ascended to the highest ranks of corporate America, serving as a C-suite executive for three Fortune 500 companies. She served on 3 Fortune 500 board, and chaired 2 compensation committees on these board. Her expertise extends to board governance in higher education, where she served as Chair of Board of Spelman College for eight years and chaired the Board for Association of Governing Boards of Colleges and Universities (AGB), shaping best practices for higher education governance nationwide. As a faculty member of the National Association of Corporate Directors (NACD), she further solidified her reputation as a thought leader in corporate governance. In addition she has served on many non-profit boards too many to name.
Yvonne's story is not solely defined by her professional accomplishments. Diagnosed with Parkinson's alongside her beloved husband Fred, she became a tireless researcher, discovering and implementing vital movement therapies, including Rock Steady Boxing. Her personal experience transformed her into a passionate advocate, driven to empower Parkinson’s patients and their families. She is often quoted as saying, "I may have Parkinson’s, but Parkinson’s doesn’t have me."
As she cared for Fred through his valiant struggle, culminating in his passing in 2024, her resolve to make a difference in the Parkinson's community only deepened. Now, Yvonne dedicates her considerable talents and experience to serving the Parkinson's community, bringing her strategic mind and empathetic heart.