The Autoimmune Association Announces 2026 Young Adult Advisory Council

The Autoimmune Association announces the members of its Young Adult Advisory Council (YAAC) for the 2026 term. YAAC is a group of passionate young leaders who are helping shape the future of autoimmune disease through awareness, support, and advocacy.

The Council brings together young adults from across the U.S. and beyond who are living with or interested in autoimmune disease. Through storytelling, connection, and education, these members ensure the unique needs of young adults are represented and met.

“Autoimmune diseases are rising among young people, impacting their education, careers, mental health, and daily life at a critical stage,” said Molly Murray, president and CEO of the Autoimmune Association. “Through the Young Adult Advisory Council, we’re fostering connection, sharing real experiences, and ensuring young adults have the support and information they need, while developing the next generation of leaders in autoimmune advocacy.”

The following individuals have been selected for the 2026 term:

Isa Graham Torres
Dalton School
New York, NY

Hunter Gurney
Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School
Parkland, FL

Makenzie Kaput
Plainfield, IL

Aine Kim
River Bluff High School
Lexington, SC

Alonna Kolobakken
University of North Dakota
Grand Forks, ND

Gia Morton
Arizona State University, Business Law
Tempe, AZ

Ayat Nayyer
Broken Arrow High School
Broken Arrow, OK

Mari Pitts
Austin, TX

Jacelynn Rose
Utah State University
Herriman, UT

Sofia Vincent
Saint Louis University
Des Plaines, IL

Amélie Wilcox
South Dakota State University
Rapid City, SD

Simrah Zaman
University of Toronto
Toronto, ON, Canada

Throughout the year, Council members lead and support a range of initiatives designed to reach and empower their peers. They host webinars and educational events to help others better understand how autoimmune disease affects young adults, raise awareness in their schools and local communities, and build a growing network of connection through platforms like Instagram. They are also actively involved in developing resources that help young adults navigate diagnosis, treatment, and daily life.

Follow the Young Adult Advisory Council on Instagram at @autoimmune_youngadults to learn more and stay connected. Resources, tools, and information for young adults living with autoimmune disease can be found at autoimmune.org/resource-center/education/young-adults/.