Diabetes Association CEO Apologizes After Member Expulsions

When five diabetes researchers were escorted out of their professional conference by police last week, their colleagues couldn't believe what they were seeing. Now the organization's top leader is working to rebuild trust with a public apology and promise of change.

Charles Henderson, CEO of the American Diabetes Association, released a video Wednesday personally apologizing to the five doctors who were removed from the annual scientific sessions in New Orleans on June 5. The researchers had been handing out copies of an editorial expressing concern about federal research funding cuts at the National Institutes of Health.

"I want to personally apologize to Dr. Steven Kahn, Dr. Desmond Schatz, Dr. Aaron Kelly, Dr. Maureen Gannon, and Dr. Justin Ryder," Henderson said in his message. "I am deeply sorry for the hurt, frustration, and the pain that resulted."

The incident stunned the diabetes research community. John Buse, a former ADA president, told reporters he thought it was a joke when he first heard what happened. Many attendees said they were troubled by what felt like censorship of scientific voices.

Henderson also apologized to the broader membership who felt disturbed and disappointed by the organization's actions. "I have heard your voices, I understand your concerns, and I know that trust, once shaken, must be earned back through actions and not just words," he said.

The ADA has now commissioned an independent review of both the incident and the organization's initial response. Weekend messages from the organization had defended the expulsions and cited IRS rules for nonprofit groups, which only deepened concerns among members.

Why This Inspires

Henderson's apology shows what real leadership looks like when things go wrong. Rather than doubling down on a mistake, he acknowledged the pain caused and committed to concrete steps forward. His willingness to take personal responsibility, not hide behind policies or procedures, offers a model for other organizations facing similar moments.

The response also demonstrates the power of community voices speaking up for what's right. When hundreds of diabetes researchers expressed their shock and disappointment, their organization listened and changed course.

"It is a great first step," Buse said about the apology. He noted that following through on promised changes and clarifying member rights will be crucial next steps.

Henderson emphasized that the ADA remains committed to advocating for robust NIH funding and supporting scientific discovery. "What transpired is not reflective of who I am, the values I hold, or the way I was raised," he said.

The path forward includes healing a shaken community and ensuring researchers can freely discuss the issues affecting their life-saving work.