Will drive strategic and transformational priorities as Executive Director, Impact and Innovation
Beyond Celiac Founder and Chief Executive Officer Alice Bast will transition to the new position of Executive Director, Impact and Innovation. In this specialized role, Alice will focus on shaping and executing high-level strategic priorities, securing major and transformational funding for the organization, and leading Beyond Celiac Investments (BCI)—the first-ever venture philanthropy program in celiac disease.
Current Beyond Celiac President Mary Kate Carofano will continue leading the organization’s internal operations and will now guide its strategic direction, partner with our Board of Directors, and oversee all aspects of Beyond Celiac.
Mary Kate brings more than 15 years of experience in the nonprofit industry. During her tenure with Beyond Celiac, she has had direct management of all operational areas: Advancement, Business Development, Communications, and Administration. This immersive experience and her constant collaboration with Alice over the past five years make her uniquely qualified to lead the organization’s efforts to realize a world beyond celiac. Alice and the Board of Directors have full confidence in her abilities to continue implementing the vision and mission of accelerating treatments and a cure for celiac disease.
“Reflecting on the past 23 years, I’m grateful for the opportunity to work with so many partners and stakeholders to break down barriers and drive progress in the celiac community. With our first investments through BCI now underway, my focus will be on our most transformative work: building relationships with key stakeholders and funders, advancing our scientific priorities, including BCI and our new regulatory consulting arm. I look forward to working with Mary Kate and the team to meet our mission,” said Bast.
We are thrilled to honor Alice’s 23-year legacy with a special Founder’s Award at the 2026 Evening Beyond Celiac event taking place on June 3. Learn more and get tickets.