Age: 35
Title: Executive Director
Workplace: Epilepsy Foundation of Delaware
Valerie Budischak has done much to help raise awareness of epilepsy as the executive director for the Epilepsy Foundation of Delaware (EFDE). As the face of the organization, she handles the regular day-to-day operations, as well as the implementation of their strategic plan and programming. In her two years in the role, Budischak has championed EFDE and transformed the agency into a nonprofit operating under best practices, moving the organization in a more positive and forward direction. In 2010, Budischak became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and worked at the Ronald McDonald House for several years before accepting a position with EFDE.
While working for the EFDE lends itself to community engagement, Budischak also volunteers her time with Family SHADE, an organization that brings organizations and individuals together who want to improve the lives of children with special health-care needs. She serves SHADE as the secretary on the advisory board, helping the organization communicate resources throughout the state.
