Her Story
About Alison
Alison Smart is the leader of the Alliance to Protect Insulin Choice, a nonprofit organization she formed with a group two and a half years ago. The organization advocates for continued manufacturing of the insulin detemir, which had been widely used for over 20 years by more than a million people in the United States, particularly pregnant women, athletes, and small children. Smart was inspired to begin this advocacy nearly five years ago after her daughter was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes and benefited significantly from the flexibility provided by this specific insulin. She communicates regularly with members of Congress, the FDA, Health and Human Services, and pharmaceutical manufacturers to advance solutions for continued access. Smart is also a member of T1 International, the Coalition to Advance Maternal Therapeutics, and the Friends of Research on Women's Health. She values integrity, honesty, and fighting for what is right, and advises that connections are key to success in advocacy work.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Alison
01What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Connections are key. Just getting yourself out there and going to events and talking to people. This is not advocacy something you can tackle on your own, and from your home. It's very important to establish and have good, widespread connections, and if you don't have them now, get them, because that's been key. It's been pivotal to our success so far.
02What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
In general, integrity. Honesty. Just fighting for what's right.
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