The American Diabetes Association® (ADA) has awarded Senator Laura Richardson with the Rising Star Award, recognizing her as an emerging leader whose voice and vision are making a powerful impact in the fight to end diabetes and obesity.
Through her partnership with the ADA, Senator Richardson has played a key role in elevating the importance of prevention strategies, expanding conversations around obesity as a chronic disease, and supporting policies that improve access to care for individuals and communities that are most at risk. Her steadfast commitment to advancing prevention has resulted in driving innovation in health policy across California.
“Senator Richardson represents the kind of bold, forward-looking leadership we need to address today’s most pressing health challenges,” said Christine Fallabel, interim vice president of state government affairs. “Her dedication to innovation and prevention is helping to shape a healthier future for Californians and serves as a model for leaders nationwide.”
A strong advocate for community-centered solutions, Senator Richardson has worked to ensure that policies reflect the realities faced by those disproportionately impacted by diabetes, obesity, or both. Her efforts emphasize early intervention, increased awareness, and access to care.
The ADA’s Rising Star Award honors emerging leaders who are making meaningful contributions to advancing the organization’s mission and demonstrating exceptional promise in shaping the future of diabetes and obesity care.
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About the American Diabetes Association
The American Diabetes Association (ADA) is the nation’s leading voluntary health organization fighting to end diabetes and helping people thrive. This year, the ADA celebrates 85 years of driving discovery and research to prevent, manage, treat, and ultimately cure diabetes—and we’re not stopping. There are over 155 million Americans living with diabetes or prediabetes. Through advocacy, program development, and education, we’re fighting for them all. To learn more or to get involved, visit us at or call 1-800-DIABETES (800-342-2383). Join us in the fight on Facebook (American Diabetes Association), Spanish Facebook (Asociación Americana de la Diabetes), LinkedIn (American Diabetes Association), and Instagram (@AmDiabetesAssn). To learn more about how we are advocating for everyone affected by diabetes, visit us on X (@AmDiabetesAssn).
