Mark Mayer
Indiana University
Kelley School of Business
Corporate Chair
 Dr. Mark Mayer is a Clinical Associate Professor of Marketing in Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business. Mark teaches Executives, MBAs, and undergraduates a wide variety of marketing classes ranging from Brand Management to Research & Analytics. He has a Ph.D. from the University of Georgia, an MBA from Wake Forest University, and an undergraduate degree from Geneseo College in New York. His research focuses on advertising efficacy, especially in health-related contexts. Mark’s wife Erin is a special education teacher in Carmel, where their family ((including 3 kids, 2 dogs, and 2 cats) ) reside. Mark and Erin first got involved with the fight against juvenile arthritis through their son James’s great friendship with Lilly Cooley, one of this year’s honorees, and Lilly’s mom Courtney is one of Erin’s favorite colleagues! Join or support Mark and his team, Kelley School Walkers.
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Cameron, 15, was diagnosed with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) at age 6 after months of unexplained swelling in his knee. The biggest struggle has been all of the medication, joint injections and the permanent damage to his jaw. Despite living with a chronic illness, Cameron lives a normal life. His arthritis has never stopped him and he does not let arthritis define who he is. He shares his story to raise awareness and to raise money for the Arthritis Foundation. The ultimate goal is to one day find a cure. He is honored to be a 2024 National Honoree. Please consider supporting Cameron’s team, “
Dr. Susan Ballinger is a Hoosier by choice. She has spent her entire career as a pediatric rheumatologist at Indiana University School of Medicine and Indiana University Health-Riley Children’s Health serving children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis and their families. Dr. Ballinger is inspired every day by the courage and grit of her patients. She is a passionate teacher of medical students, residents, and fellows in the recognition and treatment of rheumatologic conditions in children. Dr. Ballinger enjoys spending time with her family, and pets, and is currently learning to log with draft horses. Dr. Ballinger is proud to have been nominated as the medical honoree for the Walk to Cure Arthritis and invites everyone to join in supporting the Arthritis Foundation.
Sierra Street is a first year medical school student at Marian University. She first became involved with the Arthritis Foundation as intern/volunteer in 2022. Sierra has really enjoyed being a part of raising awareness about arthritis within her local community. She is originally from North Carolina, where she was born and raised. Sierra is a dog mom to her beautiful fur baby, Millie Mae. She has played lacrosse from age 6 all the way through college and is still involved in the game as an Assistant Coach at Marian University.
Lisa Baker was diagnosed with osteoarthritis 2 years ago after continually complaining of swelling, pain and immobility in her foot and ankle. After many doctors visits and complaints that something just wasn’t right, finally Lisa was told her foot and ankle were riddled with arthritis. Despite having chronic pain and days where walking was almost impossible, Lisa is grateful for the support of family and friends who’ve helped her learn how to navigate arthritis. After joint fusion surgery, Lisa is determined to not just survive with arthritis, but to THRIVE! Understanding how those with arthritis live each day inspires her to advocate for research, care and support. 
Lilly started showing signs of juvenile arthritis (JA) when she was 18 months old and was officially diagnosed at 3 years old. It originally started in one knee but unfortunately spread to additional places throughout her body. At a young age, she learned to endure weekly injections, monthly infusions, continuous bloodwork, tests, procedures, and side effects. Although it impacts her on a daily basis, Lilly has a wonderful attitude towards life and the greatest smile! She continues to raise awareness and fights to find better JA treatments for children like her in hopes of one day finding a cure! 
William Villines, 6, of Evansville, Indiana has dealt with the effects of arthritis since age 4 and was formally diagnosed with polyarticular idiopathic juvenile arthritis at age 5. William’s treatment journey has taken him from being unable to walk and using a wheelchair, to walking and running with little impairment. William enjoys playing with his cousins, taking care of his dog Loki and building with Legos. Team Will is thankful for all the support and is hopeful for the future of all children dealing with arthritis.