Meet the Staff

Members of the MSAA staff all have something special to offer, and this is particularly true of Susan Freund, director of MSAA’s Northeast Regional Office. Susan (known to many as “Sooz”) began her tenure in 1997 as director of client services. In 2000, when MSAA recognized a need to devote a regional office to the Northeast section of the county, Susan was named its first director.

Susan’s career in social services began when she started volunteering in her community. She was extensively involved with coaching community sports when her children were young. As her volunteer work expanded to other areas, Susan quickly established herself as a leader in community affairs and women’s issues. Susan was a teacher for children with special needs and is a certified rape crisis counselor in New Jersey. She is currently a Board member of the volunteer center in her county, was appointed to the New Jersey Commission for Women, is a New Jersey state certified Ombudsman advocate, has worked as a literacy volunteer and with the community homeless prevention project. Susan is also currently an active respite provider for families who have children with developmental disabilities.

“A spiritual connection is clearly the driving force behind my interest in giving back to the community,” admits Susan. “For the last 25 years, I have lived my life under the principle of service. When I give the gift of time, I receive more in return than what I give.”

“The Northeast Region covers 10 states from New England to Maryland,” Susan explains.” “My message to regional clients is simple: MSAA cares and wishes to help provide services and programs that will ease the daily challenges of MS. We want people to know that MSAA truly works towards getting their needs met.”

“MSAA has grown quite a bit in the two years since I became director of the Northeast Region. I would like to accelerate that growth by working with state agencies, healthcare organizations, nursing homes, physicians, schools, and healthcare professionals in educating them about multiple sclerosis and the many services offered by MSAA.

When not at work, Susan is a fashion designer with a clothing line named “FROCKS.” Her passion is wedding gown design. She is also a member of an archeology club in her community, along with an interest in interior design, antiques and pottery. In her younger years, Susan studied ballet and enjoyed dancing.

Daughters Heather and Holly are now grown, and Susan is known as “Oma” to her grandchildren Bianca and Joseph.
“The desire to help people has provided an illumination in my life,” Susan says. “Community volunteer work has put my life’s mission into a clear perspective.

“Take it from me and years of experience – you really do not know what life is all about until you become involved in volunteering – the light goes on immediately!”