Meet the NPYA Team

Kirk Lord

Executive Director and Legislative Committee Lead
Cat Doherty

Social Media Committee Lead
Stephanie Pietz

Research Committee Lead
Brandi Alden

Event Organization/Public Relations Committee Lead

Kirk Lord

I’m a freshman student-athlete at Pitzer College studying science management with a concentration in neuroscience. I am the founder and executive director of the National PANDAS/PANS Youth Alliance, and I founded this organization because I want every child, teen, and young adult with PANDAS/PANS to reach their potential and get the treatment they deserve, as well as unite PANDAS/PANS youth across the nation. Because I received proper treatment early on, I have been able to live a fulfilling and fun life and reach my goals, one of which is to help and be there for all of you! My favorite ice cream flavor is moose tracks with butterscotch sauce (and lots of it), and my favorite thing to do is play sports with friends and also give my mom big bear hugs because she’s awesome and I love her!

Brandi Alden

I am a 4-year entrepreneur, a performing arts instructor and sketch comedy content creator. Licensed as a brain health trainer I have plans to go back to school in the near future to continue my studies. Outside of work and school, I enjoy performing as a singer, dancer, actress and improvisor and training dogs. I decided to join the alliance to help foster NPYA’s initiative of giving people battling PANS/PANDAS hope for better care in the future. I know from my story with this condition that early diagnosis is key so I want to work to spread awareness by helping unify and amplify the voices of PANS/PANDAS patients across the nation.

Stephanie Pietz

I go to SUNY Plattsburgh (on medical leave). In the 2 years I’ve completed so far, I joined Psi Chi and the SUNY Plattsburgh Honors Program. Through these and similar opportunities (such as my work as a DSP and student aide), I was able to pursue my lifelong passions for research, leadership, and learning in general. I plan to apply these skills here at the NPYA—I can’t wait to see what we can accomplish!

Cat Doherty

I study Screenwriting and teach children’s martial arts. I love blending storytelling and the power of social media, to share information and make people feel less alone. Connection and community fuel me, and I’m always excited to meet new people. My favorite infusion snack? Definitely sour candy or salty chips. When I’m not teaching or creating, you’ll find me hiking and exploring new places. Treatment has given me my life back, and I will be forever grateful. That’s why I’m committed to ensuring that everyone has timely access to treatment— because no one should suffer when help is available. Your voice matters, and together, we can ensure that treatment is accessible for all.

Advisory Board