David Elin

David Elin is a national leader in patient advocacy and public policy, with more than two decades of experience advancing mission-driven initiatives. He serves as Senior Director of Advocacy and Government Affairs at the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, where he leads federal, state, and grassroots strategies to strengthen research investment, improve access to care, and mobilize a nationwide community of advocates.

He began his career as a frontline social worker, working directly with children and families navigating complex challenges, an experience that sparked his commitment to advancing policy change from the ground up and ensuring lived experiences inform decision-making at the highest levels. He later served in a national nonprofit fundraising role, where leading large-scale campaigns provided a crash course in prioritization, resource stewardship, and mission focus.

In his current role, David partners with policymakers, patient organizations, and industry stakeholders to advance bipartisan solutions. His work has helped secure sustained federal support for biomedical research, elevate the patient voice in national policy debates, and build coalitions to address challenges such as antimicrobial resistance and access to innovative therapies and affordable coverage.

David is known for his collaborative leadership style, strategic mindset, and ability to translate complex policy issues into actionable strategies. He brings a mission-first approach grounded in the belief that effective advocacy is driven by both data and lived experience.