The Board - MALS Foundation of MD

Chris LiPira is the Co-Founder and CEO of the MALS Foundation, an organization dedicated to supporting individuals and families affected by ALS and funding critical research to help find a cure.

His commitment to this mission is deeply personal-Chris has witnessed firsthand the devastating realities of ALS, motivating him to turn experience into action and advocacy.

In addition to his nonprofit leadership, Chris is a seasoned Construction Supervisor with over 15 years of experience, currently working with Chesapeake Contracting Co., where he is known for his strong leadership, reliability, and hands-on approach to complex projects.

Chris is the son of Mark, a proud girl dad of three young daughters, and is married to his wife Tiffany. Balancing family life, a demanding career, and philanthropic leadership, Chris brings compassion, resilience, and purpose to everything he does.

I am Alex LiPira, co-founder of the MALS Foundation of MD, a 501c3 nonprofit organization created in honor of my Dad, Mark LiPira. After witnessing the impact ALS had on his life and our family, I felt compelled to take action. Our mission is twofold: to raise critical funds for ALS research and to provide financial assistance to families who are courageously battling this devastating disease. Through this foundation, I strive to honor my father’s legacy by offering hope, support, and resources to those in need, while contributing to the fight for a cure.

At the core, our Foundation is about what I find to be the most important thing in life, spending time with friends and family- which is exactly what our fundraising events are centered around. We aim to host incredible events that create lasting memories with loved ones, while fundraising to support the community.

At home, my wife and I have four amazing children, ages 2, 4, 5, and 8. Our schedules are filled with Soccer, Gymnastics, Tae Kwon Do, Track, and tons of fun-filled trips and activities. 

Thank you for being a part of our journey, community, and story – as we continue to build something amazing that will make a lasting impact in the lives of many.

Hi, I’m Tim Hurley, and I’m proud to serve on the board of The MALS Foundation. Being a brother-in law of Mark, my

connection to this cause is personal — I’ve seen how ALS impacts individuals and families, and I wanted to be part of

the fight to bring hope, support, and progress to those living with the disease.

By profession, I am an elementary school teacher and that background of 25+ years has shaped the way I approach

service. I believe knowledge and compassion go hand in hand, and I try to bring both to the work we do at the

foundation.

Outside of board meetings, you’ll usually find me on the golf course, spending time with family, beaching during the summer, or cheering on the local sports teams. I love connecting with people and believe that small acts of kindness can ripple out into big change.

Being part of this foundation reminds me daily that while ALS is a tough journey, no one should face it alone. Together, we’re building a community of care and pushing forward toward a future without ALS. Make your Mark!

Tom is a Senior Adviser to Patriot Capital Group, a provider of mezzanine debt and

minority equity investments. He co-founded Allegiance Capital Management Company, a predecessor to Patriot Capital in 1999. Prior to Allegiance he spent 13 years in positions of increasing responsibility with Bank of America Corporation (and its predecessor banks) providing senior and subordinated debt to middle market companies. During 1998 and 1999 he managed the Mid Atlantic activities of Banc of America SBIC Corporation. Tom has served on the boards of various civic organizations and private companies. 

From the late-1960s through 2024 Tom served as Mark LiPira’s wing man.

 Angie serves as an Advisory Board Member where she proudly supports the mission to honor her Uncle Mark’s legacy and uplift families affected by ALS. With a huge heart for her family and a deep commitment to helping others Angie felt called to help continue the work her aunt and cousins began in his memory. She brings compassion, dedication, and family-driven purpose to the foundation. She is honored to play a role in raising funds, spreading awareness, and providing meaningful support to those navigating the challenges of ALS 

Blair Bader is a marketing leader with a background in brand strategy, digital engagement, and community-driven storytelling. As Head of Marketing for the MALS Foundation of Maryland, she supports efforts to raise awareness, support fundraising initiatives, and amplify the Foundation’s mission in honor of Mark LiPira.

Blair’s involvement with MALS is deeply personal. She has been a close family friend of the LiPira family for many years and is passionate about supporting the ALS community and helping carry Mark’s legacy forward.

Outside of her professional life, you can find Blair on the pickleball courts or playing in the fields with her and her husband's two dogs.