American Girl of the Year 2027 Daisy Davenport Advisory Board

Like all American Girl characters, American Girl's 2027 Girl of the Year, Daisy, had an advisory board to bring her world to life, specifically, realistic depictions of camp and spinal muscular atrophy advocates to better understand Daisy's friend Violet.

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Laurie McMurray is a Co-Director of the Adventure Education program at Camp Daggett, a year-round camp in northern Michigan. She has a background in teaching, with degrees in elementary and special education. She has led experiential education for kids and adults for over 20 years. In addition, as a professional ski instructor, she frequently instructs youth with special needs.

Jackie Glascock PhD serves as the Chief Scientific Officer at Cure SMA. She directs research to better understand spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) and help those with SMA like Daisy's cabinmate Violet. With nearly 20 years of experience, she has watched the field evolve and believes learning more about SMA biology will create breakthroughs. She thinks every girl who asks “why” can grow up to change the world.

Sarah Bellish works on the Policy and Advocacy team at Cure SMA. Living with spinal muscular atrophy, Sarah brings a personal voice to her work, helping to uplift and connect the SMA community. As a child, she attended a summer camp for kids with disabilities, where she thrived because everyone was included. That shaped her belief in the power of belonging and advocacy."