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Our mission

As a 501(c)(3) charity, we are dedicated to providing equitable resources for individuals living with Muscular Dystrophy and related diseases to assist and enable them in achieving their life goals.

As a first step, we established the IDISCY Scholarship Fund to provide financial assistance to individuals pursuing higher education opportunities.

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Our History

In early 2022, the concept of the IDISCY Foundation was introduced to Tristan Larsin by his father, James. Tristan subsequently developed the idea into a comprehensive plan. After months of refining the necessary documentation, the IDISCY Foundation was established in the fall of 2022.

Meet the team

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  • FOUNDER / BOARD PRESIDENT / EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

    Tristan Larsin was born on July 28, 1996. At 17, he graduated from high school in Rush City, Minnesota, and went on to study Computer Science at the University of Minnesota-Duluth (UMD), where he earned a B.S. degree in 2018. He quickly entered the workforce, honing his skills as an Android Engineer through employment with various companies. He has consistently exceeded expectations and made a strong impression on his supervisors and peers.

    However, Tristan is unique among young professionals. He has Kugelbert-Welander, also known as Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Type 3. This rare genetic disorder affects his muscles, and he requires assistance with everyday tasks such as bathing and dressing.

    In the fall of 2022, Tristan founded the IDISCY Foundation, a non-profit organization that aims to provide financial support for college education to individuals with disabilities. The foundation's motto, "I did it, so can you," reflects its mission to inspire and encourage disabled individuals to pursue their dreams. The first scholarship will be awarded for the 2023-2024 academic year.

    Throughout his life, Tristan has been an inspiration to those around him. He embraces his abilities and is grateful for the opportunities he has had to succeed. He is a kind, generous, and thoughtful individual who wishes to share his success with others facing similar challenges. His positive impact extends to everyone he encounters, from social workers to the staff of his schools, inspiring them to improve his life and the lives of others.

    Tristan understands the ripple effect of his actions and is dedicated to making a difference in society. He contributed approximately 10% of his annual earnings to the IDISCY Foundation and has committed his time and energy to its success.

  • BOARD TREASURER

    Robyn Larson was born and raised in Duluth, Minnesota. She graduated from Duluth East High School in 2014 and then attended the University of Minnesota-Duluth (UMD), graduating with an accounting degree and a minor in mathematics in 2017.

    After graduating, Robyn began her accounting career at RSM US LLP as an Assurance Associate, working to audit companies primarily in the consumer product and industrial product industry throughout the Midwest. After passing her exams, Robyn became a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in the fall of 2019. Robyn has continued to work at RSM and is currently a Manager completing her sixth busy season of auditing.

    Robyn met Tristan in a Calculus II course while at UMD, and they became lifelong friends. In the nine years that Robyn has known Tristan, she has been inspired by his achievements and perseverance. Robyn is looking forward to applying her accounting expertise and energy towards the IDISCY Foundation to help make its mission a success.

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