Last week, the Global Alzheimer’s Platform Foundation’s (GAP) Inclusive Research Initiative (IRI) team hosted its second annual virtual conference focused on improving Alzheimer’s and dementia research by increasing diversity among participants in neurodegenerative clinical trials. We are proud to have created a platform for meaningful dialogue and hope it has inspired new ideas, collaborations, and opportunities for those historically underrepresented in clinical research.
The conference reflected the breadth of perspectives we aim to include, bringing together panelists from major universities and small-town research sites, trial participants and lifelong researchers, educators and advocates. Together, they explored cultural, financial, governmental, and medical barriers to participation and shared actionable strategies to overcome them.
We opened with a “Calling All Voices” panel highlighting the experiences of people living with dementia or MCI and their care partners from marginalized, understudied, and often unheard communities. Panelists included Jessica Luh Kim, Paula Mueller, PhD, Debra Tann, EdD, and advocate Brian VanBuren.
Another session focused on the powerful role of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in advancing inclusive research through community trust and academic leadership. Panelists Adrianna D. Jones, MA (Clark Atlanta University), and Danyelle Wilson-Howard, PhD (Bethune-Cookman University), discussed how HBCUs can lead efforts in community engagement, workforce development, and strategic partnerships.
A lively discussion featuring Dr. Monica Parker (GAP-Net site Goizueta Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, Emory University), Judy Galindo (GAP-Net site Sun Valley Research Center, Inc.), and Dr. Michelle McMurry Heath (Biotechnology Innovation Organization) offered real-world strategies for advancing diversity in research without relying solely on DEI terminology.
We also turned our attention to an often-overlooked topic: men’s brain health. This panel explored biological and social dimensions of male brain health, highlighting gaps in research, diagnosis, and engagement. Panelists included Mike Kincade (GAP-Net site Mass General Brigham, Center for Alzheimer’s Research and Treatment [CART]) and Dr. James Falcon (GAP-Net site El Faro Health & Therapeutics).
Three special sessions rounded out the program:
Alzheimer’s Disease, Women’s Health, and Intersectionality, featuring Mickeal Key, Ph.D (Butler University and GAP Consultant, Recruitment and Strategic Initiatives).
Equity in Motion: Accessing Understudied and Underserved Communities with MRUs, highlighting GAP’s Mobile Research Unit (MRU) teams from THOR East and THOR West, who shared how they bring brain health on the road, build community connections, and make research more accessible.
Fighting Alzheimer’s in the Bahamas: My Journey as a Physician Scientist and Advocate, a video by Dr. Theresa Clarke, Founder, Dementia Society of the Bahamas, sharing some perspective on access and advocacy in the islands.
We were honored to hear from keynote speaker Raymond A. Jetson, CEO of Aging While Black, who offered a thoughtful perspective on the opportunities and challenges facing Black elders and how community empowerment, technology, and cultural preservation can improve their aging experience.
I’d like to sincerely thank our panelists for sharing their expertise,
Dr. Tamiko MaGee-Rodgers and Mia Chester for their leadership, the IRI team for their moderation and support, and the more than 100 participants who joined us during National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month (NADAM) to deepen their understanding of this critical topic.
The road to Alzheimer’s therapies and cures is full of challenges, but I’m grateful to be in the passenger seat with skilled drivers, and a vehicle with good brakes.
If you missed the conference or want to revisit a session, the recordings are available on our YouTube channel. GAP looks forward to continuing these vital conversations in our ongoing work and at the GAP-Net Site Optimization Conference, February 2026.
Sincerely,
John Dwyer
President