Serving with NAB since 2026

Sandhya is a sophomore at the University of Michigan studying Biology, Health, and Society. She is passionate about supporting people living with neurodegenerative diseases and is committed to advancing NAB's mission.

“Alzheimer's Buddies builds communities and fosters the formation of genuine relationships. Having witnessed the progression of neurodegenerative disease, I've seen that shared moments of connection and consistently showing up are vital components of care. I am excited to contribute to a program that prioritizes empathy, patient-centered care, and lasting support!”

Serving with NAB since 2025

Priya is currently a student at Yale University, majoring in molecular, cellular, & developmental biology while pursing a certificate in education studies. She is passionate about serving her community, whether that be through volunteering with Alzheimer's Buddies, at her local hospital, soup kitchens, or hospice homes! She is excited to serve as a Chapter Relations Intern and expand NAB's mission.

“The Alzheimer’s Buddies program has reinforced my commitment to viewing patients as individuals rather than as diagnoses. Having cared for my grandmother with Alzheimer’s, I recognize the importance of dignity and connection in memory care. Through this program, I have the opportunity to form meaningful relationships with patients, fostering human connection while strengthening my ability to provide compassionate, patient-centered care.”

Serving with NAB since 2026

Hi! My name is Ishani Kishorepuria, and I’m a sophomore at Cornell University majoring in Biological Sciences with a minor in Gerontology. I’m passionate about advocating for older adults’ rights, and outside of academics I enjoy playing pickleball and dancing with a Kathak Indian fusion team at Cornell.

“Alzheimer’s Buddies is deeply personal to me because my grandfather had dementia. I witnessed firsthand his abrupt mood changes and the emotional challenges that came with the disease. I also saw the immense responsibility my grandmother took on as his primary caregiver. Through their experience, I realized how profoundly Alzheimer’s affects not only individuals, but entire families. Alzheimer’s Buddies gives me the opportunity to support, connect with, and advocate for those impacted by this disease in a meaningful way.”

Serving with NAB since 2025

Sharan Tamber is a junior at the University of California, Davis studying Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior. As a volunteer and co-president at the UC Davis chapter, she has been able to explore her passion in aiding those with Alzheimer's have a better quality of life.

“My grandmother had Alzheimer's Disease and dementia for many years, so the mission of Alzheimer's Buddies has always resonated deeply with me. As a member of National Alzheimer's Buddies, I have had the opportunity to provide comfort and joy to those who are diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease and dementia, a demographic that is often overlooked, mistreated, and even abused. Volunteering at NAB has continues to shape my future aspirations and constantly reaffirms my passion to improve the treatment and the quality of care that Alzheimer's or dementia patients deserve.”

Serving with NAB since 2025

Ingrid Chan is a sophomore at the University of Pennsylvania studying Cognitive Science. As a volunteer with Penn Alzheimer's Buddies, she is passionate about dementia care and intergenerational connection. She's especially interested in how innovative designs can improve care experiences for patients and families.

“Alzheimer's Buddies is one of the most meaningful parts of my college experience! Visiting with residents each week has taught me the power of presence, patience, and genuine connection. With both my grandmothers diagnosed with severe dementia, it is extremely rewarding to be able to bring hope and joy to residents who are in the same situation as my grandmothers were. Being part of NAB has not only strengthened my passion for dementia care, but also grounded me in the belief that small, consistent acts of compassion can create lasting impact for both the residents and ourselves.”

Serving with NAB since 2025

Evelyn is currently attending UC Santa Barbara, majoring in Psychology and Brain Science. She joined NAB as a Chapter Relations Intern and is excited to apply her past experiences in various volunteer organizations to help further the mission. She is committed to serving the NAB community and supporting those in need.

“Through the love and compassion I hold for my own elderly family members, as well as the work I have done in assisted living facilities, I have seen the profound effect that cognitive decline has on both individuals and their families. NAB’s mission aligns with my own desire to help and the drive I possess to ease the heartache that Alzheimer’s disease brings. While memory may fade, I believe connection can persist, and alongside NAB, I hope to provide moments of solace and peace to communities across the nation.”

Serving with NAB since 2025

She is a senior at Wellesley College pursuing Psychology and Education Studies. She is passionate about mental health, caregiving, and community-based initiatives. She has been actively volunteering with Alzheimer’s Buddies since her freshman year, driven by a strong dedication to serving and empowering Alzheimer’s communities across the country.“Joining NAB has given me a space to build meaningful, intergenerational relationships rooted in compassion and community. As a volunteer, I have witnessed how small, consistent moments can bring fulfillment and joy to individuals living with Alzheimer's. This experience continues to inspire me to advocate for more inclusive and compassionate systems of care and support.”

Serving with NAB since 2026

Derek is a senior Biology Major concentrating in Computational Biology at Cornell University on the pre-medical track. He has been Cornell Chapter Director since sophomore year, and been involved with Alzheimer's Buddies since freshman year. He is passionate about serving the local Ithaca community. Outside of Alzheimer's Buddies, he is involved with Bioethics Society and PERIOD @ Cornell, an organization dedicated to distributing menstrual products to those in need.

“Alzheimer's Buddies has really been one of the meaningful parts of my college experience. Volunteering has taught me the value of patience and that the smallest gestures can go the farthest of ways. While witnessing the barriers to communication residents have, it's possible to really see how much fun it is to spend time with residents.”

Serving with NAB since 2024

Alexander is currently a student at Georgetown University, majoring in neurobiology and mathematics. He is committed to raising awareness and supporting people with neurodegenerative diseases through NAB.

“Seeing my buddies and the joy that volunteers bring to their days inspires me to continue with acts of kindness, particularly small acts like being present, engaged, and empathetic, to positively impact the lives of the people we serve. I am honored to work with NAB and further the care we provide to our buddies on the national level.”

Serving with NAB since 2024

Angela is a junior at Rice University studying Biosciences and Medical Humanities on the pre-medical track. She has been volunteering with Alzheimer’s Buddies since her freshman year and is passionate about supporting Alzheimer’s communities nationwide.

"I have learned so much from my Buddies through my volunteer work with NAB. I have seen the profound social isolation faced by Alzheimer’s patients, but at the same time, I’ve witnessed how important and uplifting our social interactions can be. I am excited to work with this amazing organization and help alleviate patients’ social and emotional challenges nationwide!”

Serving with NAB since 2025

Agastya is a sophomore at Johns Hopkins University majoring in Molecular and Cellular Biology and German. He has been volunteering with NAB since 2024. Outside of NAB, he volunteers with the JHADRC, works as an EMT, and conducts research on autoimmune diseases in the pathology department.

“Having been a caregiver to my grandmother with Alzheimer’s, I’m grateful for the opportunity NAB has given me to continue supporting the AD community. Volunteering with NAB reminded me how meaningful even the smallest moments can be. Through shared moments of joy with residents, Alzheimer’s Buddies has reaffirmed the enduring power of compassion and echoed the fulfillment I felt while caring for my grandmother.”

Serving with NAB since 2025

Shirley Zhang is currently a student at Georgetown University, majoring in Biology. Her interests in basic and translational science have driven her to conduct research on neurodegenerative disorders, and she’s looking forward to bridging these efforts as a Chapter Relations Intern to support those living with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers.

“I have come to understand neurologic and neurodegenerative disorders not only through the lens of research, but through the lives of the people they affect. Building relationships is crucial, as the strength and meaning of these human connections goes both ways for residents and volunteers. I aim to uphold NAB’s mission—rooted in the intersection of medicine and service.”

Serving with NAB since 2025

Eva Anchekova is a sophomore at Johns Hopkins University majoring in Neuroscience and Psychology. She’s been volunteering with NAB at JHU for the last semester. She is also interested research on strokes in both kids and adults and dementia and white matter disease.

“Alzheimer’s Buddies holds deep personal meaning to me. My great-grandmother has Alzheimer’s, and seeing her change and battle Alzheimer's over the last few years has sparked my interest in dementia care and the emotional impact of Alzheimer's not just on individuals but their families as well. Volunteering through NAB allows me to help so many individuals while also learning from their stories. I also research stroke and dementia in the lab, and this experience brings my work full circle—connecting science with real lives. I see NAB as a powerful way to help people around me in a meaningful and compassionate way.”

Serving with NAB since 2023

Ivan is currently an undergraduate student at Brown University studying Neuroscience and Public Health. Through National Alzheimer’s Buddies, he strives to continue exploring meaningful relationships and advocating for greater dignity and awareness in dementia care.

“Joining NAB felt like a natural step in my journey toward compassionate, patient-centered care. I’ve always been drawn to making a meaningful impact, and connecting with individuals affected by Alzheimer’s allows me to offer comfort while deepening my understanding of the disease and the human experiences that surround it.”

Serving with NAB since 2026

I graduated from The Ohio State University with a degree in Neuroscience and a minor in Film Studies. I also had the opportunity to serve as Chapter President at OSU, and I’m deeply passionate about supporting and uplifting underserved communities.

“To me, NAB embodies the true meaning of community. It has shown me the power of companionship and the dignity found in patience and simply being a listening ear. And through meaningful connections with individuals living with Alzheimer’s, I’ve been able to gain a deeper appreciation for the stories beyond the symptoms.”

Serving with NAB since 2023

Maddy graduated from Yale in 2024 with a bachelors degree in neuroscience and an advanced language certificate in Spanish. She serves as the chief marketing officer for the organization after volunteering at her university chapter and participating in NAB as a CR intern. She is gaining more clinical experience working as an EMT before applying to medical school in the upcoming year.

Serving with NAB since 2024

Ashilyn is currently an undergraduate student at Purdue University on the pre-medicine track. She is deeply committed to advocating for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s and dementia and hopes to pursue a career in the field in the future. Currently, she works as a CNA at an assisted living and dementia care center, where she continues to pursue her passion for supporting this community.

“From countless nights spent working at a dementia care center, I have witnessed firsthand how Alzheimer’s disease affects daily life for both patients and their families. I am passionate about bridging the gap between current research and care-centered approaches in order to further NAB's mission in helping this community.”

Serving with NAB since 2026

Shriyah is currently an sophomore at Rutgers University majoring in Biology on the pre-dental track. She is passionate about improving patient care and oral health and hopes to pursue a career in dentistry in the future. Currently, she works as a dental assistant, where she gains hands-on clinical experience and continues to strengthen her commitment to patient-centered care.

“National Alzheimer’s Buddies means a great deal to me because it represents compassion, connection, and advocacy for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s. Through this organization, I am able to contribute to meaningful work that supports dignity, awareness, and community. Being part of Alzheimer Buddies allows me to give back while growing personally and professionally.”

Serving with NAB since 2024

Andrea Malca is an incoming freshman at Boston University, majoring in finance on the pre-medical track. She joined NAB in the summer of 2024 and is dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the lives of those affected by Alzheimer's.

"Being part of National Alzheimer's Buddies has taught me the power of presence and listening with empathy, while fostering connections between residents and their families. I am inspired to continue expanding NAB's impact and bring support, hope, and understanding to even more lives."

Serving with NAB since 2024

Neel is currently a senior at Carl Sandburg High School. He is passionate about utilizing finance as a force for good in the world. Through spreading awareness and pursuing funding opportunities, Neel seeks to improve the community around him.

“My commitment towards Alzheimer’s Buddies comes from witnessing firsthand the struggles of family members with medical conditions. I want to ensure that our volunteers have every resource available to provide the best physical and mental support to those suffering, as well as their families and caregivers.”

Serving with NAB since 2025

Hi! My name is Talia and I am a junior at Northwestern University studying neuroscience and black studies. I love to learn about people’s backgrounds and hear their stories!

“NAB to me is my love for the community that used to take care of us. My grandma had Alzheimer’s and passed away my first year of college which is why I love spending time with the seniors in my local area and taking time to talk with them. It’s a goal of mine to make sure all seniors with Alzheimer’s have access to proper companionship.”

Serving with NAB since 2023

Vega is a rising senior at Taylor Allderdice High School in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, driven to pursue a career path in Neuroscience and medicine. She is passionate about neuroscience with hopes to achieve either a medical degree or a PhD in Neuroscience research in her future endeavors. She is excited to be a part of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) committee at NAB, and looks forward to further supporting those affected by this disease. 

“My aunt is currently suffering from Alzheimer's Disease, and watching her struggle with feelings of isolation as she lost many of her life memories, sparked my interest in Neuroscience. Through working with National Alzheimer's Buddies, I have gotten the opportunity to help spread awareness on the detrimental impacts of Alzheimer's Disease and how to strive for equal care across all communities.” 

Serving with NAB since 2025

Irva Patel is a junior at Rutgers University majoring in Cell Biology and Neuroscience on the pre-med track. She is passionate about neuroscience, particularly neurodegenerative diseases. She has been volunteering with her college's Alzheimer’s Buddies chapter since her freshman year in 2023 and is excited to be a part of NAB to help bring awareness and resources to underserved communities.

“Alzheimer’s Buddies has taught me how powerful companionship and empathy can be. I am so grateful to support a mission that helps ease the emotional turmoil this disease brings and am committed to serving communities impacted by Alzheimer's.”

Serving with NAB since 2025

Cherlin Kim is a sophomore at Johns Hopkins University, majoring in Molecular & Cellular Biology. She is passionate about spreading greater awareness about Alzheimer's and, thus, continues to research about the disease within the lab setting. She is excited to further fulfill this passion as an Impact Committee intern for National Alzheimer’s Buddies!

“Alzheimer’s Buddies represents a passionate and diverse community of students that understands the power of connection through communication. It represents a collective effort to not only fight against Alzheimer’s disease, but to likewise strengthen the bond between Alzheimer’s residents and their loved ones. Despite our different paths that led us to NAB, it is heartwarming to know that our initiative to advocate for Alzheimer’s is shared.”

Serving with NAB since 2023

I'm a senior at UC Santa Cruz studying Psychology and Literature! I'm passionate about becoming a Clinical Psychologist and making mental health care more accessible and exceptional for marginalized populations.

“Volunteering with Alzheimer's Buddies has deepened and expanded my love for addressing social and well being related needs in vulnerable groups. Working with local caregivers has highlighted how important compassion and genuine effort is to ease the lived and caregiving experiences of those with Alzheimer's and I'm honored to be contributing to NAB'S wonderful mission.”

Serving with NAB since 2024

Neeharika is a sophomore at Rutgers University majoring in Biological Sciences on the pre-med track. She is passionate about neuroscience and neurodegenerative diseases. She has been involved with her college’s Alzheimer’s Buddies chapter since her freshman year. She is excited to be a part of the Impact Committee in NAB!

“Alzheimer’s Buddies has shown me how meaningful small, shared moments with residents can be. Playing games, listening to music, or even having a simple conversation makes such a huge difference for those with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. I am grateful to be a part of NAB!”

Serving with NAB since 2024

Himaja is a current junior at UC Davis, majoring in Genetics and Genomics and minoring in Public Health. She has been a volunteer for the UC Davis Alzheimer’s Buddies chapter ABUD since 2022, where she has bridged bonds with many peers and buddies. While also serving in a student-run clinic targeting juvenile adolescents, she continues to grow a penchant for helping marginalized populations. 

“Being part of the Alzheimer's Buddies community at my university has paved the way for fostering new friendships with peers, caregivers, and buddies. NAB has provided a similar outlet and even more, listening to collections of stories from tackling challenges during buddy visits to our familiar passion to advocate in fighting against Alzheimer’s. These stories bring us together, each representing the journies of many lives. It serves as a reminder that our existing diversity strengthens our goals to support individuals with dementia.”

Serving with NAB since 2025

Beatrice is a junior at Northwestern University, studying Biological Sciences on the pre-medical track. She joined NAB in 2023, where she developed a passion for serving underserved and vulnerable populations, and she is committed to advancing equity in healthcare by deepening NAB’s impact across diverse populations.

“Through Alzheimer’s Buddies, I’ve formed many valuable relationships with the patients that I work with. Each one of our conversations is a powerful reminder of the impact that presence, empathy, and consistency can have. It is an honor to be a part of NAB, and I hope to advance awareness and dignity for those affected by Alzheimer’s.”