Serving with NAB since 2022

Andrea recently completed her MPH in Health Policy at the UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health. She co-founded and co-directed the Alzheimer’s Buddies chapter at Cornell University and previously served as a chapter relations committee intern.

“Being involved with National Alzheimer’s Buddies has helped bridge gaps between the local Alzheimer’s residents and their families and created a community that is passionate about learning about the disease and its impact on so many individuals. I hope to expand NAB’s impact on communities to positively influence more people’s lives.”

Serving with NAB since 2023

Madison Sirota graduated from Yale University in 2024 with a bachelor’s degree in neuroscience and a certificate in advanced Spanish studies. She previously served as an intern for the chapter relations team for NAB, although she now serves as the Chief Marketing Officer for the organization. Outside of her academic studies, she enjoys tap dancing, continuing her research, and spending time with family. She plans on attending medical school in the fall of 2025, doing research and working as an EMT in her gap year.

"Throughout high school, I volunteered in a nursing home and soon realized how important it was for the residents to have regular company regardless of how the time was spent. After growing close connections with a resident who had Alzheimer's Disease, I became increasingly passionate about the subject, and have been doing research on Alzheimer's Disease since the start of my undergraduate studies. Although my research has been incredibly fulfilling, nothing is more rewarding than volunteering and building new connections with current residents through Alzheimer's Buddies. It truly has been the highlight of my undergraduate career and has helped me reaffirm my passion for volunteerism and medicine."

Serving with NAB since 2024

Abhishek Kona is a senior at Rice University studying Biosciences and Medical Humanities on the pre-med track. He serves as President of Rice Alzheimer’s Buddies and National Impact Officer for the national organization. Since joining in his first year, Abhishek has helped develop culturally responsive dementia care programs and expand intergenerational connection across communities. He believes Alzheimer’s care should honor identity, not just memory, and is passionate about building programs that allow individuals with dementia to re-engage on their own terms - with dignity, comfort, and joy.

"Watching the joy of our Alzheimer’s Buddies as they interact with each other and fellow volunteers has inspired me to become someone who facilitates this sense of camaraderie. Each new friend I make at NAB becomes more than a mere “stranger” - they become a cherished friend who enriches my life with entertaining stories, enlightening conversations, diverse values, and cultures. I am committed to making a cultural impact and continuing to create meaningful bonds with my buddies here at NAB.”

Serving with NAB since 2024

Tanya is currently a fourth year at UCLA majoring in Biochemistry and minoring in Philosophy on the pre-med track. She is currently the co-founder of the UCLA chapter, has served as a Co-Director at the UCSC chapter from 2023-2024, and has been volunteering with NAB since 2022. She is extremely passionate about research, especially pertaining to the chemistry behind neurodegeneration.

“When I started volunteering with NAB, I immediately fell in love with the work they do. It was magnificent to see how a small interaction, such as a smile or a short conversation, could make such a vast difference in each resident's lives. Over the past few years of volunteering and working on the national team, I watched as my peers developed stronger and stronger relationships with these residents, and began to transcend beyond just the volunteer relationship. These interactions are what drives me to work with NAB, as even the smallest action can create an infinite amount of joy.”

Serving with NAB since 2023

Charmi is a sophomore at the University of Illinois at Chicago studying Public Health. She is involved in her school's chapter as the marketing chair and has volunteered with NAB since her freshman year.

"Growing up, I witnessed my grandmother suffering from Dementia, and my family was grateful to be there for her and help provide her comfort during the isolation and fear that can come with this disease, both for the individual and their family members. She passed away before I started college, but it has been so gratifying to help individuals and families going through a similar experience to my family through NAB. I am so excited to participate in such a meaningful mission and help make a difference for individuals with Alzheimer's Disease."

Serving with Alz Buddies since 2011

Dr. Ruth Kandel is an inspiring geriatrician who worked with Ryan and Robin to launch the first Alzheimer’s Buddies chapter at Hebrew Senior Life back in 2011 when she was the Director of the Memory Disorders Clinic and an Assistant Professor at Harvard Medical School. Now in retirement, she dedicates her time to advising NAB and alongside other non-profits.

"This is an incredible program that I feel privileged to be a part of.  Witnessing the meaningful and lasting relationships that I have seen develop between the undergraduate students and individuals with Alzheimer’s continues to amaze and inspire me."

Serving with Alz Buddies since 2015

Ellen Zhang is a MD candidate at Harvard Medical School and Co-Director Emeritus of the Harvard College Alzheimer’s Buddies. Make sure to check out her blog about her experiences and reflections being part of Alzheimer's Buddies!