Rev. Dr. Cynthia Huling Hummel, of Elmira, NY is a fierce advocate and a voice for those living with the dementia. Cynthia served on the National Council on Alzheimer’s Research, Care and Services representing the 5.8 million Americans living with dementia. She has been an Alzheimer’s research participant for 10 years. Cynthia currently serves as an advisor to several local, national and international organizations. An artist and author, she also sings in a country band. She will be moderating the discussion.

Brian Van Buren is an Alzheimer’s advocate and public speaker, a Board Member of the Western Carolina Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, and an Advisory Council Member for the Dementia Action Alliance. After his early onset Alzheimer’s diagnosis in 2015, he reimagined himself as an advocate. Being an Afro-American man, he felt he needed to give a face to the disease. He also feels a need to address marginalized populations such as the LGBTQ community.

Cameron J. Camp, Ph.D., originally developed the adaptation of the Montessori method as an intervention for persons with dementia. He is a noted psychologist specializing in applied research in gerontology, and currently serves as Director of Research and Development for the Center for Applied Research in Dementia. He gives workshops internationally on cognitive and behavioral interventions to reduce challenging behaviors and increase the level of functioning and quality of life of persons with dementia.

Elias Rodriguez is a Registered Nurse of 8 years, and works as the Community Life Director at Rowntree Gardens Senior Living Community. His passion for comfort and best practice has made him an advocate for quality care. As an ambitious and motivated leader, he spends his days seeking the highest quality of life of employees and residents in the community.