Justin Liao

committee InteRn

Serving with NAB since 2022

Justin is a recent graduate from UC Santa Cruz where he studied neuroscience, and co-directed the UCSC NAB chapter in 2021-2022. He is also a research assistant in a neuroscience lab at UC Santa Cruz, and works as an EMT for Royal Ambulance, a private inter-facility medical transport company in the Bay Area.

“My grandmother suffered from Alzheimer’s and Dementia most of her adult life, and seeing the struggles and isolation she went through due to the diseases was the catalyst to strive for a career in medicine. NAB is an amazing opportunity to help others in my grandmother’s position through bridging the emotional gap caused by the disease with genuine compassion and connection, and I could not be more proud to be a part of this mission.”

Ashley Suh

committee InteRn

Serving with NAB since 2023

Ashley is a recent graduate from Vanderbilt University, where she formerly served as the director of the Vanderbilt Alzheimer’s Buddies chapter. She majored in Medicine, Health, and Society, as well as Communication of Science and Technology during her studies, and is now working as a clinical/translational research coordinator.

“After I lost my grandmother to Alzheimer’s disease, I felt compelled to imagine a world in which individuals and their families navigating this disease are most cared for, and their stories honored. NAB’s mission continues to resonate with me, as I hope to bridge connections and advocate for this necessary fight.”

pranav Thokachichu

committee InteRn

Serving with NAB since 2023

Don Le

committee InteRn

Serving with NAB since 2024 (UC Irvine Alzbuddies Chapter since Fall 2020)

Don recently graduated from UC Irvine with a degree in human biology in 2024. Don was a part of UCI's NAB chapter since his freshman year and even co-directed it in his final year. Don has been involved in a psychosocial research lab for underserved populations, including Asian Americans with advanced/metastatic cancer. 

“My experiences in NAB as a buddy to people living with Alzheimer’s disease have given me insight to how often this population gets left behind in society. I would encourage people to try planning a visit to any of the many resident homes in the U.S. for people with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Even just an hour of you making the most of your interactions can feel like a week’s worth of joy to them.”

Angela Hu

committee InteRn

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!”

Alexander Farahbod

committee InteRn

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.”

Andrea Huang

committee InteRn

Serving with NAB since 2022 (Cornell Alzbuddies Chapter since fall 2022) 

Andrea is currently a graduate student at UNC-Chapel Hill pursuing an MPH in Health Policy. She graduated from Cornell University in 2023 where she studied Biomedical Engineering. She co-founded and co-directed the Alzheimer’s Buddies chapter at Cornell.

“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.”

Yash Jain

committee InteRn

Serving with NAB since 2023 

Yash is currently a student at Indiana University, majoring in epidemiology and statistics. He actively contributes to the community as a member of the community relations team. Yash has a strong ambition to establish a chapter at IU, allowing him to further the organization's missions and make a positive impact on the community.

“I became aware of NAB through some mutual friends and I really resonated with the message the organization has. With Alzheimer’s becoming more and more prevalent in elderly populations it is vital for an organization like NAB to exist and help the population as much as possible. And I am so thankful to be able to contribute  to such an organization.”

Arisha Vishnani

committee InteRn

Serving with NAB since 2023

Arisha Vishnani is currently a sophomore at the University of Houston pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Biology on the Pre-Medical track. She joined NAB as a Chapter Relations Intern this past summer and is committed to furthering the initiative.
“In working with the elderly community as a caregiver, I have witnessed cognitive conditions like Alzheimer’s disease firsthand. Through National Alzheimer’s Buddies, I am passionate about highlighting the discrepancies in terms of knowledge around memory-care, as well as strengthening the bond between the various chapters and the national board so that we can fulfill NAB’s mission collectively.”

Princess Almirah Jane Yusop

committee InteRn

Serving with NAB since 2024

Princess Almirah Jane Yusop graduated with honors, with a Bachelor of Science in Biology, Majoring in Microbiology, from the University of Southern Mindanao, Philippines. She is eager to continue her academic journey in the MD-PhD track, with the goal of becoming a neurosurgeon and scientist.

She has been involved in doing health research specifically in antibiotic research. She tested the Antimicrobial potency of Zophobas morio hemolymph to Antibiotic-resistant uropathogenic Escherichia coli, using Urinary tract infection as the baseline infectious disease.  In addition, she has actively engaged in leadership roles, serving as the president of the USM Microbiology Society for two years. Her dedication and passion for research, especially in the field of infectious diseases, drive my aspirations.

“I have witnessed how Alzheimer's disease is often neglected, particularly in my community. When I had the opportunity to join NAB, I didn't hesitate. I believe that being part of this organization allows me to raise awareness about the seriousness of Alzheimer's. The more people are informed, the better equipped we are to address and respond to this disease, steering our efforts toward a more proactive approach. For we might be unable to sway the waves, but we can choose the direction of our sails”

Tanya D'Souza

committee InteRn

Serving with NAB since 2024 (UCSC Alzbuddies Chapter since 2022)

Tanya is currently a third year at UCLA majoring in Biochemistry and minoring in Neuroscience on the pre-MD-PhD track. She served as a Co-Director at the UCSC chapter from 2023-2024 and have 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, 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."

Michelle Flanagan

Blog Writer

Serving NAB since 2023

Michelle Flanagan is a nurse practitioner with over 10 years of experience in healthcare. She feels strongly about giving back to the Alzheimer’s community after helping care for her grandfather who struggled with severe dementia. She is pursuing her doctorate in nursing (DNP) degree to improve quality of care in our healthcare system.

Sharanya Sarkar

Committee Intern

Serving with NAB since 2024

Vibhas Ippili

Committee Intern

Serving with NAB since 2024

Vibhas Ippili is a second-year biopsychology major at Irvine Valley Community College (IVC), and he plans to transfer to UCI (University of California Irvine) next fall. He works as a nurse assistant/volunteer in the ER department at Kaiser Permanente. Vibhas’s passion lies in helping others and derives great satisfaction from supporting those in need.

"Joining NAB was a natural extension of my commitment to helping others. I’ve always been driven by a desire to make a positive impact, and working with those affected by Alzheimer’s in the ER allows me to bridge my dedication to compassionate care with a meaningful cause. I am also eager to learn more about Alzheimer’s to help people with the disease to the best of my ability."

Lexi Foss

Committee Intern

Serving with NAB since 2024

Lexi graduated from the University of Minnesota in 2024 with a degree in Marketing. With a strong passion for communication that fosters positive awareness, she has been committed to helping those impacted by Alzheimer’s disease. She looks forward to using her marketing skills to support and uplift Alzheimer’s communities and spread understanding through meaningful outreach.

“Seeing my grandma diagnosed with Alzheimer’s at a young age and watching my grandpa by her side every day taught me the importance of support and compassion for those affected by this disease. It was disheartening to witness others without a similar support system. Through NAB, I am honored to help spread awareness and be part of a mission that provides companionship and hope to those in need.”

Ivan Yu

Committee Intern

Serving with NAB since 2023

Ivan is currently a Senior at Fort Myers High School, driven to pursue pre-med and aspiring to take on a career in the health sciences field.

“As an intern with NAB, I hopes to spread awareness regarding the impacts of Alzheimer’s disease and help in fighting against its effects on society. Outside of NAB, I enjoy traveling, cooking, and volunteering locally within my community."

ZARA IQBAL

Committee Intern

Serving with NAB since 2024

Kamya Chakravarthi

Committee Intern

Serving with NAB since 2024

Kamya is currently an undergraduate student at Wellesley College majoring in mathematics with a minor in biochemistry. She has a strong passion to advocate for the people and families affected by Alzheimer's and Dementia throughout her time during and after her undergraduate education. She actively serves as president of the Wellesley College chapter of Alzheimer’s Buddies and is excited to continue supporting these communities through her work with NAB. 

“After finding out a close mentor of mine had been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease and witnessing how vastly he changed I felt compelled to not only educate myself on the impacts of the disease, but to also do my best to help others also impacted by it. I’m proud to not only be a volunteer with NAB but to also support its mission in bringing awareness to the disease and support to all those affected by it.”

ANdrea Malca

Committee Intern

Serving with NAB since 2024

Neel Patel

Committee Intern

Serving with NAB since 2024

Neel is currently a junior at Carl Sandburg High School. He plans to pursue finance and use his talents to better his community.

“My commitment towards Alzheimer’s Buddies comes from family members struggling with medical conditions. I want to ensure that we can provide physical and mental support for those suffering along with their families and caregivers.”

JESSICA ZHANG

Committee Intern

Serving with NAB since 2024

Jessica Zhang is an undergraduate student at the University of California, Irvine, majoring in political science. She is actively involved in UCI's Alzheimer’s research, focusing on supporting individuals and families affected by the disease, particularly within marginalized communities. Jessica is passionate about raising Alzheimer’s awareness and is excited to contribute further as a Finance Intern for National Alzheimer’s Buddies.

“Watching my grandmother’s battle with Alzheimer's disease deeply inspired my commitment to raising awareness and advocating for families affected by this condition. Her passion for art has motivated me to dedicate my own journey to advancing research and providing support for Alzheimer’s patients. National Alzheimer’s Buddies’ mission aligns perfectly with my goal to foster connections, extend compassion, and drive meaningful change. I am excited to contribute to NAB and work towards a world where no family faces Alzheimer’s alone.”

Charmi Patel

Committee Intern

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."

Ashilyn Joseph

Committee Intern

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.”

Bhavhunar Pannu

Committee intern

Serving with NAB since 2023

Bhavhunar Pannu is a third year student at University of California, Santa Cruz studying Intensive Psychology. She is the Co-Director of UCSC'S NAB Chapter. She is passionate about the mental health field with hopes to become a Clinical Psychologist in her future, and is excited to contribute to the wonderful ongoing work done by National Alzheimer's Buddies.

Abhishek Kona

Committee intern

Serving with NAB since 2024

Abhishek Kona is currently a Sophomore at Rice University in Houston TX, majoring in Cell Biology and minoring in Medical Humanities on the pre-med track. He also serves as the co-activities coordinator for the Alzheimer’s Buddies chapter at Rice.

"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."

Douaa Yassine

Committee intern

Serving with NAB since 2024

Douaa Yassine is a senior undergraduate student at Wayne State University. She is double majoring in Neuroscience and Psychology which reflects her passion and commitment to understanding the complexities of the human brain and contributing to societal well-being. Aspiring to apply to medical school after completing her bachelor's, she anticipates a future career in medicine where the principles of inclusivity and advocacy will guide her interactions with patients and communities.

Ananya Gomatam

Committee intern

Serving with NAB since 2024

Ananya Gomatam is a second year student at the College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, VA, majoring in Neuroscience on the pre-med track. She serves as the founder and director for the Alzheimer’s Buddies chapter at W&M. She is passionate about care for the underserved, and is excited to contribute to DEI initiatives at the national level.

"As an EMT, I've encountered numerous patients struggling with Alzheimer's and witnessed the isolation prevalent in nursing homes. Through my involvement with Alzheimer’s buddies, my aim is to alleviate the suffering experienced by individuals with dementia, all the while gaining insight into the complexities of their lives."

Claire Chang

Serving with NAB since 2024

Claire is a sophomore at Yale pursuing a major in neuroscience with a statistics and data science certificate. She is dedicated to pursuing a career in biotechnology involving treatments for Alzheimer's disease through a PhD in the future and serves in her college's chapter of Alzheimer's Buddies.

"When my grandfather was suffering due to Alzheimer's, I was devastated by its effects. However, being able to preserve his memories by being able to speak with patients on a national level spreads his presence to them as well."

Isabel Li

Serving with NAB since 2024

Isabel is currently a sophomore at Harvard College pursuing Neuroscience and History of Science. She is passionate about social medicine, particularly in the context of neurodegenerative diseases and the minority experience. She volunteers with her college's Alzheimer's Buddies chapter, and is excited to continue her journey as a DEI intern!

"My buddies have reminded me to see the human beyond the diagnosis, have inspired me with lessons on happiness and savoring the moment--most importantly, they have taught me what a privilege it is to fight for change. I hope to spread their joy and wisdom in everything I do, and I hope to honor their diverse experiences in my work with the DEI committee."

Andi Beaudouin

Committee Intern

Serving with NAB since 2022

Andi Beaudouin (they/them) is a rising junior at Loyola University Chicago majoring in Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience and minoring in Biology, Chemistry, and Anthropology on the pre-medical track. They are a volunteer and the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion intern at the Loyola NAB Chapter.

"My mother worked in a nursing home while I was growing up, so I would often see patients battling Alzheimer's disease. NAB holds a place in my heart and brings me back to the nursing home my mother worked at. It's nice to be able to continue giving back to the people I saw the most. I am also passionate about diversity, equity, and inclusion, and the role they play in Alzheimer's care. The patients I spent time with while I was growing up were mostly part of marginalized groups whose care for their dementia was lacking prior to their arrival in the nursing home. Everyone deserves accessible care regardless of their identity, and I hope to break these barriers of care discrepancies while also forming lasting relationships with patients.”

Vega Mani

Committee Intern

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.” 

Vidushi Razdan

Committee intern

Serving with Alzbuddies since 2017, NAB since 2023

Vidushi Razdan is currently serving as an intern for the DEI committee. Although this is her first year working directly under NAB, she volunteered at the UC Davis chapter back in 2017. Through my years at UC Davis, she got more assimilated into the Alzheimer's awareness community, met her wonderful buddies, and served as President her senior year at UC Davis. During her gap year, she volunteered to set up the Walk-to-End Alzheimer’s in the bay area as well as participating in Alzheimer’s and dementia based research articles. She is currently in her second year of medical school and hopes to provide more resources to underrepresented communities both near her school as well as working with her team to reach out across the nation.

“While no one can change the outcome of dementia or Alzheimer’s, with the right support you can change the journey.”

Arzu Thareja

Committee intern

Serving with NAB since 2024

Arzu Thareja is currently a freshman at University of California, Davis, majoring in Science and Technology Studies on the pre-med track. She is a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion intern at the Davis chapter.

“I had my first exposure to working with Alzheimer’s Disease patients in middle school when I volunteered at a nursing home, and that is when I realized the taxing effect it can have on both patients, and their families. Since then, I’ve been involved with numerous projects working towards improving the lifestyles of patients, and making sure their stories don’t go unheard. Being a part of the NAB team allows me to continue deepening my understanding about the neurodegenerative disease and I am truly honored to be a part of the team.” 

Himaja Kodi

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.”

Chenglin Zhu

Serving with NAB since 2023

Chenglin Zhu is a Cornell University Class of '23 graduate majoring in biomedical engineering and served as co-president for the Cornell chapter of Alzheimer's Buddies.

"As a volunteer at memory care units in nursing homes, I strongly believe in the impact of being present, physically, emotionally, and spiritually, for individuals with dementia. I learned to be a sharp observer of people's struggles and an active listener that hears not only the words spoken but also the subtleties of human tone and emotion. I'm honored to be a part of the NAB team that strives to provide care to our buddies."

Monica Colchado

Serving with NAB since 2023