Dr. Maria Carillo (BS,' 91) is currently the chief science officer for the Alzheimer's Association. She is recognized internationally as an expert on the disease. Carillo oversees the Association's research initiatives, including the Alzheimer's Association International Conference, The Research Roundtable, and the World Wide Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative.

Under Dr. Carrillo's direction, the Association's leadership in Alzheimer's research continues to thrive through its International Research Grant Program, which is currently investing more than $320 million in over 1,000 active best-of-field projects in 54 countries, spanning six continents. In addition, the Association has expanded its role in advancing dementia science by becoming directly involved in research. Dr. Carrillo is a co-primary investigator for the Association-funded and led U.S. POINTER study, a lifestyle intervention trial to prevent cognitive decline and dementia.

In 2020, Dr. Carrillo received the Lifetime Achievement Award in Alzheimer's Disease Therapeutic Research from the Clinical Trials on Alzheimer's Disease.

We look forward to having Dr. Carillo back on campus on April 21st to receive her award from the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.