Nationwide board comprised of leading experts in care, research,
and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias
(February 18, 2025)— The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) announced the appointment of Monica W. Parker, MD—a family physician, researcher, and caregiver—as Chair of its Medical, Scientific & Memory Screening Advisory Board. The nationwide board is comprised of leading experts in the care, research and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.
Dr. Parker is an associate professor of neurology and leads the Outreach, Recruitment, and Engagement Core (OREC) at the Goizueta Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center (ADRC) as part of the Goizueta Brain Health Institute of Emory University in Atlanta. Dr. Parker is an experienced primary and geriatric care provider who has served on AFA’s Medical, Scientific, and Memory Screening Advisory Board since 2023.
“Dr. Monica Parker is a distinguished, accomplished, and dedicated expert with extensive professional and personal experience caring for individuals living with dementia,” said Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr., AFA’s President and CEO. “AFA relies on its advisory board members for expert insight and opinions on scientific issues surrounding dementia, as well as in the development of new programs, policies, and advocacy efforts related to research and care. Her knowledge and ability, combined with her passion and success at helping others and connecting people with services, will serve her well in her new leadership role and continue to be a great benefit to the board and AFA.”
The Goizueta ADRC’s community outreach team, led by Dr. Parker, helps medically underserved populations who are at greater risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, access Alzheimer’s-related programs, services, and memory screenings. The team also works to increase their participation in research initiatives to ensure greater efficacy and diversity in clinical trials. Diversity is a critical element for advancing the science surrounding Alzheimer’s disease.
“I am honored to serve as Chair of AFA’s Medical, Scientific & Memory Screening Advisory Board,” said Dr. Monica W. Parker. “Advancing Alzheimer’s research, care, and education—especially within communities that are often underrepresented—is deeply personal and essential work. I look forward to collaborating with this team of distinguished experts to help improve the lives of individuals and families affected by dementia.”
Dr. Parker has provided national service on the US Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) inaugural Patient Engagement Advisory Committee 2017-2024; The American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) Commission on Continuing Professional Development (COCPD) and is currently Co-Director of the national ORE Core Steering Committee for the NIH – NIA funded National Alzheimer’s Coordinating Committee (NACC). Her honors include the Atlanta Business Chronicle’s Healthcare Champion 2025, the Georgia Legislature Women’s Caucus “Yellow Rose” award, and being named one of Atlanta’s Top Doctors in Family/Geriatric Medicine in Atlanta Magazine.
For more information about AFA’s Medical, Scientific and Memory Screening Advisory Board, please click here.