06/15/2026
Join us on June 25 (note new date!) for our annual African American Summit 💜
Black Americans are twice as likely as their White counterparts to develop Alzheimer’s and are often diagnosed later. Join us for a collaborative conversation on dementia, its impact on families and the community, and how we can work together.
This event, sponsored by partners UPMC; PA Health & Wellness; Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc, Alpha Alpha Omega Chapter; Community and Family Builders; and PBHC, is scheduled for Thursday, June 25 (new date) from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Commonwealth Charter Academy in Homestead (same time / location).
Speakers include:
- Sophia Duck, who is an advocate for caregivers serving as an Association Faith Outreach Representative and Pittsburgh RivAlz Chair.
- Mario Browne, whose mother is living with Alzheimer's. Mario is the former Associate Dean for Equity, Engagement and Justice in the School of Pharmacy at the University of Pittsburgh.
- Chef Kevin McGuire, who will conduct a healthy cooking demonstration. Kevin is a licensed member of the United States Personal Chef Association and the American Culinary Federation.
- Dr. Karen Jakubowski, a psychologist practicing at the UPMC Western Wellness Program, who will lead a sleep workshop and offer tips for ensuring quality rest for brain health.
- Dr. Kyaien Conner Conner, Director, Center on Race and Social Problems, who will discuss the connection between mental health and dementia and provide ways to improve mental health.
- Sharif Zyhier, a certified Tai Chi instructor, who will help us incorporate more fun exercise into our lives. (His Tai Chi session is for all skill levels.)
Other Summit highlights:
- Resource fair
- Blood pressure screenings
- Cognitive assessments offered by the University of Pittsburgh Alzheimer's Dementia Research Center
- Complimentary lunch provided by Chef McGuire
This is an event not to be missed! Register today: https://tinyurl.com/2twxtwmn.