The UC Davis Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center (ADRC) is celebrating Black History Month by honoring it’s African American research participants, their families, and our employees who make the center’s research programs possible. 

The ADRC’s research mission is to advance the science of healthy brain aging among diverse populations while caring for those affected by the disease.  The emphasis on diverse populations, African Americans, Asian Pacific Islanders, Latinos, and Caucasians, gives insight to unique causes of dementia and causes that are common across all groups.    

Learn more from one of our African American participants, Paula Kirkendoll, recently shared her insights as to why she participates in research

Shanette Merrick

I chose a career in research to be part of the shift in paradigm concerning the way Black community and Research community see each other. Dismantling old ways of thinking and establishing new ways of building is my overall goal.

Shanette Merrick, Clinical Research Supervisor 1
UC Davis East Bay Alzheimer's Disease Center, Department of Neurology

David Johnson

Black history is America’s history. The extraordinary contribution of Black American leaders and creators, in the face of historic and current discrimination, should be lifted up as the best example of American ingenuity and persistence. The UC Davis Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center celebrates Black Americans’ contribution to discovery, new diagnostics, and treatments. Clinical science owes our Black American participants a debt of gratitude. Without them, medical science cannot progress and dementia will continue to affect the American public, especially our communities of color.

David Johnson, Ph.D., Professor of Neurology
UC Davis East Bay Alzheimer’s Disease Center, Department of Neurology

Ciara Richardson

I've chosen a career in research to not only gain knowledge, but to be an advocate to the African American community in bridging the gap concerning research. To also break barriers, educate, and raise awareness about the purpose of research and opportunities to participate.

Ciara Richardson, Asst. Clinical Research Coordinator
UC Davis East Bay Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center

Aliyah Walker

It is very rewarding being able to work at the ADRC sharing information on all the great resources we have for older adults. It is really important for African Americans to be involved in research so it is a privilege being in a position where I can share with the community where I grew up about why research is important and the opportunities our center has for older adults to gain valuable insight on their health.

Aliyah Walker, Assistant Clinical Research Coordinator
UC Davis Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, Department of Neurology

Charles DeCarli

I have a favorite book written by Scott E. Page, titled “Diversity, How the power of diversity creates better groups, firms, schools and societies”. We fully embrace this approach in our research because enhancing diversity leads to discovery. We are grateful to our African American participants who make our diverse research a success.

Charles DeCarli, M.D., Professor of Neurology and Center Director
UC Davis Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, Department of Neurology