Alzheimer's Association Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Alzheimer's Association has 10 executives leading key functions including strategic research advancement, clinical care support, and public health advocacy.

Dedicated to eradicating neurodegenerative conditions, Alzheimer's Association prioritizes global research initiatives and comprehensive support systems to improve the quality of life for individuals impacted by dementia.

Leadership Roles at Alzheimer's Association

  • Chief Executive Officer - Sherry Peterson
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Bettina Kurowski
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Linda Mitchell
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Gino Colombara
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Susan Friedman
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Theresa Hocker
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Joanne Pike
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Teresa Stewart
  • President and Chief Executive Officer - Linda Vanderhoff
  • Chief Executive Officer & President - Cynthia Alewine
  • Sherry Peterson - Chief Executive Officer

    Sherry Peterson, the Chief Executive Officer at Alzheimer's Association, directs the organizational strategy for national research funding and clinical support programs. Peterson manages the allocation of resources toward scientific breakthroughs while overseeing the expansion of community-based care networks across North America. By aligning internal operations with the mission to eliminate Alzheimer's disease, the Chief Executive Officer ensures that every initiative directly benefits families navigating dementia. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with medical boards and policy makers to influence public health outcomes. Sherry Peterson maintains a rigorous focus on operational efficiency, ensuring that donor contributions translate into tangible advancements in brain health. Through the implementation of scalable support models, the Chief Executive Officer strengthens the infrastructure required to provide care for all affected individuals. Ultimately, Peterson drives the long-term vision of a world without Alzheimer's through persistent advocacy and scientific investment.

    Bettina Kurowski - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Bettina Kurowski, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Alzheimer's Association, architects the strategic framework for regional health outreach and volunteer engagement. Kurowski oversees the development of educational programs designed to reduce dementia risk through proactive brain health promotion. By coordinating with local chapters, the President & Chief Executive Officer ensures that support services reach diverse populations across the United States. This role requires balancing complex administrative demands with the urgent need for accessible care resources. Bettina Kurowski monitors the effectiveness of community interventions, adjusting operational tactics to maximize impact on public awareness. The President & Chief Executive Officer fosters partnerships with healthcare providers to integrate research findings into daily clinical practice. Through meticulous oversight of regional operations, Kurowski secures the stability of the organization's mission. This leadership approach guarantees that the association remains a primary resource for families seeking guidance and medical support during difficult health transitions.

    Linda Mitchell - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Linda Mitchell, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Alzheimer's Association, manages the integration of advanced research data into practical care solutions for patients. Mitchell oversees the scientific advisory committees, ensuring that funding priorities align with the most promising avenues for disease elimination. By directing the organization's focus toward innovative clinical trials, the President & Chief Executive Officer accelerates the pace of discovery. This leadership position involves constant engagement with global research partners to share findings and standardize care protocols. Linda Mitchell evaluates the efficacy of current support programs, refining service delivery to meet the evolving needs of the aging population. The President & Chief Executive Officer maintains a commitment to transparency and scientific rigor, which builds trust among stakeholders and donors. Through strategic planning, Mitchell ensures that the association remains at the forefront of the fight against dementia, providing hope and tangible assistance to those affected by the disease.

    Gino Colombara - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Gino Colombara, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Alzheimer's Association, leads the expansion of digital health initiatives and remote support platforms. Colombara oversees the technological infrastructure that connects patients with essential care resources, regardless of geographic location. By optimizing these digital channels, the President & Chief Executive Officer increases the reach of the organization's educational materials and support groups. This role involves managing cross-functional teams to ensure that all digital tools remain user-friendly and medically accurate. Gino Colombara monitors engagement metrics to identify gaps in service, implementing data-driven improvements to enhance the user experience. The President & Chief Executive Officer collaborates with the board to secure funding for future technological advancements that promise to revolutionize dementia care. Through this focus on innovation, Colombara ensures that the association adapts to the modern healthcare landscape, providing consistent and reliable support to individuals and families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease.

    Susan Friedman - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Susan Friedman, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Alzheimer's Association, directs the public policy and advocacy efforts aimed at increasing federal funding for dementia research. Friedman oversees the government relations team, ensuring that the needs of patients and caregivers remain a priority in legislative discussions. By mobilizing grassroots support, the President & Chief Executive Officer influences policy changes that improve access to quality care and diagnostic services. This leadership role requires navigating complex political environments to secure long-term commitments for brain health initiatives. Susan Friedman coordinates with other non-profit leaders to present a unified front on critical health issues. The President & Chief Executive Officer evaluates the impact of legislative outcomes, adjusting advocacy strategies to ensure continued progress. Through persistent engagement with lawmakers, Friedman drives the systemic changes necessary to reduce the risk of dementia and support those currently living with the disease, ultimately strengthening the organization's national influence.

    Theresa Hocker - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Theresa Hocker, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Alzheimer's Association, manages the financial health and resource allocation for the organization's nationwide care programs. Hocker oversees the budgeting process, ensuring that funds are directed toward the most impactful research and support services. By maintaining fiscal discipline, the President & Chief Executive Officer guarantees the sustainability of long-term projects aimed at eliminating Alzheimer's disease. This role involves reporting to the board on financial performance and strategic growth opportunities. Theresa Hocker monitors the efficiency of operational expenditures, identifying areas where cost-saving measures can improve service delivery. The President & Chief Executive Officer fosters relationships with major donors and corporate partners to secure the capital necessary for expanding the association's reach. Through careful financial stewardship, Hocker ensures that the organization remains well-positioned to provide comprehensive care and support to all affected individuals, maintaining the integrity and mission of the association.

    Joanne Pike - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Joanne Pike, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Alzheimer's Association, leads the comprehensive strategy for health equity and inclusive care access. Pike oversees the development of programs that address disparities in dementia diagnosis and treatment among underserved communities. By directing research into the social determinants of brain health, the President & Chief Executive Officer ensures that the association's services reach all populations. This role involves building partnerships with community health centers to provide localized support and education. Joanne Pike evaluates the effectiveness of equity-focused initiatives, refining outreach strategies to maximize participation. The President & Chief Executive Officer collaborates with medical experts to create culturally competent care resources. Through this commitment to inclusivity, Pike drives the organization's mission to provide support for all affected individuals, regardless of background. Ultimately, the President & Chief Executive Officer secures a more equitable future for those impacted by Alzheimer's disease through targeted, compassionate leadership.
    Joanne Pike

    Teresa Stewart - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Teresa Stewart, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Alzheimer's Association, manages the professional training and certification programs for dementia care providers. Stewart oversees the curriculum development for healthcare professionals, ensuring that the latest research findings are integrated into clinical practice. By directing these educational efforts, the President & Chief Executive Officer improves the standard of care for patients across the country. This role involves coordinating with medical institutions to establish training partnerships that enhance workforce capabilities. Teresa Stewart monitors the impact of these programs on patient outcomes, adjusting training modules to address emerging challenges in dementia care. The President & Chief Executive Officer fosters a culture of continuous learning, encouraging providers to adopt evidence-based practices. Through this focus on professional development, Stewart ensures that the association remains a leader in clinical excellence, providing families with the assurance that their loved ones receive the highest quality of care.

    Linda Vanderhoff - President and Chief Executive Officer

    Linda Vanderhoff, the President and Chief Executive Officer at Alzheimer's Association, directs the communications and public awareness campaigns that drive the organization's mission. Vanderhoff oversees the development of messaging strategies that educate the public on brain health and the importance of early detection. By managing media relations and digital content, the President and Chief Executive Officer ensures that the association's voice remains prominent in the national conversation about dementia. This role involves crafting compelling narratives that inspire action and support from the general public. Linda Vanderhoff evaluates the reach and impact of awareness initiatives, refining communication tactics to engage diverse audiences. The President and Chief Executive Officer collaborates with marketing teams to maintain brand consistency across all platforms. Through strategic storytelling, Vanderhoff drives public engagement, ensuring that the association's goals are widely understood and supported, ultimately contributing to the broader effort to eliminate Alzheimer's disease.

    Cynthia Alewine - Chief Executive Officer & President

    Cynthia Alewine, the Chief Executive Officer & President at Alzheimer's Association, oversees the organizational governance and board relations to ensure alignment with the mission. Alewine manages the strategic planning process, setting long-term goals for research advancement and patient support. By directing the activities of the executive leadership team, the Chief Executive Officer & President ensures that all departments work cohesively toward the elimination of Alzheimer's disease. This role involves facilitating communication between the board and operational staff to maintain transparency and accountability. Cynthia Alewine monitors the progress of key initiatives, providing guidance and support to ensure that milestones are met. The Chief Executive Officer & President fosters a collaborative environment that encourages innovation and excellence in all areas of the organization. Through this leadership, Alewine secures the stability and growth of the association, ensuring that it remains a powerful force for change in the lives of those affected by dementia.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Alzheimer's Association Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Alzheimer's Association?
    Alzheimer's Association is led by Sherry Peterson (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Bettina Kurowski (President & Chief Executive Officer) and Linda Mitchell (President & Chief Executive Officer).
    Who is part of Alzheimer's Association’s executive team?
    The executive team of Alzheimer's Association includes leaders such as Sherry Peterson (Chief Executive Officer), Bettina Kurowski (President & Chief Executive Officer), Linda Mitchell (President & Chief Executive Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Alzheimer's Association have?
    Alzheimer's Association has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Alzheimer's Association’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Alzheimer's Association includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, President & Chief Executive Officer, President & Chief Executive Officer, President & Chief Executive Officer, President & Chief Executive Officer.