Saturday, September 26, 2026 (9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.
Healthy Brain Strategies Conference
Langston University - Tulsa Campus | Jack Henderson Allied Health Building
914 N. Greenwood, Tulsa, OK 74106
Ebony Skillens
Christopher Glisson, D.O.,M.S.
Nicolette Casula
Dr. Saran Oliver
Marcia Bruno Todd
Jacob Guinan
Chronic Disease Coordinator Community Development Service | Oklahoma State Department of Health
A MESSAGE FROM THE
ALZHEIMER’S DIVERSITY OUTREACH SERVICE’S BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The Alzheimer’s Diversity Outreach Services, Inc. Board of Directors and staff invite you to our third Healthy Brain Strategies Conference.
Our theme, "Guarding the Gates, Keys to our Health & Wellness,” is essential for a vibrant, fulfilling life at every age. We invite you to explore practical strategies and supportive resources designed to enhance your well-being, promote mental clarity, and boost physical vitality. Taking proactive steps today can lead to a healthier tomorrow, empowering you to face daily challenges with strength and resilience. Guarding the Gates: Keys to Our Health & Wellness will address key issues related to preparedness, recognizing that Alzheimer’s disease and other life-debilitating diseases affect people from all backgrounds, though experiences can differ among cultural and ethnic groups. Understanding these differences enables the provision of more effective care tailored to each person’s specific needs. Understanding culture helps healthcare workers and caregivers communicate more effectively, build trust, and better support individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and their families.
As we move through 2026, the focus on protecting and maintaining our health, especially cognitive health, remains critically important. Alzheimer's Disease and related dementias continue to present challenges to individuals, families, and healthcare systems. Understanding the key strategies for safeguarding our mind and body can help us better protect the gateways to long, healthy lives.
Addressing Health Disparities and Promoting Equity
Guarding the gates to our health means confronting disparities that affect vulnerable populations. There is growing recognition that social determinants such as education, socioeconomic status, and access to healthcare profoundly impact risk and outcomes related to Alzheimer's and other dementias. Efforts targeting diverse communities aim to enhance awareness, improve early diagnosis, and ensure equitable access to resources and support networks.
Innovation and Research Frontiers
2026 brings promising developments in therapeutic research, including novel medications, gene therapies, and personalized medicine approaches. Emphasis on data sharing and inclusive clinical trials ensures that findings benefit a broad spectrum of populations. Technology, including wearable devices and AI-driven monitoring, provides new tools for maintaining independence and safety.
Protecting our health requires a multifaceted approach spotlighting prevention, equity, support, and innovation. As we guard the gates of our wellbeing in 2026, informed choices and collective action remain our strongest keys," emphasizes the importance of understanding the unique genetic makeup of the BIPOC population and its impact on health. This conference invites participants to examine the genetic factors contributing to health disparities, explore advances in genetic research, and discuss strategies to promote health equity, particularly within African American communities.
At Alzheimer’s Diversity Outreach Services, Inc., we are deeply committed to enhancing the education and well-being of families across the BIPOC community. The urgency of the situation is underscored by the 2026 Alzheimer’s Association Facts and Figures report, which reveals a concerning trend: older Black and Hispanic individuals are disproportionately affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementias. In response to many pressing needs, we are proud to announce the 2026 Healthy Brain Strategies Conference, dedicated to promoting the health and wellness of our communities.
This conference will offer enriching sessions designed to equip families and medical professionals with essential knowledge and skills to comprehensively address the ongoing challenges our families face. The sessions will cover a range of vital topics intended to provide practical solutions and empower our participants. Additionally, new research will be presented, highlighting the importance of early diagnosis and potential treatments for emerging health issues.
"The Virtual Dementia Tour® (VDT)
VDT) is the original patented, evidence-based scientific method of building a greater understanding of dementia by building awareness and empathy in individuals caring for people living with dementia. Join Second Wind Dreams in our mission to 'Change the Perception of Aging' by learning about dementia and how we can provide empathic, person-centered care. Learn more about Second Wind dreams and the Virtual Dementia Tour here: Virtual Dementia Tour - Second Wind Dreams."
NextGEN Leadership in Action Forum
Topic: “Guarding the Gates - Family Matters”
Investing in the Leaders of Tomorrow
We invite high school and college students to participate in our upcoming conference as part of our Next Generation Leadership Initiative.
This experience is designed to engage emerging leaders in learning about Alzheimer’s disease, brain health, heart health, and the important connection between cardiovascular wellness and cognitive health. Students will have opportunities to participate in meaningful discussions, ask questions, interact with healthcare professionals and community leaders, and gain practical knowledge that can help them make informed health decisions for themselves, their families, and their communities.
How can they educate their friends about Alzheimer's and heart disease?
What can schools do to promote brain and heart health?
2026 HBSC SPEAKERS
Christopher C. Glisson, D.O., M.S.
Christopher C. Glisson, D.O., M.S., at Warren Clinic Neurology offers a wealth of experience and a patient-first approach to diagnosing and treating complex neurological conditions. With advanced training from Michigan State University and a fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania,
Dr. Glisson is board-certified and highly regarded for his thorough evaluations, clear communication, and commitment to improving his patients' quality of life. He treats a wide range of conditions, including migraines, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and movement disorders, and is affiliated with top-rated facilities like Saint Francis Hospital and Saint Francis Hospital South.
Ebony Skillens
Ebony Skillens is a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor, entrepreneur, and passionate advocate for mental health in underserved communities. As the founder and Executive Director of Amayesing Skillz and the nonprofit mobile clinic Skillz on Wheelz, Ebony has created innovative pathways to make counseling accessible, culturally responsive, and Christ-centered across Tulsa and beyond.
With a Master’s degree in Human Relations from the University of Oklahoma and advanced clinical training in counseling, Ebony blends professional excellence with a heart for people. Her work focuses on healing trauma, strengthening families, empowering African American men and women, and removing the stigma surrounding mental health through education, outreach, and faith-based support.
Ebony is a dynamic speaker, author, and mentor who believes deeply that healing is possible, growth is intentional, and faith is foundational. Her mission is simple yet powerful: to help people trust the process, honor their story, and walk confidently toward wholeness.
Above all, Ebony gives God the glory for every door opened, every life touched.
Dr. Saran Oliver
Dr. Saran Oliver is a board-certified cardiologist practicing at Ascension St. John, a speaker, and the founder of Resilient Heart Collective, a platform dedicated to helping people build healthier hearts and healthier lives. With over a decade of experience in cardiovascular medicine, she is passionate about making heart health practical, relatable, and empowering.
Through speaking, education, and community outreach, she equips individuals to make sustainable lifestyle changes that improve both cardiovascular health and quality of life.
She lives in Oklahoma with her four daughters and is committed to advancing prevention, inspiring resilience, and helping others live wholeheartedly.
"The Virtual Dementia Tour® (VDT)
Jacob Guinan
Jacob Guinan is a Chronic Disease Coordinator for the Community Development Service | Oklahoma State Department of Health. In this role, he is responsible for organizing and managing the Oklahoma Healthy Brain Initiative as it works to promote brain health, address cognitive impairment, and address the needs of caregivers.
Jacob is originally from Altus, Oklahoma, and graduated from Texas Tech University in 2017. He has previously coordinated Alzheimer’s and dementia programs while serving as an Americorps VISTA and while working for the Alzheimer’s Association, Oklahoma Chapter.
Jacob is passionate about working with communities to provide education and resources to families dealing with dementia.
Nicolette Casula
Nicolette Casula is a citizen of the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes and serves as the Dementia Patient Navigator at Oklahoma City Indian Clinic. As a Certified Dementia Specialist and End-of-Life Doula, she focuses on strengthening culturally grounded approaches to dementia, aging, caregiving, and end-of-life care. Nicolette also serves on the Cheyenne and Arapaho Health Board and is passionate about creating stronger systems that honor the voices, experiences, and needs of elders, caregivers, and Indigenous communities.
NextGEN Leadership in Action Forum
Marcia Bruno Todd
2026 HBSC Sponsors
MORNINGCREST HEALTH CARE FOUNDATION
SHARE LITE
ZARROW FOUNDATION
LANGSTON UNIVERSITY TULSA
OKLAHOMA STATE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH
Why Donate
Why Donate
Your generous donation plays a critical role in advancing our mission to educate and support individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's. Your contribution ensures continued access to crucial resources, programs, and support services for those in need. Every donation, big or small, makes a profound impact on the lives of those navigating the challenges of Alzheimer's.