Keynote Speakers Announced for 2023 REACH Conference

Area Agency on Aging of East Texas • July 26, 2023

October 4-5, 2023 | Longview, TX

We are thrilled to announce the lineup of keynote speakers for the upcoming Regional Education on Aging, Caregiving, and Healthcare (REACH) Conference, held on October 4-5. These esteemed speakers are experts in their respective fields and bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to share with our attendees. 


Dr. Carl V. Hill

Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer, Alzheimer's Association

Dr. Carl V. Hill is a prominent figure in the Alzheimer's Association, where he serves as the Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer. He is committed to strengthening the Association's outreach to all populations and providing communities with the necessary resources and support to address the Alzheimer's crisis. Dr. Hill is a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion in dementia science and has authored editorials highlighting the need for representative perspectives to tackle disparities. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Michigan School of Public Health and a master's degree in public health from Morehouse School of Medicine.


Dr. Tam Cummings

Founder, Educator, and Empowerment Expert for Dementia Caregivers

Dr. Tam Cummings, the founder of a reputable gerontology practice in the Texas Hill Country, established her company with a mission to inspire, educate, and empower dementia caregivers. Recognized as a leading educator in dementia care in Texas and nationally, Dr. Cummings brings her expertise and passion to the conference. Her insights into program design for dementia care are invaluable for anyone involved in caregiving for individuals with dementia.


Garrett Davis

Performer, Health Advocate, and Alzheimer's Awareness Champion

Garrett Davis is a multi-talented performer and health advocate whose journey is driven by a unique combination of performing arts and public health. As the CEO/Founder of Gdavis Productions and Films, Garrett has been a driving force behind the "Forget Me Not Project," an urban stage play that raises awareness about Alzheimer's disease. His dedication to advocacy earned him the title of Alzheimer's Association Advocate of the Year in 2012. Through his impactful work, Garrett has been instrumental in reducing disparities in care and improving health outcomes, particularly for underserved populations.


Dr. Timothy McNeil

Founding Pastor, Inspirational Facilitator, and Business Leader

Dr. Timothy McNeil is the founding pastor of the Community Fellowship Church and an accomplished figure in the conference and seminar circuit. With a background in Mass Communications, Business Administration, and Business Intelligence, Dr. McNeil's platform is dedicated to uplifting, empowering, and inspiring as many people as possible. His insights and experiences are sure to ignite motivation among our conference attendees.


Luanne Harms, LSCW

Certified Independent Trainer and Dementia Care Specialist

Luanne Harms is a passionate advocate for changing the culture of dementia care. As a Teepa Snow Positive Approach to Care Certified Independent Trainer, Consultant, and Engagement Leader, she brings a comprehensive understanding of dementia care to the table. With multiple certifications in the field, including Dementia Caregiver Specialist and Texas Oasis Dementia Trainer, Luanne plays a crucial role in training various healthcare professionals, caregivers, and community members.


We are honored to have these remarkable individuals as keynote speakers at the REACH Conference. Their expertise, dedication, and passion for aging, caregiving, and healthcare will undoubtedly make this event a transformative experience for all attendees. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from the best in the field. Register now for the REACH Conference on October 4-5 and be a part of this enriching journey by visiting www.aaa-reachconference.org.

Older Americans Month Celebrated Across East Texas

By Area Agency on Aging of East Texas • June 3, 2026
Each May, the Administration for Community Living leads the nation’s observance of Older Americans Month, and this year’s theme was “Champion Your Health.” In recognition of the month, the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas hosted three community events in Jacksonville, Marshall, and Athens, bringing together older adults, caregivers, staff, volunteers, and community partners to celebrate healthy aging and support older adults’ independence. More than 420 people attended the three events, where they received information and heard from experts on senior services, exercise programs, fraud and scams, and ways to take an active role in managing their health. Activities included on-site health screenings, evidence-based activity demonstrations, a Dementia Live demonstration, and the TxDOT Car Fit Program for Seniors. At some events, local officials also read proclamations recognizing May as Older Americans Month, including Cherokee County Judge Chris Davis, who presented the proclamation in Jacksonville. “We encourage older East Texans and their caregivers to connect with our agency to learn more about the resources and services available to help them live independently and remain active in their communities,” said Adrian Cornejo, ETCOG’s Director of the Area Agency on Aging. Special thanks to all event partners, sponsors, volunteers, AAA staff, and participants who helped make these Older Americans Month events a success!
Champion Your Health poster with older adult holding a child on a purple background

Area Agency on Aging to Host Three Community Events Celebrating Older Americans Month

By Area Agency on Aging of East Texas • April 30, 2026
Throughout May, the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas (AAA) will join organizations across the nation in celebrating Older Americans Month (OAM), led by the Administration for Community Living, honoring the important contributions of older adults in our communities. This year’s theme, “Champion Your Health,” encourages older adults to focus on the steps they can take to support their physical, mental, and emotional well-being, while highlighting the resources and community connections that help people age well. In recognition of Older Americans Month, AAA will host three special events at community locations across East Texas to celebrate older adults and share information about programs and services available to seniors and caregivers. Throughout the month of May, the Area Agency on Aging will also participate in additional events that promote the mental and physical health of our communities and recognize the many contributions older Americans have made, and continue to make, across the country. As the United States marks its 250th anniversary this year, Older Americans Month also offers an opportunity to reflect on the generations of older adults whose service, leadership, and life experiences have helped shape our nation, our state, and our local communities. “Older Americans Month is an important time to recognize the lasting contributions of older adults and the many ways they strengthen our communities,” said Adrian Cornejo, ETCOG’s Director of the Area Agency on Aging. “This year’s theme, Champion Your Health, reminds us of the importance of supporting healthy aging by connecting older East Texans with resources, services, and opportunities that help them live well and remain engaged.” The following OAM celebration events are free and open to the public and will feature information on services and supports available to East Texas seniors: Friday, May 15 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM First Christian Church 1920 Beaumont St. Jacksonville, Texas 75766 Wednesday, May 20 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM Marshall Convention Center 2501 E. End Blvd S. Marshall, Texas 75672 Thursday, May 21 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM First Methodist Church of Athens 225 Lovers Lane Athens, Texas 75751 The AAA is the region’s leader in advocacy and services for older adults, providing support such as information and referral, benefits counseling, case management, health education classes, senior nutrition, and the Ombudsman program for people living in nursing and assisted living facilities. These services help older individuals live independent, meaningful, and dignified lives in their homes and communities for as long as possible. For questions about the events, contact the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas at (903) 218-6500.
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