Washington D.C. – As the nation continues to grapple with the evolving landscape of aging, the Alliance for Aging Research is set to honor a distinguished group of individuals who have made significant contributions to advancing healthy aging and improving the lives of older adults. The annual Heroes in Health Celebration, scheduled for Wednesday, September 30, 2026, in Washington D.C., will recognize leaders from policy, advocacy, and medical innovation for their dedication to a future where aging is synonymous with vitality and well-being.
n
This year’s honorees represent a diverse spectrum of expertise and commitment, spanning legislative efforts to direct patient care and groundbreaking research. The event serves as a vital platform to celebrate collective achievements, foster collaboration, and highlight the critical importance of prioritizing the health and needs of an aging population. Each recipient has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to ensuring that individuals can live longer, healthier, and more fulfilling lives.
n
A Pantheon of Progress: Unveiling the 2026 Honorees
n
The Alliance for Aging Research is proud to announce the individuals who will be celebrated at this year’s prestigious event. Their work, though varied in its specific focus, shares a common thread: a profound dedication to enhancing the quality of life for older Americans and shaping a more age-friendly society.
n
Senator Mark Warner: Championing Policy for a Healthier Tomorrow
n
Senator Mark Warner (D-VA) will be recognized with the Claude Pepper Award for Advancing Healthy Aging. Representing Virginia in the U.S. Senate since 2009, Senator Warner has consistently demonstrated a commitment to bipartisan leadership on critical issues affecting all Americans, including the rapidly growing senior population. His role as Vice Chairman of the Select Committee on Intelligence and his membership on influential committees such as Finance, Banking, Budget, and Rules underscore his broad impact on national policy.
n
Prior to his distinguished career in public service, Senator Warner was a prominent figure in the technology and business sectors, co-founding the company that would become Nextel and investing in numerous technology startups. This background has informed his forward-thinking approach to policy, particularly in areas of technological innovation and economic development, which have direct implications for how older adults can access services, remain engaged, and maintain independence. His work on issues ranging from national security to cybersecurity and artificial intelligence often intersects with the challenges and opportunities presented by an aging demographic. Senator Warner’s understanding of technology and his commitment to fostering innovation are particularly relevant as the healthcare and aging sectors increasingly leverage digital solutions to improve care and accessibility. His dedication to bipartisan collaboration is a crucial asset in navigating the complex legislative landscape surrounding aging policy.
n
Congressman Vern Buchanan: Driving Health Policy for Seniors
n
Congressman Vern Buchanan (R-FL) will receive the Distinguished Public Service Award. As Vice Chair of the powerful House Ways and Means Committee and the most senior Republican on the committee, Congressman Buchanan holds a pivotal position in shaping legislation that impacts Medicare, Medicare Advantage, prescription drug coverage, and overall access to care for seniors. His leadership of the Health Subcommittee grants him direct oversight of some of the most critical healthcare programs serving older Americans.
n
Beyond his contributions to health policy, Congressman Buchanan’s role as chair of the House Democracy Partnership highlights his commitment to strengthening democratic institutions globally. His extensive background as a businessman and his leadership in tax policy, including his service on the Joint Committee on Taxation, demonstrate a deep understanding of the economic factors that influence the well-being of individuals across all age groups. His focus on health policy within the Ways and Means Committee is particularly significant, as it directly influences the financial sustainability and accessibility of healthcare services for seniors. His bipartisan approach, evident in his co-chairmanship of the Florida congressional delegation, suggests a capacity to find common ground on complex issues, which is essential for advancing the agenda for healthy aging.
n
Dr. Rachel Rubin: Innovating Sexual Health and Well-being in Later Life
n
Dr. Rachel Rubin will be honored with the Silver Innovator Award. A nationally recognized urologist and sexual medicine specialist, Dr. Rubin has dedicated her career to providing evidence-based care for a range of issues affecting sexual health, including pelvic and genital pain, erectile dysfunction, and menopause. Her patient-centered practice in Washington D.C. and Los Angeles, coupled with her role as an assistant clinical professor of urology at Georgetown University, positions her at the forefront of both clinical practice and medical education.
n
Dr. Rubin’s advocacy has had a tangible impact on women’s health. She was instrumental in contributing to the 2025 AUA guidelines for Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause and played a crucial role in the FDA’s decision to remove the boxed warning on menopausal hormone therapy. These achievements have not only improved the lives of countless women experiencing menopausal symptoms but have also challenged long-standing stigmas and misinformation surrounding women’s health. Furthermore, her founding of the Sexual Medicine Research Team signifies a commitment to advancing research and mentoring the next generation of clinician-researchers in this vital field. Her expertise has been widely sought by major media outlets, including The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Economist, Oprah Daily, NPR, and CBS Morning News, underscoring her prominence and the critical importance of her work in destigmatizing and improving sexual health across the lifespan. Her focus on sexual health is particularly relevant to healthy aging, as it is an integral component of overall well-being and quality of life for many older adults.
n
Senator Thom Tillis: Advocating for Seniors Through Legislative Action
n
Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) will be presented with the Daniel Perry Founder’s Award. First elected to the U.S. Senate in 2014 and currently serving his second term, Senator Tillis has established himself as a dedicated public servant with a strong focus on economic policy and constituent well-being. His committee assignments on the Senate Finance Committee, Veterans’ Affairs Committee, Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee, and the Judiciary Committee provide him with broad influence over issues that directly affect seniors, including financial security, healthcare access, and veterans’ benefits.
n
Before his tenure in the Senate, Senator Tillis served as Speaker of the North Carolina House of Representatives. In this role, he was instrumental in enacting policies aimed at job creation and reforming the state’s tax and regulatory codes. These legislative experiences have equipped him with a deep understanding of the economic drivers that impact individuals and families, including those nearing or in retirement. His work on the Senate Finance Committee, in particular, places him in a key position to address issues related to Social Security, Medicare, and other retirement security programs. Senator Tillis’s legislative record reflects a commitment to fostering a stable economic environment, which is foundational for the financial health of older adults.
n
Theresa Montgomery: A Leading Voice for Dementia Advocacy
n
Theresa Montgomery, a passionate patient advocate, will receive the Perennial Hero Award. Montgomery is recognized for her unwavering commitment to elevating the lived experiences of individuals affected by dementia, influencing policy, and enhancing public understanding of the disease through education and advocacy. She is the visionary behind the impactful motto MADD = Make A Dynamic Difference and was a recipient of the prestigious 2024 Maude Award for Innovation in Alzheimer’s Care.
n
Montgomery’s extensive involvement in dementia advocacy includes service on numerous boards and expert panels. She currently contributes to the Alzheimer’s Association/NIH Lived Experience Panel and the Alzheimer’s Disease International Global Dementia Expert Panel. Her dedication extends to her role on the Alliance for Aging Research’s Research Advisory Council, where she provides invaluable patient perspectives to guide research priorities. Furthermore, she hosts the Walking the Talk of Dementia podcast, a platform that amplifies the voices of those navigating the complexities of dementia and fosters a supportive community. Her work is characterized by a profound empathy and a relentless drive to create meaningful change, making her a true hero in the fight against dementia.
n
Shon Lowe: Championing Brain Health Equity and Caregiver Support
n
Shon Lowe will also be honored with the Perennial Hero Award. Lowe is a nationally recognized patient advocate, author, speaker, podcast producer, and family caregiver. Her work is dedicated to advancing brain health equity, dementia awareness, and culturally informed healthcare advocacy. As the primary caregiver for her mother, who was diagnosed with early-onset frontotemporal dementia, Lowe possesses firsthand experience with the profound challenges and emotional toll of caregiving. This personal journey has fueled her passion for supporting other families facing similar circumstances.
n
Lowe’s advocacy extends to her personal cognitive health journey, as she herself has been diagnosed with Mild Cognitive Impairment associated with Alzheimer’s disease. This dual perspective as both a caregiver and an individual living with a cognitive impairment provides her with a unique and powerful voice. She serves on the Alliance for Aging Research’s Research Advisory Council and Global Advisory Panel, as well as the Patient & Family Advisory Council at Elmhurst Hospital. As a producer of the Walking the Talk of Dementia podcast and CEO of Paint Clover Purple, she utilizes storytelling, education, and community engagement to promote early detection, equitable care, and greater awareness of the specific challenges faced by Black families affected by dementia. A recipient of the 2024 Maude Award for Innovation in Alzheimer’s Care, Shon Lowe is a formidable advocate committed to creating a more just and supportive world for those impacted by dementia.
n
A Collective Vision for a Brighter Aging Future
n
The Heroes in Health Celebration serves as a cornerstone event for the Alliance for Aging Research, bringing together a diverse coalition of stakeholders united by a common goal: to foster a future where aging is characterized by health, independence, and dignity. This year’s honorees exemplify the multifaceted approach required to achieve this vision.
n
Senator Mark Warner’s legislative efforts, grounded in his understanding of technology and economic development, are crucial for creating an environment where older adults can thrive. His bipartisan approach is essential for navigating the complex policy landscape surrounding aging.
n
Congressman Vern Buchanan’s leadership on the House Ways and Means Committee places him at the helm of critical healthcare policy decisions that directly impact seniors. His focus on Medicare and access to care is vital for ensuring the well-being of this demographic.
n
Dr. Rachel Rubin’s innovative work in sexual health and her advocacy for women’s health issues address a fundamental aspect of quality of life that is often overlooked in discussions about aging. Her contributions are helping to destigmatize important health conversations and improve care.
n
Senator Thom Tillis’s commitment to economic stability and his legislative experience in tax and regulatory reform are foundational for ensuring the financial security of older Americans. His work on key committees directly influences policies affecting seniors’ financial futures.
n
Theresa Montgomery and Shon Lowe’s tireless advocacy for individuals affected by dementia is a testament to the power of lived experience and patient-centered leadership. Their work is raising critical awareness, influencing research priorities, and building a supportive community for those navigating the challenges of cognitive decline.
n
Looking Ahead: Implications and the Path Forward
The recognition of these distinguished individuals underscores the critical importance of continued focus on aging research, policy, and advocacy. The demographic shifts occurring globally present both challenges and opportunities, and the work of these honorees provides a roadmap for navigating this evolving landscape.
The contributions of policymakers like Senators Warner and Tillis, and Congressman Buchanan, are essential for creating systemic change. Their ability to shape legislation, allocate resources, and foster innovation within governmental bodies directly impacts the lives of millions of older adults. Their efforts to strengthen Medicare, ensure financial security, and promote technological integration in healthcare are vital for building a sustainable and supportive aging infrastructure.
The medical and research advancements championed by Dr. Rubin highlight the need to address the holistic health and well-being of older adults. By breaking down stigmas and advancing evidence-based care in areas like sexual health and menopause, medical professionals can significantly improve the quality of life for seniors. The establishment of research teams and the mentorship of emerging clinicians are crucial for the long-term progress in these fields.
The profound impact of patient advocates like Theresa Montgomery and Shon Lowe cannot be overstated. Their voices, amplified through advocacy, education, and personal storytelling, are instrumental in shaping public perception, influencing research agendas, and driving policy change. Their work on dementia, in particular, addresses a growing public health crisis and underscores the need for increased investment in research, care, and support for individuals and families affected by cognitive decline. Their dual roles as caregivers and individuals living with cognitive impairment offer unique insights that are invaluable for informing policy and practice.
The Heroes in Health Celebration serves as a powerful reminder that advancing healthy aging is a collaborative endeavor. It requires the dedication of policymakers, the innovation of medical professionals, the passion of researchers, and the unwavering advocacy of individuals with lived experience. As the Alliance for Aging Research continues its mission, the achievements of this year’s honorees will undoubtedly inspire further progress towards a future where every individual can age with health, dignity, and purpose. The event not only celebrates past accomplishments but also ignites a renewed commitment to the ongoing work required to ensure a vibrant and supportive future for all as they age.
