AGS Welcomes Two New Staffers
…and a Baby

The American Geriatrics Society is pleased to announce the addition of two new members to its staff. AGS counts 30 staff in its New York City office. Staff further the Society's mission by helping develop, implement and advocate for programs and public policy that advance patient care, research, and professional and public education, and ensure high quality healthcare for older adults.

AGS' new staff members are:

Erin Corley, Coordinator, Membership

Erin Corley joined the AGS in September. Previously an elementary school teacher, Corley is shifting gears to work on behalf of older adults. After graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in elementary education and psychology from the University of Rhode Island in 2005, Corley taught in schools in New Jersey and Rhode Island. Joining AGS, with its historic commitment to improving elder healthcare and wellbeing through advances in research, education, and advocacy, was appealing, she says, "because of my commitment to education and to improving people's quality of life."

"As the daughter of a nurse, I've always had an interest in healthcare," she says. "I have also personally encountered the joys and the difficulties that accompany caring for an elderly family member," she adds. Her grandmother has early stage Parkinson's disease, dementia, hypertension, and arthritis that necessitates her using a walker, explains Corley, and her mother is in charge of her care.

Corley says she looks forward "to establishing relationships, bringing insight and a new perspective to my position, and working hard to advance the goals and mission of the American Geriatric Society." Reporting to Membership and Governance Manager Elaine Louis, she will assist with all membership requests and aspects of member service, including communications, retention and recruitment. Corley will also work on marketing and other special projects.

Caitlin Connolly, Senior Coordinator

After earning her Graduate Certificate in politics and public policy from the University of Massachusetts two years ago, Caitlin Connolly worked in Boston as a resident coordinator for facilities housing older adults and people with disabilities. Reading a feature in The New Yorker detailing the growing shortage of geriatrics healthcare professionals in the US, she says, made her realize just how unprepared the nation is for the upcoming wave of seniors. "While I loved providing direct service, I knew working for an advocacy organization would bring me closer to the systemic changes needed to eventually provide my parents with appropriate care," she says.

"The AGS inspired me, not only by its bold and thoughtful mission, but also by its inclusive approach to improving the health and independence of older people," she adds. "I know AGS is the right place for me. It is fueled by the commitment and intellect of its members and by its dedicated and thoughtful staff. I am regaining my faith that when my parents get there, they will have the care they deserve."

Connolly, who earned a Bachelor of Arts degree, in human services with a concentration in political science, from The George Washington University, recently completed a course focusing on mental health issues and substance abuse at the Boston Institute for Geriatric Social Work. She joined the AGS staff in September and is working on sponsorship opportunities and industry support for symposia for the Annual Scientific Meeting. She will report to Elvy Ickowicz, AGS' Assistant Deputy Executive Vice President.

AGS welcomes its new staffers.

AGS Says Farewell to Christine Campanelli

Christine Campanelli, AGS' Senior Coordinator, Professional Education and Special Projects, has decided to pursue her passion for baking. Campanelli, who had been with the AGS since May 2006, recently accepted a position as an apprentice baker at the renowned Carlo's bakery in Hoboken, NJ. "I can't thank AGS enough for the opportunities for professional development that working here has provided me," she says.

We wish her the best.

AGS Assistant Deputy Executive Vice President Elvy Ickowicz and husband Peter welcomed their second child, Alex Peter, on Friday, October 3. Weighing in at 9 pounds, 13 ounces, Alex is doing well, as are Elvy, Peter, and big brother Joey.