Kristen Karlberg, Ph.D., M.P.H 

I am a medical sociologist, and an emerita professor of practice at SUNY Purchase. I have spent my career at the intersection of science, medicine, and lived experience; the biomedicalization of life — and that intersection is not metaphorical. It is my actual life.  My credentials span bench science, epidemiology, qualitative research, and education, grounded in a dogged pursuit of knowledge.  

I have studied women’s health for more than 30 years, focusing on pregnancy, the life course, and aging with Alzheimer’s.  I helped care for my mother who lived with AD for ten years. I am now bringing this convergence of scientific training, sociological insight, educational skills, and personal experience to philanthropic work — partnering with organizations committed to advancing women’s healthcare and expanding health care access for older adults. I am the president of the board at End of Life Choices New York, and an advisory board member for the Headstrong Project., providing mental health care for military veterans.  I am part of the 100 Women of Impact for Caring Kind, and am thrilled to be co-chairing the 2nd annual Dementia Education Conference.