The Alliance for Aging Research is proud to have dedicated staff members supporting the organization in its mission to improve the universal human experience of aging and health. This week, we are featuring Willard Ramsey, Administrative Assistant.
What do you do at the Alliance for Aging Research?
I work with all staff members but specifically with Alliance President & CEO Sue Peschin, Vice President of HR & Administration Tiffany Stewart, and Vice President of Finance & Administration Rachel Stevenson to complete an assortment of administrative tasks. In short, I make sure Sue has assistance with her schedule and travel, assist Rachel with financial reports, and Tiffany with Board responsibilities.
How long have you worked at the Alliance?
I started in July of 2023.
Where are you from, and what brought you to the Washington, DC area?
I am from Greenville, SC, and win the prize for being the Alliance staff member who logs on from the farthest away. I live in Roanoke, VA where I am pursuing my master’s degree in poetry at Hollins University.
What is your favorite project or topic you’ve worked on while at the Alliance?
I was lucky to be heavily involved with our annual dinner in September, Heroes in Health. I love working with events and being able to structure and solidify all the moving parts that come with that.
Do you have a personal connection with any of the health issues/conditions the Alliance works on?
My first job out of college was working for a community care retirement community and I found it to be one of the most rewarding jobs I’ve ever had. But it also opened my eyes to some of the problems that the older population experiences, and this helps fuel the work I do here at the Alliance. My skills are best used behind the scenes, but I am glad that I make it possible for our front-facing staff to be involved in advocacy.
What is something you’ve learned about healthy aging since working at the Alliance that has either changed your view or impacted the way you personally approach aging?
I am particularly glad for some of the research the Alliance is supporting on Down Syndrome and aging, as my younger brother experiences this condition. I am hopeful he will be supported in a research-backed health system as he ages.
What is your favorite book?
As a writer this is a hard question to choose one, so here’s one from each main genre.
- Nonfiction: Pilgrim at Tinker Creek by Annie DillardPoetry: Selected Poems of Emily Bronte
- Fiction: The Kitchen God’s Wife by Amy Tan
What is one thing that not many people know about you?
I am classically trained pianist, starting at age five, and began college as a music major before switching to art history.
