Andrea Buehler, APRN, FNP-BC graduated from Florida Atlantic University with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2004 and practiced as a Registered Nurse at Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital for 12 years. While working at Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, Andrea cared for pediatric patients with hematologic and oncologic disorders. She served as a charge nurse and team leader as well as a preceptor to new and experienced nurses. Andrea earned a Master of Science in Nursing in 2016 from Florida Atlantic University and practiced as an Advanced Practice Nurse caring for adult/geriatric patients in Skilled Nursing Facilities, Assisted Living Facilities and Nursing Homes. While working as an Advanced Practice Nurse, Andrea has cared for patients with various acute and chronic conditions including neurodegenerative disorders. Her current goal is to make a positive impact in the lives of people experiencing cognitive impairment through research and education.

​As a Research Nurse at the Comprehensive Center for Brain Health (CCBH), Willman Jiménez is focused on advancing the science of diagnostics and improving the participant experience. He currently leads two significant studies: the confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscope (cSLO) project and the Spanish-language HBI study for Hispanic patients.

​Willman’s path to research began in Ecuador with a medical degree. In the U.S., he earned a Master of Science in Nursing and became a licensed Registered Nurse (RN). His commitment to expanding his clinical skills is demonstrated by his current pursuit of a post-master’s certificate as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). This career is fueled by his personal mission to honor his grandparents, who raised him and taught him the importance of compassion.

​In all his interactions, from performing physical tests to administering neuropsychological batteries, Willman’s goal is to ensure participants feel valued and enjoy their time at the center.

Lilah M. Besser, PhD, MSPH is a Research Associate Professor in the Department of Neurology, Miller School of Medicine at University of Miami. Dr. Besser’s educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Biology, a dual-degree Master of Science in Public Health (MSPH) in Epidemiology and Environmental and Occupational Health, and a PhD in City and Regional Planning. As of September 2025, she has published 89 peer-reviewed scientific papers, many of which were focused on clinical progression, neuropathology, and risk factors of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD). Her current research program centers on the intersections between neighborhoods, built and social environments, healthy aging, and brain health. Dr. Besser is principal investigator on five projects funded by the National Institutes of Health and the Alzheimer’s Association, all centering on neighborhood environmental exposures and ADRD outcomes. Dr. Besser’s ultimate goal is to provide evidence to planners, architects, urban designers, policy makers, and public health professionals (among other disciplines) on the neighborhood environments that can be promoted to maintain cognitive function into older ages, reduce ADRD risk, and allow for aging in place