Shanell Disla is a Senior Clinical Research Coordinator at the Comprehensive Center for Brain Health (CCBH) at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. She is a Certified Clinical Research Professional and has over 8 years of experience in the research field. She holds a Masters in Biotechnology from the Johns Hopkins University and an undergraduate Biology degree from Florida International University. Shanell’s focus includes expanding cultural diversity and addressing health disparities in research.

Claudia Patricia Moore is a certified Senior Clinical Research Coordinator at the Comprehensive Center for Brain Health at the University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine. In addition, she serves in the capacity as a psychometric rater for research studies. Prior to joining Dr. James Galvin’s team at Florida Atlantic University, she worked for the Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center (ADRC) at Mount Sinai Medical Center in the capacity of a research associate. She has over 15 years of experience as a coordinator in clinical research studies, including industry (device) studies for Orthopedic and PI initiated studies in Endocrinology. The bulk of that time, she worked at Yale University’s Center for Clinical Investigation (YCCI). Claudia holds a Master’s degree in Public Health from the American Public University, a certification through the Society of Clinical Research Associates (SoCRA). Her interests are cultural diversity in health care, health equity, and social determinants of health.

Mary Lou Riccio has been involved with clinical research for Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias for over 10 years and recently completed her Nursing certification. She is interested in the effects of chronic illness such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes, on disease progression. She hopes to make an impact on health literacy and prevention at the community level.

Gabrielle Tacher is the Office Manager at the Comprehensive Center for Brain Health at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. She brings a strong background in academic and professional administration, with experience spanning higher education and legal environments.

Gabrielle holds a bachelor’s degree from Florida Atlantic University and is recognized for her strategic approach to operations, attention to detail, and ability to foster an organized, high-functioning workplace. She plays a key role in supporting leadership and ensuring the center’s day-to-day operations align with its broader mission.

Gabrielle Tacher continues to be a vital force behind the scenes, ensuring our center operates smoothly and efficiently every day.

Magdalena I. Tolea, PhD is a Research Assistant Professor in the Department of Neurology, Miller School of Medicine at University of Miami. A gerontologist and epidemiologist, Dr. Tolea has authored over 40 scientific publications on cognitive health, dementia screening, personality, physical dysfunction, and related conditions. Her current research interests are focused on the interface between physical dysfunction and cognitive decline in older adults including the role of aging-related changes in body composition and muscles in dementia and the development of non-pharmacological interventions to improve cognitive and functional endpoints. She currently serves as the Associate Director of Research and Data Manager for the Comprehensive Center for Brain Health (CCBH) where she also leads the Data Management Core, which provides data management and security, tracking of biospecimens, study design and statistical support for CCBH researchers.