Dear AAGP Members,
It is a tremendous honor to serve as President of the American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry. Our community is vibrant, enthusiastic, and deeply committed. I am filled with gratitude and excitement as we step into this next chapter together.
Last summer, we transitioned to a new management company, Parthenon Management Group, a decision that was not taken lightly. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the members whose insight and dedication helped guide us through this pivotal process: Sandra Swantek, Helen Lavretsky, Steve Heuge, Allan Anderson, Michell Conroy, Shilpa Srinivasan, Raj Tampi, Jwalant Vadalia, and Tatyana Shteinlukht. I am also deeply grateful to past presidents Chris Colenda, Elliot Stein, Susan Schultz, Brent Forester and Melinda Lantz for their counsel and steadfast support.
AAGP is fortunate to have a solid foundation built by the vision and leadership of those who came before us. To our past board members and presidents, we thank you! To our lifelong members and those newly joined, you are the heart of this organization. Your voices, perspectives, and commitment continue to propel us forward.
The theme of our 2026 Annual Meeting, “Opening Doors: Welcoming New Perspectives in Geriatric Mental Health and Aging,” speaks to our shared commitment to inclusion and innovation. We are broadening our reach to welcome professionals from every background, whether you are an MD, DO, PhD, social worker, nurse practitioner, or someone dedicated to improving the lives of older adults. Your work is essential. Your presence is valued. You belong here.
We are especially excited about our upcoming Certificate Program, one of our key initiatives supporting this inclusive vision. Designed for all professionals working to advance the mental health and well-being of older adults, this program reinforces what we know to be true, meaningful care depends on collaboration across disciplines.
As we look ahead, I invite you to consider: What role can I play in advancing this mission? Whether you offer your time, your expertise, or your support, you are helping shape the future of geriatric mental health.
Thank you for your continued engagement and dedication. I look forward to all we will accomplish together in the year to come. Future newsletters will give updates on ways AAGP is trying to address the challenges we all face in our shared mission to improve mental health and wellness for aging adults.
With gratitude, enthusiasm and hope,
Elizabeth J. Santos MD, MPH
President, American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry