Dr. Francis L. Battisti is a noted educator, speaker, psychotherapist, consultant, and author who offers individuals and organizations pathways to explore their potential and move toward desired transformation. Dr. Battisti is a former Executive Vice President, Chief Academic Officer, and Full Professor of Psychology at the State University of New York at Broome Community College, where he was the 2011 recipient of the State University of New York Distinguished Professorship for Service, and a 1989 recipient of the State University of New York Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching. His national reputation in the fields of healthy aging, motivation, health enhancement, and conflict disposition are recognized in his work with numerous corporations, healthcare organizations, long-term care communities, and governmental committees.

Clare is a licensed social worker who has worked with the elderly for over 25 years, serving as a director of social work in various nursing homes and rehabilitation centers. She provides consultation and education on various topics in aging to residents, families, and staff.

Clare L. Horn received her undergraduate degree from Marymount College, Tarrytown, NY, a M.S. Ed. from Hofstra University, and a M.S.W. from Fordham University, where she also completed her doctoral courses. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New York State. She holds membership in the Academy of Certified Social Workers and the National Association of Social Workers. She has worked with the elderly and served as Director of Social Work for over 25 years in Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Centers. In November 2016, under Ms. Horn’s leadership at The New Jewish Home, the dementia unit received Comfort Matters Accreditation.

Ms. Horn has educated staff and families in palliative care and the ‘person-directed care’ program. She has presented at conferences and meetings on topics related to social work, dementia, palliative, and person-centered care. She has served for 21 years on the board of directors of Marian Woods, a NYS Department of Health Adult Care Facility, and Convent for women religious in Westchester County and has recently transitioned to serving on their program and quality assurance committee. Ms. Horn is a member of the Institute Formation Commission of the Religious of the Sacred Heart of Mary. She is on the faculty of the Avila Institute of Gerontology.

Alfred is an expert in behavioral psychology who has worked with the Avila Institute for the last 15 years, researching, developing, and presenting workshops and in-services on a number of topics associated with aging and dementia. He has many years of experience working as a consultant for long-term care systems and facilities and has trained staff in the use of non-pharmaceutical, individualized care plans for long-term care and assisted living residents living with mild cognitive impairment to severe dementia.