Celebrating Dr. Walt Dawson

We’re thrilled to announce that Dr. Walter (“Walt”) Dawson, D.Phil. has been promoted to Associate Professor in the Department of Neurology, School of Medicine at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU).

Dr. Dawson joined OHSU as an Assistant Professor in Neurology and holds a joint faculty appointment at Portland State University’s Institute on Aging. He also serves as Co‑Director of the Oregon Center of Excellence for Behavioral Health & Aging. His promotion reflects his exceptional contributions to research, teaching, and leadership within the field of aging.

Walt’s groundbreaking research focuses on the public policy dimensions of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, particularly long‑term care financing, caregiver support, and early detection. Supported by entities such as the National Institute on Aging, the Alzheimer’s Association, and Atlantic Institute, his work also pioneers health policy reforms introduced through federal advocacy—including contributions to the Affordable Care Act via his tenure with the U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging. Learn more about Walt's research here and explore his publications on Google Scholar here.

In addition to his academic role, Dr. Dawson is a Senior Atlantic Fellow for Equity in Brain Health with the Global Brain Health Institute and a nationally recognized leader—elected to the National Academy of Social Insurance, chair of Oregon’s Governor’s Commission on Senior Services, and co‑lead of the OECD’s Brain Health Diplomacy Working Group.

Please join us in congratulating Walt on this well‑deserved promotion, as he continues his work to shape brain‑health policy, support families, and champion equity in dementia care!