Julia Knapp
Executive Director, Alumni Relations
University of Toronto
invites University of Toronto alumni and friends to a reception and panel discussion on
Defy Dementia
with presenter and moderator
Dr. Allison Sekuler
Sandra A. Rotman Chair in Cognitive Neuroscience
President and Chief Scientist, Baycrest Academy for Research and Education, and Centre for Aging + Brain Health Innovation
Professor of Psychology, University of Toronto
Co-host of the Defy Dementia podcast
Join us for an inspiring evening where world-class researchers and clinicians break down the latest science on reducing your risk for dementia and keeping your mind strong for life. Expect an uplifting, myth-busting conversation about aging and the steps that anyone can take to reduce their risk through lifestyle factors like cognitive engagement, exercise, stress management, and sleep.
This event is in partnership with Baycrest, affiliated with the University of Toronto, and features insights from the Defy Dementia podcast — a Baycrest-produced series dedicated to empowering listeners with expert advice and practical strategies to reduce dementia risk.
Presenter and Moderator
Dr. Allison Sekuler (FSEP, FPsyS, FAPS) is the Sandra A. Rotman Chair in Cognitive Neuroscience and President and Chief Scientist of the Baycrest Academy for Research and Education (BARE), and President and Chief Scientist of the Centre for Aging + Brain Health Innovation (CABHI).
A graduate of Pomona College (BA, Mathematics and Psychology) and the University of California, Berkeley (PhD, Psychology), Dr. Sekuler holds faculty positions in the Department of Psychology at the University of Toronto (Professor) and the Department of Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour at McMaster University (Professor Emeritus).
Her research uses behavioural and neuroimaging approaches to understand how the brain processes visual information, with specific interests in face perception, motion processing, perceptual learning, neural plasticity, aging, and neurotechnology. Her research group was the first to show conclusively that older brains “rewire” themselves to compensate for functional changes, and her clinical and translational research aims to develop methods to prevent, detect, and treat age-related sensory and cognitive decline.
She has scientific and industry collaborations across North America, the EU, and Asia, and her work has been published in leading international journals, including Nature, Current Biology, and the Journal of Neuroscience. She chairs the Natural Science and Engineering Research Council’s Public Impact Value Proposition Committee and the Ontario Hospital Association Research & Innovation Committee; serves on the governing and advisory boards including Hamilton Health Sciences, the Connected Minds CFREF, and the Centre for AI and Society; and is a founding steering committee member of the Canadian Brain Research Strategy.
She also is a longstanding and passionate supporter of research communication and public outreach, and a sought-after speaker, Webby-nominated podcaster, and commentator in national and international media. Co-founder of FoVea (Females of Vision et al.), an international organization to advance women in vision science, co-founder of the Ontario Hospital Association’s Research and Innovation Anti-Racism Taskforce, and official Ally in the Canadian Black Scientists Network, Dr. Sekuler is a highly respected advocate for women and under-represented groups in science, engineering, and technology. Dr. Sekuler has won numerous national and international awards for research, teaching, and leadership, including serving as the country’s first Canada Research Chair in Cognitive Neuroscience and being named one of WXN's Top 100 Most Powerful Women in Canada twice (2019, 2024).
Internationally, Dr. Sekuler has played a key role in advancing innovation and equity. During a recent mission to Thailand, she moderated the "Supporting Women in Technology and Entrepreneurship" panel, highlighting global strategies for inclusivity in STEM. She continues to represent Baycrest in its active collaboration with Aspen Tree Communities, with whom Baycrest is partnering to shape a model of healthy aging through cognitive health and dementia prevention. Dr. Sekuler also participated and led expert panels and public forums focused on Baycrest Academy’s Defy Dementia initiative, sharing insights on brain health and aging in international settings.
In her spare time, she proves that you’re never too old to learn: She picked up her first drumsticks a few years ago, joined a band, and recently earned her Drum Professional Certificate from Berklee College of Music.
Panelists
Dr. Tricia Woo is a geriatrician and professor of medicine at McMaster University, and a member of the GERAS Centre for Aging Research at McMaster and Hamilton Health Sciences. She completed her medical school and geriatric medicine residency at the University of Toronto. Dr. Woo sees patients and their families who have been referred to her clinic by their primary care providers. She counsels people after they have received a diagnosis of dementia, advising them on their diagnosis, their prognosis, and how to slow the progression of the disease. She also talks to family members about their own genetic risk, advises them on whether or not they should take a genetic test, and helps them interpret the results.
Saiesha Aadhithan is a dedicated and thoughtful professional with a strong blend of scientific insight and technical skill. She holds an Honours Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience and Psychology, where she developed a deep appreciation for understanding human behaviour and cognition. She currently works as an IT Apple Technician at Scotiabank, known for her patient, solutions-driven approach and ability to excel in fast-paced technical environments.
Raised in a close-knit family, Saiesha’s upbringing was deeply shaped by the guidance and love of her grandparents, who played an integral role throughout her life. Their influence instilled in her values of empathy, gratitude, and resilience—qualities she carries into everything she does.
Outside of work, she loves traveling, exploring new cultures, and finding inspiration through music and dance, creative outlets that bring balance and joy to her life.
Driven by curiosity and continuous growth, Saiesha brings authenticity, professionalism, and heart to every space she’s part of.
Have questions about this event?
Contact DUA Events at dua.events@utoronto.ca
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