Professional Role and Responsibilities
Karen Mazzotta is the Director of Communications at the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA), a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization headquartered in New York, NY. In this capacity, she is responsible for producing and overseeing major AFA publications and communications outputs, including the quarterly magazine Alzheimer’s TODAY, the donor publication Teal Times, as well as other Foundation books, marketing materials, and informational content. She acts as Editor in Chief and Writer/Editor for these publications, demonstrating a hands-on role in shaping the Foundation’s messaging and public presence.
Organizational Context
The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America is professionally recognized for its advocacy, education, support services, and research funding in the Alzheimer’s and dementia space. AFA has awarded over $1.55 million in grants for research, community services, and scholarships. Key initiatives highlighted in recent years include:
- Launching the “AFA Fireside Chat” web series to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.
- Providing ongoing financial support for research projects, including a $250,000 research grant awarded to The City College of New York.
- Sponsoring the Teen Alzheimer’s Awareness Scholarship program, providing educational funding to college-bound seniors impacted by Alzheimer’s.
- Publishing resources focused on dementia care, such as guides for creating dementia-friendly homes and informative issues on topics like dementia and driving.
Professional Background and Expertise
Karen has a robust background in corporate communications, specializing in strategy, media relations, messaging, and positioning within health, wellness, and mission-driven organizations. Prior to her tenure with AFA (beginning in 2019), she held leadership roles in media relations and communications for prominent health and wellness brands including Rodale Inc. magazine brands Prevention and Men’s Health.
Her expertise encompasses:
- Editorial leadership and content creation
- Strategic communications and brand positioning
- Media relations and targeted advocacy outreach
Her commitment to the Alzheimer's cause is influenced by personal connections, specifically a close friend and a first cousin diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease (including an early onset case).
Education and Personal Details
Karen Mazzotta holds a B.A. from St. John’s University. She is based in New York, NY, and maintains an active digital professional presence, including over 1,300 followers on Twitter/X.
Contributions and Influence
Karen’s editorial leadership at AFA directly supports the Foundation’s mission to educate and empower those affected by Alzheimer’s disease. Her work includes:
- Editor In Chief and primary writer/editor for key publications, ensuring accurate, impactful dissemination of Alzheimer's-related information.
- Curating content that addresses both clinical and caregiving aspects of dementia.
- Engaging in public-facing advocacy events, such as the Alzheimer’s Foundation Advocacy Day on the Hill, demonstrating involvement in governmental and stakeholder relations.
Her communications work supports AFA’s ability to:
- Fund and promote cutting-edge Alzheimer’s research projects.
- Enhance public understanding and awareness of Alzheimer’s disease.
- Support and mobilize donor and stakeholder engagement through professional and compelling materials.
Organizational Highlights Related to Communications
- Alzheimer’s TODAY and Teal Times serve as flagship communications vehicles that Karen manages, which are widely distributed and include contributions from renowned leaders in the scientific and clinical communities.
- Recent issues under her editorial direction have covered topics such as dementia-friendly home environments, caregiving strategies, and dementia driving safety guidelines.
- She has overseen branding and messaging efforts that align with AFA’s achievements, including maintaining accreditations such as the Sagecare Platinum Credential, enhancing support for underrepresented communities such as LGBTQ+ Americans living with dementia.
This detailed profile underscores Karen Mazzotta’s pivotal role within the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America as a senior communications leader with extensive editorial and strategic communications expertise tailored to the health advocacy sector. Her professional portfolio is closely aligned with advancing the Foundation’s mission through high-impact publications and media engagement, underpinned by a personal commitment to Alzheimer’s disease awareness and support.
