Shannon Braun
Director, Center for Memory Support & Inclusion
Episcopal Retirement Services

Shannon is the ultimate collaborator, and has made it her mission to make Cincinnati more dementia-inclusive. Despite starting her newly formed role right as the COVID pandemic broke, Shannon never gave up on her vision to educate the masses about dementia.  

She routinely is offering education about effective ways to support individuals with dementia; including but not limited to educating Cincinnati police department, church leaders, museum docents, local musicians, movement instructors, healthcare providers, etc. Because of her previous role as the Early Stage Coordinator for the Alzheimer’s Association, Shannon has a special soft spot for individuals in the early stages of their dementia journey. As a result, she has built several social engagement programs, specifically intended for individuals that are still very capable yet navigating a new dementia diagnosis. She has partnered with UC’s Memory Disorders Clinic & the Alzheimer’s Association to offer quarterly early-stage support groups for caregivers and their loved ones with a new dementia diagnosis.  

As if that wasn’t enough, Shannon has teamed up with a local ballroom dance instructor to offer “Dancing to Remember” ballroom dancing classes for those navigating a dementia journey. She is also collaborating with the local museums (Contemporary Art Center, Cincinnati Art Museum, & Taft Museum) to offer “With Art in Mind” a monthly museum tour specifically designed for individuals with dementia.  

It is clear that connection is of great importance to Shannon, ensuring individuals still feel connected despite their diagnosis. And the icing on the cake is that Shannon & ERS have obtained grant funding so these programs/services are all offered free of charge. Cincinnati is beyond blessed to have Shannon Braun in its corner!