CONTACT

Sujuan Ba, PhD

President and Chief Executive Officer of the National Foundation for Cancer Research (NFCR). One of the top 300 Women Leaders in Global Health.

Senator Ben Allen

California State Senator representing the 24th Senate District, covering the Westside, Hollywood, South Bay, and Santa Monica Mountains communities of the Los Angeles County. First elected in 2014 and serving his third term in State Senate.

Azadeh Rostami

With a background spanning roles as a chemist, researcher, pharmacy technician, and immigrant, I bring a unique blend of experiences and skills to my academic and professional endeavors. My journey into the world of pharmacology began in Iranian chemistry labs, where I developed a deep-rooted passion for understanding the mechanisms of pharmaceuticals. Upon immigrating to the US, I continued to hone my expertise as a chemist at a Pharmaceutical Lab, where I gained valuable insights into drug development and analysis. Subsequently, I transitioned to managing a compounding pharmacy, further expanding my knowledge of pharmaceuticals and their applications. Eager to deepen my understanding of the biological sciences, I pursued a Biology degree and conducted research at CSULB, focusing on the intricate link between metabolic regulation, breathing, and blood flow. This experience broadened my perspective and enhanced my research skills, setting the stage for my future endeavors. During my master’s degree studies, I delved into researching the potential application of cannabis in the treatment of chronic pain at the UCI Neuroscience lab. This opportunity not only expanded my research experience but also fueled my interest in neuroscience pharmacology. My ultimate goal is to become a research scientist specializing in neuroscience pharmacology, particularly in the field of neuropharmacology. I am passionate about contributing to advancements in veteran health through my research and dedicated efforts in the field.

Tim Kring

Brain Mapping Society Honors ‘Dig’ Writer-Producer Tim Kring Umbrella org finds H’w’d support By David S. Cohen As a cause, brain mapping doesn’t have a slogan as catchy as “Stand Up to Cancer.” Pro football teams aren’t donning a special color to support research. The Hollywood contingent at Saturday’s Society for Brain Mapping and Therapeutics black-tie gala, led by honoree Tim Kring, thesps Melina Karakenedes and Gary Graham and producers Matthew Rhodes of Bold Films and Shawn Piller, had to make up in enthusiasm what it lacked in numbers. The first speech of the night even included an explanation of the field, as if even those in attendance might not be sure what brain mapping is. But by the end of the evening there was little doubt among those in attendance about the importance of the work being honored and supported and its future potential. “You can lose an arm and get it replaced, you can lose a heart and get it replaced. You can’t lose your brain,” writer-entrepreneur-scientist Harry Kloor told Variety. He compared the current state of treatment for brain disorders with someone who has a broken computer but doesn’t know if the problem is hardware or software — and doesn’t know anything about either one of those, anyway. “Brain mapping literally seeks to understand the brain at every level: the neurological level, the physical level and the microscopic level,” Kloor said. The SBMT takes a multidisciplinary approach to studying the brain, bringing together biology, engineering, psychology, art and more. It works with government agencies, patient advocacy groups, private industry and others to promote the study of the brain, with an eye toward finding treatments for ALS, Alzheimers, Parkinson’s and the numerous other brain maladies that afflict humanity. The org’s founder, Dr. Babak Kateb, told the aud the SBMT would seek to launch a national campaign similar to “Stand Up to Cancer.” Saturday’s gala at Crystal Ballroom of the Millenium Biltmore Hotel in downtown L.A. was part of the SBMT’s World Congress, an event that rotates globally. Numerous consulates sent representatives. So this event gave Hollywood an opportunity to rub shoulders with scientists and diplomats. Tim Kring, writer and executive producer of “Heroes” and USA Network’s current series “Dig,” was honored with the org’s Golden Axon award for his series “Touch,” which portrayed a family with an autistic child. The Golden Axon is given to “individuals outside of the medical community who inspire with good will and an enthusiastic interest in science, technology and medicine.” “I have been lucky enough to be singled out for my work,” said Kring in his acceptance, “but it’s the handful of honors I’ve had for the work that I’ve done that promotes positive messages that I’m most honored by.” Prof. Stephen Hawking — whose own showbiz credits include appearances as himself on “The Big Bang Theory” and “Star Trek: The Next Generation” — was honored with the org’s Beacon of Courage and Dedication Award, which was presented in England several days ago. The presentation and Hawking’s gracious acceptance were shown on video. Much of the gala was arranged by writer-scientist-entrepreneur Kloor. Kateb asked him to find a host — he coaxed “Star Trek: Voyager” actor Robert Picardo as MC — then asked Kloor to help organize the entire event. Kloor is a double Ph.D who, besides having three tech companies, is writing a screenplay for Fox and will write another for producer Matthew Rhodes of Bold Films. Actress Melina Kanakaredes attended with husband Peter Constantinides. Kanakaredes cited the vast resources required to care for patients with neurological diseases including ALS and Alzheimer’s as a factor that drew her to this cause. “We all have someone in our lives who is affected,” Kanakaredes told Variety. “My uncle has just been diagnosed with a rare neurological disorder. He will need care.” Other bizzers in attendance included thesps Gary Graham, Eiko Nijo and Laura Vadervoort and producers Rhodes, Shawn Piller, Michael Rosenberg and Sarah Kinga Smith.

Pria Chawla

I am Pria Chawla, a dedicated third-year student at Chapman University, where I am majoring in Health Sciences and minoring in Nutrition, with a clear vision of becoming a doctor. My passion for improving lives is evident in my role as a behavioral therapist for children with autism, where I actively contribute to their development. Beyond therapy, I am deeply committed to advancing healthcare innovation. I have created virtual reality modules specifically for diabetes patient education, which are currently being implemented in clinical settings. This project not only showcases my belief in the transformative power of technology in medicine but also fuels my aspiration to be at the forefront of medical innovation as a future doctor. My academic and professional experiences are stepping stones towards making a significant impact in healthcare, driven by a blend of compassion and cutting-edge technology.