Chief Elder Officers
The Chief Elder Officers (CEOs) are a distinguished panel of community mentors comprised of older adults from diverse backgrounds who serve as the guiding voice of the CARING Lab. These experienced community leaders bring lived expertise in navigating aging, healthcare systems, and the unique challenges faced by marginalized older adults. As advisors and collaborators, they contribute to ensuring that research and advocacy efforts remain grounded in the authentic experiences and priorities of the communities we serve.
Paul is a community elder originally from Kansas City who brings a wealth of life experience shaped by both prosperity and adversity.
After experiencing significant life changes, he chose San Francisco for its exceptional resources and support systems. Having previously enjoyed financial stability, Paul now navigates a different chapter while maintaining his ability to connect with people from all walks of life.
As a former In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) provider, he understands both sides of the caregiving relationship and brings valuable perspective on resilience, community resources, and aging with dignity in a city he values for its diversity and comprehensive support network.
Harry is a native San Franciscan with three decades of sales and marketing expertise who brings profound understanding of marginalized communities, having grown up largely in the closet and learning to assimilate by erasing his accent.
As a dedicated family caregiver to multiple loved ones—including a partner who passed away, his aging mother, and his current partner with chronic illness—he possesses deep caregiving experience.
Connected throughout San Francisco's senior community, Harry recognizes that not everyone feels empowered to speak up due to language barriers or shame, choosing to use his voice responsibly as an advocate knowing his experiences might help others serve the greater good.
Jasmine is a pioneering elder transgender woman whose decades of community leadership spans film festivals, music performances, churches, and non-profit organizations.
As a trailblazer navigating multiple identities with grace, she has dedicated her life to LGBTQ+ rights, elder advocacy, and cross-cultural understanding while enriching communities through her talents as an amateur musician and singer.
Her unique perspective as a transgender elder from the Asian American community brings invaluable wisdom about intersectionality and aging with dignity, making her an essential voice in advancing health equity for marginalized older adults.