SANTA FE, NM - The New Mexico Aging & Long-Term Services Department today presented the 2017 New Mexico Governor's Alzheimer's Leadership Award to Dr. Carla Herman, retiring Chief of Geriatrics at the University of New Mexico.

The award recognizes individuals that have furthered the goals of The New Mexico State Plan for Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias, benefiting people with dementia and their family caregivers. Dr. Herman was presented the award at the 6th Annual Professional Conference of the Alzheimer's Association, New Mexico Chapter, held in Albuquerque.

Dr. Herman has served the elderly population of New Mexico for 23 years. Her leadership as Chief of Geriatrics for University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center has been instrumental in bringing attention of the critical issue of dementia and Alzheimer's Disease to members of the public, the medical profession, generations of state officials and educators in all fields.

"Throughout her career, Dr. Herman has been tireless in her efforts to better the care of all New Mexicans with Alzheimer's disease, their families and caregivers, and the health professionals caring for them," said Myles Copeland, NM Aging & Long-Term Services Department Secretary. "She has been a consistent champion of the need for education for medical professionals at all levels, and has marshalled considerable resources for funding research and education initiatives in our state."