Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Research Center Director Honored as One of “30 Women to Watch” in Utah

In May, Professor Elizabeth “Beth” Fauth was recognized as one of Utah Business magazine’s “30 Women to Watch.” Fauth is the director of the state-funded Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Research Center (ADRC) and a professor in Human Development and Family Studies in the Emma Eccles Jones College of Education and Human Services at Utah State University. Her research specializes in reducing caregiver stress, addressing symptoms of dementia, and developing mental health interventions.

“We are thrilled to celebrate Dr. Beth Fauth for being named one of 30 Women to Watch in Utah,” said Shawn Whiteman, interim dean of the college. “This recognition reflects not only Dr. Fauth’s outstanding research contributions focused on caregiving among people with dementia, but also the meaningful impacts she and the Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Research Center make in our community and beyond. We are incredibly proud to have such an inspiring and innovative leader as part of our college.”

Fauth was appointed director of the ADRC in May 2022. In collaboration with the Alzheimer’s Association Utah Chapter, she worked with the Utah Legislature to launch the center at Utah State. Since its founding, the ADRC has allocated more than $1 million to support 30 research projects at universities across Utah. The ADRC’s mission is to fund Alzheimer’s-related research and offer clinical and educational support to caregivers through its Dementia Caregiver Clinic.

“This recognition by Utah Business provides great visibility for the ADRC,” Fauth said. “Being a professor is often associated only with teaching, but awards like this help get the word out about our research and the dementia clinic to a broader audience. Also, dementia is complicated, and it takes all types of expertise in science, technology, social services, business and entrepreneurship to make an impact on this disease. I hope I am able to connect with others with similar interests.”

Community impact is a cornerstone of the ADRC’s success. In 2022, the “Faces of Dementia” art gallery exhibit, created in collaboration with photographer Maria Huebner, showcased black-and-white portraits of individuals living with dementia, highlighting their stories and the importance of caregiving. The project is currently looking for new families to participate in photo sessions.

“Helping people connect to dementia, and to talk about it, is vital to building awareness about resources,” Fauth said. “Whether it’s someone reading Utah Business or seeing Maria’s gallery, or hearing about the ADRC for the first time, every type of exposure matters. Many people living with dementia or caring for someone who is don’t realize there’s help available statewide. We are here to let them know we and others can help.”

The ADRC facilitates connections with support groups, research studies, and community agencies. The Dementia Caregiver Clinic is a free resource to assist caregivers in all aspects of living with dementia. The clinic began seeing clients in fall 2024 at the Sorenson Center for Clinical Excellence on the USU Logan campus. Funded by the Utah Department of Health and Human Services, the clinic is free for Utah residents. In-person appointments are available, and telehealth services are available for those who live farther away. Caregivers are connected with resources that are personalized to their needs, and the clinical team also offers resources for individuals with memory impairment, including educational materials, activities, and guidance for future planning.

Community members providing care for loved ones with dementia are encouraged to participate in the free service. To schedule an appointment, call the Sorenson Center at 435-797-2088, Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Fauth also serves on the board of the Alzheimer’s Association Utah Chapter and as an appointed member on the Utah Commission on Aging. She co-chairs Utah’s Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias Coordinating Council. For more information about the ADRC, Alzheimer’s resources in Utah, upcoming events, research studies and the next “Faces of Dementia” exhibit, visit the ADRC website.