I am an interdisciplinary social scientist whose research focuses on interpersonal communication as a mechanism for social support in both community and institutional settings. My particular interests include the many ways interpersonal communication behaviors can convey positive emotions as well as how to most effectively teach individuals how to use communication techniques to emotionally connect. My target populations have been caregivers and older adults living with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and health care providers and older adults living with multiple chronic conditions. Collaboratively, I have created a DVD series of peer-based, unscripted training modules on communication and an accompanying experiential curriculum titled, “Get Connected”.