The Black Men’s Brain Health (BMBH) Initiative will host its 5th Annual Conference during Super Bowl Week, February 3-4, 2026, at Merritt College. This year’s gathering will explore the theme “The Power of Community Engagement: Transforming Black Men’s Participation in Brain Health and AD/ADRD Research.”
Offered at no cost and available both in person and virtually, the conference seeks to confront persistent ethnoracial disparities in healthcare by elevating community leadership and reimagining how Black men connect with, contribute to, and benefit from brain health research.
One of the signature moments of the 2026 conference will take place on Wednesday, February 4, with a special tribute honoring influential sports figures whose impact extends beyond the field. The program will recognize John Beam, the legendary Laney College football coach, for his legacy within Oakland’s football community. The conference will also commemorate Doug Martin, a Boise State Hall of Famer and former NFL player, celebrating his accomplishments both in sports and in life. Together, these tributes underscore the powerful connection between athletics, community leadership, and brain health advocacy.
“When we started working on this project... I never imagined it would have such an impact on so many people's lives,” says Dr. Robert W. Turner II, a former professional football player and current brain health researcher who leads the initiative. “It is amazing to see NFL athletes come together with Alzheimer's caregivers, researchers, clinicians, and people from the community to address this critical issue”.
Conference Highlights:
Tuesday, Feb 3: Day 1 at Merritt College, featuring opening remarks from President Dr. David Johnson and a session on the legacy of the Black Panther Party’s public health programs with esteemed faculty Professor Jason Seals.
Wednesday, Feb 4: Day 2 at Merritt College, including host site welcome remarks from Congresswoman Lateefah Simon (CA-12) and the Brain Health Champions Award Ceremony, honoring figures such as Coach Jeff Tedford, former NFL Athletes Ken Harvey, Kenyon Rasheed, NFL Spouse Sylvia Mackey, John Burris Esq., and Dr. Noha Aboelata.
The BMBH Conference is open to everyone and especially welcoming to students and student-athletes, with options to attend both in person and online. The event explores how culture, stress, sports, and life experiences impact brain health and cognitive aging, while highlighting the importance of early awareness and prevention. Through real conversations and practical insights, the conference aims to support long-term mental and brain wellness - on the field, in the classroom, and beyond.
You won't want to miss this! Register now at https://bit.ly/BMBHC2026. For more information, feel free to contact info@mensbrainhealth.org. We hope to see you there either in person or online.
Many thanks to the Men's Brain Health Initiative contributing to this article.
