Page 6 - June 2026 Insider

INSIDER • June 2026

Page 6
Scientist of the Year Celebration (May 17, 2026)…
Continued from Page 5

Over the course of a distinguished career, Dr. Ancoli-Israel has reshaped our
understanding of sleep in older adults, and she delivered a captivating presentation
drawn from a lifetime of discovery.
Among her key findings: it is not aging itself that causes poor sleep, but rather the many
conditions that often accompany aging. While the need for sleep remains constant
throughout life, the ability to sleep well changes with age. She highlighted the high
prevalence of sleep disorders among older adults, the strong connection between poor
sleep and both medical and psychiatric illness, and the promising discovery that treating
sleep apnea in patients with mild dementia may improve cognition. She also described
how increasing light exposure in nursing homes can help stabilize circadian rhythms and
improve sleep quality.

With characteristic warmth and humility, Dr. Ancoli-Israel reminded the audience that
science is never a solo endeavor, generously crediting the colleagues and students who
contributed to her work throughout the years. She was presented with a stunning piece
of metal art, Time and Dreams Intertwined, created by Janet Hubka, founder of ilus art
and former ARCS member. It was a fitting tribute to a lifetime devoted to illuminating
the science of sleep.

Leslie Bruce, Sonia Ancoli-Israel, Cathie Atkins
Following the program, guests returned to the courtyard for dessert and conversation
with our speakers, Scholars, and friends. It was truly an inspiring evening and a proud
moment for our chapter.

Heartfelt kudos to the SOY Committee for pulling out all the stops to make this
celebration so memorable: Catie Madani (Chair), Leslie Bruce (President), Cathie
Atkins, Ingrid Benirschke-Perkins, Grace Miller, Lisa Perich, Laurie Roeder,
Janet Roemer, Tanya Schierling, and Ann Siemens. Special thanks to Rob Healey
for his outstanding technical support.