GSA Capitol Hill Day Spring 2025
- Registration Closed
Join the GSA Capitol Hill Day on April 29-30, 2025, and meet with members of Congress to advocate for policies that support aging research. Whether you’re an experienced advocate or brand new to policy engagement, this event is designed to be easy, accessible, and impactful—with full support every step of the way.
GSA will handle all the logistics for you—scheduling meetings, providing key issue briefings, and equipping you with the knowledge to have a successful conversation.
What You’ll Get:
- Pre-scheduled meetings with Congressional offices
- Expert-led training on effective advocacy
- Talking points and issue briefs to guide your discussions
- On-site support to help you feel confident and prepared
- Bus transportation from hotel to The Capitol and back to the hotel provided
Dates: Tuesday, April 29th, 1:00 PM ET - Wednesday, April 30th, 4:00 PM ET
Spots Available: 150
Cost: $99 (travel and lodging not included)
Registration Cut-off: April 25
Incentive Program for graduate students/post-docs and trainee members
We are mindful of the costs involved for our graduate students/post-docs and trainee members to attend this event. For those who register and stay at our host hotel, we will provide you with a $150 Visa/MC gift card onsite and offer you meals during our training sessions.
GSA Board Member Experiences
Tuesday, April 29
12:15 PM ET: Registration Opens (Light snacks provided)
1:00 PM ET: Welcome and Introductions (Independence Ballroom)
1:30 PM ET: Keynote Address – Setting the Stage/Understanding the Impact of Policy Decisions in Aging
2:15 PM ET: Panel Discussion - Value of Coalitions
3:00 PM ET: Break
3:15 PM ET: Message for the Hill and Meet your Fellow Advocates
5:00 PM ET: Break
5:30 PM ET: Reception (Dinner Buffet, Chesapeake Rooftop Room)
Wednesday, April 30
7:30 AM ET: Breakfast Buffet (Chesapeake Rooftop Room)
8:15 AM ET: Prepare to leave for Hill Visits
8:30 AM ET: Bus to take participants from the hotel to the Capitol (Garfield Circle) and take a group photo at the Grant Statue
3:00 PM ET: Bus to return to Peace Circle and take participants from the Capitol to the hotel (Snacks provided)
3:30 PM ET: Concluding comments (Chesapeake Rooftop Room)
4:00 PM ET: Adjourn
GSA-negotiated special rates for our attendees are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Meeting space for designated Hill activities will take place at the hotel.
Hyatt Regency Crystal City
2799 Richmond Hwy, Arlington VA 22202
hyattregencycrystalcity.com
703-418-1234
Rates: $329 Single/Double
Cut Off Date: April 11
The below booking link will continue to be available while there is room inventory. The GSA discounted rate is not guaranteed.
Click here to download a PDF of this information.
Logistics, including information on schedules, registration, hotel accommodations, and an informational webinar, can be found by clicking here.
Q: Will GSA prepare us for our meetings?
A: Yes. On April 29, the day before the Hill Visits on April 30, GSA will have several training opportunities, presentations, and talks to help make you feel comfortable and at ease for your visits. You are also advised to watch Practical Approaches for Advocating for Health and Aging Research on Capitol Hill and Advocating for Healthy Aging: Influencing Federal Public Policy prior to coming to Washington. Remember, you are the Members’ constituents, and they want to hear from you. You will also receive materials before you arrive in Washington, DC, including a map of Congressional offices linked here.
Q: Who is scheduling the meetings, and with whom am I meeting?
A: GSA is handling the scheduling of all meetings. You will be meeting in small groups with Congressional offices. You are meeting with staff members who work with your representatives in the House and Senate. GSA will share this information ahead of time. Also, understand that last-minute changes occur. You will be notified through the Advocacy App. If you have a relationship with your representative and wish to help GSA make a connection, please contact Trish D’Antonio at or Jordan Miles at profaff@geron.org.
Q: Who am I representing on these visits?
A: Ideally, you are representing GSA and your institution if that is permissible. It is important to check with your institution if this is acceptable. Regardless, you are representing GSA.
Q: How do I download the AdvocacyDay application on my mobile phone? Who can help me with technical issues?
A: You can download the app using the links below. Use your email address to log in, and you will receive a code to enter via email for full access. You should have received an email with additional directions.
Download the AdvocacyApp
Apple App Store
Google Play Store
Samsung Galaxy Store
As a web-based backup, you can also view your schedule for GSA Capitol Hill Day here: advocacyday.net/gsa. The login process is the same. A member of the Advocacy Associates team will be present on Tuesday afternoon from 3:00-5:30 PM and on Wednesday from 7:30-9:30 AM in the meeting room to provide technical assistance.
Q: In the app under “More”, I see a link to “Impacts of Indirect Cost Cap by State House/District” under the “Documents/Resources.” What is that?
A: The GSA Policy Team will review this with you. You should interact with it prior to your arrival by visiting scienceimpacts.org. The map details by county, Congressional District, and by state the impact of the proposed cap on indirect research costs. You should integrate these numbers into your talking points, depending on whether you are speaking to a House or Senate member’s office.
Q: When should I arrive at the Congressional office, and what should I bring?
A: Arrive at least 15 minutes early, if possible. Bring business cards and GSA-provided materials.
Q: How should I prepare for the meetings on my own?
A: GSA will provide talking points. They are also in the app. Please review these beforehand. Be clear, concise, and respectful. Introduce yourself and anyone with you. Prepare a 2-3 minute introduction that highlights your work and how it contributes to improving our health and well-being.
Q: When should I arrive at the Congressional office, and what should I bring?
A: Arrive at least 15 minutes early, if possible. Bring business cards and GSA-provided materials.
Q: What can I expect as I enter the Congressional building?
A: Expect long lines as Congress is very busy. No weapons are allowed into the buildings. Security may take a few minutes, and all coats, belts, watches, coins, and metal items should be removed, scanned, and returned. You will walk through a scanner. A government-issued ID is not required, but it is good practice to have on your person.
Q: Will a GSA staff member be with me during our meetings?
A: Possibly. GSA staff members will be navigating many small groups.
Q: Should I expect the Member of Congress to be present for the entire meeting?
A: Not necessarily. Their schedules are often packed. You may meet primarily with a staff member, or the Member may join for a portion of the meeting. This is normal and doesn't diminish the importance of your visit.
Q: How long will the meeting likely last?
A: Meetings are typically scheduled for 15-20 minutes. Be respectful of the staff’s time and stick to your key points. You may encounter your Member of Congress for a shorter amount of time.
Q: Who should do the talking when we meet with the staff member?
A: It is vital to discuss this beforehand as a group, noting who will introduce your group and who will touch on what talking point. It is important to stick to the talking points and the ask that GSA has provided you with.
Q: What if I disagree with the member's or staffer's views?
A: Remain polite and professional. The goal is to have a productive conversation, even if you don't agree on everything. Do not say, “I disagree,” but rather say, “Thank you for making that point,” and thank the staffer. It is unlikely that the staff member will become confrontational or political.
Q: What if the Member or staffer asks me a question I don't know the answer to?
A: It's okay to say you don't know. Offer to follow up with the information later. Make sure to note the question and follow up with a GSA Policy Team Member.
Q: Is GSA providing transportation to and from Capitol Hill for our meetings?
A: Yes. Buses will leave the hotel at 8:30 AM from the hotel for transportation to Capitol Hill. Buses will leave from the Peace Circle on the Senate side in front of the Capitol Building at 3:00 PM.
Q: Are there mobility access points for people with disabilities and special needs?
A: Attendees should use the registration link to indicate if they have a disability or special need. Click here to learn >span class="TextRun SCXW142839161 BCX0"> If you need assistance, contact GSA Team Member Sam Stone at 202-587-5896. It is also okay to ask for help from security or those working on Capitol Hill.
Q: What should I wear?
A: Please wear business professional clothing, your GSA pin, and comfortable shoes. There will be much walking.
Q: Are there options for snacks and beverages on Capitol Hill?
A: Yes. If you have a break, food and beverage options are available in House and Senate offices. It’s okay to ask for help finding the locations.
Q: Can I take pictures after or before the meeting?
A: It's generally best to ask for permission before taking photos. Be mindful of privacy. Do not record the meeting, but rather take notes.
Kristine Blackwood, JD
Health Policy Consultant
Kristine Blackwood, JD, is a health policy consultant in Washington, D.C., drawing from over twenty years in leadership positions at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the US Department of Justice, and as senior staff on House and Senate Committees with health care jurisdiction. Prior to opening her own consulting firm in January 2024, she served as Counsel for the Public Policy Practice at Arnold & Porter for nine years, where she developed and led implementation of legislative strategies on Capitol Hill and with the Executive Branch for a wide range of health care sector clients, including medical societies and health professional associations; non-profit research institutes; children’s hospitals; health IT providers; and drug, diagnostic test and device manufacturers. Kristine has served as a policy and legislative consultant for the American Geriatrics Society since 2015. She currently serves as co-chair of the Health Committee of the Leadership Council of Aging Organizations, a coalition of 68 national nonprofit organizations advancing policies to improve the well-being of older adults and those caring for them.
Abby Bownas, MS
Principal
NVG LLC
Abby Bownas, MS, Principal with NVG LLC, is a big thinker whose health background helps her deliver results on a range of “cradle-through-college-and-career” issues that ensure more people can lead happier, healthier lives. As NVG’s expert coalition builder, Abby manages the Adult Vaccine Access Coalition, bringing together over 50 stakeholders representing immunization providers, innovators, public health and patient groups to raise awareness, improve access, and increase utilization of vaccines among adults. Abby’s considerable knowledge of the public health system has served NVG’s clients well. Since joining NVG in 2009, she has successfully helped our clients to ensure diabetes preventive care was included in the Affordable Care Act; to broaden access to healthy food; and to fund and authorize “Promise Neighborhoods,” communities of opportunity centered around strong schools. Prior to her career at NVG, Abby served as the Director of Federal Government Affairs at the American Diabetes Association, where she played a key role in the Association’s efforts to increase funding for diabetes research and prevention programs, expand the federal commitment to stem cell research, ensure that all Americans with diabetes have access to affordable and adequate health coverage and protect people with diabetes from discrimination. Abby helped lead the Association to victory on passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act, working closely with a bipartisan coalition of disability, health, civil rights, religious, and business groups to restore the Americans with Disabilities Act to its rightful intent. Earlier in her career, Abby spent over five years on Capitol Hill, in both the Senate and House of Representatives. After working for Senator Bob Kerrey (D-NE) and Majority Leader Harry Reid (DNV), she moved to the office of Rep. John F. Tierney (D-MA), where she served as a Legislative Assistant handling a number of issues, including health care. Abby earned a Master’s degree in Political Science in 2002 and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies in 2000, both from the American University in Washington, D.C. She enjoys baking banana bread every Sunday with her two children.
Patricia M. "Trish" D'Antonio, BSPharm, MS, MBA, BCGP
Vice President, Policy and Professional Affairs
Gerontological Society of America
Patricia M. D’Antonio, BSPharm, MS, MBA, BCGP, is the Vice President of Policy and Professional Affairs for the Gerontological Society of America (GSA) and a board-certified geriatric pharmacist. Ms. D’Antonio directs GSA’s policy initiatives and is responsible for developing relationships with organizations in the aging arena. She represents GSA on several policy coalitions and serves as co-chair for the Adult Vaccine Access Coalition, president of the board of Protecting Access to Pain Relief, and a member of the steering committee for several federally focused coalitions. Ms. D’Antonio is also the executive director for the National Center to Reframe Aging, the central hub to advance the long-term social change endeavor designed to improve the public’s understanding of what aging means and the many ways that older people contribute to our society. Before joining GSA, Trish was the executive director for the District of Columbia Board of Pharmacy and program manager for the Pharmaceutical Control Division, where she was responsible for the regulatory and policy development for the practice of pharmacy and safe handling of medications in the District. She received her Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy from Duquesne University and her Master of Science in Health Finance and Master in Business Administration with a concentration in health care from Temple University. She completed a residency in administration and finance at The Philadelphia Geriatric Center.
Nancy LeaMond, MA
Chief Advocacy and Engagement Officer
AARP
Nancy LeaMond, MA, serves as AARP's chief advocacy and engagement officer, leading government relations and campaigns for AARP, widely seen as one of the most powerful advocacy organizations in the country. She also oversees AARP’s public education initiatives as well as state and local advocacy and community engagement across all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Nancy has led several landmark advocacy campaigns for AARP, including the Fair Rx Prices Now campaign focused on convincing federal and state lawmakers to take action to lower the prices of prescription drugs. Her leadership in this arena positively influenced the historic signing of 2022’s Inflation Reduction Act to include helping millions of Medicare enrollees better afford their life-saving medications and millions more Americans be able to pay their Affordable Care Act premiums. She also spearheaded the successful 2017 effort to protect Medicare and maintain important consumer protections under the Affordable Care Act. Nancy has been named by The Hill as a “Top Lobbyist” every year since 2011. Prior to coming to AARP, Nancy served as the chief of staff and assistant U.S. trade representative for congressional affairs at the Office of the United States Trade Representative. She worked extensively on health care and pension issues before entering the trade field, beginning her career in the Public Health Service, the Medicaid program, and the Department of Commerce. She also served in the Office of Management and Budget, the Department of Education, and as chief of staff to a senior member of Congress. Nancy holds a bachelor's degree from Smith College and a master's degree in public policy and city planning from the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University.
Thomas Jordan Miles III, BS
Director of Policy
Gerontological Society of America
Thomas Jordan Miles III, BS, serves as the Director of Policy at the Gerontological Society of America. Jordan previously worked at Piedmont Senior Resources Area Agency on Aging as Director of Nutrition, Transportation, and Medical Transportation, and also served as Interim Chief Executive Officer. He previously served as editor of Farmville Newsmedia LLC, which included The Farmville Herald and Farmville The Magazine. Jordan previously served on the Buckingham County Board of Supervisors, where he led the Board as its Chairman. He previously served as a governor's appointee on the Virginia Tobacco Commission, and also served as Chairman of the Go Virginia Region 3 Project Review Committee, and on the Commonwealth Regional Council and Board of Directors for Crossroads Community Services Board.
Amy M. York, MA,
Executive Director
Eldercare Workforce Alliance
Amy M. York, MA, serves as Executive Director of the Eldercare Workforce Alliance. In her role, Amy collaborates with member organizations and volunteer leadership to direct the policy and communication efforts of the Alliance. She looks for practical solutions to expand the eldercare workforce. Amy joined the Alliance from the Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago, where she advocated on a wide range of issues, including Medicaid, Medicare, caregiving, the Older Americans Act, and other issues surrounding aging. Prior to joining the Federation, York served in legislative and political capacities for two national labor unions. Throughout her professional career, she has demonstrated an ability to develop robust working relationships with federal policy makers and a strong understanding of how to advance a policy agenda through the legislative and regulatory process. She serves on the boards of the Collaborative Action Team training for Community Health – Older Adult Network (CATCH-ON) and the UCSF Health Workforce Research Center on Long-Term Care (UCSF HWRC).
Practical Approaches for Advocating for Health and Aging Research on Capitol Hill
Listen to this GSA webinar, recorded on April 7, 2025, highlighting the ease and accessibility of advocacy and empowering you to advocate for policies that promote healthy and meaningful aging. Hear GSA Board members share experiences of recent Hill Day visits and strategies for communicating the importance of research funding. Together, let's demystify advocacy for health and aging research and share practical insights into supporting health and aging research at NIH and NIA.
Advocating for Healthy Aging: Influencing Federal Public Policy
Interested in how you can make an impact on federal health and aging policy? Listen to this discussion with expert aging policy advocates who will give you the resources, tips, and tools you need to interact with members of Congress and their staff to advance public policy. The webinar explores the legislative process, the importance of advocacy in shaping health and aging policies that affect older people, and approaches to contacting members of Congress. Join Patricia D’Antonio, GSA’s Vice President of Policy and Professional Affairs, and the Healthsperien team, including Ethan McChesney, Policy Director; Brian Lindberg, GSA Public Policy Advisor and Vice-President of Health and Aging Policy; Alli Hamburger, Policy Analyst; and Rachel Jordan, Policy Analyst, for this conversation.