Dr. Raya Kheirbek is a Professor of Medicine and the inaugural Division Head of Gerontology, Geriatrics, and Palliative Medicine at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. She is board-certified in Internal Medicine, Geriatric Medicine, and Hospice and Palliative Medicine. Her work centers on improving the quality of care for older adults living with serious and advanced illnesses—an approach that aligns perfectly with the growing need for integrated geriatric and palliative care in our aging population. Dr. Kheirbek’s research includes large-scale studies on the oldest old, notably the world’s largest cohort of male centenarians, which has provided valuable insights into longevity and end-of-life care needs. Beyond research, she is deeply committed to education as Program Director of the Geriatric Fellowship at UMD, where she trains the next generation in person-centered, compassionate care. She is also a strong advocate for vulnerable populations, advancing social justice through policy, writing, and public engagement.

Brie Williams is a physician trained in internal medicine, geriatrics, and palliative care. She integrates a public health and human rights perspective into justice reform, with a focus on improving the health and wellbeing of prison staff and people who are incarcerated by introducing international best practices designed to infuse principles of public health and human rights into places of detention. She leads educational experiences in public-health focused practices for prison healthcare and security staff; writes and lectures about the medical basis for ending solitary confinement; partners with community-based organizations and policy makers to improve compassionate release policies for incarcerated patients with serious illness; and conducts research and evaluation to optimize the response to disability, dementia, and serious illness in correctional settings.