Alzheimer's Association Appoints Vince McGrail as Executive Director & CEO

Growing Awareness of Disease and Chapter’s Ability to Provide Support are Priorities for New Chapter Leader.

COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Alzheimer’s Association of Central Ohio recently announced the appointment of Vince McGrail as Executive Director and CEO. McGrail will provide executive leadership for the Chapter’s staff, and serve as a partner with its Board of Directors to set, communicate and implement strategic goals for the Chapter, which will include increasing concern and awareness of Alzheimer’s Disease, enhancing care and support, growing revenue, and advancing advocacy. McGrail previously held the position of Sr. Director, Marketing Communications at The Ohio State University.

“We welcome Vince’s experience and leadership to the Chapter,” said the Association’s board president John Petro. “He’s a proven professional with more than 20 years of experience in marketing communications and fundraising strategy. His leadership and ability to think strategically and creatively will drive innovation and growth within the Chapter, and help the Chapter continue to serve more than 24,000 people living with Alzheimer’s in Central Ohio and their caregivers.”

McGrail joins the Alzheimer’s Association Central Ohio Chapter after serving The Ohio State University for 17 years in multiple leadership roles in development and marketing communications with focus in strategic fundraising. McGrail led the coordination of strategy and execution of university communication plans to publicly launch the $2.5 billion But for Ohio State fundraising campaign. Among McGrail’s successes includes co-chairing marketing efforts for the Students First, Students Now initiative, raising $116 million for student support in a 30-month timeframe. In addition, McGrail led the growth of Annual Giving at Ohio State from $9.5 million in 2006 to $13 million in 2012.

“I am excited to be working with the board to increase services and support for those who suffer with Alzheimer’s in Central Ohio and to make a difference in our community, said McGrail. “I am thrilled to be working with a passionate and talented team and dedicated volunteers, working hard towards the day we end Alzheimer’s”.

The Alzheimer’s Association Central Ohio Chapter offers a variety of family and clinical support, education, advocacy and resources on behalf of Alzheimer’s patients and their families living throughout the surrounding 14 counties. They work closely with both patients and caregivers to maintain the highest quality of life for everyone involved.

The first major fundraising event to take place under McGrail’s leadership is the 2014 Columbus Walk to End Alzheimer’s on Saturday, September 20th beginning at Huntington Park and hosted by the Central Ohio Alzheimer’s Association. Those who walk, both through fundraising and participating in the event, help to change the level of Alzheimer’s awareness in the Columbus community. Registration for the walk is free and can be done at Alz.org.

About the Alzheimer’s Association The Alzheimer's Association is the world’s leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. The Central Ohio Chapter was established in 1979 and provides a broad range of programs and services for individuals and families impacted by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. Visit Alz.org.