MAYVILLE – The Director of the Chautauqua County Office for Aging Services has been appointed the new president of the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging.
Announced this summer at the USAging Annual Conference and Trade Show over the summer, Dr. Mary Ann Spanos was selected by the membership association to serve a two-year term as the agency’s next president. Spanos joined the Board of Directors in 2010 as an Alternate and later, became the delegate for New York State and New Jersey in 2016.
USAging CEO Sandy Markwood said the agency is “delighted” to have Dr. Spanos lead its Board of Directors.
“Dr. Spanos brings unique experience and perspectives to USAging at a critical time for our nation’s older adults, people with disabilities, and caregivers” said Markwood.
Dr. Spanos received her Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy from the State University of New York at Buffalo in 1986, specializing in geriatric rehabilitation. She later received her doctorate from Boston University in 2005. Dr. Spanos was appointed Director of Chautauqua County Office for Aging Services in 2007.
“It is a privilege to serve on this national board and I am honored to be elected president by my colleagues across the country,” said Dr. Spanos on her appointment. “While the pandemic continues to be a challenge, it has also brought a new awareness of the critical nature of the home and community based services provided by the aging network. I am excited to be leading this organization while we are in the midst of expanding and modernizing our services to meet the needs of older adults.”
Chautauqua County Executive PJ Wendel said he applauds Dr. Spanos on her appointment.
“Her hard work and dedication to providing services for seniors and caregivers across our county, especially during the pandemic, has been monumental. Her appointment is a great accomplishment and I know she will proudly represent Chautauqua County and the other communities across our nation.”
USAging represents and supports the national network of Area Agencies on Aging, and advocates for the Title VI Native American Aging Programs that provide critical services and support that enables older adults and people with disabilities throughout the United States to live with optimal health, well-being, independence and dignity.
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