Black Men’s Brain Health Conference 2026

The Black Men’s Brain Health Conference (BMBHC), scheduled for Sunday, February 1, through Friday, February 6, at Merritt College in Oakland, emphasizes community-driven engagement and examines how early detection of brain health issues, including Alzheimer’s, can improve wellness in the Black community. The event brings together athletes, students, experts, Bay Area residents, and online participants for discussions on innovative health solutions.

Program highlights include a VIP reception in Downtown Oakland (Feb 1), the Emerging Scholars Program pre-conference (Feb 2), the main conference (Feb 3-4), and the 26th Annual Player Networking Event (PNE) at Genentech’s South San Francisco campus (Feb 6).

Partners and sponsors feature the NFL Alumni Association (NFLA), Pro Football Retired Players Association (PFRPA), Alzheimer’s Association, Boston University’s CTE Center, National Institute on Aging, Harmony Biosciences, Duke Sports Sciences Institute, The Good Life (Oakland), Empowered Aging, Peralta Community College District, and Toyota.

PNE 2026 concludes the partnership with a networking trade show and interactive experiences for athletes at the high school and professional levels. Activities include a leadership symposium for high school players, a podcast content studio, a cognitive screening and early-detection expert panel, and a psychosocial wellness workshop at Genentech.

Notable attendees include former and current NFL players: Ken Harvey, Spencer Tillman, Tarik Glenn, Aaron Taylor (CBS Sports), Pro Football Hall of Famer Will Shields, and others.

The Black Men’s Brain Health Conference addresses longstanding healthcare inequities affecting Black men through an interdisciplinary, inclusive approach. We invite community stakeholders, healthcare professionals, and researchers from all backgrounds to share insights and collaborate. The leadership team’s sports industry experience also supports outreach to athletes, coaches, families, and support staff.

This year’s theme is “community engagement from the community’s perspective.” Given that research has not always benefited involved communities, the conference is elevating community voices to change the role of Black men in brain health and Alzheimer’s research.

Mark your calendars: the BMBH Conference will take place at Merritt College, Oakland, California, in 2026. Register here: https://bit.ly/BMBHC2026

Frequently Asked Questions:

• Are there any costs associated with the 2026 BMBH Conference?

Admission to the conference, whether in person or online, is free for both days! Meals will be provided for in-person attendees.

• Is there a preferred accommodation I can book if I want to come in person?

The official conference hotel is the Oakland Marriott City Center, located at 1001 Broadway, Oakland, CA 94607 Book your group rate for Duke Black Men’s Brain Health

• May I register onsite (walk-in)?

Please register on Eventbrite if you plan to attend, including if you plan to walk in. https://bit.ly/BMBHC2026

• I have special accessibility needs/dietary requirements; can you accommodate me?

Yes! Please contact info@mensbrainhealth.org with any questions or concerns.

• Is there a dress code for the event?

There is no formal dress code for the event; however, we recommend you look sharp as this is a great networking opportunity!

• Where can I find information about the event agenda, schedule, and speakers?

Please visit https://www.mensbrainhealth.org/2026-conference for additional details about the conference or email info@mensbrainhealth.org

• What parking arrangements are available at the venue?

Please visit the Merritt College website for a map and details on parking locations: https://merritt.edu/campus-map-and-directions

• Can I attend this conference if I am not a Black man?

Yes! We believe in building and supporting community. We welcome everyone interested in hearing, sharing, and learning more about Black men’s brain health!

• Is this a hybrid event?

Yes, you can attend in person or online on either day.