DHS is happy to welcome Dr. Tharp Gilliam, a behavioral scientist and long-time leader in the county’s non-profit sector, as the new head of the Area Agency on Aging.
Prior to joining DHS, Tharp Gilliam served in several non-profit senior leadership roles, including most recently as a director of research and evaluation for the Homewood Children’s Village, where she co-led community-based participatory research projects. In addition, she has developed and led community-driven advocacy initiatives focused on equipping residents to engage with policymakers for racial, economic and social justice.
Additionally, she spearheaded efforts that elevate equity issues and activate resources, such as bringing the COVID-19 vaccine to elders in partnership with multiple regional agencies. Her work has led to recognition by the University of Pittsburgh Senior Vice Chancellor for Engagement’s Partnerships of Distinction Award and Southwest Pennsylvania Partnership for Aging’s Charles W. Pruitt/Mary Anne Kelly Awards of Excellence. She has also worked as a behavioral scientist at RAND Corporation, where she developed data-based policy recommendations and provided technical assistance for state and local education and health policy initiatives.