Larry Polivka, PhD
Executive Director
Executive Director of the Claude Pepper Center and Scholar- in- Residence with the Claude Pepper Foundation. His primary research centers on critical aging issues including long-term care, affordable health care, and economic security for America’s elderly population.
Lori Gonzalez, PhD
Research Faculty III
Dr. Gonzalez’s research includes uncovering alternatives to traditional nursing home care including the Green House Project and the Program of the All Inclusive Care for the Elderly.
LuMarie Polivka-West, MSP
Research Volunteer
LuMarie Polvika-West joined the Florida State University Claude Pepper Center in October 2015 as a Sr. Research Associate (volunteer) after retiring from 23 years with the Florida Health Care Association.
Monica Laughlin
Business Manager
Monica Laughlin joined The Claude Pepper Foundation, Inc. in 1993 and the Claude Pepper Center in 2005. Ms. Laughlin has provided business management support in the areas of project management, financial management, human resource and administrative support.
Alex Smith
Technology Specialist
Alex Smith has been supporting and producing content for the Claude Pepper Center for 6 years. He graduated from Florida State University with a degree in Electrical Engineering but his passions lead him to documentary and cinematography work.
Aras Aziz
Media Specialist
Aras Aziz is a Media Specialist at the Claude Pepper Center, responsible for the Center’s social media activities, brand awareness, and outreach initiatives. Mr. Aziz also conducts independent research, as well as providing research and technical support to other Center employees.