Some professional relationships transcend time. They become part of your story—shaping how you serve, grow, and give back. This is how I feel about my connection with Max Rothman and the Alliance for Aging.
Over two decades ago, I was immersed in my gerontology program at Florida International University, working as a teaching assistant to Pamela Elfenbein, who taught the gerontology courses at the Center on Aging. It was an enriching and memorable experience—we even collaborated on creating a multidisciplinary guide for older adults. I still have the manual, a meaningful reminder of that chapter in my life.
The director of the Center back then was Max Rothman, a brilliant, deeply respected leader in the field of aging. His wisdom, vision, and warmth left a profound impression on me, and I’ve always admired the way he advocates for older adults with both expertise and heart.
Our paths reconnected in 2008 when I began collaborating with Max through the Alliance for Aging, where he now serves as CEO. Since then, I’ve had the honor of working with the Alliance on several community initiatives. Their support has made possible:
Live Long and Learn: Bilingual (English and Spanish) programs born during the pandemic to accompany older adults through connection, education, and resilience while in isolation.
Transforming Grief and Loss: Eight-week programs based on my methodology “The 11 Principles of Transformation®” held at The Center for Transforming Lives, offering compassionate support and tools to navigate grief and transitions.
Most recently, I had the privilege of attending the Alliance or Aging’s 2025 conference, The New Face of Aging and the Art of Happiness. It was an inspiring event that highlighted the evolving needs, voices, and strengths of our older population. Being there reminded me just how visionary and essential the Alliance’s work is—and how Max continues to lead with extraordinary integrity and purpose.
To Max, thank you for your leadership and for always making space for meaningful collaborations. And to the entire Alliance team—thank you for your dedication to empowering lives with dignity, care, and compassion.
With gratitude,
Ligia M. Houben
Thanatologist | Author | Life Transitions Coach
Founder, The Center for Transforming Lives
