The Brain After COVID: What We're Learning About Memory, Attention, and Communication
✨ What if recovering from COVID didn't always mean returning to normal?
Join Grace Woll, graduate researcher in Speech-Language Pathology at Sacramento State, for a fascinating look at how Long COVID and Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) can affect the brain—and why researchers are only beginning to understand their lasting effects.
Many people associate Long COVID with fatigue or shortness of breath, but some also experience changes in memory, attention, problem-solving, and communication—often described as "brain fog." Through findings from her pilot study, Grace explores how these cognitive changes may appear in adolescents, revealing both unexpected strengths and areas where additional support may be needed.
Together, we'll examine what these findings tell us about the developing brain, why cognitive symptoms can persist long after the initial illness, and how researchers, educators, and healthcare professionals are working to better understand and support young people living with Long COVID and POTS.
Grace Woll is an Honors graduate student in the Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program at Sacramento State, where her research focuses on pediatric cognitive-communication disorders and neurogenic communication. Working alongside fellow graduate researcher Courtney Truelock under the mentorship of Dr. Elisabeth D'Angelo, Grace has presented her Long COVID research at the California Speech-Language-Hearing Association (CASHA) Annual Convention. She also founded Sacramento State's first research literacy organization for speech-language pathology students, helping future clinicians develop the skills to evaluate and apply evidence-based research.
Expect emerging science, real-world implications, and a deeper understanding of how Long COVID may affect far more than physical health. 🧠✨
🕰 Event Details
What should I expect?
7:00-7:35 --> arrival & chats
7:35-8:20 --> lecture
8:20-9:00 --> q&a and more chatting
Who's invited?
Anyone with an interest in learning new things, meeting new people, and doing fun things on weeknights! Lots of people come solo to our events, so don't be afraid to do the same—you’ll meet some awesome people!
What about parking?
There's no designated on-site parking so we recommend street parking or using public transportation.
Do I have to be 21+?
Yes! This lecture is hosted at a bar that requires all occupants to be 21+.
Will this event be photographed or recorded?
Photos and short video clips may be taken for promotional purposes. By attending, you consent to being photographed or recorded. We do not do full recordings of lectures at this time.
🧾 Policies
The lecture is sold out! Can I join a waitlist?
Unfortunately, Luma does NOT support waitlists for paid events yet. We recommend checking back on the event site the day before / the day of the event!
What about refunds?
You can refund your ticket up to 24 hours before the event starts. Since this is a limited-space event, we encourage you to update your RSVP if you can’t make it—this helps us keep spots open for others. NOTE - you do NOT need to email us for a refund, we will issue one within 48 hours upon changing your RSVP to "Not Going" :)
What about accessibility?
We want our lectures to be as accessible as possible. Accessibility can vary depending on the space, so please research our specific venue to learn more about things like wheelchair access and service animal policies. If you have any accessibility needs not covered here, please email us at sac@bigbrainlectures.com and we’ll do our best to support you.
What about the ticket structure?
Every ticket sold goes directly back into the business. However, we want to make our events accessible to everyone. If cost is a barrier, please reach out for financial assistance by emailing sac@bigbrainlectures.com.
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🧠 Community Guidelines
Big Brain events are designed to be welcoming, curious, and respectful spaces for learning and connection.
By attending, you agree to treat speakers, staff, venue employees, and fellow attendees with respect and to follow all venue rules and staff instructions.
Harassment, disruptive behavior, or excessive intoxication will not be tolerated. For the safety and comfort of everyone, Big Brain and the venue reserve the right to refuse entry or remove any attendee at any time, without refund, if behavior is deemed unsafe, disruptive, or disrespectful.
🍸 Alcohol & Safety
Depending on the venue, alcohol may be sold and served exclusively by the venue in accordance with California law. Big Brain is not responsible or liable for alcohol service, overconsumption, or any actions resulting from intoxication. By attending, you voluntarily assume all risks associated with a public indoor event and agree that you are solely responsible for your own conduct, safety, and transportation before, during, and after the event.
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Thanks for supporting our growing mission! 🧠✨
*For any other questions or special accommodations, please email sac@bigbrainlectures.com.