ABOUT US
OUR MISSION
Epilepsy Alliance Louisiana is dedicated to supporting those impacted by epilepsy in local communities by confronting the spectrum of challenges created by seizures.
THE HISTORY
Epilepsy Alliance Louisiana was established in 1977 and continues to be an information and referral agency with a “hands on” approach. It is the only agency of its type in the state to exclusively provide outreach, education and advocacy to individuals with epilepsy.
OUR PURPOSE
Epilepsy Alliance Louisiana (EAL) is committed to delivering personalized programs and services to support the nearly 55,000 individuals affected by epilepsy across our state. Our approach includes client services, Seizure First Aid and Safety Training, and a range of educational and community-building events.
Client Services feature our clinic outreach program, client assistance program, and hospitality bags. We focus on providing essential support with information and referral services for people with epilepsy, addressing issues such as transportation, medication costs, disability, discrimination, affordable clinics, comprehensive care, mental health, and employment. Our goal is to assist patients with these challenges and help them achieve their best life with epilepsy. Given that 1 in 26 people will be diagnosed with epilepsy in their lifetime, our services are vital for the community we serve.
Seizure First Aid and Safety Training educates participants on identifying and responding to seizures and recognizing when a seizure constitutes an emergency. Effective response is crucial, as seizure emergencies can significantly increase the risk of brain damage, injury, and even death. Our training is available to the general public and specialized groups such as school personnel, police officers, and childcare centers, reducing the risks associated with seizure emergencies. With 1 in 10 people likely to experience a seizure at some point in their life, this training is vital to equipping communities with the knowledge needed to respond effectively.
Educational and Community-Building Events include activities like the Adult Epilepsy Expo in New Orleans, the Pediatric Epilepsy Expo in Baton Rouge, the Purple Picnic in Shreveport, various online and in-person support groups, and our Seize the Day awareness and fundraising events. These initiatives foster community engagement and provide valuable resources for individuals and families affected by epilepsy.
Through these comprehensive services, EAL aims to empower those impacted by epilepsy and build a supportive, informed community.
MEET THE TEAM
Amanda Mitchell, MPH
Executive Director
Amanda Mitchell has been a dedicated member of Epilepsy Alliance Louisiana since 2018, initially serving as both a Case Manager and Program Manager before being promoted to Executive Director in 2020. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology and a Master of Public Health, combining academic expertise with hands-on experience to lead the organization with vision and compassion.
As a parent of a child with epilepsy, Amanda brings a deeply personal perspective to her work. Her lived experience allows her to connect with families on a meaningful level, understanding their challenges and advocating for the support they need. Under her leadership, EAL has expanded its programs and outreach efforts, creating impactful initiatives that address not only medical needs but also the emotional and social challenges faced by individuals living with epilepsy.
Amanda also actively contributes to national and regional efforts to advance epilepsy care, education, and awareness. She currently serves on several boards and committees, where she helps shape policy, improve access to care, and promote best practices.
Stephanie Charles, BSN
Assistant Executive Director
Stephanie Charles joined Epilepsy Alliance Louisiana in the spring of 2022 as Client Services Manager and was promoted to Assistant Executive Director in 2025. She brings over 20 years of nursing experience, along with degrees in Nursing, Microbiology, and Parasitology. She plays a key role in developing and delivering programs that address the healthcare, emotional, and social challenges faced by individuals living with epilepsy and their families. Her clinical insight is especially valuable when working with families who are navigating new diagnoses or complex treatment plans.
Diagnosed with epilepsy in adulthood, Stephanie combines her professional expertise with personal experience, offering both compassionate support and practical guidance to the community. In her leadership role, she helps drive program development, community engagement, and advocacy efforts that improve the lives of those impacted by epilepsy.
Sarah Bowman
Client Services North Louisiana
Sarah Bowman has served as a Client Services Manager at Epilepsy Alliance Louisiana since 2021, bringing with her over 15 years of experience in the nonprofit sector and a strong commitment to improving the lives of individuals and families affected by epilepsy. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree and has built her career around community engagement, program development, and direct service delivery.
At EAL, Sarah oversees educational initiatives and client services throughout North Louisiana, working diligently to expand the organization’s reach and support in this region. She has been instrumental in building relationships with local healthcare providers, schools, and community organizations to ensure that families in North Louisiana have access to vital information, resources, and a supportive network.
Diane Hughes
Community Relations Coordinator
Diane Hughes joined Epilepsy Alliance Louisiana as the Community Relations Coordinator in 2023, bringing passion and dedication to improving the lives of those affected by epilepsy across the state. In her role, Diane is responsible for delivering Seizure First Aid and Safety training to schools, businesses, first responders, and community groups, providing individuals with the knowledge and confidence to respond effectively during a seizure emergency.
Beyond training, Diane serves as a community advocate. She plays a key role in expanding the organization’s reach through outreach events, educational initiatives, and public engagement efforts.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS OFFICERS 2025-2027
Aaron Chaisson, Chair*
Yash Shah, MD Vice-Chair
Michael Gonczi, CPA, Treasurer*
Jenee Leger, Secretary*
Lydie Neumann, Past Chairman*
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Carrie Arrington*
Allison Conravey, MD
Chris Funes, MD
Charlotte Hollman, MD*
Willie Louviere, PhD*
Danielle Mensman*
Shannon McGuire, MD
Rober Mora*
Tony Odak
Eugene Ramsey, MD
* Denotes a direct connection to epilepsy.
PHYSICIAN ADVISORY BOARD
DR. ALLISON CONRAVEY
The Epilepsy Alliance Louisiana Board of Directors appointed Allison Conravey, MD as chairman of their physician advisory board. Dr. Conravey is a pediatric neurologist affiliated with Ochsner Health System in New Orleans.
THEIR MISSION
The mission of the Physician Advisory Board is to educate and advocate for Louisianans affected by epilepsy and advise the Epilepsy Alliance Louisiana regarding issues of relevance to this population.
PHYSICIAN ADVISORY BOARD MEMBERS
Michael Charlet, MD
Allison Conravey, MD
Robin Davis, MD
Tiffany Eady, MD
Charlotte Hollman, MD
Amy Jones, MD
Fawad Khan, MD
Eugene Ramsay, MD
Stephen Nelson, MD
Piotr Olejniczak, MD
Yash Shah, MD
Ann Tilton, MD
Jeremy Toler, MD
Colin Vanhook, MD
