INTRODUCTION: The Alzheimer's Disease Prevention Registry (ADPR) of the Joseph and Kathleen Bryan Alzheimer's Disease Research Center at Duke University has been successful in achieving a racially diverse and "research ready" cohort of cognitively healthy volunteers. METHODS: The ADPR is based on an infrastructure that includes: (1) an administrative leadership team; (2) a coordinating center; (3) an IT management team; (4) a community engagement team; and (5) collaborations with study partners across disciplines. RESULTS: The ADPR currently has more than 4677 members, 26% of whom are African American. The ADPR has supported 21 studies including 8 biomarker studies, 7 clinical trials, 4 cognitive neuroscience studies, and 2 studies assessing novel computerized measures. DISCUSSION: We describe our experiences establishing and maintaining a diverse ADPR as well as insights on recruitment strategies to increase the representation of African Americans in Alzheimer's disease studies.