With more than three decades of leadership, scholarship, and advocacy, Dr. Rose’s impact has shaped both the field of aging and the communities it serves—across Ohio and throughout the nation.

A nationally recognized leader in aging and caregiving, Dr. Rose has dedicated her career to developing innovative, evidence-based solutions that address the complex needs of individuals living with dementia and those who care for them. Her work reflects a deep commitment to enhancing quality of life, reducing caregiver burden, and creating systems of care that are both compassionate and effective.

Dr. Rose’s academic and research contributions are extensive. She has authored more than 85 peer-reviewed publications and delivered numerous invited presentations at national and international conferences. Her research, consistently supported by major funding organizations such as the National Institute on Aging, the National Science Foundation, and the Ohio Department of Aging, has driven advancements in dementia care interventions, caregiver support strategies, and the integration of technology into caregiving.

Among her many accomplishments, Dr. Rose co-led the groundbreaking ONE ACCORD initiative—a $2.5 million statewide effort that established the Golden Buckeye Center for Dementia Caregiving. Through this work, she has helped create a central hub for education, resources, and support for caregivers across Ohio. She also served as an investigator on a $1.2 million National Science Foundation grant focused on developing smart health technologies to strengthen relationships between individuals living with dementia and their caregivers.

As Dean of The Ohio State University College of Nursing and Co-Director of the Golden Buckeye Center for Dementia Caregiving, Dr. Rose has translated research into meaningful, statewide impact. Under her leadership, the Center now reaches all 88 counties in Ohio, providing caregiver education, professional training, and accessible resources that support thousands of families each year. These efforts include a comprehensive online resource hub for caregivers, dementia simulation and training programs, and continuing education opportunities that equip clinicians to deliver better post-diagnosis care.

Dr. Rose’s influence extends far beyond her research and administrative leadership. She has played a critical role in shaping the next generation of gerontological nursing professionals through her mentorship, teaching, and national service. Her contributions to policy, research review, and scholarly publishing further underscore her role as a trusted voice and leader in the field.

Her excellence has been recognized through numerous prestigious honors, including her designation as a Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing and the Gerontological Society of America. She is also recognized as a Distinguished Educator in Gerontological Nursing and a member of the National Academies of Practice—distinctions that reflect her lasting contributions to education, research, and clinical practice.

Dr. Karen Rose’s career is defined by visionary leadership, groundbreaking research, and a deep and enduring commitment to improving the lives of older adults and their caregivers. Her work has transformed dementia care in Ohio and set a national standard for excellence in aging research and education.

This Lifetime Achievement Award honors not only Dr. Rose’s remarkable accomplishments, but also the profound and lasting impact of her work on individuals, families, and communities.