09/18/2023

2023-2024 Ohio Scholars in Aging Program Application Period Now Open

Applications Due by Friday, Nov. 3

The Ohio Department of Aging (ODA), in conjunction with the Ohio Association of Gerontology and Education (OAGE), is now accepting applications for the 2023-24 Ohio Scholars in Aging program.

Since 2013, ODA and OAGE have teamed up to offer the Ohio Scholars in Aging program for undergraduate and graduate students who are enrolled in an accredited educational institution in Ohio. Participants benefit from the opportunity to learn about aging-related policymaking, establish professional contacts, and gain career knowledge and skills in the field of aging by completing an internship or a community project, attending ODA and OAGE events, making a presentation for state leaders on aging, and more.

Participating students who complete all program requirements will each earn a stipend of $2,000.

“As our population of older adults continues to grow faster than any other age group in Ohio, so too does our need to get our brightest young problem-solvers engaged in aging issues,” said ODA Director Ursel J. McElroy. “Through the Ohio Scholars in Aging program, we are providing a pathway for tomorrow’s policymakers and leaders to find their passion in this meaningful work, and to use their own innovative and bold ideas to benefit older Ohioans everywhere.”

The program is free and open to emerging professionals in a variety of careers. These can include students of nutrition and allied health sciences, city and regional planning, gerontology, social work, or other relevant focus areas. 

Ten students will be selected from the pool of applicants to participate in the program. Applications are due by Friday, Nov. 3, 2023.

“We are in the second decade of the Scholars Program, and I'm impressed by the important work that former scholars are doing in — and beyond — the aging network in Ohio,” said Jennifer M. Kinney, PhD., OAGE president and professor of sociology and gerontology at Miami University. “One of our goals for this year is to connect current and former scholars so that our newest scholars can be mentored by, and ultimately contribute to, the Scholars alumni network.” 

A survey of the students who participated in the Scholars in Aging program last year showed that 40% have already been hired to work in the aging network, while 80% said their involvement in the program influenced their career decision in some way. Additionally, 90% reported they were “highly satisfied” with their experience.

Each participant must work on their internship or project for a total of at least 45 hours. In addition, participants must attend three ODA meetings, attend an all-day experience at their local Area Agency on Aging (AAA), and prepare a presentation for a Project Poster Session at the annual OAGE Conference.

For more information, visit www.aging.ohio.gov/scholarsinaging.