Two Miami University students, Annika Goldman (doctoral candidate in Clinical Psychology) and Megan Kelley (Master of Gerontological Studies), recently completed the 2022 Ohio Scholars in Aging Program.

The program is a collaboration between The Ohio Department of Aging (ODA) and the Ohio Association of Gerontology and Education (OAGE). The overall goal of the program is to cultivate future decision-makers and designers of aging services in Ohio. Between 2013 and 2022, 128 students completed the semester-long program. The scholars represent 19 academic institutions and were hosted by 94 different sites.

The competitive program is for undergraduate and graduate students who are enrolled in an accredited educational institution in Ohio. This year's cohort consisted of 10 scholars from seven Ohio colleges and universities. Scholars conducted a semester-long internship or project with a community organization, attended meetings with ODA, participated in an experience at their local area agency on aging, and presented a poster at the annual OAGE conference. 

Kelley’s project used data from the Scripps Gerontology Center to examine COVID-19 infection prevention and control practices used in Ohio’s residential care facilities. Goldman collaborated with Oxford Seniors Inc. to provide two educational sessions on mental health and aging—one for community members and one for professionals. Both scholars received a $1,000 stipend for their efforts.  

“Miami is fortunate to have two of our graduate students acknowledged for their aging-related accomplishments and we look forward to their future contributions,” Director of Graduate Studies in the Department of Sociology and Gerontology Jennifer Kinney said.

To learn more, visit www.aging.ohio.gov/scholarsinaging.