The Ohio Scholars in Aging Program provides students of all academic backgrounds with the opportunity to learn about aging-related policy-making, establish professional contacts, and gain career knowledge and skills in the field of aging. Since 2013, 129 Scholars, representing about 20 Ohio colleges and universities, have participated in Ohio Scholars in Aging.

The application period for the Winter/Spring 2023 session closed Nov. 4. 2022. 

Eligibility

The Ohio Scholars in Aging Program is for undergraduate and graduate students who are enrolled in an accredited educational institution in Ohio. The program is 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.

Requirements

Students selected to participate in Ohio Scholars in Aging are required to complete and present an aging-related project. The project requires an investment of 45 hours and may be a scholastic internship, practicum, or a project done in conjunction with a community-based organization serving older adults and/or caregivers. The project must have an actual, or potential impact on the quality of life of older Ohioans or their caregivers.

In addition, applicants who are selected to participate in Ohio Scholars in Aging will be expected to attend four one-day sessions, a 1.5-hour webinar, and attend the Ohio Association of Gerontology Education (OAGE) Conference at the University of Toledo April 20-21, 2023. Scholars will do a project presentation at the conference. 

Participants are expected to participate in all sessions (see schedule below).

2023 Session Schedule

The Ohio Department of Aging is located at 30 E Broad St, 22nd Floor, Columbus, OH 43215-3414. 

There are 12 area agencies on aging in Ohio. Find the agency serving your community.

Cost and Benefits

There is no direct cost to participate in the Ohio Scholars in Aging program. Participants who complete all requirements of the program will receive a $2,000 stipend. In addition, scholars will receive paid admission to the OAGE Conference where they will be recognized and will deliver a project poster presentation. Scholars invited to participate in Ohio Scholars in Aging are expected to attend all program sessions, AAA experience day, poster session preparation webinar, and the OAGE Conference to achieve program completion. The sessions are only offered once so there are no make-up opportunities. Stipends will be provided upon completion at the OAGE Conference. 

During the course of the program, all travel, meals, parking, and other personal expenses are the responsibility of the participant.  

Sponsoring Partners

Ohio Scholars in Aging is a partnership between the Ohio Department on Aging and the Ohio Association of Gerontology and Education (OAGE). OAGE is an organization of educators, researchers, practitioners and students that promotes gerontological education. It supports Ohio's aging network as a resource for research and practice. It also provides professional development for students, faculty and professionals.