Apply Now to Take Part in the 2026 Scholars in Aging Program

COLUMBUS, Ohio - The Ohio Department of Aging (AGE), in conjunction with the Ohio Association of Gerontology and Education (OAGE), is now accepting applications for this year's cohort of the Scholars in Aging Program.

The Scholars in Aging Program has been offered by AGE and OAGE for more than 10 years and accepts undergraduate and graduate students who are enrolled in an accredited Ohio institution of higher education.

Selected students will complete an internship or community project, attend events run by AGE and OAGE, and create a presentation for state leaders on aging. Participants will also learn about aging-related policymaking, make professional contacts, and gain career knowledge and skills in the field of aging.

"The Scholars in Aging program continues to be a proud partnership between the Ohio Department of Aging and OAGE, helping us identify the best and brightest students who will make a difference in the future of aging in Ohio," said AGE Director Ursel J. McElroy. "The ideas that will shape Ohio down the line will be developed by the kind of students who take an interest in aging today, and we are eager to see the work they do as part of this program in 2026."

Scholars in Aging is free and open to emerging professionals in a wide variety of careers and areas of study. Reflecting the many ways that rising professionals can contribute to making Ohio the best place to age in the nation, previously selected students have been interested in nutrition, allied health sciences, city and regional planning, gerontology, social work, or other relevant focus areas.

Participating students who complete all program requirements will each earn a stipend, and there is no direct cost to students for participating.

Applications are due by Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2025, at 11:59 p.m.

"We look forward to hosting our next cohort of Scholars in Aging," said OAGE President Daniel J. Van Dussen. "We encourage students to apply for our program. We welcome applications from students doing internships, clinical experiences, and research in aging during the spring 2026 semester to apply."

Each participant must invest a time commitment of at least 45 hours to their required project. In addition, participants must attend two full days of in-person learning sessions, one partial day of virtual learning sessions, attend an all-day experience at their local Area Agency on Aging (AAA), and participate in a poster presentation session at the OAGE Conference in April 2026 at The Ohio State University in Columbus.

For more information, including the scheduled dates for the 2026 sessions, visit https://www.aging.ohio.gov/scholarsinaging.

About AGE - The Ohio Department of Aging serves and advocates for the needs of Ohioans age 60 and older, as well as their families, caregivers and communities. Programs include home and community-based long-term supports and services, as well as initiatives to promote health and wellness throughout the lifespan. Visit https://www.aging.ohio.gov.