YSU student selected for 2025 Scholars in Aging Program

Youngstown State University Bachelor of Science in Dietetics student Jenna Wagner was named as one of 10 students to be selected for the 2025 Scholars in Aging program by the Ohio Department of Aging.

ODA Director Ursel J. McElroy congratulated the students who were chosen for the program. “We are delighted to welcome another group of passionate Ohioans to the 2025 Scholars in Aging,” McElroy said. “This program provides an excellent opportunity for our scholars to see what a future in the aging field might look like while giving them firsthand experience in helping others. By welcoming dedicated, energetic problem-solvers like these 10 students, the Ohio Department of Aging continues to build toward a bright future and make Ohio the best place to age in the nation.”

The Scholars in Aging program provides students of all academic backgrounds the opportunity to learn about aging-related policymaking, establish professional contacts and gain career knowledge and skills in the field of aging. Since 2013, more than 150 scholars, representing about 20 Ohio colleges and universities, have participated in the program.

Scholars in Aging is a partnership between ODA and the Ohio Association of Gerontology Education – an organization of educators, researchers, practitioners and students that promotes gerontological education and supports Ohio's aging network as a resource for research and practice.

This year’s first event for Scholars in Aging will take place on Jan. 22 in Columbus, where students will hear from ODA leaders and partners from the Golden Buckeye Center for Dementia Caregiving.

Scholars will continue to participate in program activities throughout the spring, including a visit to the Ohio Statehouse and an opportunity to meet members of the Ohio General Assembly. They will also visit their regional area agency on aging for a full-day, in-person introductory experience.

Each of this year’s scholars will also complete an aging-related project through the program, which they will present at the OAGE Conference in Bowling Green in March.

Participants who complete all requirements of the four-month program will receive a $2,500 stipend.

For more information about the program, eligibility, requirements and more, visit ODA’s Scholars in Aging webpage.