Society-Wide Awards - M. Powell Lawton Award

M. Powell Lawton Award

The M. Powell Lawton Award, sponsored by the Polisher research Institute of Abramson Senior Care , recognizes outstanding contributions from applied gerontological research that have benefited older people and their care. The award was established to honor the memory of the late M. Powell Lawton, PhD, director emeritus of the Polisher Research Institute and a leading figure in aging research.

The award is presented at the GSA's Annual Scientific Meeting to an individual who exemplifies Dr. Lawton's personal and professional qualities, and whose contributions in gerontology have led to innovations in gerontological treatment, practice or service, prevention, or amelioration of symptoms or barriers. Individuals who have influenced public policy changes or demonstrated leadership in defining and implementing a creative program that led to improvement in the lives of older persons are also eligible.

The awardee receives a $3,000 cash prize and certificate, and presents a lecture at the GSA's Annual Scientific Meeting the following year.

Nominations of candidates in the early or mid stages of their careers are encouraged. Nominations should be responsive to the following guidelines:

• Description and documentation of the nominee's contribution, including originality and creativity.
• Demonstration of the innovation's positive impact over a sustained period.
• Evidence of replication by others or dissemination.
• The significance of the contribution in improving the lives of older persons.
• An explanation of how the candidate exemplifies the qualities of the late M. Powell Lawton, including evidence of leadership, commitment to mentorship, humility, and respect.

Submission Period
Summer 2024

Eligibility Criteria

• The nominator must be a member of GSA, however nominees can be nonmembers.

Nomination Process

Required Nomination Packet Materials: 

• A single nomination letter signed by at least three (3) supporters.
• A current Curriculum Vitae.

Nature of Award

The recipient receives $3000, an engraved plaque, and delivers a lecture at the GSA Annual Meeting. 

Past Recipient Lecture
"Aging Well and the Environment: Toward an Integrative Model and Research Agenda for the Future," by Hans-Werner Wahl, Susanne Iwarsson, and Frank Oswald, is a revision of the M. Powell Lawton Award Lecture delivered at the Annual Meeting of The Gerontological Society of America held in in New Orleans, Louisiana, in November 2010.

Past Awardees: View here