The #AGS25 Annual Scientific Meeting in Chicago, IL, was a vibrant celebration of innovation, collaboration, and community in geriatrics. From engaging pre-conference sessions to inspiring plenaries, cutting-edge research presentations, and special recognition of our AGS awardees, the meeting offered something for everyone. Attendees connected through sessions and networking events, sharing insights and building lasting relationships. For highlights from the event, search for our meeting hashtag #AGS25 across social media and follow the AGS on BlueSky, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X!
At the AGS Members’ Business Meeting, Liron Sinvani, MD, AGSF, the Annual Meeting Program Chair, warmly welcomed attendees and provided guidance on how to make the most of the meeting while AGS treasurer Alison Moore, MD, MPH, AGSF provided an update on the AGS finances. Although the outgoing AGS Board Chair Donna Fick, PhD, RN, GCNS-BC, AGSF, FGSA, FAAN could not be with us in person, she expressed her gratitude to the AGS community for their support during her tenure on the Board via a pre-taped recording. She reminded everyone of AGS’s vision for the future: One where ageism, ableism, classism, homophobia, racism, sexism, xenophobia, and other forms of bias and discrimination no longer impact healthcare access, quality, and outcomes for older adults and their caregivers and gave us our mantra for the meeting: Be Respectful. Be Supportive. Be Kind.
Outgoing AGS President Mark Supiano, MD, AGSF acknowledged the significant contributions of individuals to the Society and recognized outgoing board and committee members as well as the recipients of our Outstanding Committee Service Awards. He then passed the baton and introduced Dr. Paul Mulhausen, MD, MHS, FACP, AGSF as the incoming AGS President. Dr. Mulhausen recognized this year’s cohort of new AGS Fellows, remembered colleagues who have recently passed away, and echoed Dr. Sinvani’s sentiments in welcoming everyone to #AGS25.
The enthusiasm and commitment of our members to improving care for all of us as we age resonated throughout the 2025 Annual Scientific Meeting. Students, residents, and fellows-in-training had the opportunity to share their research not only with peers, but also with mentors, colleagues, and geriatrics experts from around the world. Approximately 84 trainees received travel stipends made possible through generous donations to the AGS Health in Aging Foundation (HealthinAging.org/donate). For many, this was their first time attending the meeting—and their excitement was contagious. From the Fellows-in-Training Breakfast to the Residents Breakfast & Fellowship Fair, the Student Section meeting and the trainee poster session, these rising geriatrics professionals made lasting connections while engaging in a wide range of learning opportunities.
Dr. Mulhausen brought his signature energy as the new AGS President to the #AGS25 Awards Ceremony, warmly welcoming honorees to the stage as we celebrated excellence across the AGS community—recognizing outstanding contributions from award recipients representing diverse disciplines and career stages.
Dr. Nancy Schoenborn, MD, MHS, recipient of this year’s Thomas and Catherine Yoshikawa Award, delivered a compelling lecture entitled “‘Less is More’ or ‘Better Safe than Sorry’: How to Individualize Preventive Care in Medically Complex Older Adults.” A national leader in this field, Dr. Schoenborn explored the challenges to the framework of individualized care at patient, clinician, and health system levels, as well as opportunities of tailoring preventive care to each patient’s health status and personal goals, highlighting strategies for decision-making and communication.
Dr. Mulhausen opened the highly anticipated #AGS25 Plenary Paper Session by welcoming Saurav Saha, PhD to the stage for a presentation on the impact of aging on physical resilience and mitochondrial function in young and aged male C57BL/6J mice. He was followed by Nathan M. Stall, MD, PhD who presented his research examining the impact of caregiver distress on care outcomes. Thiago J. Avelino-Silva, MD, PhD wrapped things up with a presentation that explored the prevalence and impact of geriatric syndromes in hospitalized older adults. The Plenary Paper Session gave attendees a glimpse of the diverse and impressive range of papers and posters awaiting exploration at the meeting. All of the abstracts can be accessed at https://meeting.americangeriatrics.org/program/jags-abstract-supplement.
Another standout moment from the meeting was the Henderson State of the Art Lecture, which featured geriatrics icon, Jeff Williamson, MD, MHS. An internationally recognized geriatrician and clinical trialist, Dr. Williamson focused his lecture on collaborating with other specialties to include clinical trial outcomes important to older adults.
During the Public Policy Plenary session, Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky received the David H. Solomon Memorial Public Service Award in recognition of her steadfast commitment to improving healthcare for older Americans. In her remarks, she vowed to keep fighting for change. To support this call, AGS provided members with message framing and resources to help them effectively engage with their representatives on the issues that matter most.
Ken Covinsky, MD, MPH; Alex Smith, MD, MS, MPH; and Eric Widera, MD brought the crowd together one last time for their beloved Geriatrics Literature Update sing-along, delivering insights on top 2024 studies and how they impact geriatric care. Joined by Miguel Paniagua, MD—performing as his musical alter ego MigElvis—the group delivered one of their best performances. Their grand finale featured clever riffs on Bob Dylan’s “Blowin’ in the Wind” (on hearing equity) and “Like a Rolling Stone” (on semaglutide), along with hits like Johnny Cash’s “Folsom Prison Blues,” Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’,” and Simon & Garfunkel’s “Cecilia,” covering topics from placebos to blood biomarkers to thickened liquids. Attendees joined in by singing, waving glowsticks, and even taking the thickened liquid challenge. It was a joyful, fitting send-off for a spectacular trio who’ve made this session a must-see for the past 10 years.
The 2025 AGS Annual Scientific Meeting in Chicago left us energized, inspired, and deeply connected to one another and our shared mission. From powerful research presentations and thoughtful policy discussions to unforgettable moments of community and celebration, #AGS25 reminded us why we do this work—and why we do it together. As we look ahead, we carry with us the knowledge gained, the relationships strengthened, and the renewed commitment to advancing high-quality care for all older adults. We can’t wait to see what we can accomplish together next—and we look forward to virtually reuniting at #AGS26!
If you missed the meeting, it’s not too late to register for access to the on-demand educational sessions through the #AGS25 Annual Meeting Platform, where you still will be able to earn CME and Nursing CE credit until August 31, 2025. Anyone who attended the in-person event can also access the educational content until August 31.
At the #AGS25 Member Business Meeting, incoming Board Chair Mark Supiano, MD, AGSF honored the following outgoing Board and Committee members for their exceptional service.
Our thanks to Donna Fick PhD, RN, GCNS-BC, AGSF, FGSA, FAAN; April Ehrlich, MD; and Neil Resnick, MD, AGSF for their service as AGS Board Members.
Donna Fick stepped into the role of President of the American Geriatrics Society (AGS) dedicated to showcasing the strengths of our diverse interdisciplinary membership as a nurse leader of the Society. Donna has played a key role in updating the AGS Beers Criteria®, serving as co-chair for the 2012, 2015, and 2019 updates and as a panelist for the 2023 update. She served on the expert panel for the AGS Post-operative Delirium Guideline and is a frequent JAGS contributor. An AGS member since 1999 and a member of the Board since 2015, we thank Donna for her dedication, service, and her commitment to working with AGS leaders and members to improve the health, independence, and quality of life of all older people.
We’re grateful to April Ehrlich for her thoughtful contributions as the early career professional Board member. She has been a passionate advocate for her colleagues, helping the Board to understand their needs. We look forward to seeing her continued impact as she furthers her career.
Our heartfelt thanks to Neil Resnick for his invaluable service on the AGS Board as a COSAR co-chair. Neil’s leadership and groundbreaking work have shaped clinical practice and policy both nationally and globally. We’re grateful for his lasting impact on the field and advocacy and support for our state affiliates.
As he steps down from the Board of the Health in Aging Foundation, we extend our deepest thanks to Jerry C. Johnson, MD, AGSF for his dedicated service and leadership. As a board member and past President of the American Geriatrics Society, Jerry was instrumental in the formation of the AGS Ethnogeriatrics Committee and championed development of Doorway Thoughts, which has transitioned into the Cultural Navigator. We are profoundly grateful for his vision and commitment, which will continue to guide our work long after his tenure on the Board ends.
Last but not least, we extend our gratitude to Eric Widera, MD who is completing his service on the ADGAP Board of Directors, including service as ADGAP President. Eric has been a powerful voice for change in how we recruit fellows and a key leader in growing our Fellowship Director community.
Our outgoing committee members also have graciously given much of their time and talent to the AGS. Our sincere thanks to:
Our Outstanding Committee Service Awardees are members who have made extraordinary contributions through our committees. Congratulations to:
April marked my 27th anniversary working for the American Geriatrics Society. I first came to the Society as a consultant for what would come to be known as the Geriatrics-for-Specialists Initiative (GSI). Funded by the John A. Hartford Foundation (JAHF) from 1994-2020 and the Atlantic Philanthropies from 1994-2011, this initiative and a parallel initiative funded by the same foundations led by the Alliance for Academic Internal Medicine (AAIM) planted the seeds that are producing transformational change in how we care for older adults across surgical and medical specialties. You can learn more about how early AGS leaders approached this work in our special collection in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society.
At our 2025 AGS Annual Meeting, I had an opportunity to celebrate some of this work with the members of our AGS Surgical and Medical Specialty Section through our recognition of Susan Zieman with the first ever AGS Geriatrics-for-Specialists Champions Award. Sue, a geriatric cardiologist, was a T. Franklin Williams Scholar and a program officer at the National Institute on Aging (NIA). She shepherded the GEMSSTAR (Grants for Early Medical/Surgical Specialists’ Transition to Aging Research) program almost from its inception at NIA. The GEMSSTAR program was modeled on the Dennis W. Jahnigen and T. Franklin Williams Program that were funded through the above initiatives and it is always a joy to see people from different specialties coming together to focus on how best to improve care for older adults. We also celebrated Marie Bernard with the Nascher Manning Award at the 2025 Annual Meeting. As Deputy Director of the NIA, she facilitated conversations between AGS, NIA, and AAIM on the transition of the Jahnigen and Williams pr grams to a federally funded mechanism. One of the things that brings me joy these days is seeing the collaborations that have arisen between geriatrics health professionals, surgeons, and medical specialists as they work together across research, clinical practice, and education to advance the idea that all health professionals – regardless of specialty – should have the knowledge and skills to deliver age friendly care. To learn more about the GEMSSTAR program, click here (to see the full range of articles celebrating NIA’s 50th anniversary, see our special collection).
Speaking of anniversaries, the Tideswell Emerging Leaders in Aging Program celebrated its 10th anniversary this year, marking the occasion by raising sufficient funds to enroll the 2025 cohort of Tideswell Leadership Scholars (support the 2026 cohort here). One of the things that I love about the Tideswell approach is its focus on the communication and relational skills that people need to accomplish meaningful and lasting change. It has been a joy to watch scholars grow during the program and hear about their accomplishments (both big and small) as they take their learnings and use them in real time. Leaders of the AGS Tideswell Special Interest Group (Farrell, Karris, Sinvani, and Young) have written about the value of the Tideswell community for JAGS here and also led, with Christine Ritchie and Louise Walter, a session at AGS focused on the importance of resilience, persistence, and having a community during difficult times.
One of my favorite days at AGS is our pre-conference day. This year, I split my time between the Geriatrics Workforce Enhancement Program (GWEP) Coordinating Center and the AGS/ADGAP Fellowship Directors pre-conferences. At the GWEP-CC preconference, we tested out a transition to messaging about the Title VII geriatrics programs that emphasizes the chronic disease expertise of geriatrics/gerontological health professionals and how that expertise is critical to the work of the GWEPs and the Geriatrics Academic Career Awardees (GACAs). These two programs address gaps in existing training on caring for older adults, particularly those with multiple chronic conditions and frailty. The transition in framing their work to a focus on chronic disease aligns our messaging with how policymakers are talking about their focus on preventing/delaying chronic disease as a core element of making America healthy. Learn more about our new messaging and how to make daily phone calls here.
At the AGS/ADGAP Fellowship Director’s session, Eric Widera and I were honored to announce a new national award for our fellowship coordinators and the standing ovation for coordinators was a high point for me. For our presentation, Eric presented published data from the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education reporting the number of geriatrics fellows over the past 20 years (Figure 1). He noted that for the past ten years, the number of fellows entering the field has been relatively stable. Not presented but telling a similar story is data from the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) about the number of certified geriatricians (Figure 2). ABMS recently released CertificationMatters.org, a website featuring a tool that allows one to search ABMS data on board-certified physicians. Eric and I were particularly
excited to report on how AGS/ADGAP investments into building relationships with ACGME and the American Boards of Internal and Family Medicine – paired with innovative and strategic thinking by AGS leaders and staff – are adding new pathways to becoming a geriatrician. Having recruited and trained eighty-six fellows during the pilot, the GeriPal fellowship track (led by Helen Fernandez at Mount Sinai) is slated to become its own pathway in 2026. And the MedGeri fellowship path (modeled on a long-standing pathway at the Medical College of Wisconsin pioneered by Angela Beckert and Ed Duthie) is growing both in number of programs and number of fellows in the pipeline (Figure 3). It was incredibly inspiring to hear from three Medical College of Wisconsin and Mount Sinai Fellows during this pre-conference -
Rachel Maudal, MD, Nicholas Safian, MD, and Shaleen Thakur, MD. They are our future and our future is bright.
Q. What inspired you to pursue a career in geriatrics?
A. Several experiences came together to inspire my decision to pursue a career in geriatrics.
I spent a couple of years working as a seasonal park naturalist with the National Park Service in my teens and early twenties at Assateague Island and along the Delmarva coast. That experience in nature sparked my curiosity about biology at a time when I was questioning my future. Eventually, that curiosity led me to study science, which eventually led me to medical school. One of my early mentors in medical school encouraged me to “look into geriatrics,” and that advice stayed with me as I continued my medical education. But it wasn’t until my internal medicine residency at Duke, that it all clicked for me. There I had a powerful experience with an older nursing home resident who came in with a serious kidney infection. We treated her and discharged her back to the facility, but I was left wondering what her life was like there and what kind of care she would receive after she left the hospital. That gap in understanding made me want to know more and do more—not just about the medical issues older adults face, but about the whole person and the systems they navigate. That’s when I really knew geriatrics was the right fit.
Q. What do you look forward to most about being AGS president this year?
A. I'm really looking forward to connecting with AGS members in my role as AGS president, and continuing to work with colleagues who share a passion for caring for older adults. The joy of sharing that experience with fellow geriatricians and professionals who are focused on the care of older adults is what I’m looking forward to the most. AGS has always been a venue for me to contribute and a place for me to grow professionally and connect with colleagues full of terrific ideas – and I hope to continue that as AGS president this year. I find that exchange of opportunities and ideas so joyful, and I’m deeply looking forward to it.
There’s so much change happening around us, and as someone who’s passionate about advocating for older adults, I see this as an important time to help shape how we, as a Society, respond. I don’t yet have all the answers, but I welcome the opportunity to be part of those conversations and contribute to our collective thinking and action.
Q. What advice would you give to new AGS Members?
A. Enjoy your colleagues at AGS. Always embrace the opportunity to listen, to learn, to share. Get involved. Find your way in, even if it means stepping a little outside your comfort zone. When I first wanted to do more than just attend meetings, I didn’t really know how to start. I was living in Iowa at the time and went to an AGS meeting in Washington, DC. As I was walking from the Omni to the Hilton, I spotted David Reuben, geriatrics icon and AGS President at the time, crossing the bridge ahead of me. I literally ran up to him and said, “I’m Paul, I’m from Iowa, and I want to get involved.” I have no idea if that conversation led to anything directly, but I knew I had to start somewhere, and that I needed to connect with people to do that.
To get on my first formal assignment with AGS, I wrote to Richard Besdine asking to join a committee, and he helped guide me through the process. He assigned me to the AGS Public Policy Advisory Group, which is now the Public Policy Committee. That experience was so rewarding and helped me grow professionally. From there I was hooked, and continued to look for ways to engage with AGS activities and other committees, where I was able to continue to work with lots of great people and roll up my sleeves to work on other AGS initiatives.
So, my advice? Meet people. Ask questions. Have fun at the meetings, and don’t be afraid to move out of your comfort zone - even when you're standing up in front of people you’ve admired your whole career. Read the journal. Follow your curiosity. And don’t be afraid to make the cold call— it just might lead to one of the most fulfilling parts of your professional life. It certainly did for me.
Q. What do you like to do outside of work?
A. I like being outdoors, though just being outside for the sake of it feels like a luxury—I’m pretty utilitarian by nature. I live on a small farm here in Iowa, where we board horses, and for fun...well, let's just say I fix fences.
I do the handyman work I know how to do—keeping the place running, making manageable repairs. It’s a completely different kind of work from what I do as a geriatrician, and I find that really fulfilling.
I also keep a vegetable garden. When friends visit, they often say it looks like a second job—and in a way it is—but it’s such an enjoyable distraction. When a fence breaks or a tree comes down in a storm and the horses get out, you’ve got to handle it, even if it’s before work. But for the most part, I can manage the rhythm of it, and I love having that kind of physical, hands-on responsibility.
We also have dogs—Pembroke Welsh Corgis, thanks to my wife, who was an accomplished breeder. We’ve even had dogs compete at Westminster, which was a fun adventure for us. These days we have three—Reggie, Lucy, and Megan—who are wonderful companions.
We also have a couple of miniature donkeys. They were originally bred to pull carts in mines, so they’re small, friendly, and great with kids. When young visitors come to the farm, they’re sometimes intimidated by the horses, but the donkeys are just the right size. It makes the place feel like a little petting zoo.
People often ask why we moved to Iowa, and part of it was professional. But my family and I also had a vision: not just a hobby farm, but something real we could build together. Iowa gave us the opportunity to do that—and we’ve built a life here that’s kept us grounded and connected to the things we love.
What an incredible experience it was to gather with so many of you in Chicago for the 2025 AGS Annual Scientific Meeting. It was truly an honor to welcome you to #AGS25—not only as your AGS President, but also as a fellow member of this passionate, dedicated, and inspired community. From attending plenary sessions to celebrating trainees presenting their first posters—and yes, even waving glowsticks at the dance party—I felt the energy and shared commitment that make our Society so special.
One of the many highlights for me this year was hosting the Awards Ceremony. Recognizing this year’s honorees— exemplifying the depth and breadth of excellence across our community—was both humbling and energizing. It was also a privilege to present the Nascher Manning Award to Dr. Marie Bernard who, throughout her distinguished career, has been a pillar of strength and visionary leader who has advanced the critical importance of preparing the entire healthcare workforce to care for all of us as we age. She championed aging research and the idea that study populations should reflect the diversity – including age – of the population for which treatments and interventions are being developed. I was equally moved to welcome our newest AGS Fellows, whose dedication to advancing geriatrics is shaping the future of our field. I am proud to be part of this community, and encourage more of you to apply for AGS Fellowship as well.
I would be remiss if I did not give a shout out to my AGS staff entourage as they supported me with remarks (and applauded my frequent departures from prepared remarks even if those caused us to be in danger of running over time); organized photo opportunities with our awardees and new fellows; and, in general, kept me on time for events and well fed. We could not ask for a more dedicated and passionate staff team and I am so grateful that we are able to tap into their collective expertise, knowledge, creativity, and good cheer. They truly are our AGS All Star team. Thank you, thank you, thank you!
It has been a banner year for AGS publications—another way we support the learning and leadership of our members across disciplines. The newest edition of the Geriatrics Review Syllabus – the 12th Edition (GRS12) – recently debuted with 74 chapters covering everything from the foundations of aging to the 5Ms and beyond. The GRS12 reflects key developments in our field since the last edition, along with three timely new chapters: Historical Perspectives of Geriatric Medicine, Health Equity and Aging, and Loneliness and Social Isolation. Hot on its heels, the AGS has also published the Geriatric Nursing Review Syllabus, Eighth Edition (GNRS8) and the 27th edition of Geriatrics At Your Fingertips. Each of these publications serve as invaluable tools for clinicians preparing for certification, teaching the next generation, and delivering expert care to older adults.
To think that isn’t all... the AGS Staff and Editorial Boards are busy working on the review and update of the GRS Teaching Slides and the Geriatrics Evaluation and Management Tools (GEMS) as well. Those updates will be rolling out over the next few months.
I’m also excited about the upcoming publication of the AGS Beers Alternatives List— which was previewed at the #AGS25 session “Ok, But What Should I Use Instead?” The list offers both pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic alternatives to select medications and conditions from the 2023 AGS Beers Criteria®, all carefully developed by a multidiscplinary team of experts. After hearing how the list was developed and talking through how it can be used in real-world practice, I know this is going to be a go-to resource for many of us working to provide safer, more personalized care for older adults. Be on the lookout in JAGS for this exciting new resource. It will also be incorporated within the AGS Beers Criteria® app for your use as well.
As I reflect on #AGS25 and the incredible work our members are doing across research, clinical care, education, and advocacy, I’m reminded that we’re navigating a pivotal moment in geriatrics. I keep coming back to the words shared by our outgoing AGS Board Chair, Donna Fick: Be Respectful. Be Supportive. Be Kind. It’s a mantra I hope we all carry with us this year and always. The changing political landscape, workforce pressures, and shifting policies continue to challenge how we deliver care to older adults. But even in the face of uncertainty, our community shows up—with resilience, with resolve, and with a commitment to ensuring that all of us have access to high quality health care that supports us in aging independently and remaining in our communities for as long as possible.
Thank you for the privilege of serving as your AGS President. It’s been a joy to learn from so many of you at #AGS25, to celebrate your achievements, and to carry forward the values that define our community. I’m excited for what we’ll accomplish together in the year to come—let’s keep showing the world what geriatrics can do.
Each year, the AGS celebrates researchers, clinicians, educators, and trainees who have made outstanding contributions to the care of older adults. Please join us in congratulating this year’s award recipients, who were honored at the 2025 Annual Scientific Meeting of the American Geriatrics Society.
Brienne Miner, MD, MHS and Melisa Wong, MD, MAS, AGSF received the 2025 Arti Hurria Memorial Award for Emerging Investigators in Internal Medicine who are focused on Care of Older Adults.
"Both Drs. Miner and Wong embody the spirit of the Arti Hurria Memorial Award through their dedication to advancing the care of older adults through its incorporation into their respective specialties,” said AGS Chair Mark A. Supiano, MD, AGSF. “Dr. Miner’s research in sleep health and Dr. Wong’s research in geriatric oncology are shaping the future for all of us as we age and we are honored to recognize their contributions at #AGS25.”
Brienne Miner, MD, MHS is an Assistant Professor in Internal Medicine in Geriatrics at the Yale School of Medicine in New Haven, CT.
Dr. Miner completed her residency in Internal Medicine at Yale University including serving as chief resident, followed by subspecialty training in geriatrics and sleep medicine, and a postdoctoral fellowship in geriatric clinical epidemiology and aging-related research. Her research, funded by GEMSSTAR and Beeson awards from the National Institute on Aging (NIA), focuses on the evaluation and management of sleep deficiency in older persons. She uses both self-reported and objective measures — including devices such as gold-standard polysomnography, actigraphy, and encephalography-measuring headbands — to evaluate sleep comprehensively. Her work, published in leading aging and sleep medicine journals such as the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society (JAGS) and the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine (JCSM), supports combining self-reported and objective measures as the best method to evaluate sleep. Ultimately, she aims to decrease the burden of sleep deficiency in patients and their care partners through interventions to promote sleep health.
Over the course of her career, Dr. Miner has served in leadership roles in aging and sleep societies, including as Chair of the AGS Junior Faculty Special Interest Group and of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine Foundation’s Sleep Research Program for Advancing Careers. She is a past recipient of the AGS New Investigator Award, a Tideswell Emerging Leaders in Aging scholar, and currently serves on the JAGS editorial board.
Melisa Wong, MD, MAS, AGSF is a Research Scientist II in the Division of Research at Kaiser Permanente Northern California (KPNC) and Associate Adjunct Professor in the Division of Geriatrics at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF).
Dr. Wong is a thoracic medical oncologist and geriatric oncology clinician- investigator who completed her residency in internal medicine at UCSF, followed by fellowships in medical oncology and aging research. Her research aims to transform cancer care for older adults — to help patients clarify their goals and values in the face of uncertainty and to support oncologists to keep these truths at the core of the care they provide. As an NIA Beeson K76 Scholar, Dr. Wong adapted and pilot tested the Best Case/Worst Case (BC/WC) communication tool from geriatric surgery to geriatric oncology to support shared decision making for older adults with cancer. She also developed the infrastructure for a multicenter prospective cohort study of older adults with lung cancer with serial geriatric assessments to develop risk prediction tools for functional and cognitive decline.
Dr. Wong, an AGS Fellow, was also a 2022-2023 UCSF Pepper Center Pilot and Exploratory Studies Core Scholar. Amongst a plethora of honors and awards, her research paper ‘“You have to be sure that the patient has the full picture’: Adaptation of the Best Case/Worst Case Communication Tool for Geriatric Oncology” received the Journal of Geriatric Oncology’s Dr. Arti Hurria Best Paper Award for 2021-2022. As one of Dr. Hurria’s geriatric oncology mentees, Dr. Wong is especially honored to continue advancing the field that Dr. Hurria dedicated her career to.
Nancy Schoenborn, MD, MHS is the 2025 recipient of the Thomas & Catherine Yoshikawa Award for Outstanding Scientific Achievement in Clinical Investigation.
Dr. Schoenborn is a national leader in the study of individualized care of medically complex older adults that considers each person’s health status and personal preferences. Her pioneering work has identified the disconnect between common concepts and language used in scientific research and guidelines (such as life expectancy) and patient perspectives, which then negatively impacts care. She has, in turn, bridged this disconnect by studying and incorporating patient preferences for how to communicate sensitive topics such as life expectancy and discontinuation of preventive services. Her work has examined decision making from the clinician and the patient perspectives and has focused on the critical role of communication in facilitating patient-centered care. She is currently leading an interdisciplinary project to study how to more broadly message about the harms of cancer over screening to the public as well as the ethics of using persuasion in health communication.
“Dr. Schoenborn’s research is transforming the way we approach cancer screening and other critical health decisions for older adults,” said AGS Chair Mark A. Supiano, MD, AGSF. “By prioritizing communication about personal preferences, Dr. Schoenborn is helping to ensure that older adults receive care aligned with their personal values. Her work on eliciting patient perspectives to promote individualized care in arenas such as cancer screening, deprescribing medications, de-intensification of treatment, and using artificial intelligence to improve care, exemplifies the Yoshikawas’ commitment to advancing geriatrics through innovative and ethically grounded clinical investigation.”
Dr. Schoenborn has been widely recognized for her contributions to geriatrics and aging research. The NIA awarded her an R03 grant (2015-2018) for early-career specialists transitioning to aging research (GEMSSTAR) and a Paul B. Beeson Emerging Leaders Career Development Award in Aging (2018-2024). She was among the inaugural cohort of Multiple Chronic Conditions Scholars in 2019, sponsored by the Healthcare Systems Research Network and the Claude D. Pepper Older Americans Independent Centers AGING Initiative. She also was named a T. Franklin Williams Scholar by the AGS Health in Aging Foundation and the Alliance for Academic Internal Medicine (2015-2018). Her achievements within the American Geriatrics Society include receiving a New Investigator Award (2016), being honored as the Outstanding Junior Investigator of the Year (2019), and receiving Best Paper and Best Poster Awards (2022). The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine awarded her the Clinician Scientist Award in 2016.
Christine K. Wanich Bradway, PhD, RN, CRNP, FAAN, AGSF was honored as the 2025 Dennis W. Jahnigen Memorial Awardee, in recognition of her significant contributions to the education of health professionals in geriatrics care. A distinguished educator, clinician, and researcher, Dr. Bradway has dedicated over 30 years to improving care for individuals with urinary incontinence, severe obesity, chronic conditions, and dementia through the education of students and health professionals. A nationally and internationally recognized leader in gerontological nursing, Dr. Bradway has shaped the field through her expertise in incontinence education and innovative geriatrics care models. This prestigious award recognizes her dedication and excellence in geriatrics education, reaffirming Dr. Bradway’s role in shaping the future of health care for all of us as we age.
Currently serving as a Professor Emerita of Gerontological Nursing at the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Dr. Bradway continues to mentor nursing PhD students, teach in Penn’s International Master of Public Administration Program, and volunteer with several community organizations focused on improving care for older people.
“Although her early nursing career was in high-level trauma and intensive care, she found her true calling in primary care geriatrics as a nurse practitioner,” said AGS Chair Mark A. Supiano, MD, AGSF. “Over the years, Dr. Bradway has brought her expertise to a wide range of clinical settings, from long-term care to community-based primary and specialty care, all while shaping the next generation of geriatric clinicians through her leadership in education and research. As faculty at the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, she directed the Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Program as well as critical courses for adult gerontology primary care nurse practitioners and PhD students and provided leadership for the LIFE (PACE model) program. Her work as Co-PI for the Geriatric Education Center of Greater Philadelphia reflected her deep commitment to advancing interprofessional geriatric education and improving care for older adults. Dr. Bradway’s career is a testament to the power of early experiences shaping a lifelong dedication to the field, and her impact on geriatrics education and clinical practice is truly remarkable."
An active AGS member since 1985, Dr. Bradway has played an important role in advancing the Society’s mission through her leadership in committees, mentorship programs, and scholarly contributions. Over the course of four decades, Dr. Bradway has served on various AGS committees and workgroups and has also served as the Chair of the 2022 AGS Annual Meeting, contributed as a reviewer for AGS publications, serves as an Associate Editor for JAGS, and has been an active participant in the Care Transitions, Women in Geriatrics, and Nurses’ Special Interest Groups.
Her commitment to education and scholarship is evident through her extensive involvement in AGS Annual Scientific Meetings, where she has presented research, chaired symposia, and reviewed abstracts and proposals. Her research and clinical expertise have informed numerous publications in JAGS and the Annals of Long-Term Care, directly impacting the care of vulnerable older adults. As a mentor in the AGS Mentoring Program since 2011, Dr. Bradway has guided countless students and early-career professionals, furthering AGS’s mission to support the next generation of geriatrics experts.
Marie A. Bernard, MD, AGSF, former Chief Officer for Scientific Workforce Diversity at the National Institutes of Health, is the recipient of the prestigious Nascher/Manning Award this year. Throughout her distinguished career, Dr. Bernard has played a pivotal role in advancing research on aging and Alzheimer’s disease, fostering multiple perspectives in the biomedical workforce, and shaping national health initiatives that impact older adults.
“Dr. Bernard’s leadership has been instrumental in shaping the future of geriatrics and ensuring that research and healthcare reflect the populations we serve,” said AGS Chair Mark A. Supiano, MD, AGSF. “Her work at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has driven systemic change, promoting a broad range of perspectives in clinical research and workforce development. She embodies the dedication and impact that the Nascher/Manning Award recognition seeks to honor.”
Dr. Bernard, who retired from federal service in late 2024, leaves behind an extraordinary legacy of leadership, advocacy, and scientific advancement that will continue to shape the field of geriatrics for generations to come. As the Chief Officer for Scientific Workforce Diversity (COSWD) at NIH, Dr. Bernard spearheaded efforts to ensure that numerous viewpoints were represented in biomedical research. Prior to this, she served as Deputy Director of the NIA, working closely with the NIA Director to oversee approximately $3.1 billion in research focused on aging and Alzheimer’s disease. Key among her accomplishments as COSWD includes her establishing systematic outreach to institutions that had not received much NIH funding, including rural institutions, to foster enhanced awareness and communication about NIH opportunities. As NIA Deputy, she co-led the NIH Inclusion Governance Committee, assuring that there was appropriate inclusion of populations representative of the U.S. in clinical trials. Under her leadership, NIH developed the Inclusion Across the Lifespan Policy that mandates that children and older adults be included in clinical trials.
Dr. Bernard has been a tireless advocate working within NIH and beyond. When she was NIA Deputy, she co-chaired two of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ “Healthy People 2020” objectives: “Older Adults” and “Dementias, including Alzheimer’s Disease.”
Before joining NIH in 2008, Dr. Bernard was the Donald W. Reynolds Chair in Geriatric Medicine and founding chairperson of the Donald W. Reynolds Department of Geriatric Medicine at the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine. She also served as Associate Chief of Staff for Geriatrics and Extended Care at the Oklahoma City Veterans Affairs Medical Center. Her University of Oklahoma efforts led to a $32 million endowment from the State and the Reynolds Foundation for geriatrics and aging research and training.
Dr. Bernard graduated from Bryn Mawr College and University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. She did internal medicine residency training at Temple University Hospital where she also served as chief resident. She received additional training from the Geriatric Education Center of Pennsylvania, the AAMC Health Services Research Institute, and the Wharton Executive Development program.
Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky is this year's David H. Solomon Memorial Public Service Award recipient in recognition of her unwavering commitment to geriatrics and improving healthcare for older Americans. Throughout her distinguished career, Congresswoman Schakowsky has been a steadfast advocate for policies that strengthen the geriatrics workforce and enhance the quality of care for all Americans as they age.
“Congresswoman Schakowsky has played a pivotal role in shaping policies that support geriatrics education and workforce development,” said AGS Chair Mark A. Supiano, MD, AGSF. “Her leadership in advancing critical programs like the Geriatrics Workforce Enhancement Program (GWEP) and the Geriatrics Academic Career Award (GACA) epitomizes Dr. Solomon’s lifelong commitment to community service and the advancement of knowledge in caring for older adults. We are honored to recognize her with this award.”
A long-standing champion of the importance of health professionals having the knowledge and skills to care for older Americans, Congresswoman Schakowsky has spearheaded multiple legislative efforts to address the shortage of healthcare professionals with training in geriatrics and gerontology. In the 115th Congress (2017-2018), she introduced the Geriatrics Workforce and Caregiver Enhancement Act (H.R. 3713) to reauthorize key workforce training programs under Title VII of the Public Health Service Act. In the 116th Congress, she introduced the Educating Medical Professionals and Optimizing Workforce Efficiency and Readiness (EMPOWER) for Health Act of 2019 (H.R. 2781) and then successfully advocated for its inclusion in the COVID-19 stimulus package that was passed in 2020. That legislation extended authorization of the GWEP and GACA programs through 2025. Due to her efforts, these critical programs, offered through the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), continue to provide essential support for healthcare professionals, caregivers, and clinician-educators who are dedicated to ensuring the health care workforce is prepared to care for older Americans.
“We are immensely grateful for Congresswoman Schakowsky’s dedication to ensuring we all receive the quality care we deserve as we age,” said AGS CEO Nancy Lundebjerg, MPA. “Her tireless advocacy has strengthened the geriatrics workforce and advanced policies that improve the lives of millions of older Americans and their caregivers daily.”
The David H. Solomon Memorial Public Service Award celebrates the legacy of David H. Solomon, MD, AGSF, a renowned geriatrician committed to community service and advancing knowledge about the care of older individuals.
Rebecca Conant, MD, is the 2025 recipient of the Clinician of the Year Award. Dr. Conant is Professor of Medicine in the Geriatrics Division at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) and Medical Director of the UCSF Care at Home Program.
"Our 2025 Clinician of the Year, Dr. Rebecca Conant, embodies the very best of geriatric medicine," said AGS Chair Mark A. Supiano, MD, AGSF. "As a visionary leader, educator, and clinician, Dr. Conant has transformed the landscape of care for older adults, expanding access to high-quality, person-centered medicine. Her leadership in developing innovative care models, advancing medical education, and mentoring future generations of geriatricians has strengthened the field in immeasurable ways. Through her unwavering dedication, she has not only improved healthcare delivery but also shaped a more compassionate and equitable future for us all as we age."
A pioneering leader in home-based geriatric care, Dr. Conant founded the UCSF Housecalls Program in 2001 to provide primary care, palliative, and end-of-life care to frail, homebound older adults in San Francisco. Under Dr. Conant’s leadership, the program transitioned into UCSF Care at Home in 2015, expanding its reach to serve over 600 older adults in 2024. Both as a clinician and Medical Director, Dr. Conant has spearheaded innovative approaches to improving home-based care, including electronic medical record integration, transitional care programs, and in COVID-19 response efforts. Dr. Conant also played a pivotal role in securing UCSF’s participation in the GUIDE program, a national initiative supporting caregivers of dementia patients.
Beyond clinical practice, Dr. Conant is a dedicated educator and nationally recognized expert, mentoring medical students, fellows, and interdisciplinary teams in home-based geriatric medicine. A Professor of Medicine at UCSF who has devoted over 90% of her effort to clinical care for over 20 years, she is an expert whom others turn to for guidance and support in caring for medically and socially complex older adults. A widely published author and sought-after media expert, Dr. Conant continues to shape the future of home-based geriatric care through research, advocacy, and clinical excellence. She was recognized as a 2022 Master Clinician at UCSF and received the 2024 Housecall Physician of the Year Award by the American Academy of Home Care Medicine.
Dr. Conant received her undergraduate degree from Harvard and Radcliffe College in Massachusetts and her MD from UCSF. She completed residency in Internal Medicine as well as her fellowship in Geriatric Medicine at UCSF. An AGS member since 2000, Dr. Conant has presented at previous AGS Annual Scientific Meetings, winning the Presidential Poster Award in 2010. AGS is honored to recognize her with the Clinician of the Year Award for her exceptional clinical career dedicated to expanding access to high-quality, person-centered medical care for older adults, pioneering innovations in home-based geriatrics, and mentoring the next generation of clinicians.
Anaïs Rameau, MD, Associate Professor of Otolaryngology at Weill Cornell Medicine in New York City, is the 2025 recipient of the Jeffrey H. Silverstein Memorial Award for
Emerging Investigators in the Surgical and Related Medical Specialties.
“Dr. Rameau is a trailblazer in geriatric dysphagia research, combining clinical expertise with cutting-edge artificial intelligence to improve the detection and treatment of swallowing disorders
in older adults,” said AGS Chair Mark A. Supiano, MD, AGSF. “Through pioneering work and national leadership roles, Dr. Rameau is shaping the future of otolaryngology and enhancing care for aging populations. Her dedication to improving the lives of older adults through early detection of unsafe swallowing and the development of innovative diagnostic and screening tools exemplifies the spirit of the Jeffrey H. Silverstein Memorial Award, which honors emerging researchers making a meaningful impact on aging-focused care within their specialty.”
Dr. Rameau, a distinguished otolaryngologist and researcher committed to advancing care for older adults, is working to address the challenges of swallowing dysfunction. Specializing in laryngology with a focus on geriatric dysphagia, she has made significant contributions to the field, including the development of innovative tools to detect and manage swallowing impairments. Her NIH Beeson Career Development Award-funded research employs acoustic biomarkers to enhance early diagnosis and intervention for swallowing difficulties, with the ultimate goal of reducing morbidity and mortality associated with aspiration and malnutrition. Dr. Rameau has published extensively on swallowing disorders and the use of artificial intelligence in clinical otolaryngology, including pioneering applications in video-laryngoscopy and acoustic analysis. Her leadership roles and international recognition underscore her influence in advancing clinical and technological solutions that improve outcomes for older adults.
The first otolaryngologist to receive the prestigious Paul B. Beeson Emerging Leaders Career Development Award in Aging, Dr. Rameau is currently serving as Director of New Technologies and Chief of Dysphagia in the Department of Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery. A fellow of the esteemed Triological Society, Dr. Rameau holds multiple national leadership positions, including Chair of the Dysphagia Committee of the American Broncho-Esophagological Association and President-Elect of the American Society for Geriatric Otolaryngology. Internationally, Dr. Rameau has been invited to present research in countries across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and North America. Additionally, she is an alumna Young Leader of the prestigious French-American Foundation.
Omar Amir, MD, MS, is the 2025 recipient of the Outstanding Junior Clinician Educator Award. Dr. Amir is the Director of the Age-Friendly Acute Care Unit at Mount Sinai Morningside Hospital in New York City where he is dedicated to implementing geriatric standards of care according to the Institute for Healthcare Improvement’s Geriatric 4Ms model. In his clinical and programmatic leadership roles, he has successfully implemented several quality-of-care initiatives including projects to optimize discharge efficiency and improve safe transitions of care for older adults, facilitate early patient mobilization and reduce pressure ulcer incidence, improve nutrition support to frail older adults and enhance workplace safety and well-being. He is universally regarded by his trainees as an excellent teacher, mentor, and role model. While attending the Harvard Macy Program for Educators in Health Professions, he developed an interprofessional team-based geriatrics curriculum for rural Indian Health Service providers in South Dakota. He has championed this model as a way to extend geriatrics expertise to a vulnerable and underserved population, with a combination of direct clinical care and remote education.
In addition to mentoring residents, fellows, and faculty, he serves as co-faculty advisor for the Arnold P. Gold Humanism Honor Society at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai where he mentors new students who have been inducted into the Arnold P. Gold Humanism Honor Society and advises them on their capstone service projects on humanism in medicine. Among his many accomplishments and honors, he was chosen as a Stanford Medical Scholar and inducted into the Arnold P. Gold Humanism Honor Society in 2011 and won the Student Recognition Award for Service in Public Health from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health in 2006.
Eva Szymanski, MD and Jessica Zuo, MD, both Assistant Professors of Medicine at the Perelman School of Medicine at University of Pennsylvania and staff physicians at the Philadelphia VA Medical Center, have been recognized with the 2025 Outstanding Junior Clinician Education Manuscript Award for their work on “Implementation of a Geriatric Assessment SmartPhrase: A Multi-Institutional Pilot Study” published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society in 2024.
Recognizing that as the aging population grows, geriatric assessment is becoming an essential clinical skill, Drs. Szymanski and Zuo integrated a geriatric assessment called SmartPhrase (which are note templates in the electronic health record) into inpatient and outpatient geriatrics rotations. Trainees reported significant improvements in their knowledge, confidence, and ability to perform a geriatric assessment. Many also noted its positive impact on clinical practice and continued to use the SmartPhrase beyond their geriatrics rotation, highlighting its broader applicability across different medical settings.
Dr. Eva Syzmanski cares for older adults in geriatric primary care, outpatient consultative geriatric assessment and memory care, and inpatient geriatric care, and is creating new multidisciplinary geriatrics clinics at local and regional levels. Her goal as an educator is to train future geriatricians and empower clinicians to apply geriatrics principles to their own practices, regardless of field. Her scholarly interests include creating innovative geriatric curricula and experiences for trainees, especially in geriatric assessment, memory care, and transitions of care. She is heavily involved in geriatrics education at Penn and is building a national presence by leading multi-institutional projects.
As faculty at the University of Pennsylvania, Dr. Jessica Zuo co-directs the Aging andTransitions of Care curricula for the Internal Medicine residency. She works with colleagues to optimize residents’ geriatrics experience, in addition to directly teaching trainees in primary care, long-term care, and inpatient geriatrics settings. Dedicated to improving the geriatrics pipeline, she remains involved in the high school summer program that first introduced her to geriatrics, the University of Pittsburgh Health Career Scholars Academy. Her scholarly work focuses on teaching geriatric assessment to trainees, transitions of care, and program evaluation.
The American Geriatrics Society is proud to recognize Clark DuMontier, MD, MPH, as the recipient of the 2025 Outstanding Junior Investigator of the Year for his pioneering work in integrating geriatrics into oncology. Dr. DuMontier is a geriatrician and clinical researcher at VA Boston, NE GRECC, and Brigham and Women’s Hospital, and an Assistant Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School. He co-directs the Older Adult Hematologic Malignancy Program at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and founded the VA Boston Geriatrics Oncology Clinic, which has been recognized as an Age-Friendly Health System.
His research has addressed a critical gap in oncology: the underrepresentation of older adults in clinical trials and the need for better assessment measures beyond traditional cancer metrics. His work has shown that functional status, mobility, frailty, and multimorbidity significantly influence patient outcomes, independent of tumor stage or genetics. To support oncology teams in incorporating these measures, he has explored innovative approaches, including virtual frailty assessments and electronic health measures that can be found in existing data within the electronic health record. He has also led the development and dissemination of new definitions of over- and undertreatment that center on geriatric assessment and older adults’ values, goals, and preferences.
Dr. DuMontier was the lead author on the first randomized controlled trial assessing geriatrics consultation in older patients with blood cancers. His findings have been published in the field's leading journals and cited by national oncology guidelines. He is currently supported by a VA Career Development Award and has received additional early career and pilot funding from the NIA, National Cancer Institute, the American Society of Clinical Oncology, and the American Cancer Society. A dedicated AGS member since medical school, he recently served as president of the AGS Cancer and Aging Special Interest Group and currently serves as a member of the VA Research Special Interest Group.
Dr. James Deardorff, MD, Assistant Professor in the Division of Geriatrics at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), was honored with the 2025 Outstanding Junior Research Manuscript Award for his original investigation “Development and External Validation of Models to Predict Need for Nursing Home Level of Care in Community-Dwelling Older Adults with Dementia,” published in JAMA Internal Medicine in 2023. Dr. Deardorff’s prognostic study aimed to develop models to predict the need for nursing home level of care among older adults with probable dementia. Two models were created - one using proxy reports and another using self-reports. Through this study, he found that relatively simple models can predict with moderate discrimination and excellent calibration the need for nursing home level of care in community-dwelling older adults with probable dementia. These models can aid patients, families, and caregivers in planning for future care needs.
His geriatrics research interest began during medical school through the Medical Student Training in Aging Research (MSTAR) Program and continued throughout his Internal Medicine residency at Duke, Geriatrics fellowship at UCSF, and T32 aging research fellowship at UCSF. His research focuses on improving clinical care for older adults through prognostic information. He has developed multiple prediction models for community-dwelling older adults with dementia, including a mortality prediction model and models to predict the need for nursing home level of care. These models provide individuals with a broad range of prognostic risk estimates that may help guide discussions about clinical decision making and future planning. He is currently supported by NIA GEMSSTAR R03 and UCSF KL2 awards to develop prognostic models for older adults admitted to skilled nursing facilities.
The American Geriatrics Society is honored to recognize Renee Flores, MD, EdD, FACP, MHSA, AGSF as the 2025 Outstanding Mid-Career Clinician Educator Awardee for her outstanding contributions to geriatrics education. A dedicated geriatrician and educator, Dr. Flores has made a profound impact on medical training by inspiring the next generation of healthcare professionals to embrace the complexities and rewards of caring for older adults.
Dr. Flores has played a pivotal role in shaping geriatrics education, serving as Associate Program Director and later Program Director for the Geriatric Medicine Fellowship and Associate Program Director for the Internal Medicine Residency Program. Her leadership has guided numerous trainees toward careers in geriatric medicine. Recognized for her dedication to teaching, she was inducted into McGovern Medical School’s Academy of Master Educators in 2019 and has consistently received glowing evaluations of her teaching, focused on geriatric medicine, Age-Friendly care, and ethics.
With an Executive Doctor of Education Degree (EdD) in Professional Leadership with an Emphasis on Health Science Education, Dr. Flores is deeply committed to advancing geriatric healthcare through education. Along with technical skills and clinical knowledge, she emphasizes empathy, resilience, and commitment to service as essential components of medical training. As a faculty member of the McGovern Center for Humanities and Ethics, she is a leader in narrative medicine education, developing unique programs for medical students in philosophy, ethics, religion, law, aging, and end of life.
Dr. Flores is passionate about innovative teaching methods, including simulation-based learning and case discussions, to engage students and enhance critical thinking. She is committed to fostering a collaborative, inclusive learning environment that prepares students to provide compassionate, evidence-based care for older adults. Her dedication to mentorship and curriculum development continues to shape the future of geriatrics.
Lolita Sai Nidadavolu, MD, PhD; Rebecca Rodin, MD, MSc; Surbhi Singhal, MD; and Nathan Stall, MD, PhD all received 2025 New Investigator Awards.
Dr. Nidadavolu is an Assistant Professor of Medicine, clinician scientist, and memory disorder specialist at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine (JHUSOM). She received her undergraduate degree in Chemistry at Johns Hopkins University and received a joint MD-PhD at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. She completed her Internal Medicine training at Brown University and a clinical and research fellowship in Geriatric Medicine at JHUSOM studying the role of chronic inflammation in the development of frailty and cognitive impairment. She joined faculty at JHUSOM in 2021 and her research encompasses basic science and translational studies focused on contributions of age-related immune system changes to physical and cognitive decline. Her innovative research is focused on the development and characterization of novel circulating biomarkers (specifically circulating cell-free DNA) that can predict both future cognitive and physical decline and response to interventions promoting resilience in vulnerable older adults.
Dr. Rodin is an Assistant Professor in the Brookdale Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. Her research focuses on pain management and quality of life for older adults with serious illness using national survey and Medicare claims data. Her work is supported by an NIA GEMSSTAR R03, an American Cancer Society R03, and two Older American Independence Center (OAIC) pilot awards. Her prior work on the impact of bereavement on functional decline and mortality in older adults with serious illness was published in JAMA Network Open, with additional publications in JAMA Internal Medicine and Journal of Clinical Oncology. Dr. Rodin is an MSTAR research mentor and serves on the Early Investigator committees for OAIC and the American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine. Her 2025 AGS abstract is the first to show that in the year following hip fracture, older adults with dementia spend over 1 month more in post-acute care/nursing facilities than those without dementia.
Dr. Singhal is an Assistant Professor in the Division of Hematology/Oncology at the University of California Davis. She participated in the NIA’s prestigious Butler-Williams Scholars Program and serves on the Analytics Core and the Junior Board for the Cancer and Aging Research Group. Dr. Singhal is a rising leader in geriatric oncology, dedicated to improving the care and quality of life for older adults with advanced cancer. Her research focuses on addressing the unique vulnerabilities of this population by integrating geriatric assessment and supportive care interventions into oncology practice. Through her innovative work, Dr. Singhal has highlighted the critical role of nutritional impairment in predicting quality of life trajectories, emphasizing the need for comprehensive care approaches. With her vision and dedication, Dr. Singhal is poised to make transformative contributions, bringing key geriatric principles to the field of oncology, improving outcomes for older adults with advanced cancers.
Dr. Stall is a practicing geriatrician at Mount Sinai Hospital in Toronto, Canada and an early career researcher with the Women’s Age Lab at Women’s College Hospital and the Department of Medicine at the
University of Toronto. His work has had a profound impact on geriatric medicine, aging research and the care of vulnerable older adults. He graduated with a PhD from the Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation at the University of Toronto in 2022. He is among the few Canadian geriatricians to hold a PhD, and has published over 130 papers, many in leading journals. His studies on dementia care, drug safety, family caregiving, and COVID-19 and nursing homes have influenced health policy and clinical practice, exemplifying his leadership in geriatric medicine. Dr. Stall’s dedication to advancing the field of geriatric medicine through impactful research, mentorship, and advocacy makes him an ideal recipient of the prestigious New Investigator Award. His contributions have already transformed the landscape of aging and long-term care, and his trajectory promises even greater achievements.
Gabrielle Katz is the 2025 Clinician Student Research Award recipient for her submission, “Provision of Air Conditioning and Mortality During Extreme Heat in Nursing Homes: A Case Crossover Study in Ontario, Canada.” Examining whether extreme heat was associated with an increased risk of mortality in Ontario nursing homes with and without air conditioning, Ms. Katz’s work will be important in guiding the implementation of cooling technology in nursing homes and other congregate settings for older adults, especially as climate change leads to more frequent extreme heat events. Ms. Katz has an impressive research background, including two first-author reports for the Ontario COVID-19 Science Table and a first author publication in JAMA Health Forum. A second-year medical student at the University of Toronto, Ms. Katz’s passion for geriatrics, research, and leadership positions her to be a promising leader in geriatric medicine and aging research.
The 2025 recipient of the Scientist-in-Training Research Award is Aastha Relan, a Master’s student in Health Research Methodology at McMaster University. In her recent study, “Capturing Clinically Meaningful Change in Frailty during Inpatient Rehabilitation using the Fit-Frailty App,” Ms. Relan is advancing frailty assessment and management through digital health solutions for older adults. Under the mentorship of Dr. Alexandra Papaioannou, Ms. Relan contributed to several projects at the Geriatric Education and Research in Aging Sciences (GERAS) Centre for Aging Research, including a multi-site prospective cohort study on frailty in inpatient rehabilitation. As a co-design collaborator, her work on validating the Fit-Frailty app aims to explore the use of frailty as an outcome measure of treatment response. Ms. Relan’s research interests also include virtual frailty interventions, such as GERAS Dance, demonstrating her commitment to promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion for underserved older adults.
Over the past 2 years alone, she has presented at 9 high impact conferences. She has been awarded over $94,000 in funding and honors, including the Canadian Institutes of Health Research-funded EPIC-AT Fellowship and CAN-TAPTALENT Master’s Award. Ms. Relan is well-positioned as a future leader in geriatrics research and AgeTech innovation.
Belinda Tang, a fourth-year medical student at SUNY Upstate Medical University, is the recipient of the 2025 Edward Henderson Student Research Award in recognition of her remarkable contributions to geriatrics through her research, advocacy, and leadership. As an undergraduate at Cornell University, she co-led a student group promoting engagement with assisted living communities. After college, she coordinated research addressing gaps in care for older adults in safety-net settings and helped launch GoldenTalk, a 24-hour helpline combating social isolation during COVID-19. At SUNY Upstate Medical University, she has served as president of the Geriatrics Interest Group, initiated community services for older adult refugees, and led discussions at the Association of American Medical Colleges on integrating geriatrics into medical training. Her research accomplishments include MSTAR participation, posters and oral presentations at AGS Annual Scientific Meetings, and two first authored JAGS publications regarding medication use and a novel healthy aging intervention for older adults. Ms. Tang’s leadership, research, and advocacy underscore her transformative impact and potential to lead advancements in geriatric care and education.
The Choosing Wisely® Champions program helps expand the Choosing Wisely® campaign by highlighting stories of people whose leadership in choosing tests and treatments wisely has inspired others to promote high-quality, person-centered care. For the 2025 award, the AGS congratulates Omar Amir, MD, MS. As the Director of the Age-Friendly Acute Care Unit at Mount Sinai Morningside Hospital, Dr. Amir prioritizes implementing geriatric standards of clinical care based on the IHI’s Geriatric 4Ms model. He teaches rotating Internal Medicine trainees on the 4Ms model through interdisciplinary rounds, bedside teaching sessions, and afternoon case or topic-based didactics. This rotation is highly regarded for its unique and innovative educational value, particularly for Dr. Amir’s emphasis on an evidence-based approach to discussing treatment goals with patients and families, focusing on What Matters Most.
How did you become interested in geriatrics?
I am truly interested in human beings as individuals. While I always found the science of medicine fascinating, I quickly became frustrated by a system that often prioritized checking boxes over patient-centered care. During residency, I discovered that geriatrics and palliative care offered a refreshingly different approach, one that embraced the complexity of caring for older adults by interweaving their medical, cultural, socioeconomic, emotional, and spiritual needs. I was especially drawn to the holistic, person-centered philosophy that values what matters most to each individual. That perspective resonated with me, and I knew I wanted to do more. This led me to pursue a combined fellowship in geriatrics and palliative care at the University of Michigan, where I had the opportunity to deepen my understanding and commitment to this field.
What is your favorite part of working with older adults?
I consider myself a bit of an old soul, and I find real joy in being around older adults. There’s something about their presence that makes me slow down, smile more, and dig into their deeper stories - things that truly invigorate me. I love the delicate balance of managing complex medical conditions while navigating the ever-changing circumstances that come with aging.
Just this week, I had the privilege of caring for a World War II survivor who was a young woman in Italy during the Allied bombings. Her stories and experiences floored me. While I was able to help her with her medical decision making, she also gave me an invaluable
gift - reminding me of the profound human connection that links the past, present, and future. I can’t even put into words how special it is to have patients who can provide me with that kind of perspective.
What are you most proud of in your career?
I have to admit, my answer to this is a little embarrassing but honestly, what makes me most proud is receiving gratitude from my patients and their families. When someone tells me, “You took so much time with me,” or “No doctor has ever sat down and had such an honest discussion with me,” it truly fills my cup. It makes me feel that the care I’m providing makes a real difference in patients’ and families’ lives.
I work with patients and families during some of the most challenging moments of their lives, helping them navigate complex decisions. I take immense pride in guiding them through these tough times in a way that aligns with their goals and values. Out of everything I’ve done in my career, it’s not just the thanks and praise that mean the most to me; it’s knowing that my work is valued, that I’m making an impact, and that I find deep fulfillment in what I do. There’s nothing I am prouder of in my career than that.
What are you working on right now?
I recently stepped into a leadership role as the Site Medical Director for Palliative Care at a local hospital, and my biggest focus right now is building up that program. I’m working hard to improve communication and collaboration across the hospital, all with the goal of providing the best possible care for vulnerable patients - including, of course, older adults.
Beyond that, I remain deeply engaged with AGS. Most recently, I was involved in developing one of the symposia at #AGS25, where I moderated a session on caring for unrepresented older adults. I am also actively involved with the AGS Ethics Committee, which is comprised of a group of my wonderful colleagues.
What advice would you share with someone who is considering geriatrics or just starting out in the field?
I have two main pieces of advice. First, if you find this work meaningful, pursue it! Many people who discover geriatrics realize it aligns with why they went into medicine in the first place: to truly care for the whole person. That doesn’t mean everyone has to complete a geriatrics fellowship, but if this field resonates with you, it’s worth exploring further.
Second, remember that your career path is more flexible than you might think. It’s easy to feel like your options are narrowing over time, but geriatrics offers so many different ways to practice. You can work in primary care, a specialty clinic, a hospital, nursing/rehab facility, or even integrate another subspecialty interest like palliative care, as I have. There’s room to shape your career in a way that aligns with your skills, interests, and the kind of impact you want to have. Don’t lose sight of the possibilities - you have more freedom than you might realize.
What is your favorite thing about the AGS or your favorite memory involving the AGS?
My favorite part of AGS has been my time on the AGS Ethics Committee. I’ve had the privilege of working alongside incredible colleagues who have welcomed me, offered opportunities, and served as both mentors and peers. It’s been an incredibly rewarding experience.
With some professional organizations, you sign up, get a few emails, and that’s it—but AGS has been different. With AGS, I’ve felt like a true member of a community, not just a subscriber.
At this year's Annual Scientific Meeting, the AGS recognized 19 leading health professionals who have been awarded AGS Fellowship over the past year – a distinction that recognizes AGS members for their deep commitment to the AGS and to advancing high-quality, person-centered care for us all as we age. They include:
For more information on the new class of AGS Fellows and about AGS Fellowship, visit the membership page on the AGS website.
Thursday, April 30–Saturday, May 2, 2025
(Pre-conference Day: April 29)
We are accepting proposal submissions on our online submission site here. All proposals must be submitted online - hard copy proposal submission will not be accepted.
The proposal submission deadline is June 30, 2025 at 11:59 PM
Eastern Time.
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