The Gerontological Society of America (GSA) offers a limited number of eligible PhD-level social workers from Veterans Health Administration the opportunity to participate in the Hartford/VA Scholars Program administered by GSA and funded by the John A. Hartford Foundation. This prestigious program provides mentorship and development for post-doctoral social workers pursuing advanced skills in research, administration, and/or policy careers involving issues of aging. VA Social Workers selected as Scholars must be able to devote time to research and other scholarly activity related to their training and research project. Hartford/VA Scholars will participate in an annual workshop to be held at The GSA Annual Scientific Meeting, will be appointed a national research mentor, and will engage in alumni network activities. The Scholars Program will provide financial support for reasonable travel expenses for Hartford/VA Scholar’s participation in the Program, in accordance with both organizations’ policies and legal requirements.

What is the Hartford/VA Scholars Program?

is two-year program provides:

• career development and research skill building opportunities conducted in conjunction with The GSA’s Annual Scientific Meeting
• a nationally recognized research mentor selected by the Hartford/VA Scholars Program to assist the Scholar’s research and career development
• participation in an ongoing community of peers and mentors seeking to advance knowledge and practice to improve the nation’s health and the profession.

More information about the program is found at http://www.gswi.org/programs/hfs.html *.

Who is eligible within the VA to apply?

Applications to the Scholars Program will be accepted from doctoral level VA employees who have at least one graduate degree from a social work program and an interest in issues of aging. In addition to their VA appointment, they may also hold a rank of assistant or associate professor at an affiliated academic institution. VA employees holding rank of full professor are not eligible. Priority is given to applicants who show demonstrated leadership potential and who are at a stage in their development where they can benefit from the intensive exposure to issues in research and gerontological content. For example, the program has funded Scholars who have recently finished their doctoral work and also have funded some seasoned researchers who are turning their focus towards aging. Ordinarily, applicants should be no more than 12 years from acquiring their doctorates. Each applicant must identify a local VA mentor.

Please see following link for full detailed announcement: Program Announcement

For more information please contact the Advanced Fellowships Center Office:

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