Representative Troy Announces Ohio Scholars in Aging Program Application Period Now Open

COLUMBUS - State Rep. Daniel Troy (D-Willowick) today announced that the 2027 Ohio Scholars in Aging program application period is now open. This program is a partnership with the Ohio Department of Aging (AGE) and the Ohio Association of Gerontology and Education (OAGE).

Ohio undergraduate and graduate students of all academic backgrounds are encouraged to apply. The program is an opportunity to learn about aging-related policymaking, grow a professional network, and gain career knowledge and skills in the field of aging. Students will complete an internship or community project, attend AGE and OAGE events, and prepare a presentation about their experience for state leaders.

There is no cost to participate, and those who complete all program requirements will receive a $2,500 stipend. The deadline to apply is Friday, November 13, 2026, at 11:59pm.

“I am pleased to announce that the application window is now open for this workforce development program that engages youth with Ohio’s aging issues. As our senior population continues to grow, retirees will be dependent on a decreasing number of working-age people to assist them. This program helps the state address the needs of our ever-growing population of senior citizens. I encourage college students, especially from my district, to apply,” said Rep. Troy.

Since its creation in 2013, 166 students have participated in the Scholars in Aging program, representing 20 Ohio colleges and universities. Recent participants have shared that the program helped them connect with their communities, prepare for future scholarly work and presentations, network with professionals in the aging field, and learn more about the needs of our state’s aging population.

Students selected for the program are required to invest a minimum of 45 hours in an aging-related internship, practicum, or project. Additionally, participants must attend two days of in-person learning sessions and one partial day of virtual learning, complete a full-day introductory experience at their local Area Agency on Aging (AAA), and attend the annual OAGE Conference in April 2027 at Ohio University, where they will present their program projects. 

“I believe that every senior citizen deserves the right to retire with dignity. The mark of enlightened societies throughout the history of our world is found in those that honor their elders with the thanks and respect that they deserve,” said Rep. Troy.

According to a recent Miami University study, 1 in 5 Ohioans will be over the age of 65 by the year 2030. Almost every Ohio county is expected to see an increase in the share of the population of that age group. Baby boomers now make up the largest generation of older adults in U.S. history.

Rep. Troy sits on the Ohio Advisory Council for Aging. He has also introduced and passed legislation to increase penalties for failure to report elder abuse. He currently has legislation introduced (HB 103) to increase the qualifying income and exemption amount of the Homestead Exemption, a property tax reduction for lower-income seniors in Ohio. Rep. Troy has been, and continues to be, a vocal proponent of increasing the Medicaid reimbursement rate to help recruit and properly compensate direct service providers that address the care needs of our seniors. 

For more information or to apply, visit the Ohio Scholars in Aging webpage.

EDITORS NOTE: The Ohio Scholars in Aging Program flyer is attached.