The M. Powell Lawton Award, sponsored by Polisher Research Institute, is presented annually to an individual to honor contributions from applied gerontological research that have benefited older people and their care. The Lawton Awardee presents a lecture at the Society's Annual Scientific Meeting the following year.

The award recognizes significant contributions in gerontology that led to innovations in gerontological treatment, practice or service, prevention, amelioration of symptoms or barriers. Public policy changes that led to improvement in the lives of older persons are also eligible. Although research is the usual origin of such contributions, leadership in defining and implementing a creative program may also be recognized. The award honors an individual for exemplifying the outstanding professional and personal qualities of M. Powell Lawton. Nominations of candidates in the early or mid stages of their career 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.

Presented annually at the GSA Annual Scientific Meeting, the award consists of a cash award of $2,500 and a certificate. In addition, if the awardee has no support for attending the GSA Annual Meeting, up to $1,000 can be made available for the awardee's travel and per diem expenses.

Deadline
First Monday in May.
Requirements

• The nominator must be a member of GSA, however nominees do not.
• Formal nomination letter.
• A current Curriculum Vitae.
• 2 (two) letters of endorsement.

In order to nominate someone for the M. Powell Lawton Award, please send your nomination packet to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it with a subject of "Lawton Award Nomination - NOMINEE NAME HERE." Please remember to substitute your nominee's name in the subject.