Lowy-Geriatric Education Model (GEM) Program

Professor Lowy was a groundbreaking social worker who forged partnerships between diverse stakeholders and encouraged students to challenge stereotypes and misconceptions about aging populations. His legacy continues today with the Lowy-GEM Program, which attracts excellent, committed students to SSW. Stipends are provided to participating students each semester from the Lowy Fund. Nearly all of the program’s hundreds of graduates have gone on to careers in gerontological social work, and many have moved into supervisory and other leadership positions. 

The Lowy-GEM Program is an innovative, field education-based program designed to prepare MSW students to become skilled gerontological social work practitioners and leaders. The Lowy-GEM Program model consists of a primary field placement in one of our participating agencies focused on aging. A main component of this program is a monthly integrated seminar focused on key aging topics, such as mental health and aging, reframing aging/ageism, racial justice and unequal aging, and death and dying. Each month, experts from the field of aging co-present on key practice areas, which provide didactic content, mentoring, and networking opportunities.

Professor Keefe, CADER director, has led the Lowy-GEM Program since 2020. Students can enroll in CADER educational programs and get involved in research programs at the Center to further build their skills and interest in working with older adults. For additional information about the program or guidance on how to make donations to support efforts to train and empower the geriatric workforce, please email Professor Keefe.