The Henry W. Welch Scholarship in Aging honors one of the Colorado Gerontological Society founders, whose commitment and dedication to the field of aging and human services spanned more than forty years. Dr. Welch was a forerunner and pioneer in the field of aging. He served as the first treasurer of The Society, helped to write the articles of incorporation and the by-laws, and providing parliamentarian support. For most of his career, Dr. Welch served the Denver community and Colorado, at the Metropolitan Council for Community Services, which is now the planning division of Mile High United Way. He excelled at community organization. Dr. Welch helped to found the Institute of Gerontology at the University of Denver in 1977 with support from the Administration on Aging. The Scholarship Fund was established to continue his vision of educating professionals in the field of aging.
Applications for scholarship for calendar year 2024 are now open. Applications are due by November 27, 2024 5:00 PM Mountain Standard Time.
About the Scholarship
The Henry Welch Scholarship is designed to encourage academic studies in the field of aging, including gerontology, social work, public policy or various medical fields with emphasis in aging such as geriatrics, pharmacy, physical therapy, psychology or nursing. Applicants from other fields are welcome to apply, but should have a focus or concentration on working with or for the elderly. Each award is for $1000 per academic year. Applicants must be full-time matriculated students at an accredited Colorado college or university.
Applicants must complete a two-page essay in addition to the application addressing your ability to work with the elderly emphasizing your (1) previous experience with geriatrics/gerontology; (2) leadership qualities including initiative, organizational skills, and ability to influence others; (3) your ability to meet people and your interest in working with the elderly; (4) your current or previous involvement in school, community, churches or other venues where you interact with the elderly; and (5) your plans for the future including specific involvement with geriatrics/gerontology, and working with the elderly.
Awardees will be notified by telephone and mail contact. Awardees may be expected to virtually attend the 45th Annual Meeting of the Colorado Gerontological Society to receive the scholarship award.