GGS AWARDS
A highlight of the annual meeting and conference is the GGS awards luncheon where GGS acknowledges outstanding achievement in the fields of gerontology and aging.
Ready to nominate someone?
You must be a GGS member to submit a nomination, but there is no membership requirement for the award winner. Nominations from non-GGS members will not be considered.
CLICK HERE OR SCAN THIS QR CODE FOR THE NOMINATIONS FORM.
Thank you for taking the time to support GGS and those individuals who ensure the best lives possible for older Georgians. We look forward to receiving your nominations!
NOMINATIONS CLOSE AT 11:59 P.M. ON FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2026.
You will receive confirmation that your nomination was received. If your nominee is selected, you will receive notice on June 6, 2025.
OUR AWARDS
THE DIRECT IMPACT AWARD (formerly the Dan Hickman Award)
This award honors an individual who exemplifies excellence in direct service to older adults or adults with disabilities. The recipient demonstrates leadership in their field through outstanding hands-on care or service and is recognized not only for their skill and dedication, but also for the integrity, compassion, and passion they bring to their work and to the profession as a whole.
ELIGIBILITY – A professional or volunteer in any field who provides direct care or service to older adults
CRITERIA – Demonstrates consistent delivery of high-quality, person-centered care or service; goes above and beyond regular responsibilities to support clients or colleagues; exhibits professionalism and integrity; shows initiative in addressing challenges or improving service delivery; makes a meaningful difference in the lives of those served or in the broader profession.
THE PUBLIC SERVICE CHAMPION FOR AGING AWARD (formerly the David Levine Legislative Award)
This award recognizes elected officials whose efforts have significantly contributed to shaping public policy, securing critical resources, and championing the rights and dignity of aging populations
ELIGIBILITY – Elected officials at the municipal, county, state, or federal level.
CRITERIA – Demonstrates strong leadership and advocacy in matters affecting older adults; supports or advances aging-related legislation, initiatives, or programs; maintains sustained engagement with aging issues; seeks input from individuals with lived experience; collaborates with stakeholders; exemplifies responsible public stewardship.
DISTINGUISHED PROFESSIONAL IN AGING AWARD
(formerly the Elsie Alvis Award)
This award honors a professional in gerontology or aging who demonstrates excellence and sustained impact in their field.
ELIGIBILITY – Minimum of 10 years of experience in gerontology or aging-related fields
CRITERIA – Contributes significantly to knowledge, policy, or practice; develops innovative programs or services; holds leadership roles; translates knowledge into real-world impact; addresses disparities; mentors others; demonstrates integrity and person-centered values.
THE PIONEER IN POSITIVE AGING AWARD
(formerly the John Tyler Mauldin Award)
This award recognizes an older adult whose lived experience and career exemplify the powerful role of older adults in shaping the future of aging.
ELIGIBILITY – An older adult
CRITERIA – Makes outstanding contributions to aging fields; improves lives of older adults; elevates their voices; mentors others; inspires positive aging; continues to influence the field.
THE CHANGE AGENT AWARD (formerly the Kay Hind Award)
This award honors an individual who is a driving force in creating meaningful change that improves the lives of older adults in Georgia.
ELIGIBILITY – Individuals making a significant impact through change, innovation, or advocacy
CRITERIA – Demonstrates vision; addresses unmet needs; sustains commitment; promotes equity; engages stakeholders; achieves measurable improvements.
THE EDUCATOR AURORA AWARD
(formerly the Marietta Suhart Award)
This award is presented to an individual who has demonstrated outstanding commitment to educating those who work with older adults.
ELIGIBILITY – Individuals providing education or training in aging fields
CRITERIA – Demonstrates leadership in educational programs; supports professional growth; communicates effectively; strengthens the workforce; fosters excellence and innovation.
THE GGS LEGACY AWARD
This award recognizes a member of the Georgia Gerontology Society who has demonstrated exceptional dedication and service to the organization.
ELIGIBILITY – Minimum of 10 years of membership in GGS
CRITERIA – Demonstrates extraordinary commitment through leadership, service, or contributions that strengthen the organization and advance its mission.
THE CARE PARTNER LUMINARY AWARD
This award recognizes a current or former care partner to an older adult who has served as a beacon of support, strength, and inspiration.
ELIGIBILITY – Current or former care partners
CRITERIA – Develops or advocates for resources and support; improves caregiving experiences; raises awareness; strengthens the caregiving community.
CITATION OF MERIT
This honor is given to individuals who deserve special recognition for achievement, service, exemplary living, or commitment to aging.
ELIGIBILITY – Open
CRITERIA – Selected by the GGS Awards Committee.
History
GGS established an early tradition of recognizing significant achievements and contributions to the field of aging. Since 1966, the annual meeting has included an awards ceremony as a particular highlight. During the first years, awards were given in a variety of categories – individual, professional, distinguished service, and area of service. With the passage of time, the number and type of awards have become more established. Over the years, awards have been named for individuals who have been significant to the GGS and in the state of Georgia, like John Tyler Mauldin, Elsie Alvis, Louis Newmark, Marietta Suhart, Dan Hickman, David L. Levine, and Kay Hind.