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University of Maryland School of Nursing Faculty Member/Alumna Elected to Gerontology Fellows Program

June 2, 2015

Fellows are recognized for distinguished contributions to the field of gerontology.

Baltimore, Md. – Elizabeth Galik, PhD ‘07, RN, CRNP, associate professor, University of Maryland School of Nursing (UMSON), has been elected as a 2015 Fellow of the Gerontological Society of America (GSA). Fellows are elected in recognition of distinguished contributions to the field of gerontology.  

Galik’s work focuses on helping the elderly with moderate to severe cognitive impairment to optimize their functionality while decreasing behavioral symptoms. She tests the impact of interventions designed to optimize function, physical activity, mood, and behavior of long-term care residents. The Function and Behavior Focused Care approach is geared toward changing how staff members in long-term care facilities provide care to residents with dementia by teaching them how to evaluate and optimize the residents' underlying physical capabilities. This approach also trains staff on how to safely and effectively engage residents in personal care and physical activity.

“Dr. Galik has demonstrated a commitment to the advancement of gerontology through practice, research, and education. She is passionate about teaching and is an advocate of helping all students succeed and achieve at their highest potential,” said Barbara Resnick, PhD ’96, RN, CRNP, FAAN, FAANP, professor and Sonia Ziporkin Gershowitz Chair in Gerontology at UMSON. “Dr. Galik is a true leader in interdisciplinary education in geriatrics and exemplifies the high standards associated with the GSA Fellowship.” 

Founded in 1945, GSA is the driving force behind the advancement of gerontology, both domestically and internationally.  GSA fosters collaboration between biologists, health professionals, policymakers, and behavioral and social scientists. The Society believes that the intersection of research from diverse areas is the best way to achieve the greatest impact and promote healthy aging.

"I am honored to be inducted as a Fellow of GSA. I have benefitted from my membership with GSA ever since I was a doctoral student in 2003,” Galik said. “I look forward to collaborating with my interdisciplinary colleagues to advance gerontological research." 

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The University of Maryland School of Nursing, founded in 1889, is one of the oldest and largest nursing schools, and is ranked sixth nationally. Enrolling more than 1,600 students in its baccalaureate, master’s, and doctoral programs, the School develops leaders who shape the profession of nursing and impact the health care environment.