The Sealy Center on Aging at UTMB HealthLeading Aging Research Since 1995

UTMB Health is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Melissa (Missy) Morrow as Director of the Sealy Center on Aging. A renowned rehabilitation scientist and expert in aging and disability research, Dr. Morrow brings deep experience in translational science, biomechanics, and health technology. She currently serves as Co-Director of the NIA-funded Pepper Center at UTMB and will lead the center’s involvement in the new $5 million Healthy Aging and Technology (Age-Tech) Initiative. We thank Dr. Alan Landay for his exceptional service as interim director and look forward to the center’s continued growth under Dr. Morrow’s leadership.

The National Institute on Aging has renewed funding for the UTMB Health Claude D. Pepper Older Americans Independence Center (OAIC) with a five-year, $6.5 million award, continuing support through August 2030. Since 2000, the Center has advanced research and training focused on improving independence for older adults living with chronic disabling conditions. Building on more than two decades of accomplishments—including training 41 scholars and publishing over 860 studies—the next funding cycle will emphasize reducing health disparities, expanding research on lifelong disabilities, increasing participation of underserved populations, and developing technology-enabled interventions. Through its interdisciplinary team and integrated research and education cores, the UTMB Health OAIC will continue to lead innovation in aging science and prepare the next generation of researchers dedicated to enhancing the health and independence of older adults.

Please join us for the next Pepper Investigators Lecture: "The 150-year-old (Wo)man: How soon? How desirable?" presented by Steven N. Austad PhD, Distinguished Professor, Co-Director UAB Nathan Shock Center on September 24, 2025 at noon in RSH 6.100 and via Teams. Lunch provided for those in person.

Galveston's only senior healthcare resource fair. FREE event for people age 55+ and family caregivers. Expert Speakers: Sandy Ard, Elder Law Attorney and Geriatrician Dr. Lee Grumbles. Free Health screenings, flu shots (with Medicare card), box lunch for seniors, musical entertainment with Juan Carlos, vendor fair and door prizes. Don't miss it!

Join us on October 16th for the 28th Annual Forum on Aging. The event provides a platform for faculty members, fellows, and students to share their ongoing aging research with the UTMB community. It is also an excellent opportunity for networking and learning about the research services offered by the Sealy Center on Aging. Each year, monetary awards are given for the best student and fellow posters. Stay tuned for a call for abstracts!

Congratulations to Dr. Hani Serag and Dr. Hanaa Sallam on their new publication. This study looked at the challenges faced by people with diabetes who receive care at St. Vincent’s House Clinic in Galveston, Texas, a place that serves many patients who don’t have a lot of resources. The goal was to understand what non-medical issues, like financial or emotional stress, might make it harder for them to manage their diabetes.