The Gerontological Society of America (GSA) — the nation’s largest interdisciplinary organization devoted to the field of aging — has chosen Peter Lichtenberg, PhD, ABPP, FGSA, of Wayne State University as the 2024 recipient of the Donald P. Kent Award. This distinguished honor is given annually to a GSA member who “best exemplifies the highest standards for professional leadership in gerontology through teaching, service, and interpretation of gerontology to the larger society.” This award was established in 1973 in memory of Donald P. Kent, PhD, for his outstanding leadership in translating research findings into practical use.  

Lichtenberg received his BA degree from Washington University in St. Louis and master’s and doctorate degrees in clinical psychology, with a concentration in aging, from Purdue University. Throughout his career, his clinical and research work has focused on the intersection of geriatric medical rehabilitation, dementia assessment, late life depression, financial decision- making, and financial exploitation. The author of several assessment instruments, he has authored 200 peer reviewed publications, and written and edited seven books. 

At Wayne State University, Lichtenberg is the director of the Institute of Gerontology (IOG), founding director of the Wayne State University Lifespan Alliance, and a distinguished professor of psychology. A statewide and national leader in gerontology, Lichtenberg has served as a clinician, researcher, faculty member, clinical geropsychologist, and administrator throughout his career. His professional roles underscore his commitment to growing gerontology programs and promoting environments for colleagues and students to flourish. 

“Receiving this award is precious to me,” Lichtenberg said. “I admire all of the previous winners, and to know my nominators thought I was deserving of joining them touches me deeply.”