2010 Pioneer Award

Susan D. Gilster Ph.D., FACHCA



Ohio Health Care Association



2010 Pioneer Award







Recently Dr. Susan Gilster, Executive Director, was honored by the Ohio Health Care Association (OHCA) with the 2010 Pioneer Award. The Pioneer Award recognizes an Ohioian who has been influential in the delvelopment and advancement of long-term care programs, education, professionalism or ideals. Presented at the President's Dinner May 5th, 2010, during the OHCA Annual Convention, Susan was Honored for her commitment to excellence in long-term care services. Recipients are selected by a panel of OHCA Past Presidents.


From the 2010 Convention Publication:



Dr. Susan Gilster Ph.D., is a leader known for creating innovative health care projects here and abroad. Susan was responsible for the development of the Alois Alzheimer Center, which opened in 1987 as the first free-standing dementia facility in the United States. Dr. Gilster serves as a practitioner, educator, researcher and consultant, and has published over 75 articles. She has conducted well over 100 national and international presentations in 12 countries, focusing on Alzheimer's disease care and programs, leadership, organizational development, and employee satisfaction and retention.



Guided by her service-driven philosophy, Dr. Gilster developed a successful, transformational leadership model promoting person-centered care for residents, families and staff. Dr. Gilster published her innovative models in two books: "Changing Culture, Changing Care: Service First," and "A Way of Life: Developing and Exemplary Alzheimer's Disease and Deementia Program." Her most recent publications include the cover story for Long-Term Living Magazine, a series of articles for the professional journal Care Management, and co-author of an ongoing biweekly column entitled, "Ask the Experts" for Long-Term Living website.



Dr. Gilster is a volunteer professor for the University of Cincinnati and a preceptor to students from regional and national universities, spearheading an education program that benefits approximately 200 students annually.



Under her leadership the Alois Alzheimer Center and Staff have earned numerous deficency free surveys and several state and national awards, including many OHCA Personal Excellence awards and the AHCA/NCAL Steps I and II Quality Awards.



Please stop and look at the front entrance to see this new award and many others on display.



We love you so much, Susan.......Congratulations!!!!