By Mark Abromaitis
THE ERICKSOIN TRIBUNE

He’s the Ben Franklin or Thomas Jefferson of aging studies. His innovations and ideas could shape the world’s view on aging for generations to come.

Dr. William H. Thomas, an internationally-recognized reformer in the field of long-term care, is joining the Erickson School of Aging Studies at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC). He will join the school as a professor in a program that integrates studies in human aging, public policy, and business management.

He wants to change the negative view on aging in America. “Joining an  education start-up [like the Erickson School] positioned at the forefront of a major social revolution is a once-in-a-generation opportunity,” Thomas says of his new position with the school. “We are bringing together the best minds and the brightest students, passionate about bringing older Americans back to the heart of our society.”

A new view
Thomas, a Harvard-trained physician and geriatrician, is one of the nation’s most outspoken advocates for nursing home reform. He will play a central role in helping the Erickson School improve society for older adults through the training of tomorrow’s leaders.

Thomas brings with him a clear-eyed view of aging and why society should embrace it. Thomas says that society should value its older generation and learn from their experiences in order to improve the future. His most recent book What Are Old People For? How Elders Will Save the World, was named 2005 Book of the Year by the American Medical Writers Association.

“Bill Thomas is a pioneering thinker who inspires legions of people who have committed their study and careers to the business and science of aging,” says Dr. J. Kevin Eckert, dean of the Erickson School. “We are happy to have a visionary like him aboard.”