Newswise — STRATFORD – The William G. Rohrer Charitable Foundation has pledged $1 million to the Rowan University Foundation to establish an Endowed Chair in Geriatrics at the Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine’s New Jersey Institute for Successful Aging (NJISA). The endowment will provide a perpetual funding source to support geriatric research, clinical care and education programs at the NJISA and - when combined with two RowanSOM endowments already established by the William G. Rohrer Charitable Foundation - will result in a fund of more than $2 million. Endowed chairs have a long tradition in higher education and provide a means for donors to create a permanent funding source to enhance specific areas while enabling professors to push the frontiers of their scholarship. The endowment funded by the William G. Rohrer Charitable Foundation at the NJISA will continue the legacy of William G. Rohrer by preparing top geriatricians to care for the rapidly aging population. “Our Foundation is pleased to continue to support the NJISA’s important work to improve the quality of life of older adults and their families, while maintaining the Institute's standing as one of the country’s preeminent geriatric education programs,” said Linda Rohrer, trustee of the William G. Rohrer Charitable Foundation and chair of the Rowan University Board of Trustees. “We are excited to partner with the Institute to impact the lives of the students and patients through educating the next generation of top geriatricians.” The gift to the NJISA comes just five months after the historic joining of Rowan University and the former UMDNJ-School of Osteopathic Medicine. The William G. Rohrer Charitable Foundation has been a generous supporter of Rowan University for more than a decade, having donated over $13 million to support a variety of educational initiatives at the institution. “The Rohrer Foundation’s generous investment will transform the Institute and allow it to significantly expand its research, offerings and services,” said Rowan President Dr. Ali A. Houshmand. “Gifts such as these have an ever-expanding impact on many lives. We appreciate the Foundation’s confidence in the School of Osteopathic Medicine and the Institute for Successful Aging.” The Foundation’s commitment comes at a critical time as RowanSOM works to address the impact the rapidly aging American population will have on our healthcare system. By the year 2030, America will be faced with a critical shortage of professionals trained in the complex healthcare needs of older adults. By that time, one out of every five people will be 65 years or older, including more than 1.1 million who call New Jersey home. “The partnership created through this gift allows the William G. Rohrer Charitable Foundation to strengthen and enhance medical education in the region,” said R.J. Tallarida, Jr., executive director of the Rowan University Foundation and associate vice president for University Advancement. “Their generosity continues to enhance the opportunities available to Rowan’s students and faculty.” This year marked the 12th time that RowanSOM has been listed as one of the nation’s top programs for geriatrics education by U.S. News & World Report. The NJISA at RowanSOM is nationally recognized for its innovative programs and leadership in geriatric education for medical students and other health professionals. “The research and education performed through this endowment will address key challenges confronting the elderly and enabling them to age successfully, that is, improving the quality of their lives,” said Dr. Thomas Cavalieri, dean of RowanSOM. “The endowment will also elevate the visibility and reputation of the NJISA worldwide.” About the William G. Rohrer Charitable FoundationThe William G. Rohrer Charitable Foundation was funded by the estate of William G. Rohrer, a former banker, businessman, public official and humanitarian from Camden County whose life was dedicated to improving the educational and economic prosperity of southern New Jersey. The foundation that honors Mr. Rohrer focuses on funding local causes in keeping with Mr. Rohrer’s long-time dedication to local organizations. The William G. Rohrer Charitable Foundation has been instrumental in propelling Rowan University’s College of Business into a highly competitive, well-respected, accredited school that provides project-based undergraduate and graduate programs. About the Rowan University FoundationThe Rowan University Foundation oversees and coordinates all fundraising activities and is responsible for the management and investment of all charitable contributions to benefit Rowan University. As the officially designated non-profit, independent organization of philanthropic aid to the institution, the Foundation is the only vehicle through which charitable gifts to Rowan University are made. The Foundation’s dedication to the success of the University and its students is reflected in its efforts to establish and cultivate partnerships with generous individuals, foundations and corporations. This investment in excellent public higher education affirms the Foundation’s commitment to serving the University’s students and the region by providing superior educational resources. About the New Jersey Institute for Successful AgingSince 1989, the New Jersey Institute for Successful Aging based at the Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine has served older individuals and their families, providing medical care in varied settings and offering training for health professionals of multiple disciplines. NJISA’s statewide leadership in education, research, clinical care, community service and public policy fosters our commitment to helping the growing number of older individuals in New Jersey age successfully.