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.

A KFF Health News story on safety issues in rehab hospitals highlighted research by Dr. Chih-Ying Li, an aging research expert at UTMB Health. Her 2017 study found that for-profit rehab facilities were the only type linked to higher 30-day unplanned hospital readmissions among Medicare patients. Li noted the differences weren’t large, but the finding was consistent.

We are proud to announce that Dr. Abbey B. Berenson, MD, PhD, MMS, has been named the recipient of the 2025 Lifetime Achievement in Research Award, one of the highest honors presented through UTMB’s Faculty Excellence and Lifetime Achievement Awards.

Please join us for the next Pepper Investigators Lecture: "Stronger for Longer: The Interplay Between Lifestyle, Muscle Metabolism, and Successful Aging," presented by Andrew Murton, PhD, Assistant Professor, Department of Surgery on July 23, 2025 at noon in RSH 6.100 and via Teams. Lunch provided for those in person.

Elizabeth Huber recently joined the Sealy Center on Aging as a Senior Business Coordinator and will primarily be working with Lexi, Oscar, and Dr. Morrow on project coordination and ensuring smooth operations across the team. Elizabeth has been with UTMB for 13 years, most recently serving as a Medical Staff Interpreter. In that role, she supported a wide range of specialties and enjoyed building relationships with faculty and patients alike. She especially valued witnessing the professional growth of residents and the dynamic, behind-the-scenes nature of the work. Please join us in welcoming Elizabeth to the Sealy Center on Aging!

UTMB Health Pepper Center Pilot awardee and Associate Professor, Department of Occupational Therapy Chih-Ying "Cynthia" Li, PhD, OTR has been named a fellow of the American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine (ACRM). The Fellow of ACRM designation recognizes active members with an outstanding record of professional service to ACRM who have also made contributions of national significance to the field of medical rehabilitation. Congratulations, Dr. Li!