Iona Faculty, Dr. Penelope Moore, Recognized with AARP’s 50th Anniversary Social Impact Award – February 2009

New Rochelle, NY – Dr. Penelope Moore, associate professor of Social Work and Women’s Studies at Iona College, was honored by AARP with its 50th Anniversary Social Impact Award. In commemoration of its 50th year, AARP is recognizing the
achievements of New Yorkers across the state who have demonstrated an exceptional commitment to enhancing the lives of New Yorkers, improving their communities, and inspiring others.

AARP was founded by Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus, a retired school teacher who used every opportunity to focus America’s leaders and the public on the needs of others. Dr. Andrus, lived her life by the motto “To serve, not to be served.”

“This year AARP is celebrating 50 years of helping people achieve independence, choice and control throughout their lives,” said Lois Aronstein, AARP New York State Director. “In honor of this milestone, AARP New York is paying tribute to the legacy
and successes of 50 New Yorkers whose work and achievements live up to Dr. Andrus’ motto and who have been our champions of social change.”

An associate professor at Iona College, Dr. Moore has focused on recognizing and understanding the cultural diversity within groups in need of social services, and developing programs to address these diverse cultures and values. A leader in death, bereavement and care of the dying, her focus is on minority and medically underserved communities. “This award confirms the outstanding work of Dr. Penelope Moore in her field. It is surely well-deserved,” said Brian J. Nickerson, Ph.D., Dean, School of Arts & Science, Iona College.

Founded in 1940 by the Congregation of Edmund Rice Christian Brothers, Iona College is a private, coeducational institution of learning in the tradition of American Catholic higher education. Iona, currently listed in the US News and World Report’s annual “America’s Best Colleges 2008” and The Princeton Review’s “Best Northeastern Colleges” 2008 edition, offers undergraduate degrees in liberal arts, science, and business administration, as well as Master of Arts, Master of Science and Master of Business Administration degrees and numerous post-graduate certificate programs.