Aaron Rochlen, Ph.D., co-program director of Arts & Humanities for the Moritz Center for Societal Impact at The University of Texas at Austin School of Social Work, has been named the 2026 Distinguished Ambassador in Aging Award recipient by the Aging Life Care Association.
The award recognizes individuals whose research, advocacy or creative work raises national awareness of critical issues in aging. Rochlen, a clinical professor in the Department of Educational Psychology at UT Austin, was honored for his work with “Under The Rock,” a psychology and music project he created that explores how music, emotion, identity and mental health intersect across the human lifespan.
“Aaron’s work is an example of what happens when the arts and social science come together in service of human well-being,” said Allan Cole, dean of UT Social Work. “Through programs like ‘Under The Rock,’ he helps people across generations connect more deeply with themselves and each other — and that is exactly the kind of work the Moritz Center for Societal Impact was built to support.”
“I’m so honored to receive the Distinguished Ambassador of Aging Award. This recognition means so much, as it reflects and reinforces my long-standing passion for using creative, music-based approaches to connect with and support people across diverse populations and throughout all stages of life,” said Dr. Rochlen.
Rochlen was recognized at the Aging Life Care Association’s 42nd Annual Conference in Austin on April 23.