The Massachusetts Gerontology Association has selected UMass Boston associate professor Elizabeth Dugan as the 2018 recipient of its Louis Lowy award, which honors individuals who have made important contributions to the field of aging in the state.

Dugan’s “research, leadership, and advocacy have directly contributed to the field of aging and have helped both researchers and providers alike improve on and expand their work in better serving the Commonwealth’s older adult population,” said association president Emily Williams, who is a director at Boston Senior Home Health and a UMass Boston gerontology alumnae.

“She is an inspiration to both current and past gerontologists alike,” said Williams.

Jeffrey Burr, chair of the Gerontology Department at the McCormack Graduate School, praised Dugan’s selection by the association, citing her distinguished career as a teacher, researcher and public advocate.

“Beth truly deserves this award,” said Burr. “Her dedication to advocacy and research that enhances the well-being of older adults warrants this recognition. Beth’s leadership in this area is much appreciated by our colleagues and students.”

Dugan has long led a team conducting extensive aging and population health research in New England states with the support of the Tufts Health Plan Foundation. Last year, she was named to Gov. Charlie Baker’s Council to Address Aging in Massachusetts. More recently, she was selected for a committee that will advise senior state officials responsible for an initiative to make it easier for older adults to live in healthy, inclusive and equitable environments.

“This is a well-deserved honor for Beth and her work,” said Len Fishman, director of the Gerontology Institute at UMass Boston. “Her research and public service have made a real difference in the lives of seniors living in Massachusetts and beyond.”

The association will present the Lowy award to Dugan at its annual spring conference to be held at Lasell College in Newton on May 4.