Karen Clark, of Cazenovia, received recognition from Upstate University with the “Excellence in Geriatric Care Award,” presented at the annual nursing excellence celebration. This award recognizes and celebrates the accomplishments and excellence of staff members in the Upstate Medical University community. Clark’s attributes include positively impacting the life of older adult patients, fostering collaboration with members of the community when caring for older adults and facilitating family involvement in patient care of older adults.

Clark, a LMSW with University Geriatricians, Central New York’s designated Center of Excellence for Alzheimer’s Disease, was nominated by her fellow co-workers for her passion for her job, as well as for volunteering for the community, providing valuable information, collaboration and support.

Clark co-facilitates a monthly caregiver support group for Cazenovia area residents and their families under the auspices of the Alzheimer’s Association of CNY and the Community Resources for Independent Seniors (CRIS). She has spoken at local caregiver events and expanded her knowledge by attending national conferences on the aging.

Clark continues to support and learns from her favorite seniors, and her parents, Dick and Marilyn Alberding, of Cazenovia.