Health Physics Academic Education Center

 Health Physics Academic Education Center

• Founded in July 2023, Health Physics Academic Education Center (HPAERC) is an independent, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing careers in health physics and ensuring continued excellence in the science and practice of radiation safety. HPAERC furthers the work of the Health Physics Society (HPS) by raising and distributing crucial funds to increase awareness for health physics careers and support training professionals in the field. Scholarships, fellowships, faculty development grants, research grants, and other forms of financial support will be awarded to worthy students and institutions engaged in training the next generation of health physicists and radiation protection specialists.

• The critical need for health physics professionals cannot be overstated. The current workforce is aging out and fewer employees are entering the field. Over 50% of HPS members are over the age of 50, many of whom plan to retire within the next 10 years. Students are the future of our profession, and yet, the graduation rate for health physics is the lowest in decades and continues to decline dramatically. The shortage of radiation safety professionals impacts federal, state and local environmental protection agencies, medical care facilities, nuclear reactor sites, national laboratories, and other radiation related organizations. Furthermore, the number of colleges and universities offering certificates and degrees is decreasing, as more and more schools phase out their health physics programs. HPAERC assists university programs to grow and meet the shortage of health physicists across the country. 

Show Your Support 

• HPAERC relies on the generosity of HPS members, foundations, corporations, and the public to achieve its mission. Join us in propelling the health physics field forward and encouraging more individuals to pursue careers in it. 

Show your support for the advancement of health physics by making a tax-deductible donation today!

Ways to Give

• Donate by Check. To send a gift in the mail, please make checks payable to “Health Physics Fund" with HPAERC in the memo line and mail to: Health Physics Society, Attn: HPAERC, 950 Herndon Parkway, Suite 450, Herndon, Virginia 20170.
• Recurring Monthly Donations. Turn your donation into a sustaining investment by establishing a monthly donation. [Coming Soon] 
• Corporate & Foundation Gifts. Partner with HPAERC to support training professionals in health physics and ensure the future success of the field. Whether you are looking to fulfill your philanthropic mission, build brand recognition, or show your support for the science and practice of radiation safety, your partnership helps further our important work. 
• Matching Gifts. Employee matching gift programs are a great way to double or triple your contribution to HPAERC. Check with your human resources department to see if your employer offers a matching gift program.
• Donate Stock. A charitable gift of stocks and publicly traded securities can offer great advantages and help avoid capital gains tax. Please consult your tax advisor or financial professional for more information.
• Wills & Bequests. Consider your philanthropic legacy by including the HPAERC in your estate plans. Your generosity will make a lasting difference in the achievement of our mission. Please consult your tax advisor or financial professional for more information.

HPAERC Officers & Board of Directors

Elizabeth Gillenwalters, President  

Jerry Thomas, Vice President  

Frazier Bronson, Treasurer  

Joseph Guido, Secretary  

Thomas Johnson, Board Member  

Jason Harris, Board Member  

Troy Prutzman, Board Member  

Mark Somerville, Board Member  

David Connolly, Board Member  

Craig Little, Advisor

HPAERC Standing Committees

Executive Committee

Finance and Budget Committee

Fundraising Committee

Award Rules Committee

Audit Committee

If you or anyone you know is interested in serving on the HPAERC Board of Directors or one of our standing committees, please email us at board@hpaerc.org.