Enrolling in a new degree program takes an adventurous spirit and a bit of faith. For Dorice Redman, the history and legacy of USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology gave her the confidence to start the journey. Where it ended wasn’t quite what she expected.
“Coming into the program, I thought it would enhance my work in senior living, which I loved,” Redman says. “But it has opened my eyes to so much more. I’m thinking a lot bigger and broader.”
Finding new solutions to the challenges of aging
The USC Leonard Davis School established the Master of Science in Applied Technology and Aging (MSATA) degree to train a new generation of leaders. The program aims to help students like Redman be fluent in both the science of aging and the application of advanced technology.
“Our goal is not just to have a degree, but to make USC a hub of Age Tech — a leading force in aging and technology with educational programs, with fundamental research, translation, fostering and incubating technologies, and serving as the nexus of academia, industry and investment partners in this field,” says USC Leonard Davis School Dean Pinchas Cohen, Distinguished Professor of Gerontology, Medicine and Biological Sciences.
The MSATA curriculum includes classes in gerontology and how technology can support older adults’ health, independence and safety. USC Leonard Davis designed the program for a wide range of professionals in fields such as senior living, healthcare and engineering.
An exceptional program delivered by leading experts
Redman enjoyed the mix of courses she took and the hands-on expertise of the faculty. “Professors like Adjunct Lecturer Manuel Acevedo aren’t just academics; they’re pioneers who develop tech companies like HelpfulVillage.com, which helps older adults live longer in their own homes,” Redman says. “I was also impressed with Lecturers Jim Biggs and Joshua Johnson MAG ’09 who manage senior living communities across the country.”
Many classes also featured prominent guest speakers, including company executives and insiders from the state of California. They shared their perspectives on aging and the future of technology.
One of the most impactful classes for Redman was GERO 568: Adaptive Age-Friendly Environments and Injury Prevention. Taught by Professor Emeritus Jon Pynoos, this course emphasized the importance of accessible environments and how to evaluate accessibility. “It made me notice design with different eyes, especially in the senior living community I was working in,” Redman says.
Combining interests in senior living and technology
Redman’s path to the MSATA program included a variety of experiences. As a financial planner, she helped many older adults manage their retirement assets to leave legacies. Part of her role included teaching older adults about Medicare.
While serving as an executive administrative assistant for a long-term care facility operator, Redman’s boss told her she’d make a good facility leader. Redman took this encouragement to heart, eventually earning a bachelor’s degree in health administration and an administrator’s license.
Although she didn’t have formal training in computer science or information technology, Redman has always been the office go-to for tech issues. “In the early days of the internet, I taught myself to create websites and have kept up with the evolution of technology ever since,” she says.
With these unique skills and much enthusiasm, she landed a job as digital innovation director at a Newport Beach assisted living community. In this position, she provided IT support and developed technology training programs for staff and residents.
Redman quickly moved up the ladder at the community, becoming assistant executive director. She also started thinking about a master’s degree.
“It had to be USC”
The USC Leonard Davis School is renowned in the world of gerontology. Founded in 1975, it’s the oldest and largest educational institution on aging.
Over her career, Redman had encountered many influential alums, including Katy Fike MSG ’06, PhD ’09 and Rick Matros MSG ’77. USC also offered a robust distance learning program that was essential for Redman. “I looked around at other gerontology programs and nothing compared,” she says. “I knew that it had to be USC.”
Redman started speaking to an admissions counselor about the different master’s programs. Her counselor asked about her background, interests and educational goals and suggested the new MSATA degree. “My nature is to be curious, and I’ve always leaned toward taking the road less traveled. So, that’s the program I chose,” she says.
Balancing school and work
Redman completed her degree in two years while working full time. She attended classes online, sometimes live and sometimes asynchronously. Her employer was accommodating, allowing her to adjust her schedule as needed.
USC Leonard Davis School offers many ways for online students to connect with the faculty and each other. “Meeting other people, building friendships and networks is a huge part of the USC experience,” Redman says. “When I could, I attended events in person, although I still haven’t made it to a football game.”
Opening a world of possibilities
Redman graduated from the MSATA program in May 2024 and spent a year as executive director of an assisted living and dementia care community in Irvine. She’s now looking to do something different. That new opportunity may include teaching, working with a tech startup or focusing on policy issues.
“There are so many possibilities,” Redman says. “I have a lifetime of practical experience and a degree that gives me credibility in this field. I’m excited and feel prepared to start fresh.”
To learn more about the Master of Science in Applied Technology and Aging (MSATA) degree at the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, call us at (213) 740-5156.
