Shayna Gleason
About Shayna Gleason
Shayna Gleason is a PhD student and graduate assistant at the Center for Social and Demographic Research on Aging at the University of Massachusetts Boston, where she has worked since 2019. She has contributed to anti-ageism initiatives and has a background in sociology and anthropology from Carleton College.
Work at UMass Boston
Shayna Gleason has been a PhD Student and Graduate Assistant at the Center for Social and Demographic Research on Aging at the University of Massachusetts Boston since 2019. In this role, she has contributed to research focused on aging and ageism. Notably, she developed a discussion guide for the City of Boston’s anti-ageism campaign and facilitated focus groups to refine this guide. Her work supports initiatives aimed at understanding and addressing the challenges faced by older adults.
Education and Expertise
Shayna Gleason studied Sociology and Anthropology at Carleton College, where she earned her Bachelor's degree from 2013 to 2017. She also obtained a Certificate in Spanish during her studies. Her educational background provides a strong foundation for her research in social and demographic issues related to aging. Additionally, she completed her high school education at Kent Place School from 2006 to 2013.
Professional Background
Prior to her current role, Shayna Gleason worked in various positions that contributed to her expertise in community engagement and program evaluation. She served as an Engagement Specialist at Access Transportation Systems from 2018 to 2019 and as a Fellow at PULSE - Pittsburgh Urban Leadership Service Experience from 2017 to 2018. She also worked as a Junior Consultant at Insightformation, Inc. and held a position as a Teacher's Assistant at Salta Jump Into Spanish.
Research Contributions
Shayna Gleason has developed an evaluation plan for a state workforce development initiative aimed at older adults. This plan included the creation of measurement instruments and data-sharing agreements. She has also facilitated workshops addressing social isolation among older adults and conducted program evaluations, resulting in comprehensive reports for funders. Her analytical work supports age-friendly initiatives in local communities.
Community Engagement Initiatives
In her professional journey, Shayna Gleason has actively engaged in community initiatives. She has analyzed demographic profiles to support age-friendly initiatives in local towns. Her experience includes facilitating focus groups and workshops that address critical issues such as ageism and social isolation among older adults, demonstrating her commitment to improving the lives of this demographic.