Rutgers Student Awarded David Malcolm Scholarship for Dementia Care

Luis J. Cordero plans to transform geriatric and dementia care, especially in nursing homes.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Luis J. Cordero, a first-generation, low-income, queer Latinx student at Rutgers University, has been awarded the David Malcolm Fall 2025 Scholarship. Cordero developed an early interest in public health and transforming geriatric and dementia care after growing up as a caregiver for his mother with schizophrenia and younger-onset dementia, and his grandmother with chronic illnesses. He has studied aging and dementia care in 10 countries and volunteered in nursing homes, sometimes serving as a patient advocate.

Why it matters

Aging and dementia care are increasingly critical as the population ages, and Cordero's vision to improve care, especially in nursing homes, could have a significant impact on the lives of many older adults.

The details

Cordero is pursuing a Master of Public Health degree at Rutgers University, focused on population aging and clinical epidemiology, while working part-time. He also works with a Geriatric Workforce Enhancement Program, training healthcare professionals to serve older adults. Cordero's goal is to turn his lived experience into leadership, hardship into healing, and education into community impact.

  • Since 2021, David Malcolm has supported students' education through this scholarship program.
  • Cordero is currently a graduate student at Rutgers University.

The players

Luis J. Cordero

A first-generation, low-income, queer Latinx student at Rutgers University who developed an early interest in public health and transforming geriatric and dementia care after growing up as a caregiver for his mother and grandmother.

David Malcolm

A San Diego-based community leader, entrepreneur, and real estate expert who has supported students' education through a scholarship program since 2021.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Luis has the very real potential to make a significant impact and I am delighted to be able to help him along the path.”

— David Malcolm (GlobeNewswire)

“My goal is to turn lived experience into leadership, hardship into healing, and education into community impact.”

— Luis J. Cordero (GlobeNewswire)

The takeaway

This scholarship award highlights the importance of supporting students like Luis J. Cordero, who have overcome obstacles and are dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of older adults through their studies and work in geriatric and dementia care.