Age-Friendly University of Minnesota
Aging is a universal experience, and Minnesota’s changing demographics present new opportunities for learning, innovation, and community impact. As we live longer, healthier lives, we continue to contribute decades of knowledge, leadership, creativity, and expertise. The University of Minnesota embraces these contributions by creating opportunities for older adults to learn, teach, collaborate, and shape the future alongside students, faculty, staff, and community partners.
In September 2020, then-President Joan Gabel endorsed the University of Minnesota’s membership in the Global Network for Age-Friendly Universities, affirming the University’s commitment to fostering an inclusive, lifelong learning environment for people of all ages. This designation recognizes the University’s longstanding work while reinforcing its commitment to advancing age-friendly policies, programs, research, and practices across all campuses.
Age-Friendly University Council
Established in 2020, the cross-campus Age-Friendly University Council provides leadership for the University’s age-friendly initiatives. The Council works to ensure that aging is embraced as a source of strength and opportunity throughout the University’s teaching, research, service, and community engagement.
Our Vision
The University of Minnesota is a national leader in age-friendly higher education, where older adults are fully integrated into university life and every student is prepared to thrive in an aging society.
Our Values
- Intergenerational connection: We all benefit when people of different generations learn, work, and solve challenges together.
- Lifelong learning: Learners of every age enrich the educational experience through their knowledge, perspectives, and lived experiences.
- Equity and inclusion: We are committed to creating an inclusive university where people of every age feel welcomed, valued, and empowered to participate.
- Ending ageism: We recognize ageism as a pervasive form of bias and are committed to challenging stereotypes and promoting a more accurate, positive understanding of aging.
Council Members
The Age-Friendly University Council members include:
- Aging Studies Interdisciplinary Group – Hafsa Salad
- Bakken Center for Spirituality & Healing – Sue Nankivell
- Center for Healthy Aging & Innovation – Rajean Moone
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health – Christina Cauble
- MN Northstar GWEP – Teresa Schicker
- Office for Equity and Diversity – Kate Klosterman
- Office of Public Engagement – Merrie Benasutti
- One Stop Student Services – Julie Selander
- Osher Lifelong Learning Institute – Kate Schaefers
- U of M Alumni Association – Sam Glazer Hewson
- University of Minnesota Extension – Anita Harris
- University of Minnesota Retirees Association – Eric Hockert
- University of Minnesota Women’s Club – Shirley Barnes
Policy & Age-Friendly UMN News
Each quarter, the Age-Friendly University Council shares a newsletter highlighting our ongoing efforts to foster a more inclusive, age-friendly campus that supports lifelong learning and engagement. These newsletters include updates on events, Age-Friendly initiatives at the University of Minnesota, media highlights, progress on the Age-Friendly Minnesota Blueprint, and introductions to Council members. You’ll also find featured stories and spotlights on the individuals and organizations helping to advance this important work.
Sign up to receive Age-Friendly UMN News
Read past newsletters:
Resources for Lifelong Learners and Non-Traditional Students
- Handout: Opportunities for LifeLong Learners, Retirees & Older Minnesotans
- One Stop Student Services: UMN’s help and information services for all students who have questions about registration or paying tuition.
- Senior Citizen Education Program: a state benefit that allows Minnesota residents aged 62 or older to enroll in courses for reduced cost.
