University of Indianapolis receives Age-Friendly University designation, showcasing its commitment to lifelong learning and inclusivity
The University of Indianapolis announced today that it has become part of the Age-Friendly University Global Network, a prestigious recognition that underscores UIndy’s commitment to supporting lifelong learners and fostering an inclusive community for individuals of all ages. The designation is a milestone and reflection of UIndy’s ongoing efforts to create accessible opportunities and address the needs of older adults in a rapidly changing world—including the graduation of more than 250 Greyhound students with a degree or certificate in aging studies in the last five years.
The Age-Friendly University (AFU) Global Network is a collection of more than 100 universities worldwide, with about 75 located in the United States. UIndy is only the second institution of higher education in Indiana to gain membership and formally embrace the ten AFU principles including promoting intergenerational learning and widening access to online educational opportunities for older adults.
The designation reflects the reality that age-inclusivity in higher education is more important than ever thanks to the growth of the older adult population as well as the changing metrics of student populations because of evolving technology, second career needs and lifelong learning desires. Membership in the AFU Global Network allows students and the campus community to benefit from the best practices of a forward-thinking academic community to enrich the lives of older adults in Central Indiana and beyond.
“We are incredibly proud to have earned this designation,” said Lisa Borrero, professor and chair of the Interprofessional Health & Aging Studies program. “For years, UIndy has been at the forefront of providing opportunities for lifelong learning, and this designation reaffirms our mission to support older adults and create a welcoming environment for individuals at every stage of life. We believe that everyone, regardless of age, deserves access to the transformative educational experiences we offer.”
The AFU designation was achieved based on a number of ongoing initiatives at the University of Indianapolis, including the creation of UIndy Online and Sease Institute to meet the growing need for post-traditional learners who may be looking to finish a degree or reskill for a new challenge. UIndy offers three programs in aging studies, including a master of science degree. It also houses the Center for Aging & Community (CAC) that brings the expertise and experience of the university to help community partners and government agencies solve real-world problems related to aging. UIndy is also a mecca for the arts and culture on the south side of Indianapolis with numerous concerts, art exhibits and faculty lecture series throughout the year. In the last five years, 165 undergraduate students have completed their certificate in aging studies and 95 graduate students have earned a master’s degree or graduate certificate in the field.
“As a faculty member, it’s exciting to be part of UIndy’s efforts to engage with older adults and enhance their learning experiences,” said Marwa Noureldin, associate professor and director of the Aging Studies and Healthcare Administration programs. “Our membership into the Age-Friendly University network demonstrates our place as an inclusive institution which welcomes everyone—no matter their age or stage in life. This helps put us on the map in terms of a tangible affirmation of our commitment to our community.”
Borrero, who spearheaded the effort to join the AFU network, hopes membership will provide greater visibility and awareness to the broader community as well as University of Indianapolis students. It also connects UIndy to a community of other universities worldwide to share ideas and best practices for partnering with a segment of the population—it now makes nearly 56 million Americans or more than 1 in 6 people in the United States according to the U.S. Census.
“UIndy’s mission is to serve all students, and this designation expands that mission to include older learners as a vital part of the university’s future,” added Borrero. “We believe that education and enrichment is for everyone, no matter their age or background. Our efforts in creating an Age-Friendly University reflect that core belief and position UIndy as a community leader in aging and inclusivity.”
To learn more about UIndy’s designation as part of the Age-Friendly University Global Network, visit https://uindy.edu/about-uindy/age-friendly. For more information or to arrange an interview with Lisa Borrero or Marwa Noureldin, please contact UIndy’s Director of Public & Media Relations Dan Klein at kleind@uindy.edu.