FAU Recognized as Age-Friendly University

Thursday, Apr 14, 2022

I am proud to share that Florida Atlantic is now a member of the Age-Friendly University (AFU) Global Network. This worldwide partnership among higher education institutions is based on AFU’s principles to enhance age-friendly programs and policies for inclusive learning.

The Institute for Human Health and Disease Intervention, a key pillar of FAU’s Strategic Plan, has played a central role in the expansion of University initiatives that improve the health and wellness of aging populations. Additionally, the Stiles-Nicholson Brain Institute focuses on neuroscience advancements for degenerative diseases such Alzheimer’s, in which the greatest known risk factor is increasing age. By emphasizing these pillars, we are working to build a more proactive and preventative care structure for older patients.

Additionally, FAU’s academic programming addresses the educational needs of South Florida’s senior citizen community. The Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes on the Boca Raton, Jupiter and Davie campuses offer a variety of courses that support second careers and workforce reentry for older adults. FAU’s College of Social Work and Criminal Justice also offers a Healthy Aging Certificate Program that equips students with specialized knowledge about caring for diverse aging populations.

With this new AFU designation, we are revitalized in our efforts to grow and develop FAU’s important age-related programs, policies and initiatives. We look forward to bringing these benefits to our students, as well as our local and global communities.