Age-Friendly University Initiative

The University of Vermont is embracing an innovative global education movement that supports intergenerational opportunities within the University and benefits Vermonters young and old. 

Members of the Age-Friendly University (AFU) Global Network craft policies and programs to welcome students of all ages for social, personal and economic benefits. AFU provides a framework to guide UVM in innovative practices in teaching, research, community engagement and more, directed toward older Vermonters. 

The alliance will support UVM as it broadens efforts to prepare students to be engaged citizens and work with Vermont’s aging population. The University of Vermont is expanding intergenerational activities such as the Grand Friends Program to boost the psychological, physical and social well-being of a broader audience and to help reduce ageism. 

AFU members follow 10 principles addressing opportunities and responsibilities that span the breadth of University activities. These principles align with UVM’s Academic Success Goal priorities of teaching and learning, knowledge creation and evidence-based engagement to address challenges and contribute to positive community impact. 

The Center on Aging’s Advisory Board is spearheading this work, led by Dr. Jason Garbarino of the College of Nursing and Health Sciences and Janet Nunziata, Center on Aging associate director for education. 

For more information, email aging@uvm.edu

A note from Provost Patricia Prelock: 

"The AFU principles align well with our Academic Success Goal priorities of teaching and learning, knowledge creation, and evidence-based engagement to address contemporary challenges  and contribute to positive community impact by preparing students to be engaged citizens. I am excited about the opportunities for greater intergenerational learning and collaboration for our campus."

What’s Next?

 

The Center on Aging is seeking a graduate student intern for a paid internship. To learn more, click here: Paid Internship Center on Aging AFU 2023

 

An Advisory Board is being formed to help determine the focus of UVM’s age-friendly work. Membership will include representatives from within UVM, as well as the wider community, including alumni. 

Age Friendly University Logo


Jason Garbarino, clinical associate professor and vice chair, Nursing Undergraduate Program, and Janet Nunziata, Center on Aging associate director for education, talk with Emily Raymond, Intern at the Center.

Pictured above: Jason Garbarino, clinical associate professor and vice chair, Nursing Undergraduate Program, and Janet Nunziata, Center on Aging associate director for education, talk with Emily Raymond, Intern at the Center. 

Building Bridges Between Generations – Students at the College of Nursing and Health Sciences engage with older adults in a Service Learning Course

Pictured above: Building Bridges Between Generations – Students at the College of Nursing and Health Sciences engage with older adults in a Service Learning Course.