As the UMRA representative on the University of Minnesota’s Age-Friendly University (AFU) working group, I would like to give you a brief overview of this exciting project. Our working group will have met three times by the end of August. We have sent a letter to President Gabel requesting endorsement and look forward to her response. 

The global network of Age-Friendly Universities was started at Dublin City University in Ireland in 2012 and now includes more than 62 universities in 10 countries. These universities have endorsed the 10 AFU principles and have committed to becoming more age-friendly in their programs and policies. 

Minnesota’s AFU Case Statement (highlights)
July 1, 2020

The University of Minnesota, founded in the belief that all people are enriched by understanding, is dedicated to the advancement of learning and the search for truth; to the sharing of this knowledge through education for a diverse community; and to the application of this knowledge to benefit the people of the state, the nation, and the world. [See Board of Regents Policy: Mission Statement.]

Background. Today, there are more older people than children in Minnesota. This demographic reality is here for the long term and will impact the core of work in all sectors. As Minnesota’s Land Grant University, we have a commitment to serve an age-diverse population. 

Vision. The University of Minnesota is a leader in age-friendly work, older adults are fully integrated into University and community life, and our students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members are fully prepared to both embrace opportunities and address challenges.

Value. Lifelong learners bring experience and perspective that enrich education. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are central pillars to all the work we do. Ageism is a pervasive form of bigotry that must be challenged and eliminated.

Professor Joseph Gaugler, a member of our working group, spoke about the AFU movement during UMRA’s November 2019 Living Well Workshop, as many of you may recall.

Please email me if you would like to read the full case statement and/or have ideas to offer.

—Lynn C. Anderson