About

Mission and Vision

CEAL's mission is to create a thriving aging ecosystem where every person can experience a long life with health, opportunity, and purpose. Our vision is to lead a collaborative movement that transforms how society understands, supports, and invests in aging through innovation, research, and community-driven action.

CEAL Team at the On Aging 2024
Strategic PlanPartners

What We Do

As part of the SDSU College of Health and Human Services and the SDSU Social Policy Institute, CEAL was established to advance research, innovation, and community-centered initiatives that address the needs of older adults, people living with disabilities, and family caregivers. Rooted in principles of equity, lived experience, and data-driven decision-making, CEAL brings together faculty, practitioners, community partners, and students to strengthen supports for healthy aging across the lifespan.

CEAL is at the forefront of addressing the rapidly evolving challenges and opportunities associated with an aging society. Through a multidisciplinary approach, CEAL promotes longevity, cultivates workforce innovations, advances age-friendly initiatives, and leads the Regional Aging Research Network. CEAL transforms ideas into actionable strategies, fosters intergenerational connections, and advocates for policies that support inclusive aging environments.

SDSU’s designation as the region’s first Age-Friendly University underscores the institution’s commitment to age-inclusive learning, research, and community engagement. This designation strengthens CEAL’s ability to bridge higher education with public agencies and community-based organizations, creating scalable models that contribute to healthier and more connected communities.

Focus Areas

Staff of the Social Policy Institute were instrumental in crafting the initial concept of CEAL. The team continues to bring innovation to the field through policy building, program coordination and research evaluation.