San Diego State University achieved designation as an Age-Friendly University (AFU) in 2021, aligning with an expanding global network of higher education institutions dedicated to championing age-friendly policies and programs. Our commitment spans education, innovation, research, and fostering a holistic, inclusive approach to promoting health and aging across the lifespan.
An age-friendly university embodies 10 principles on how a college or university can prepare for the future and meet the needs of students, faculty, and people of all ages.
Five Benefits of an Age-Friendly University
Age-Friendly Aztecs: SDSU’s vision of an age-inclusive campus!
At San Diego State University, we are committed to fostering a campus that is inclusive and supportive for individuals of all ages. As part of our vision for an age-friendly campus, we are dedicated to creating an environment where students, faculty, staff, and the broader community can thrive regardless of age.
Non-traditional students, often defined as those who do not follow the typical path of enrolling in college immediately after high school, bring a wealth of life experience and diverse perspectives to the academic environment. These students, who may be over the age of 25, balancing careers, families, or other responsibilities, enrich classroom discussions and contribute to a dynamic and inclusive campus culture. Their unique challenges and strengths underscore the importance of tailored support services and flexible learning options to ensure their academic success and personal growth.
In Fall 2024, SDSU has 2,859 undergraduate and 3,152 graduate students over the age of 25.
Age-Friendly University Steering Committee
To achieve our Age-Friendly University goals of recognizing and addressing the needs of students of all ages to create an equitable and effective learning environment, we have established the Age-Friendly University Steering Committee.
We would like to thank our committee members for their dedication to age-inclusivity on SDSU’s campus! If you are passionate about creating an inclusive environment for students of all ages and interested in serving on the Steering Committee, click here.
Elinor (Nory) Behana
Lecturer
Department of Child and Family Development
Stacy Carota
Executive Director of Development
College of Sciences
College of Health and Human Services
Amber Avery-Lewallen
Development Specialist II/Sponsored Research Development
SDSU Research Foundation
Young-Shin Lee, PhD, RN
Associate Professor
School of Nursing
Lee A. Taylor
SDSU Alumni
Professional Studies and Fine Arts
Joe Wolfman
Associate Dean Finance & Operations
Global Campus
Elzbeth Islas, M.A.
Director
Women’s Resource Center
The SDSU Age-Friendly University Steering Committee is managed by CEAL staff. For more information, contact Jocelyn Protopappas at jsmith20@sdsu.edu.
Resources for Lifelong Learning
Osher @ SDSU is a lifelong learning institute designed for adult learners aged 50 and older who want to fuel their passion for learning, develop new interests, and share a forum for friendship and socialization.
Tools for Advancing Age Inclusivity in Higher Education is designed by the Gerontological Society of America and the Academy for Gerontology in Higher Education, with support from AARP, to provide resources to advance age inclusivity in institutions of higher education for faculty, students, administrators, and other campus leaders.
CSU Over 60 Fee Waiver Program is for degree-seeking California residents over the age of 60.