Notes from the Director

Notes from the Director

At the Penn State Center for Healthy Aging, we recognize that science does not exist in isolation. Every discovery we make, every training opportunity we provide, and every collaboration we foster happens in the context of a rapidly changing social and scientific landscape. As we move forward, I want to take a moment to reaffirm the values that guide us and the mission that defines us.

Our Mission

Through research, training, and outreach, we connect the dots between discovery and action—turning new insights about aging into better health and quality of life for older adults and their families.

Research is where it all begins. By studying the biological, psychological, and social processes that shape aging, we uncover insights that drive new interventions, policies, and programs. We embrace the full research process—from understanding fundamental mechanisms to applying discoveries in ways that improve lives.

We believe aging research should benefit everyone. To do this, we follow values that shape how we work, how we partner, and how we prepare the next generation of scientists.

Our Values: Respect, Opportunity, Collaboration (ROC)

• Respect: We value the experiences, perspectives, and contributions of everyone involved in our work—from researchers and students to older adults, families, and community partners. We listen before we act , knowing that respect strengthens the science we do.
• Opportunity: We create pathways for growth and contribution—not just for those engaged with us, but also for those whose talents could otherwise be overlooked. By providing the right support, we aim to reveal potential rather than assume it’s already recognized.
• Collaboration:The best solutions emerge when we work across disciplines, sectors, and communities. Whether partnering with clinicians, community leaders, or policymakers, our commitment to collaboration ensures our science has real-world impact.

Looking Ahead

In the months ahead, this space will be a place where I share reflections on our work, how it connects to emerging challenges and opportunities in research and society, and discuss how our values guide our actions in science, policy, and community engagement..

I invite your feedback, ideas, and voices—because living our values means creating space for open conversation.

- Marty Sliwinski