UM appointed North American regional lead for age-friendly universities

The University of Manitoba has been appointed the Regional Lead for North America of the Age-Friendly University (AFU) Global Network, a prestigious role that positions UM at the forefront of advancing age-inclusive practices in higher education.

This appointment means UM will help guide strategy, outreach, and educational efforts across the continent, working closely with the Global Network Secretariat to shape global initiatives.

The designation aligns directly with MOMENTUM, UM’s strategic plan and our commitment to fostering a vibrant community rooted in equity, diversity, human dignity, inclusivity, respect, well-being, and care for one another. Becoming the North American lead reinforces UM’s dedication to lifelong learning, intergenerational engagement, and research that addresses the needs of an aging society.

Decades of leadership in aging research and advocacy

UM has been at the forefront of aging-related work for decades as demonstrated by establishing Canada’s first research centre on aging in 1982. The Centre on Aging has earned a national and international reputation for excellence in research.

UM was the first Canadian university – and among the first globally – to endorse the age-friendly university principles launched by Dublin City University and joined the official AFU Global Network in 2016.

Through the Centre on Aging, UM has demonstrated leadership in interdisciplinary research, community engagement, and age-friendly programming. Early research with citizen scientists shaped thinking around how universities can enable older individuals to engage fully in academic life. UM has actively encouraged other universities to join the AFU network, providing tools and guidance to support their efforts.

“The University of Manitoba is an ideal candidate for this leadership role, building on UM’s long-standing excellence in research and related activities that promote global age-friendly cities and environments,” says Tina Chen, Vice-Provost (Equity). “We are also committed to embedding an age-inclusivity lens across all priority areas to foster a truly supportive environment for students, staff, and faculty of every age.”

Meet the new regional co-leads

Michelle Porter
Director of the Centre on Aging and Professor in the Faculty of Kinesiology and Recreation Management.
Porter has been a driving force behind UM’s age-friendly initiatives since 2015. Her research spans physical activity and aging, ageism, and mobility, and she has held leadership roles in national organizations like Active Aging Canada. She was instrumental in UM becoming Canada’s first AFU and brings decades of expertise in aging research and advocacy.

Angie Conrad
Anti-Ableism and Age-Inclusivity Specialist in the Office of Equity Transformation.
Conrad joined UM in 2025, bringing extensive experience in accessibility policy and program development from roles at Canada Post and the Manitoba government. Her work focuses on dismantling systemic barriers and fostering inclusive frameworks, making her a strong advocate for age-inclusive practices within the university.

Current Age-Friendly Programming at UM

“For years, UM has provided a great range of opportunities for people of all ages through employment, research participation, lifelong learning, recreational and wellness programs, cultural or sporting events, and intergenerational engagement,” says Michelle Porter. “Our commitment to age-friendly principles is helping to break down barriers and welcome a growing community of older learners – and that is very encouraging to see.”

Here are some initiatives aligned with the Ten AFU Principles:

• Age-Friendly University Hub: An online resource showcasing UM’s commitment to age-inclusivity and providing tools for learners and educators.
  

  Sofia Clunie, Extended Education, talks with an attendee of the Age-Friendly University Showcase 2025.

• Micro-certificate in Facilitating Older Adult Learning: Launched in 2022, this program trains teachers and professional care workers to better serve older adults.
• Adult Companionship Services Directory: The directory connects older adults and their caregivers within the UM community with students offering support through companionship services.
• ESSENCE project: Informed by consultations with Senior Scholars and Professors Emeriti, a number of new programs and benefits were rolled out in Fall 2025 to increase engagement of UM’s Emeriti and Senior Scholars.
• Retirement Readiness resources: The Road to Retirement self-directed course on UM Learn helps staff and faculty navigate the non-financial aspects of retirement and a peer network allows for social connection and conversation about the impact of this significant life transition.
  

  Jasmine Brar, Rady Family Centre, at Age-Friendly University Showcase

• Age-Friendly University Showcase: Hosted by the Centre on Aging in conjunction with their annual spring research symposium, the AFU Showcase features programs, resources and opportunities for the UM community and the general public.
• Other time-limited projects: Initiatives such as technology training, an inter-generational art project, and campus wayfinding. 

Looking Ahead: Expanding Age-Friendly Practices Across North America

“There is more potential for UM to grow as a leader in this space, helping advance the adoption of age-inclusive practices beyond individual AFU universities to broader engagement across the region,” says Angie Conrad.

UM’s leadership role will amplify its influence in shaping inclusive education and research, ensuring that learners of all ages feel welcomed and supported.