Springfield College to Host Symposium on Positive Aging: "Flourishing Across the Lifespan" on April 9

Springfield, MA (03/26/2026) — Springfield College will host a thought-provoking symposium titled "Flourishing Across the Lifespan" on Thursday, April 9, 2026, from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. in the Brown Cooper Health Sciences Center. The event is free and open to community partners and members of the public as well as Springfield College students, faculty, and staff.

Focused on advancing positive aging through education, research, and action, the symposium will bring together scholars and practitioners to explore how individuals and communities can foster meaningful, vibrant lives at every stage.

The evening will begin with a keynote address from Joann M. Montepare, PhD, professor emerita at Lasell University and a contributor to the Age-Friendly University (AFU) initiative. Her remarks will set the stage for a dynamic panel discussion featuring Springfield College faculty, followed by interactive small-group breakout sessions.

Panelists include:
Allie Capo Burdick, Program Director of Athletic Counseling and Assistant Professor of Counseling
Pamela S. Higgins, Interim Chair of the Public Health and Health Professions Department and Professor of Health Sciences
Rebecca Lartigue, Honors Program Director and Professor of English
Elizabeth O'Neill, Chair of the Department of Exercise Science, Director of Pre-Med/Pre-Health Scholars, and Professor of Exercise Science

Throughout the symposium, participants will engage in conversations that challenge traditional assumptions about aging. Topics will include redefining what it means to grow older, addressing and reshaping ageist perspectives, and shifting from deficit-based views of aging to strength-based approaches. Discussions will also highlight the importance of psychological and physical well-being, lifelong learning, and a strong sense of purpose in shaping positive aging experiences.

"Building on the Age-Friendly University distinction Springfield College earned last year, the Positive Aging Symposium reflects our commitment to promoting intergenerational connection. It also highlights the vital role higher education plays in advancing aging education and supporting meaningful opportunities for an increasingly age-diverse population," said Lori Ciccomascolo, Springfield College's Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs.

Springfield College is a proud member of the Age-Friendly University Global Network, reinforcing its commitment to promoting inclusive and supportive environments for individuals across the lifespan. The event is sponsored by the Division of Academic Affairs.