48th Annual OSU Gerontology Conference

Innovations in Aging

Oregon State University Alumni Center – Corvallis, Oregon

Thursday, April 17, 2025

Wednesday, April 16, 2025 – Open Networking Event

For 48 years, the Annual OSU Gerontology Conference has offered contemporary and applicable gerontological education from a variety of disciplines and perspectives. We invite you to network with colleagues as well as local, national, and internationally-known gerontology professionals.

If your organization is interested in sponsoring this year’s conference, please contact
Steve Spurgeon at [email protected].

Keynote Speakers:

Stephanie Hopper, President & CEO of AGE+

Innovating Aging—Shaping Oregon’s Future for All Generations
Oregon is at a pivotal moment, with the potential to lead the nation in aging innovation by recognizing older adults as valuable assets rather than burdens. As the population ages, we must rethink aging as a driver of economic and social progress, ensuring our communities are inclusive, connected, and prepared for the future.

In this keynote, Stephanie Hooper, President & CEO of AGE+, will explore how strategic policies, cross-sector collaboration, and innovative solutions can transform aging into an opportunity for growth and shared prosperity. Attendees will gain insight into AGE+’s groundbreaking initiatives, including:

Digital literacy pilot programs that bridge the technology gap for older adults.
Innovative affordable housing models that promote stability and intergenerational connection.
Anti-ageism education and leadership transformation to break down systemic barriers.

By learning from global best practices and forward-thinking strategies, participants will leave with actionable insights to drive change in their own communities. Together, we can build a future where aging is a source of strength, innovation, and opportunity for all generations.

Shari Eberts, MBA

Gael Hannan

The Unsung Key to Positive Aging: Skillful Living with Hearing Loss
Addressing hearing health is critical for living well, yet hearing loss in older adults is often dismissed as simply a “normal” part of aging. Its full emotional impact is difficult to understand, even for those who regularly work with clients who have hearing loss. Delivered with the compassion, humor, and expertise that comes from lived experience, this session illuminates the important relationship between communication and well-being and provides skill-based strategies to help people with hearing loss live vibrant, communication-rich lives. The audience will leave the session with increased empathy and a list of actionable steps to help support their clients who live with this invisible disability.