The Columbia Aging Center's Age Boom Academy, a signature program of the ILC-USA, was established in 2000 and serves as a forum in which to educate journalists about the multifaceted social, economic, and health issues associated with population aging. Founded by Jack Rosenthal (1935-2017), then-president of The New York Times Company Foundation, and Robert N. Butler, MD, (1927-2010), the Academy lays the groundwork for sophisticated reporting about issues impacting older adults and a world where people are living into their 90s and beyond.  There are nearly 200 members of the press who are alumni of the program.   The output of these Age Boom Academy Fellows has created a huge body of aging-related reporting.  Past Academies have focused on themes such as work, health inequities, retirement, myths about global aging, and the role of voters over 65 in the changing political landscape. The Columbia Aging Center is pleased to have the Columbia School of Journalism as its partner in this annual event that attracts journalists from across the United States and beyond.
A selective process identifies the Fellows who each year come together with researchers for an intensive two-and-a-half day workshop to learn how to effectively translate science into accessible reporting on the complex economic, demographic, sociological and health issues at play.  During the Academy, journalist learn by interviewing assembled scientists and experts.  They participate in story clinics led by researchers and senior journalists, and have their stories critiqued by researchers.  The Academy is also a forum wherein journalists augment their network of sources with expertise in a range of disciplines. Simultaneously, researchers learn how to communicate more effectively with journalists.

"Combatting Loneliness in Aging: Toward a 21st Century Blueprint for Societal Connectedness," our 2020 Age Boom Academy will take place from June 4-6, 2020, with support from the Retirement Research Foundation and the AARP Foundation. The deadline to apply is March 6, 2020, at 5PM ET. See ageboom.columbia.edu for details.

Age Boom Academy: A Training Ground for Journalists and Scientists
Pictured above and below are participants from past Age Boom Academies.