Dedicated in 1973 the Ethel Percy Andrus Gerontology Center stands as a beacon of research and education. It focuses on improving the lives of older adults. This Neo-Formalist building was designed by Edward Durell Stone. Its architecture is notable for its brick archways. A central courtyard adds to its beauty. A fountain is also in the courtyard.
The Ethel Percy Andrus Gerontology Center is more than just a building. It embodies a legacy of advocacy and collaboration. It is named after Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus. She was a celebrated educator. She championed the rights of older adults. In fact, Andrus was the first woman in California to lead a secondary school as principal.
Andrus witnessed retired educators struggling with meager pensions. In 1947, she established the National Retired Teachers Association. It provided low-cost insurance programs for them. Her work then expanded. Thousands of non-teachers sought her help. In response, Andrus and Leonard Davis founded the American Association of Retired Persons AARP in 1958.
The construction of the Andrus Gerontology Center was largely funded by AARP members. Over 400000 individuals donated in Andrus’ memory. This collaborative spirit remains within the building. You can see it in its classrooms and laboratories.
The Ethel Percy Andrus Gerontology Center houses the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology. Founded in 1975, it is the oldest and largest school of gerontology in the world. The school is known for its pioneering programs. It offered the world’s first Ph.D. in Gerontology. There was also the first joint master’s degree in Gerontology and Business Administration. The first undergraduate Health Science Track in Gerontology was also here.
The center is not only about education. It serves as a hub for multidisciplinary research. Studies in molecular biology and neuroscience take place here. Demography, psychology, sociology, and public policy are also researched. These efforts aim to provide scientific insights. They focus on human development across the lifespan. Students actively engage in service, research, and scholarly pursuits.
Within the Ethel Percy Andrus Gerontology Center is the Sophie Davis Art Gallery. Established in 2013, it celebrates older artists. The gallery explores aging through creativity. It is located between the lobby and auditorium.
The building has an auditorium that can accommodate up to 230 people. It features theater-style seats with desks. Classrooms and meeting spaces are equipped for online and in-person presentations. A student lounge provides a space for studying and events. Laboratories are located on the basement and third floors.
As we conclude our visit to the Ethel Percy Andrus Gerontology Center remember its commitment. It improves the quality of life for older persons. It achieves this through research, education, and a spirit of collaboration.