Bridging Generations

March 16, 2025

MSU's Generations Connect program, a collaboration of the Social Science Scholars Program, MSU’s AgeAlive and Prime Time Seniors Program of East Lansing, is forming intergenerational connections between students and older adults. Through shared activities, conversations and regular social interactions, participants build mutual understanding and friendships. The initiative aims to combat loneliness, promote inclusivity and enhance community ties, creating a sense of belonging across age groups while enriching the lives of all involved.

 

“It takes, above all else, being kind to thrive in a program like this. The eagerness to listen to somebody else, to see the world from their point of view, to invest in their lives while they’re investing in yours. It seems to me to be one of the most important things you can learn in any kind of community endeavor."

— John Waller, Generations Connect founder and Director of the MSU Social Science Scholars Program

 

Eleanor Pugh and Eleanor Marazita

MSU student Eleanor Pugh readily agreed when asked if she would consider being paired with a person with dementia. Now a sophomore, she visits regularly with Eleanor Marazit, 91, and her daughter Elizabeth.

Pugh, who is studying international relations with a major in geography, said she enjoys hearing about the elder Eleanor's travels—she visited 140 countries after raising seven children while teaching high school and hosting exchange students.

“Eleanor has a grace about her that is far beyond her years,” Elizabeth said. “Not everyone sees my mother. And Eleanor does.”

 

Anabelle Sanchez and Margot Kielhorn

As a first-year student at MSU adjusting to life away from home, Anabelle Sanchez, 18, wanted to broaden her circle of friends beyond campus. Margot Kielhorn, 74, a retired editor formerly with the MSU Press, missed the energy and fresh perspectives that student workers brought to her daily life.

The two had an “instant connection” and enjoyed meeting for coffee and conversation. Spending time with Margot helped Anabelle find her footing at MSU.

“It makes the world feel smaller knowing there are people [nearby] —people you consider to be family as well,” Anabelle said.

 

Shweta Adsul and Irv Nichols

Shweta Adsul, 22, connected virtually with East Lansing resident Irv Nichols, 100, through the Senior Ambassadors Program, the predecessor to Generations Connect.

Studying remotely from her home in Mumbai, India, Shweta made weekly calls with Irv. They discussed everything from politics to history to their personal lives. Irv gave her tips when she was learning to drive and attended her graduation in 2024.

“If a Zoom call from over 8,000 miles away can make someone feel less lonely and more connected, there’s no way I’m not going to do it,” Shweta said. 

 

LEARN MORE about the Generations Connect program

Contributing Writer(s): Patricia Mish