Ruth Finkelstein, ScD is devoted to transformation of our understanding of aging from a state of decline to a stage full of challenge and opportunity. She is the Executive Director of the Brookdale Center on Aging at Hunter College/CUNY and a Professor of Urban Public Health. The Brookdale Center pursues research, program development and training to inform public policy to make New York a great place to grow old. Dr. Finkelstein’s perspective is that the conditions of our lives influence the way we age. She believes we need to give everyone the opportunity to age as well as anyone can. Previously, she was Associate Director of the Robert N. Butler Columbia Aging Center at Columbia University. There, she translated research to policy and practice, particularly in the areas of work, engagement, and environment. Signature initiatives included The Age Smart Employer Awards, honoring businesses who value workers of all ages, The Age Boom Academy, and Exceeding Expectations. Prior to Columbia, Dr. Finkelstein was the architect of Age Friendly New York City, built upon the World Health Organization’s strategy. Awards have included “Best Age Friendly City” 2013, “Game Changer” 2012, Next Avenue’s 2016 “Influencers in Aging,” and the 2019 Maggie Kuhn award.