The GenSpace is the latest project of our Chairman, Wallis Annenberg, who envisioned a new community space in Los Angeles focused on aging and — as our Baby Boomers age — the rapidly expanding population of older adults driving unprecedented change across our region, our country, and the world. The truth is, we are all living longer, and GenSpace will serve as a laboratory for reducing the social isolation and changing how our culture thinks about aging in the first place. It will be a space for all generations, and Dr. Wong is the perfect leader to take this vision forward. GenSpace will demonstrate that we can morph the way aging is experienced now into something more vibrant and dynamic.
Dr. Wong is a perfect fit. Most recently, she has been working with the California Department of Aging to develop Governor Gavin Newsom’s Master Plan on Aging, as California’s own over-65 population is projected to grow sharply in the next decade. Previously, she worked in Public Health – Seattle & King County in Washington, conducting research and providing developmental support to improve emergency services for those with cognitive disabilities, Alzheimer’s disease, and other forms of dementia.
Dr. Wong received a Doctorate in Experimental Psychology from the University of Montana, a Master of Arts in Psychology from Cal State Sacramento, and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of San Francisco.
At a time when many seniors are feeling left behind, we have found someone who has the expertise and passion to always put them first. Jennifer Wong’s expansive skills on healthy aging and senior wellness make her the perfect choice to drive GenSpace’s mission forward. I can’t wait to work with her as we transform the way we all look at aging in our society.
WALLIS ANNENBERG
CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD, PRESIDENT & CEO
ANNENBERG FOUNDATION
Dr. Wong will now direct the brand-new Wallis Annenberg GenSpace, which is designed to reimagine what senior life can look like – worlds away from the sterile nursing homes and small, dark, and lonely apartments where so very many of our seniors are stuck. Located in LA’s Koreatown neighborhood, GenSpace will be fresh and futuristic and tech-forward, like the brand-new Rem Koolhaas building (pictured above) that will house it. As the COVID-19 health crisis continues and we will continue to follow state and county health and safety protocols. The building is officially open for in person classes and events as well as virtual GenSpace programming. All in all, we look forward to begin our work with Dr. Wong: redefining aging in America.
