In 1998, IC sold Longview the plot of land it occupies—located less than a mile down the road from campus—for one dollar. Since the facility’s opening, the partnership between the two neighbors has continued to flourish.
Longview offers Ithaca College students, from a variety of disciplines, the opportunities to gain valuable hands-on learning and real-world experience while making positive impacts on the lives of seniors. Students with majors ranging from occupational and physical therapy to the arts and music engage with residents and apply classroom knowledge in meaningful ways. This experiential learning not only enhances their academic development but also deepens their understanding of aging, caregiving, and the importance of community in later life.
For the residents of Longview, the partnership brings opportunities for companionship, creativity, and intellectual stimulation. The collaboration provides residents with a robust offering of activities that promote well-being, including auditing courses, enjoying music and theatre performances, attending educational workshops, participating in intergenerational projects, and cheering on the Bombers at sporting events. Ithaca College students and Longview residents frequently engage together in arts, music, and wellness programs that build strong relationships and enrich the lives of everyone involved
“When individuals move into a senior living community, one concern is that they’re not going to have the opportunities to create and connect with others,” says Bree Nash, Longview’s recreation and community partnerships director. “That’s never an issue for us because Ithaca College is involved. When the students and faculty are here, there’s a buzz of energy and laughter.”
The arrangement enables students from the college’s School of Health Sciences and Human Performance to observe and interact with residents, gaining hands-on experience under the supervision of licensed professionals. Physical and occupational therapy students collaborate with Longview’s rehabilitation staff to work with residents on improving mobility while students in the humanities and social sciences learn about aging-related issues and provide support for residents navigating complex health and social needs. Students build professional skills while residents receive high-quality, compassionate care from the next generation of health care providers.
Learning with Longview
“When individuals move into a senior living community, one concern is that they’re not going to have the opportunities to create and connect with others. That’s never an issue for us because Ithaca College is involved. When the students and faculty are here, there’s a buzz of energy and laughter.”
Bree Nash, Longview’s recreation and community partnerships director
In addition to academic and health care collaborations, IC and Longview frequently collaborate to host special events that take advantage of the rich cultural and intellectual life of the community. These events often feature lectures, performances, and activities designed to stimulate thought and conversation, drawing on the expertise of the Ithaca College community and the Longview residents. The partnership creates opportunities for lifelong learning where residents continue to engage with the world of higher education.
As the partnership gears up for the next 25 years and beyond, the institutions continue to explore innovative ways to meet the needs of Longview residents and IC students. The enduring collaboration demonstrates Ithaca College’s dedication to fostering connections between generations, nurturing student growth, and supporting the well-being of older adults in the community.
At Longview’s 25th anniversary celebration, IC’s president, La Jerne Terry Cornish, said she considers Longview a “satellite campus,” exemplifying the collaborative spirit that makes this partnership a national model for enhancing intergenerational community life and promoting lifelong learning.
Read more about our 25 years of energy, laughter and compassion with Longview.