For ten years, one Manhattan institution has been reshaping the conversation about what it means to grow older — and this spring, it’s marking the milestone with an afternoon designed to inspire.
The Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan’s Wechsler Center for Modern Aging will host its Symposium on Positive Aging on Thursday, May 7, from 2 to 6:30 pm. The anniversary event celebrates a decade of empowering older adults to approach the years ahead with purpose, meaning, and fulfillment.
This year’s signature program features award-winning journalist Joan Lunden in conversation with broadcast journalist Budd Mishkin. Lunden, the longest-running female host of Good Morning America, has been a trusted presence in American homes for more than 50 years. A bestselling author, breast cancer survivor, and advocate for health and aging issues, she draws on her experience as a caregiver and working parent of seven to connect with audiences across generations.
The afternoon will also include a theatrical presentation by actor, writer, and producer Jeffrey Grover, premiering three original short plays created especially for the Symposium. Grover — featured in the 2025 Tribeca Festival award-winner Charliebird and co-creator of the Upper West Side–set series A Man of a Certain Age — will be joined by musical theater performers bringing the program to life with songs woven throughout.
Dancer and fitness instructor Celeste Carlucci will lead a movement segment, and the event will conclude with a festive cocktail reception.
Both in-person and virtual attendance options are available. Tickets are $72 in person and $36 virtual. Supporter tickets at $200 include program recognition, priority seating, an autographed copy of Lunden’s latest book, and a Wechsler Center gift.
Learn more at mmjccm.org/symposium.
