Assistant Director, Harrisburg
Email: aua240@psu.edu
Dr. Patty Aguilera is an assistant director of OLLI at Penn State and an associate teaching professor of human development and family studies at Penn State Harrisburg. A clinical psychologist by training, she also holds a master’s degree in family therapy and a doctorate in lifelong learning and adult education.
Dr. Aguilera has dedicated her career to promoting healthy aging, lifelong learning, and meaningful engagement across the lifespan. Her work focuses on neuroplasticity, cognitive reserve, education for older adults, intergenerational programs, and reducing ageism in communities. She brings this holistic perspective to her leadership role at OLLI, where she helps create enriching educational opportunities that support intellectual growth, social connection, and well‑being for mature learners.
With more than five years of service as a certified ombudsman for Pennsylvania’s Long‑Term Care Ombudsman Program, Dr. Aguilera has advocated for residents’ rights and served as a voice for older adults navigating long-term care settings. Her dedication to dignity, empowerment, and fairness informs her ongoing commitment to aging communities.
Dr. Aguilera has published articles in academic journals, contributed to international book chapters, and presented her work in several countries, including the United States, Canada, Spain, Denmark, South Korea, and Turkey. She has also developed high-impact educational initiatives, including mentoring programs for students and training programs designed to help maintain cognitive function later in life.
At OLLI, Dr. Aguilera combines her academic expertise with a passion for community building. She is committed to creating spaces where learning, health, and growth intersect, helping every member thrive and stay engaged in all stages of life.