Alex Mihailidis

As AGE-WELL enters the next phase of its evolution, we are pleased to share some leadership transitions that will support the network’s strategic growth and impact.

After over a decade of dedicated leadership as AGE-WELL’s Scientific Director and CEO, Dr. Alex Mihailidis will be transitioning to a new role as Vice-Chair, Research, of the AGE-WELL Board of Directors on April 1, 2025. In this capacity, he will continue to provide invaluable scientific leadership, spearheading a new Research Council that will implement an ambitious forward-looking research agenda aligned with global aging initiatives to enhance the quality of life of older adults and caregivers.

“It has been an amazing journey and a privilege to lead AGE-WELL though an enormously successful first decade,” said Dr. Mihailidis. “We have built a highly regarded Canadian network with global reach, delivering transformative technological solutions that empower older adults and caregivers while driving Canada’s growing AgeTech sector. As AGE-WELL prepares for more growth and long-term success, I look forward to being part of the network’s exciting future in my new role.”

Bridgette Murphy, AGE-WELL’s Managing Director and COO since 2015, will assume the role of Acting CEO. Ms. Murphy brings extensive experience, strong leadership and a deep understanding of the organization’s strategic goals and operations.

Bridgette Murphy

Dr. Mihailidis said, “AGE-WELL is fortunate to have my long-time valued colleague Bridgette Murphy leading AGE-WELL forward as Acting CEO. Her demonstrated leadership and commitment to AGE-WELL’s mission and vision will ensure a smooth transition and sustained momentum.”

Ms. Murphy said she is honoured to serve as Acting CEO. “When we created AGE-WELL, we set out to bring everyone together to deliver healthy aging solutions and generate economic benefits for Canadians. Alex has been instrumental in making this happen and building a strong, impactful organization. I look forward to continuing to work with him in his new role and with our exceptional team to advance AGE-WELL’s strategic priorities.”

Our Board is also evolving. After seven years as Board Chair, Mimi Lowi-Young assumes a new role as Immediate Past Chair. Ms. Lowi-Young has overseen a period of major expansion during which AGE-WELL secured significant new funding sources and gained global recognition. A former health system CEO including CEO of the Alzheimer Society of Canada, she is a Senior Fellow and Adjunct Professor at the Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation at the University of Toronto.

Ian Struthers, a highly accomplished retired Financial Services Executive and CEO, and current board member, has been appointed Board Chair, bringing his proven leadership to help shape AGE-WELL’s evolution and impact.

Mimi Lowi-Young

Dr. Mihailidis and Ms. Murphy welcomed Mr. Struthers and thanked Ms. Lowi-Young for her outstanding service. “Mimi’s leadership has been inspirational, and we are grateful for her ongoing involvement. We are also delighted that Ian will serve as Chair. His vast experience in governance and financial services, and strategic insight, will guide us through the next phase of growth,” said Dr. Mihailidis.

Reflecting on her time as Chair, Ms. Lowi-Young said, “As I transition to Immediate Past Chair, I’m proud of AGE-WELL’s many achievements, particularly its ability to deliver real-world solutions that truly enhance the lives of older adults and caregivers. The potential to leverage technology to improve lives is immense. With Ian as our incoming Chair, we are well-positioned for ongoing success, and I am eager to work alongside him and the entire team to advance our mission.”

Said Mr. Struthers, “It’s my great pleasure to serve as Chair and to build on the strong foundation we have established together. With the continued commitment of our Board and team, we are in an excellent position to achieve great things in the future.”

Ian Struthers

With support from three recent federal investments and partner contributions, AGE-WELL is driving impact across a trilogy of pillars – research, capacity building and adoption – to support a strong innovation pipeline and solidify Canada’s position as a world leader in aging innovation. Read more.

Since its launch in 2015, AGE-WELL has mobilized a vast community of researchers, older adults, caregivers, partner organizations, and future leaders to accelerate the delivery of technology-based solutions that make a meaningful difference in the lives of older Canadians and their caregivers. More than 450 industry, community, government and non-profit partners have joined AGE-WELL and the number continues to grow. AGE-WELL has supported more than 1,400 trainees to be innovators of tomorrow. We nurture over 70 Canadian startups that are commercializing and selling products. Crucially, over 5,000 older adults and caregivers are involved to ensure that products are practical and useful.

AGE-WELL’s groundbreaking programs are funded by the Government of Canada through Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, Health Canada, and the Canadian Institutes of Health Research.

Discover how AGE-WELL is changing the future of aging at: https://agewell-nce.ca/.