Fischer talked about UofL’s commitment to economic development on March 16 during his first meeting as the new chairman of the Nucleus board of directors. 

Fischer said UofL’s research, support and partnerships with private industry will be a key factor in the success of Louisville’s Lifelong Wellness and Aging Initiative, an initiative he announced Wednesday aimed at making Louisville a national and international hub for the aging care industry.

UofL President James Ramsey told Nucleus board members that the university has made a substantial financial commitment to an investment fund – designed to launch new technologies and ideas in the aging care industry – as well as the International Center for Long Term Care Innovation, which helped prompt Signature HealthCARE to move its headquarters to Louisville last year. 

The International Center for Long Term Care Innovation and the Lifelong Wellness and Aging Care Initiative will co-anchor Nucleus’ first building.

Ramsey said UofL’s research in areas such as Alzheimer’s disease, palliative care, the genetics of aging and oncology social work make the university a natural partner in Louisville’s efforts to grow its aging care industry and create more jobs.