Want to connect across generations? Join us:

Event Recording: Book Talk: Cogeneration in the Age of AI

Event Recording: Book Talk: Cogeneration in the Age of AI

Simple question: Do you miss human connection when you use self-checkout at the grocery store? Complex question: How is cogeneration threatened by AI, profit-driven “efficiencies,” and automation — and what can we do about it? Allison Pugh, author of the book The Last...

Putting Two Things Together

Putting Two Things Together

On Friday, May 15, I had the great honor to address the 2026 graduates of Drew University, including the undergraduate College of Liberal Arts, the Theological School, and the Caspersen School of Graduate Studies. I'm very grateful to Drew's remarkable President...

CoGen Voices Fellows Share Their Tips for Intergenerational Collaboration

By | Jul 15, 2026

A graphic for the CoGen Voices Fellowship featuring the “COGEN VOICES” logo centered at the top above a grid of 21 portrait photos. The portraits show a diverse group of fellows and collaborators of different ages, races, and genders, smiling or posing for professional headshots against a variety of indoor and outdoor backgrounds. The layout is arranged in three rows with evenly spaced square images, emphasizing the fellowship’s intergenerational and cross-cultural community.

The 21 civic leaders taking part in CoGenerate’s Voices fellowship are a diverse group. They range in age from 15 to 81, and each focuses on a different aspect of civic work.

But they’re all well-versed in the ins and outs of effective intergenerational collaboration. And, if you’re looking to up your cogenerational game, they’ve got some advice for you.

Leena Albinali, 15, explains that “a lot of times we enter an intergenerational space with preconceived opinions or ideas on what the other generation needs. But I think the strongest collaborations happen when we share our experience, ask questions, and learn from others instead of jumping to conclusions.”

Ruby Jones, 38, recommends that people remain ready “to challenge your own assumptions.” Jameson Yingling, 40, tells people not to be afraid “share your personal stories. Offer your vulnerability at the risk of being hurt and the reward of being held.”

And Elissa Lee has some unconventional advice: Laugh. “My friend and fellow Obama leader Cathryn Stout always says you have to laugh together before you work together. Get to know each other as people, what brings you joy, what your favorite meal is, etc.”

In addition to tips for others, each fellow was asked to explain why they do the work they do, how cogeneration is helping them succeed, and what’s giving them joy or hope right now.

Click any of the links below to check out their responses!