Gerontology is the scientific study of the processes and phenomena of aging. The Gerontology Program's mission is to improve the lives of middle-aged and older individuals, provide training, consultation and other services, and conduct research.The Gerontology Program is enhanced by the Gerontology Faculty Interest Group, the Center for Successful Aging, a DreamCatchers chapter, and a chapter of Sigma Phi Omega, a national Gerontology Honor Society open to students from all disciplines with an interest in aging. The Gerontology Certificate and Minor Programs were named Programs of Merit by the Academy of Gerontology in Higher Education. The Center for Successful Aging is part of a complex of centers and organizations on the campus of California State University, Long Beach that are involved with aging-related issues. The Center is a transdisciplinary academic/community partnership to promote collaborative innovations in education, practice, policy development and research.