The University of St. Thomas Selim Center for Learning in Later Years has announced its spring schedule of educational programs and short courses that are tailored for those 50 and older.
The programs range from dinner and lunch discussions to six-session short courses. The programs are designed to be affordable, with fees ranging from $15 to $70.
Waiting for a Selim Center program to begin.
Here’s an overview of the offerings that will be held during March, April and May:
Short Courses: These lecture programs generally meet once a week for six weeks and are taught by faculty and community experts. Topics and speakers are: “Music’s in the Air!” with Susan Anderson-Benson; “Buddhisms: What the Buddha Thought and What Buddhists Believe” with Dr. Stephen Laumakis; “A Virtual Tour of Europe” with six lecturers; “The Great Depression” with Dr. Michael Mikolajczak and Dr. Robert Riley; “Crime Control in America” with Dr. Peter Parilla; and “Fables, Folklore and Fantasy” with Dr. Charles Nelson.
(Note: The course on “World Politics in Our Time: The End of the American Era?” with Dr. Nicholas Hayes is filled.)
Lunch’n Explore lecture and luncheon programs: Dr. Arthur Zannoni will lead a March 30 discussion of “The Second Vatican Council: The Council That Changed the Catholic Church,” and Gerry Smyth will speak at “Lunch With an Irish Poet” April 16.
Dinner Discourse: “Communication and Intimacy as We Age” will be led April 19 by Dr. Jon Nussbaum, professor of communication arts at Penn State University.
Pathways to Understanding: This new annual series is designed to help participants better understand current world conflicts. Journalist Eric Black will lead the inaugural program, “Parallel Realities of the Israeli-Arab Conflict,” that will be held Thursday evenings, April 26 to May 10.
Distinguished Educator Award and Program: This annual program will honor musician Joan Griffith for her many contributions to lifelong learning and the Selim Center. The program will be held on May 17 and will include Griffith’s interview and performance with jazz vocalist Connie Evingson, followed by a dessert reception.
Consultation Services: The Selim Center also offers one-to-one peer consultation services that recently has been expanded to include personal-computer consultation and legal and financial planning.
For more information, including a schedule of programs that will be offered between March and May, call the center, (651) 962-5188, or visit the center's website.
