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Senior Learners, Inc. |
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| Click on the course title to register for the course. *"Both" courses are simultaneously online and in Room 107 of Building 20, when more than 5 students register in each. |
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Finance and Economics | ||||||
| Title | Instructor | First | Weeks | Starts | Ends | Fee |
| Financial Crashes and Crises - *Both | Reilly | Thu, 4/23/26 | 3 | 10:30 AM | 12:00 PM | $11.25 |
| One cannot read or watch the news without hearing that the Federal Reserve system must be reformed or that digital currency is the wave of the future. The year 2026 is not the first time that claims are made for new financial products and reforms. In this 3-week course, you will examine past financial crashes and crises. How did the banking system work before the Federal Reserve was created in 1913? How did Charles Ponzi conduct the money-making scam in 1920? Why did the U.S savings and loan industry go belly up in the 1980s? How did a wealthy county in California go bankrupt in 1994? What caused the near-collapse of the global financial system in 2008? This course is intended for those who believe financial crises are not merely relics of the past. | ||||||
Health and Better Living | ||||||
| Title | Instructor | First | Weeks | Starts | Ends | Fee |
| Cooking Across the Ages 5 - *Both | Team | Tue, 2/10/26 | 2 | 1:30 PM | 3:00 PM | $7.50 |
| Step into a flavorful adventure across centuries and continents! The lectures in this cooking class transports you beyond mere recipes to discover how food has shaped civilizations and cultural identities throughout history. You will learn forgotten techniques, unlock ancient flavor combinations, and understand how the humble act of cooking connects us to our ancestors. Come taste history as you have never experienced it before! Your culinary passport awaits for an expedition through time, one delicious bite at a time. | Senior Moments or Something More Serious? - *Both | Santini | Fri, 2/20/26 | 1 | 2:00 PM | 3:30 PM | $3.75 |
| Elizabeth Santini, RN, Alzheimer’s and Dementia Education RN for Nancy Renyhart Dementia Education Program, will explore what are signs of normal aging versus something that may be more serious. | Cooking Across the Ages 6 - *Both | Team | Tue, 2/24/26 | 3 | 1:30 PM | 3:00 PM | $11.25 |
| Step into a flavorful adventure across centuries and continents! The lectures in this cooking class transports you beyond mere recipes to discover how food has shaped civilizations and cultural identities throughout history. You will learn forgotten techniques, unlock ancient flavor combinations, and understand how the humble act of cooking connects us to our ancestors. Come taste history as you have never experienced it before! Your culinary passport awaits for an expedition through time, one delicious bite at a time. | Understanding Dementia - *Both | Santini | Fri, 3/6/26 | 1 | 2:00 PM | 3:30 PM | $3.75 |
| Elizabeth Santini, RN, Alzheimer’s and Dementia Education RN for Nancy Renyhart Dementia Education Program, will discuss basic facts about the different types of Dementia. | Dementia and Driving - *Both | Santini | Wed, 4/8/26 | 1 | 2:00 PM | 3:30 PM | $3.75 |
| Elizabeth Santini, RN, Alzheimer’s and Dementia Education RN for Nancy Renyhart Dementia Education Program, will explain how Dementia impacts driving. | Science Behind Proton Beam Therapy - Online | Reilly | Thu, 4/16/26 | 1 | 10:30 AM | 12:00 PM | $3.75 |
| Proton beam therapy is a proven, high-precision tool in the fight against cancer. A fight that continues to evolve in the U.S. It is an exciting technology, but the main battle now is not just one of science. The fight now is about access and cost, so that patients who could benefit from this reduced-toxicity treatment can actually receive it. This course examines the physical and medical science on which this therapy is based. Why is it so expensive? For what types of cancer is it especially effective? In this course, Senior Learners will view clips from an engaging YouTube video by Dr. Simon Jolly before Britain’s Royal Institution. Drs. Reilly and Putzeys will help you interpret the video. interpreted by Drs. Reilly and Putzeys. | Primary and Secondary Prevention - *Both | Lossada | Wed, 4/22/26 | 1 | 2:00 PM | 3:30 PM | $3.75 |
| Dr. Mery Lossada is the Chief Medical Officer of the Heart of Florida Federally Qualified Health Center. | Caring for the Caregiver - *Both | Santini | Wed, 4/29/26 | 1 | 2:00 PM | 3:30 PM | $3.75 |
| Elizabeth Santini, RN, Alzheimer’s and Dementia Education RN for Nancy Renyhart Dementia Education Program, will discuss the importance of avoiding burnout as a caregiver. | Updates on Balance and Fall Prevention - In Room 107 | Joranlien | Mon, 5/4/26 | 1 | 10:00 AM | 12:00 PM | $5.00 |
| Ability to maintain your balance is important to seniors health and safety. This course covers the importance and main techniques for keeping your balance. | ||||||
History and Geography | ||||||
| Title | Instructor | First | Weeks | Starts | Ends | Fee |
| WWI Setting the Stage Part 2: The Great Powers - *Both | Hautanen | Fri, 1/9/26 | 5 | 10:30 AM | 12:00 PM | $18.75 |
| This is the second of a series of courses on the runup to the First World War, the war itself, and then the aftermath. In this course we will look in more detail at the 25 year period leading up to the outbreak of WWI in summer 1914. Was a "Great War" inevitable? Who were the key protagonists? Were powerful individuals more significant in the sequences of history, or were greater forces changing societies so much that no leaders could have possibly diverted humanity from the great cataclysm? Based on selected lectures (or pieces of lectures) from The Great Courses titles Development of European Civilization, and The Long 19th Century: European History from 1789 to 1917. Additional material from the internet and lots of discussion will be had. | Day of Infamy – The Attack On Pearl Harbor - *Both | DiPiero | Mon, 1/12/26 | 1 | 10:00 AM | 12:00 PM | $5.00 |
| This presentation will look at the geopolitical tensions leading up to the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. It will go into the details of the December 7, 1941, attack. Then it will examine the immediate and lasting repercussions the attack caused. The presentation will provide a comprehensive overview of the event that reshaped world history. | Conversation with a Cold War Nuclear Submarine Commander - *Both | Wilcox J | Tue, 1/13/26 | 1 | 1:30 PM | 3:00 PM | $3.75 |
| This course will entail a discussion with Captain Jimmy Ellis, USN, retired, who commanded two ballistic missile submarines during the height of the Cold War. After a structured interview covering his experience as a nuclear submarine officer and commander, the floor will be opened for questions from the group. | Celebration of Black History - *Both | Howard | Tue, 1/20/26 | 1 | 1:30 PM | 3:00 PM | $3.75 |
| February is celebrated in the United States and in some other countries to remember and celebrate the achievements of African Americans. Join Senior Learners as we look ahead to that month and hear the stories of Paradise Park. We are pleased to have Diane Johnson and Cynthia Wilson Graham join us as we learn about a time and place here in Marion County when segregation was the norm. Silver Springs State Park was designated as whites only and the adjacent to Paradise Park, now defunct, designated for the enjoyment of the African American community. | Founding Fathers Build the Constitution - *Both | Reilly | Thu, 2/12/26 | 4 | 10:30 AM | 12:00 PM | $15.00 |
| The Founding Fathers arrived in Philadelphia in May 1787 to try to remedy the defects of the weak Articles of Confederation. This course examines that long hot summer as they proposed, debated, and designed a new form of government. They faced many issues that especially divided the large and small states. For example, representation in Congress, continuing slavery, regulating commerce, and separating powers among the branches of government. It became quite hot at times! They sweated and argued. By September, they had agreed upon a set of compromises that allowed a new constitution to be proposed to the people of the United States. This course includes lectures by Professor Allen Guelzo from his course America’s Founding Fathers from The Great Courses. | Vietnam War 3 (1968-1975) - Online | Wilcox J | Wed, 2/18/26 | 4 | 1:30 PM | 3:00 PM | $15.00 |
| Using The Great Courses (along with select additional materials), this course will cover the Vietnam War from 1968 after the election of Richard Nixon to the formal end of the war in 1975. In addition to the actual prosecution of the war, the course will cover other related subjects, such as the antiwar movement; race, culture and women in the Vietnam War; and casualties, prisoners of war, and those missing in action. As with our first two Vietnam War courses in 2025, we hope it will lead to some thoughtful discussion on a topic that still confounds today. | WWI Setting the Stage Part 3: Smaller Wars - *Both | Hautanen | Fri, 2/20/26 | 5 | 10:30 AM | 12:00 PM | $18.75 |
| This is the third of a series of courses on the run up to the First World War, the war itself, and then the aftermath. In this series we will look in more detail at the 25 year period leading up to 1914. Using lectures from The Great Courses and YouTube, this course will focus on the smaller wars that occurred during this 25 years and their impact on the main event. These smaller wars include the Spanish American War, the Boer Wars, the Russo-Japanese War, and the wars between the Ottoman Empire and Italy and the small Balkan nations. | Cuba: A Stage of Storms and Salsa - *Both | Rossi | Wed, 2/25/26 | 1 | 10:00 AM | 12:00 PM | $5.00 |
| From colonial conquest to Cold War flashpoint, Cuba has danced through history with defiance and flair. This presentation explores the island as a dramatic stage—where hurricanes of politics, revolution, and resilience collide with the irresistible rhythms of culture, music, and everyday life. We will trace Cuba’s journey from Spanish rule and sugar empires to Fidel’s fiery speeches and modern-day transformations. Along the way, we will spotlight the soul of the nation: its people, its pulse, and its power to turn turmoil into art. Expect drama, diplomacy, and a dash of dance. | Denmark: Where Happiness Is a Way of Life - *Both | Rossi | Wed, 3/11/26 | 1 | 10:00 AM | 12:00 PM | $5.00 |
| Why does Denmark consistently rank among the world’s happiest nations? This presentation explores the cultural, historical, and social ingredients behind the Danish recipe for contentment. From Viking legacies and royal traditions to modern-day hygge, bike-friendly cities, and trust-based governance, Denmark offers a living model of balance, belonging, and well-being. We will examine how thoughtful design, community values, and a dash of cozy charm have shaped a society where happiness is not just a feeling, it is a lifestyle. | The Rise of Modern Japan - 1940’s to 2026 - *Both | Howard | Mon, 3/23/26 | 6 | 10:30 AM | 12:00 PM | $22.50 |
| With The Great Courses lectures by Prof Mark Ravina, we will look from the fall of Japan to the current political, culture and economics of this world industrial leader. Nearly the size of just California, Prof Ravina describes Japan as “the most foreign, the most exotic place you can go with first-world telecommunications, first-world healthcare and first-world hygiene, true today." as when he first visited decades ago. Those who attend in person will enjoy Japanese food samples. All will be shown photos and memorabilia from post WWII Japanese occupied Okinawa. | Communism in Decline Starting with Sputnik - *Both | Holloran | Thu, 3/26/26 | 5 | 1:30 PM | 3:00 PM | $18.75 |
| This course is based on lectures by University to Tennessee, Knoxville, Professor Vejas Gabriel Liulevicius from his course Communism in Decline, From Sputnik to Gorbachev. This course will cover the decline of communism and Gorbachev's leadership. and the final collapse of communism. | Apprentice Statesman: Young Winston Churchill - Online | Reilly | Thu, 3/26/26 | 3 | 10:30 AM | 12:00 PM | $11.25 |
| Senior Learners recognize Winston Churchill as the great leader who guided Great Britain to success in World War II. But how does someone become such a world leader? In this course, we will examine the dramatic, ambitious, and often reckless early career of Winston Churchill, and explore how his experiences as a soldier, journalist, and politician shaped the leader he would become. The course draws upon “How Churchill Changed the World” from The Great Courses and “Winston Churchill and Statesmanship” from Hillsdale College. | The Olmecs - Mesoamerica’s Mysterious First Civilization - *Both | Hautanen | Tue, 3/31/26 | 6 | 10:30 AM | 12:00 PM | $22.50 |
| Based on The Great Courses lectures by Prof. Barnhart the series will look into this ancient civilization’s religious practices, architectural wonders, astronomical calendars, writing and numbering systems, and much more. Prof Barnhart has led archaeology and anthropology explorations to SE Asia, Mexico, Central & South America and Europe. He is the Director of the Maya Exploration Center and discoverer of the ancient city of Maax Na, a major city of the Maya period. | World War II Music - *Both | Kelly | Fri, 4/3/26 | 1 | 10:30 AM | 12:00 PM | $3.75 |
| Songs of WW II provided our country with tunes that inspired patriotism, boosted morale, and now provide us a measure of sentimentality. You may be familiar with such tunes as Vera Lynn’s “We’ll Meet Again” and the Andrews Sisters’ “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy". Join Dr. Kelly as she reintroduces these as well as some that are not so familiar now, but were often heard in homes, workplaces and wherever civilian and soldiers gathered, here and abroad from 1939 to 1945. | Mysterious Destinations and the Events That Defy Explanation - *Both | Rossi | Wed, 4/8/26 | 1 | 10:00 AM | 12:00 PM | $5.00 |
| This class takes you on a captivating journey to some of the world’s most enigmatic locations. From ancient ruins with unknown origins to modern-day phenomena that science has yet to explain, this exploration uncovers the strange and unexplained events that have baffled historians, scientists, and explorers for centuries. Get ready to dive deep into the legends, theories, and mysteries surrounding these destinations, and discover the strange occurrences that continue to puzzle us today. Whether it is a mysterious disappearance or a cosmic phenomenon, these destinations challenge everything we think we know about the world. | Polynesia: Islands of Legacy, Culture, and Continuity - *Both | Rossi | Wed, 4/22/26 | 1 | 10:00 AM | 12:00 PM | $5.00 |
| This course explores the enduring legacy of Polynesia’s ancient voyagers, the vibrant traditions that still pulse through island life, and the remarkable continuity of language, art, and belief systems across thousands of miles. From the sacred moai of Easter Island to the rhythmic dances of Samoa and the spiritual wisdom of Hawaii, we’ll uncover how these islands preserve their past while adapting to the present. Join us for a journey through myth, migration, and the magic of a civilization that refuses to fade. | May Day Senior Learners Style - *Both | Howard | Fri, 5/1/26 | 1 | 1:30 PM | 3:00 PM | $3.75 |
| The Empire State Building was dedicated in 1931 in the United States and this date has further significance for us and in other countries as well. We will share photos, stories and more. Besides, what would a Senior Learners be without some surprise foodstuffs to enjoy. | ||||||
Literature and Language | ||||||
| Title | Instructor | First | Weeks | Starts | Ends | Fee |
| Novellas 1 - Animal Farm by George Orwell - *Both | Hull | Tue, 1/6/26 | 1 | 10:30 AM | 12:00 PM | $3.75 |
| Still a banned book in some countries, this 1945 English satire’s original title was Animal Farm: A Fairy Story, until American publishers dropped the sub-title in 1946. Join retired English teacher Brad Hull as he leads a discussion on this work, which includes the memorable phrase, “All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others.” | Great American Best Sellers, The Books that Shaped America 2 - *Both | Howard | Mon, 1/26/26 | 4 | 10:30 AM | 12:00 PM | $15.00 |
| Continuing from Fall 2025 lectures from The Great Courses we will cover The Jungle, Main Street, The Maltese Falcon, The Good Earth, Gone with the Wind, and How to Win Friends and Influence People, we will explore these selections that include banned books, biographies and blockbusters. Each week will be supplemented with facts on the author, historical events, locale and refreshments in the classroom indicative of the book. Join us as we reflect on why each book was so popular and how it shaped America’s culture, norms and values. | Novellas 2 - Remains of the Day by Kazuo Ishiguro - *Both | Hull | Wed, 2/18/26 | 1 | 10:30 AM | 12:00 PM | $3.75 |
| This is not a novel of plot/action, of mystery, of violence, but of a character, a British butler who has loyally served, for what seems a lifetime a Lord who has recently died. Written by Nobel Prize winner Ishiguro, the novel was awarded the Booker Prize in 1989. It is another story of loss, of what might have been and of what is truly important in life. | The Life of Poet Joseph Brodsky - *Both | Carr | Wed, 3/4/26 | 1 | 10:30 AM | 12:00 PM | $3.75 |
| Most of us are strangers to poetry. But what makes a poet? This course will give you an introduction into the extraordinary life of Russian-American poet Joseph Brodsky, who was exiled from his country never to return. He came to the United States and, ultimately, won the Nobel Prize for Literature and was appointed this country’s 1991 Poet Laureate. His short, prolific life included a visit to Ocala in 1995, a guest of, then, Central Florida Community College. While we will enjoy one of his poems, the thrust of this course is the life he lived and the legacy he left. | Novellas 3 - The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night by Mark Haddon - *Both | Hull | Mon, 3/9/26 | 1 | 10:30 AM | 12:00 PM | $3.75 |
| A kooky title is taken from a Sherlock Holmes story, but don’t be fooled. Published in 2005 it has been adapted into a play and has won a host of literary awards including the best book of the year. As you would expect, it is a mystery, but with a main character with “abnormalities” who is attempting to solve a killing of a dog. In his endeavor the protagonist unearths truths about his family that perhaps are better left hidden. | The Poisons of Agatha Christie - Online | Reilly | Thu, 3/12/26 | 1 | 10:30 AM | 12:00 PM | $3.75 |
| Many Senior Learners have enjoyed the mystery novels of Agatha Christie. Her villains often employ poisons to perform their evil works. Are such poisons real, or merely the product of the author’s imagination? This course is your opportunity to find out, as we view and discuss a fascinating YouTube video put out by the Royal Institution. | Great American Best Sellers, The Books that Shaped America 3 - *Both | Howard | Tue, 3/24/26 | 3 | 1:30 PM | 3:30 PM | $15.00 |
| Continuing from Fall 2025 lectures from The Great Courses we will cover The Jungle, Main Street, The Maltese Falcon, The Good Earth, Gone with the Wind, and How to Win Friends and Influence People, we will explore these selections that include banned books, biographies and blockbusters. Each week will be supplemented with facts on the author, historical events, locale and refreshments in the classroom indicative of the book. Join us as we reflect on why each book was so popular and how it shaped America’s culture, norms and values. | Zora Listened! - *Both | Johnson | Tue, 3/24/26 | 1 | 10:30 AM | 12:00 PM | $3.75 |
| Local storyteller and retired librarian Diane Johnson has recently brought the story of Zora Neale Hurston to the Marion County Public Library system. We are pleased to have her bring the stories and music of this African American author, playwright, poet, anthropologist and folklorist to us. Born in Alabama, educated at Columbia University, Hurston’s best known novel is Their Eyes Were Watching God. It is set in a small 1920’s Florida town. Published in 1937, the 2005 film of the same name, will be shown on Friday, February 13 in Rm 107. | Talking About Books 3 - In Room 107 | Berra | Wed, 3/25/26 | 1 | 1:30 PM | 3:00 PM | $3.75 |
| Avid readers enjoy a casual, friendly meeting with like-minded members to talk about the books they have been reading, how they liked them (or not!) and why. As we share our recent reading experiences, we also get to hear about books recommended by fellow book-lovers. If you are an enthusiastic reader, come join us. | Novellas 4 - Ethan Frome by Edith Wharton - *Both | Hull | Wed, 4/15/26 | 1 | 10:30 AM | 12:00 PM | $3.75 |
| Edith Wharton was the first woman to win the Pulitzer Prize for Literature for her novel, The Age of Innocence. Her 1905 novel, The House of Mirth was covered in Fall Term, Best Sellers that Shaped America. Now we will read her 1911 work set in the fictitious town of Starkfield, MA. Ethan Frome is torn between thwarted dreams and a sense of obligation, then caught in an ironic turn of events. Join retired English teacher Brad Hull, who uses probing questions and discussion to lead the class to a much deeper understanding of this work. | Talking About Books 4 - In Room 107 | Berra | Fri, 4/17/26 | 1 | 1:30 PM | 3:00 PM | $3.75 |
| Avid readers enjoy a casual, friendly meeting with like-minded members to talk about the books they have been reading, how they liked them (or not!) and why. As we share our recent reading experiences, we also get to hear about books recommended by fellow book-lovers. If you are an enthusiastic reader, come join us. | Talking About Books 5 - In Room 107 | Berra | Wed, 5/6/26 | 1 | 1:30 PM | 3:00 PM | $3.75 |
| Avid readers enjoy a casual, friendly meeting with like-minded members to talk about the books they have been reading, how they liked them (or not!) and why. As we share our recent reading experiences, we also get to hear about books recommended by fellow book-lovers. If you are an enthusiastic reader, come join us. | ||||||
Science and Technology | ||||||
| Title | Instructor | First | Weeks | Starts | Ends | Fee |
| Facebook 1 - *Both | Jordan | Fri, 1/9/26 | 1 | 1:30 PM | 3:00 PM | $3.75 |
| Learn how to confidently navigate Facebook with this easy, step-by-step overview. Whether you are brand-new to social media or just looking to sharpen your skills, you will discover how to create an account, customize your profile, connect with friends and family, share posts and photos, adjust your privacy settings, and explore groups, pages, and more. Perfect for beginners, this overview helps you feel comfortable, secure, and in control while using Facebook to stay connected with the people and communities you care about. | Facebook 2 - *Both | Jordan | Fri, 1/16/26 | 1 | 1:30 PM | 3:00 PM | $3.75 |
| Learn how to confidently navigate Facebook with this easy, step-by-step overview. Whether you are brand-new to social media or just looking to sharpen your skills, you will discover how to create an account, customize your profile, connect with friends and family, share posts and photos, adjust your privacy settings, and explore groups, pages, and more. Perfect for beginners, this overview helps you feel comfortable, secure, and in control while using Facebook to stay connected with the people and communities you care about. | Neil deGrasse Tyson’s Favorite Universe - Online | Holloran | Thu, 1/22/26 | 4 | 1:30 PM | 3:00 PM | $15.00 |
| Since 1996, Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson has been the director of the Hayden Planetarium at the Rose Center for Earth and Space in New York City. The center is part of the American Museum of Natural History, where Tyson founded the Department of Astrophysics in 1997 and has been a research associate in the department since 2003. This course includes selected lectures from My Favorite Universe, which he prepared for The Great Courses. | Tech Help 1 - *Both | Team | Fri, 1/30/26 | 1 | 1:30 PM | 3:00 PM | $3.75 |
| Senior Learners works with the philosophy that there is no such thing as a dumb question. We are here to help with your technology questions, devices such as laptops, phones, storage devices, cables, etc. Submit questions in advance or join us as we explore a technical topic of your choice. If we cannot answer your questions we will follow up with practical suggestions and possible solutions. A casual and fun atmosphere where no one will be embarrassed by asking a dumb question. Bring in your laptop, phone, or other portable device and we will navigate together. If you cannot come into the classroom, help will be available via Zoom. | Science Surprises Spring 2 - *Both | Pealer | Wed, 2/11/26 | 1 | 10:30 AM | 12:00 PM | $3.75 |
| The instructor shares interesting science things that she finds on the Internet, or in books or magazines or that people send her. You never know what you will learn!! | Science Surprises Spring 3 - *Both | Pealer | Mon, 3/2/26 | 1 | 10:30 AM | 12:00 PM | $3.75 |
| The instructor shares interesting science things that she finds on the Internet, or in books or magazines or that people send her. You never know what you will learn!! | Tech Help 3 - *Both | Team | Fri, 4/10/26 | 1 | 1:30 PM | 3:00 PM | $3.75 |
| Senior Learners works with the philosophy that there is no such thing as a dumb question. We are here to help with your technology questions, devices such as laptops, phones, storage devices, cables, etc. Submit questions in advance or join us as we explore a technical topic of your choice. If we cannot answer your questions we will follow up with practical suggestions and possible solutions. A casual and fun atmosphere where no one will be embarrassed by asking a dumb question. Bring in your laptop, phone, or other portable device and we will navigate together. If you cannot come into the classroom, help will be available via Zoom. | More Neil deGrasse Tyson Lectures - Online | Holloran | Thu, 4/30/26 | 2 | 1:30 PM | 3:00 PM | $7.50 |
| Since 1996, Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson has been the director of the Hayden Planetarium at the Rose Center for Earth and Space in New York City. The center is part of the American Museum of Natural History, where Tyson founded the Department of Astrophysics in 1997 and has been a research associate in the department since 2003. This course will include the remaining lectures by Dr. Tyson from course he prepared for The Great Courses: My Favorite Universe. | Tech Help 4 - *Both | Team | Fri, 5/8/26 | 1 | 10:30 AM | 12:00 PM | $3.75 |
| Senior Learners works with the philosophy that there is no such thing as a dumb question. We are here to help with your technology questions, devices such as laptops, phones, storage devices, cables, etc. Submit questions in advance or join us as we explore a technical topic of your choice. If we cannot answer your questions we will follow up with practical suggestions and possible solutions. A casual and fun atmosphere where no one will be embarrassed by asking a dumb question. Bring in your laptop, phone, or other portable device and we will navigate together. If you cannot come into the classroom, help will be available via Zoom. | ||||||
Special Event | ||||||
| Title | Instructor | First | Weeks | Starts | Ends | Fee |
| Board Meeting - Online | Howard | Fri, 1/23/26 | 1 | 1:30 PM | 3:30 PM | $0.00 |
| Later | Pre-Valentine and Mardi Gras Party - *Both | Team | Fri, 2/13/26 | 1 | 1:30 PM | 3:00 PM | $3.75 |
| This year Mardi Gras and Valentine's Day almost coincide. So we will celebrate both a little early. Join us for fun and friendship online. In the classroom we will share Valentine's chocolate desserts and traditional Mardi Gras favorites: King Cake, beads, masks, jambalaya (with & without chicken), and chicory coffee. In keeping with its traditional colors, please wear purple, green or yellow and find out their significance during our celebration. | Board Meeting - Online | Howard | Fri, 2/27/26 | 1 | 1:30 PM | 3:30 PM | $0.00 |
| Later | Pre-St. Patricks and 2nd Kickoff Parties - *Both | Sutton | Fri, 3/13/26 | 1 | 1:30 PM | 3:00 PM | $3.75 |
| You do not have to go to a pub to get into the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day. Come join us for corn beef and cabbage, Irish beef stew, non-alcoholic Guinness and other goodies. We will also find out about what classes Senior Learners will be offering during the second half of the Spring semester. | Board Meeting - Online | Howard | Fri, 3/27/26 | 1 | 1:30 PM | 3:30 PM | $0.00 |
| Later | Welcome to Spring Party - *Both | Nevard | Wed, 4/1/26 | 1 | 1:30 PM | 3:00 PM | $3.75 |
| What better way to start Spring than with a party! Please join us for food, games, reminiscing, and chatting with old and new friends. Get into the mood by wearing your favorite Easter bonnet, special tee shirt, or whatever it takes to get into the spirit for this special season. Any April Fools jokes you want to share? | Board Meeting - Online | Howard | Wed, 4/15/26 | 1 | 1:30 PM | 3:30 PM | $0.00 |
| Later | FREE Summer Term Kickoff Party Preparations - *Both | Nevard | Fri, 4/24/26 | 1 | 10:00 AM | 12:00 PM | $0.00 |
| Later | FREE Summer Term Kickoff Party - *Both | Howard | Fri, 4/24/26 | 1 | 1:00 PM | 3:00 PM | $0.00 |
| Please join us for our Summer Term Kickoff Party. Instructors and staff will introduce themselves and the Summer Term Courses. Light refreshments will be served, coffee, cookies, etc. | Cinco de Mayo Party - *Both | Howard | Tue, 5/5/26 | 1 | 1:30 PM | 3:00 PM | $3.75 |
| Wear your red, white or green as we look into this holiday celebration and we learn more about such names as Benito Juarez, Napoleon III, and Puebla. Traditional ethnic foods, be they tacos, guacamole, rice or beans are part of the celebration. | ||||||
the Arts | ||||||
| Title | Instructor | First | Weeks | Starts | Ends | Fee |
| Americas Music Landscape - *Both | Satterfield | Thu, 2/26/26 | 3 | 1:30 PM | 3:30 PM | $15.00 |
| Travel through the rich and diverse soundscape of American history with Dr. Sarah Satterfield, Senior Professor of Music and Humanities at the College of Central Florida. From the rhythms of Native American traditions to the melodies of the modern era, you will explore a wide range of musical styles. They reflect the cultural, social, and historical evolution of the United States. Each session offers immersive listening experiences designed to transport you across time—from spirituals and folk tunes to jazz, rock, and beyond. Whether you are a lifelong music lover or simply curious about America’s sonic heritage, this course promises a journey that both enlightens and inspires! | For Love of Film: Pot Pourri - In Room 107 | Smith | Mon, 3/2/26 | 5 | 1:00 PM | 4:00 PM | $25.00 |
| Join us in viewing and discussing a group of diverse and interesting films including The Imitation Game about the people who decoded enemy messages in Britain during WW II starring Benedict Cumberbatch and Kiera Knightly; The Thomas Crown Affair starring Steve McQueen and Faye Dunaway; The Penguin Lessons starring Steve Coogan, Jonathan Pryce and a delightful penguin; M*A*S*H starring Elliott Gould and Donald Sutherland; and 42 starring Chadwick Boseman as Jackie Robinson who played for the Brooklyn Dodgers and was the first African American to play in Major League Baseball. The film lineup could change due to availability. Popcorn will be provided to enhance the viewing experience. | For Love of Film: Robin Williams - In Room 107 | Smith | Mon, 4/13/26 | 4 | 1:00 PM | 4:00 PM | $20.00 |
| Robin Williams was a unique talent who delighted the world with his humor and ability to engage an audience in a serious role. We will be viewing and discussing The World According to Garp starring Robin Williams, Glenn Close and John Lithgow; Inside the Actor’s Studio with Robin Williams; Aladdin with Robin Williams ad libbing the voice of the Genie; and Good Morning Vietnam with Robin Williams and Forest Whitaker. The film lineup could change due to availability. Popcorn will be provided to enhance the viewing experience. | ||||||
Topical Issues | ||||||
| Title | Instructor | First | Weeks | Starts | Ends | Fee |
| Let’s Talk about New Year’s Resolutions, The 2026 Version - *Both | Howard | Mon, 1/5/26 | 1 | 10:30 AM | 12:00 PM | $3.75 |
| Fresh off a goodbye to 2025, we will jump into 2026 by reflecting briefly on Senior Learners, local, state, national, and international highlights. We will enjoy food, fun, and fellowship as we greet The New Year and talk about resolutions met, made and meaning. Online or in the classroom join us as we kick off a year that promises change, celebration and controversy. | Great Decisions Part 1 - *Both | Team | Tue, 1/20/26 | 4 | 10:30 AM | 12:00 PM | $15.00 |
| Great Decisions is a nonpartisan education program on the eight major foreign policy challenges currently facing Americans. Each class will overview the topic and have class discussion. In previous years Dr. Joe Coffey has led the Great Decisions courses for Senior Learners. This year his schedule precluded leading the entire series. So the series will be led by various Senior Learners instructors. When possible, Dr. Coffey will join the discussions. Participants are encouraged to purchase and read the chapter in the Great Decisions 2025 briefing book available at the Foreign Policy Association (www.fpa.org) or kindle version at Amazon.com. Lecture notes will be emailed to registrants in advance and posted on coffeynotes.com. Part I TOPICS: 1. America and the World, 2. Tariffs and the Future of the World Economy, 3. U.S.-China Relations, and 4. Nuclear Proliferation. | Great Decisions Part 2 - *Both | Team | Tue, 2/17/26 | 4 | 10:30 AM | 12:00 PM | $15.00 |
| Great Decisions is a nonpartisan education program on the eight major foreign policy challenges currently facing Americans. Each class will overview the topic and have class discussion. In previous years Dr. Joe Coffey has led the Great Decisions courses for Senior Learners. This year his schedule precluded leading the entire series. So the series will be led by various Senior Learners instructors. When possible, Dr. Coffey will join the discussions. Participants are encouraged to purchase and read the chapter in the Great Decisions 2025 briefing book available at the Foreign Policy Association (www.fpa.org) or kindle version at Amazon.com. Lecture notes will be emailed to registrants in advance and posted on coffeynotes.com. Part 2 TOPICS: 5. Ukraine and the Future of European Security, 6. Multilateral Institutions in a Changing World Order, 7. U.S. Engagement of Africa, 8. Human Rights and International Law | ||||||
*Senior Learners, Inc., sponsors events offered by non-profit organizations, such as the CF Foundation and its Appleton Museum, which the Board considers will be of interest to our students.
| info@seniorlearners.org (352) 239-8780 |
Senior Learners, Inc. 3001 S.W. College Road PMB No. 210 OCALA FL 34474-4415 |
IMPORTANT Please do not contact CF personnel about any Senior Learners, Inc. courses. Senior Learners, Inc. is independent of CF. We have the use of a classroom and support the CF Foundation with donations. If you have any questions about our courses or operations, please contact us: info@SeniorLearners.org, (352) 239–8780.
Printed 3/24/26.