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# F A L L I N T O L E A R N I N G

LIFELONG LEARNING

Fall Semester 2026

WHAT IS RUI UNIVERSITY? RUI University is a multifaceted curriculum that promotes purposeful living. The program supports intellectual wellness by allowing residents to critically think and examine topics from a variety of disciplines. Residents engage with peers and visitors in discourse and work through questions collaboratively.

CLASSES Taught by RUI University Fellows and tailored to our residents’ interests. Class subjects include history, music, ﬁne arts, culinary, wine, horticulture, environmental sustainability, and more.

LEARNING LABS Activities that build upon class subjects. Learning labs engage all different types of learning styles: visual, auditory, kinesthetic, reading, and writing.

OUR CLASSES ARE FREE + OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

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#FallIntoLearning Dear Residents, Family, and Guests, At RUI University, Fall is a season to reconnect, rediscover, and learn something new. This semester, Fall into Learning invites residents, families, friends, and members of the greater community to experience thought-provoking classes, cultural traditions, and signature events designed to inspire curiosity and connection. Our Fall curriculum brings lifelong learning to life through engaging discussions, expert perspectives, history, science, and shared experiences. Whether exploring a new subject, exchanging ideas, or simply enjoying the experience of learning together, RUI University offers something for every curious mind. In September, we celebrate National Assisted Living Week (NALW), honoring the vibrant lives, stories, and connections that make our communities special. October explores Forensics & Justice: Science, Society & Truth, examining cuttingedge forensic technologies and the evolving intersection of science and justice, alongside our signature Oktoberfest celebration. In November, Legacy of Service explores the history, impact, and stories of our nation’s veterans as we commemorate Veterans Day, gather for our signature Fall Festival, and celebrate the gratitude and togetherness of Thanksgiving. We warmly invite residents, families, friends, and members of the greater community to #FallIntoLearning with RUI University. Come for a class, discover a new perspective, and experience the connection that makes lifelong learning meaningful at every stage of life. Warmest regards, The RUI University Team

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FINE ARTS Watercolor for Beginners September 10, 2026 at 2:00 PM October 8, 2026 at 2:00 PM November 5, 2026 at 2:00 PM Join professional artist Marni Maree for a beginner-friendly watercolor class! Learn essential techniques like color mixing, brush control, and layering while gaining confidence in your creativity. No experience needed—just bring your enthusiasm!

Marni Maree, a Strauss Fellowship recipient, creates vibrant watercolors inspired by her travels and love for beauty. With a background in Fashion Illustration, she teaches workshops worldwide and online. Her award-winning work is regularly exhibited.

Beyond the Blur October 30, 2026 at 3:00 PM Join professional photographer Paul Locher for a visual journey through landscapes, plants and animals. Featuring nearly 70 of his own images, this presentation explores how changing the depth of field can dramatically affect a photograph’s focus, mood and overall impact. Participants will see how photographers use sharpness and blur to guide the eye, highlight important details and bring each subject to life.

Paul Locher is a professional photographer and shares the passion for taking breathtaking photos using a Nikon D810 and D5 cameras. Paul won the MCDOT 2016 Award for "Misty Morning", on October 26th, 2016.

FINE ARTS Art with Tosca: American Women Collectors September 23, 2026, October 28, 2026, & November 25, 2026 at 3:00 PM This three-part lecture series offers a deep look into the lives and legacies of some of the most influential American women collectors, including Isabella Stewart Gardner of Boston, Gertrude Stein, Marjorie Merriweather Post, Peggy Guggenheim, and others. We’ll explore how these visionary women shaped the art world through their remarkable collections, providing a unique glimpse into their personal tastes, cultural contributions, and lasting impact on art history. Tosca Ruggieri is a French-Italian art historian, lecturer, and licensed tour guide based in Washington, D.C. As founder of Art with Tosca, she leads curated tours and lectures at major institutions. With degrees from the Sorbonne and King’s College London, Tosca brings art history to life through engaging storytelling that connects audiences to the beauty and meaning of great works of art.

CURRENT EVENTS Navigating the News September 3, 2026, October 1, 2026, & November 5, 2026 at 10:00 AM It’s utterly exhausting. We’re bombarded with news from so many directions - in the newspaper, on the TV, on the radio, on the Internet, and on social media. It’s tough to separate the wheat from the chaff. How do we know what’s real and what’s fake? Pam Benson spent more than 33 years of her four-decade journalism career as a producer at CNN. She was one of the network's original employees. While there, Pam produced a one-hour news show; ran news coverage for the entire DC bureau; reported from the White House, the State Department, and the Pentagon; and traveled to more than 50 countries.

HISTORY Revolutionary Cousins: Sam and John Adams September 14, 2026 at 10:30 AM Explore the lives and legacies of cousins Samuel and John Adams, two influential leaders whose distinct personalities, political ideas, and commitment to independence helped shape the American Revolution and the nation that followed.

George Washington’s Loss at Yorktown October 5, 2026 at 10:30 AM Take a closer look at a lesser-known story connected to George Washington and the decisive campaign at Yorktown. Dr. Baer will explore the circumstances surrounding this unexpected loss and what it reveals about Washington, the Revolution, and the realities of war.

Washington: From Federal City to D.C. November 9, 2026 at 10:30 AM Trace the fascinating development of the nation’s capital, from the early vision of a permanent “Federal City” to the Washington, D.C., we know today. Discover the people, politics, planning, and compromises that shaped the seat of American government.

Dr. James Baer is an emeritus professor of history at Northern Virginia Community College. Holding a Ph.D. in Latin American History from Rutgers, he has published extensively on Argentine social history and Cuban Protestants. His books include Anarchist Immigrants in Spain and Argentina and A Social History of Cuba’s Protestants: God and the Nation.

WELLNESS Movement Confidence & The Protection Pathway September 8, 2026 at 1:00 PM Residents will learn the foundations of fall protection, including balance awareness, safer movement strategies, and how confidence shapes our daily navigation. This class will focus on and body awareness and safe movement habits while incorporating stances and posturesto reduce fear and stay active and independent. Ukemi Health is movement education with purpose—building resilience, confidence, and peace of mind through safe, thoughtful practice. Bryan DePhillip is the founder of Ukemi Health Partners, a movement education company focused on helping individuals build confidence, reduce their fear of falling, and learn practical fall-protection skills. Bryan combines his background as a USA Judo Black Belt (Shodan), NASM Certified Personal Trainer, and NASM Senior Fitness Specialist, with CDC Heads Up Concussion Safety certification, to bring martial arts-inspired movement concepts into safe, accessible programs for everyday life.

BUSINESS Avoiding Common Healthcare Scams September 18, 2026 at 10:30 AM This class will cover the most common types of scams affecting seniors and will share ways to prevent, detect, and report those scams before it’s too late. Shawn Smith is the State Director of the Virginia Senior Medicare Patrol program. He leads a team of over 100 staff that educate seniors on fraud prevention. Shawn is also the author of “101 Fraud Tips”, a guide to help seniors protect their money and identify from scammers. In addition to being an author and speaker, Shawn is a life coach, ordained minister, and father, living in Richmond, VA.

SCIENCE Discover Your NeuroCreative Mind Explore the remarkable ways your brain can continue to grow, adapt, and create throughout life. In this engaging three-part series, Thomas C. Keller combines practical brain science with storytelling, humor, movement, and audience participation. Participants will discover approachable ways to break familiar patterns, remain mentally active, strengthen connections, and bring greater curiosity and creativity into everyday life.

Wake Up Your NeuroCreative Mind September 24, 2026 at 2:00 PM

Break the Loop October 22, 2026 at 2:00 PM

Creativity, Connection, and Your Next Chapter November 19, 2026 at 2:00 PM

Thomas C. Keller is a speaker, author, and professional artist who presents interactive programs on creativity, brain health, and lifelong learning. After more than 25 years as a professional artist, Thomas became interested in how creativity, movement, curiosity, and meaningful engagement help people stay mentally active, flexible, and connected at every age. He is the author of Your NeuroCreative Mind: Stay Sharp, Inspired, and Engaged, and his presentations combine practical neuroscience, storytelling, humor, movement, and audience participation. His programs are designed to be uplifting, accessible, and immediately useful for older adults.

HUMANITIES Historical Tea Parties: A Steeped in Tradition Series September 1, 2026 at 3:00 PM The Boston Tea Party may be the most famous, but it was far from the only colonial protest against British tea. Discover the stories of other cities that challenged tea taxes, learn about the struggles they faced, and enjoy surprising facts from this spirited chapter of American history.

American Road Trip: A Steeped in Tradition Series October 6, 2026 at 3:00 PM Hit the open road as we explore the fascinating history of the legendary Route 66. Along the way, we’ll discover some of the fun, unusual, and delightfully quirky roadside attractions that continue to make this classic American journey unforgettable.

Tea in Melodies: A Steeped in Tradition Series November 3, 2026 at 3:00 PM Explore the stories behind songs that place tea at the heart of their lyrics and themes. We’ll uncover the origins, history, and inspiration behind memorable melodies while discovering how tea has found its way into music across generations.

Annamarie Mariani-Huehn is a senior living executive and engaging presenter known for bringing warmth, storytelling, and connection into every room. With 20+ years in senior living leadership, she also shares interactive tea experiences as a Tea Guide and Storyteller—blending culture, legends, and specialty teas into a memorable program.

WILDLIFE Animals of Nobility September 17, 2026 at 10:30 AM Animals have played various roles in history and especially in nobility. Let’s take a look at some of them and how they play a part in history.

Animals in Space October 15, 2026 at 10:30 AM AWhat animals have been in space? Why did they go and how did they help us learn more about space? Meet some of the types of animals that have traveled beyond our world.

Animals Around the World November 19, 2026 at 10:30 AM “Travel” around the world and see up close animals from different continents. Where have you traveled for fun or work? Let’s take a look at some ambassadors from different continents.

Echoes Of Nature (EON) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to environmental education to help people of all ages better understand, appreciate, and care for wildlife and the natural environment. Through multisensory teaching techniques, EON aims to connect communities to nature and to give individuals of all ages the information and skills needed to become better stewards of natural resources.

RUINFORMED Calling All Weather Geeks Age Well Series September 16, 2026 at 4:00 PM Explore the fascinating science behind the weather that shapes our everyday lives. Calling All Weather Geeks features Nicholas Fillo and Amanda Sava of NOAA’s National Weather Service, who will take residents and families behind the forecast to discover how weather is observed, predicted, and communicated. From changing conditions to severe-weather awareness, this engaging conversation offers a closer look at the science, technology, and expertise that help us better understand the atmosphere around us.

The Art of Science and Culinary Cuisine Age Well Series October 21, 2026 at 4:00 PM Discover where creativity, chemistry, and cuisine meet in The Art of Science and Culinary Cuisine, featuring Matthew Deacon, RUI Corporate Director of Culinary Operations. This engaging session explores the science behind the foods we enjoy—from how ingredients interact and cooking techniques transform flavor and texture to the artistry that turns a meal into an experience. Residents and families will gain a fresh perspective on the fascinating relationship between culinary innovation, science, and the senses.

Resilience and Renewal Age Well Series November 18, 2026 at 4:00 PM What helps us remain strong, adaptable, and engaged as we age? Resilience and Renewal, featuring Mark Cifarelli, PT, Director of Clinical Practice for Legacy Healthcare Services, explores the connection between physical resilience, movement, recovery, and maintaining independence throughout the aging journey. Residents and families will discover practical insights for supporting mobility, confidence, and overall well-being while embracing renewal as an important part of aging well.

CULINARY Heirloom Recipes & Culinary Heritage September 22, 2026 at 2:00 PM Celebrate the stories, traditions, and memories preserved through food. Residents will explore how treasured family recipes connect generations, reflect cultural heritage, and strengthen identity while sharing personal recipes and contributing to a community cookbook.

Soups, Stews & Seasonal Roots October 27, 2026 at 2:00 PM Explore the comforting flavors of autumn through Butternut Squash Soup, Hungarian Goulash, and Braised Leeks. Residents will discover how seasonal ingredients, slow-cooking traditions, and warming foods support nourishment and wellness while sharing memories of favorite fall dishes.

Gratitude & Gathering: Celebrating Together November 24, 2026 at 2:00 PM Discover how food, gratitude, and tradition bring people together around the table. Featuring elevated holiday classics such as Sage Stuffing and Cranberry Chutney, residents will explore the connection between shared meals, emotional wellness, and meaningful traditions while reflecting on the foods and gatherings they cherish most.

CULINARY:UNCORKED Lobsters, Wineries & Foods of New England: Coastal Wines & Harvest Stories September 14, 2026 at 3:00 PM Journey through New England’s emerging wine country, where cool coastal climates, local agriculture, and harvest traditions shape distinctive wines. Residents will explore cold-climate winemaking, discover regional grape varieties, and consider how seafood, seasonal foods, and storytelling connect wine to a sense of place.

Germany & Austria: Rieslings and Fall Gold — Harvest Traditions & Noble Grapes October 12, 2026 at 3:00 PM Travel through the celebrated vineyards of Germany and Austria to discover the remarkable range of Riesling and Grüner Veltliner. Residents will explore how cool climates, vineyard slopes, acidity, and harvest timing influence wines from crisp and dry to beautifully balanced sweet styles while discovering the autumn traditions that surround the European wine harvest.

France: Burgundy & Beaujolais — Gratitude in the Glass November 9, 2026 at 3:00 PM Experience two distinctive expressions of French wine culture through Burgundy and neighboring Beaujolais. Residents will compare elegant Pinot Noir and expressive Gamay while exploring terroir, centuries-old winemaking traditions, and the connection between wine, food, and place. A seasonal focus on gratitude invites reflection on the people, traditions, and shared experiences behind every glass.

HEALTH Breath of Life: Lung Vitality & Calm September 21, 2026 at 2:30 PM Discover the powerful connection between breath, movement, and well-being. Breath of Life: Lung Vitality & Calm explores how healthy breathing supports energy, endurance, posture, and relaxation. Residents will learn how mindful breathing, gentle movement, and everyday habits can support lung health while using the breath as a practical tool for greater calm, focus, and vitality.

From the Ground Up: Foot & Balance Elegance October 19, 2026 at 2:30 PM Confident movement begins with a strong foundation. From the Ground Up: Foot & Balance Elegance explores the important role our feet, ankles, posture, and senses play in balance and mobility. Residents will discover practical strategies for supporting foot health, improving stability, choosing supportive footwear, and strengthening balance to promote safer, more confident movement in everyday life.

Grace in Motion: Joyful Rhythms of Dance November 16, 2026 at 2:30 PM Experience the joy of movement while discovering why dance is a powerful form of wholeperson fitness. Grace in Motion: Joyful Rhythms of Dance explores how music and rhythmic movement can support cardiovascular health, balance, coordination, memory, and emotional well-being. Residents will discover how dance—whether seated, standing, or simply moving to a favorite song—can encourage self-expression, social connection, and a joyful approach to lifelong wellness.

SIT BACK, RELAX, + TUNE-IN to our monthly educational webinars where we bring in new subject-matter experts each month to share their insight on a variety of topics. Scan the QR code below to register today!

RESOURCE CENTER W W W . R U I . N E T / R E S O U R C E - C E N T E R

Go online to stay up-to-date with our monthly webinars, book recommendations, online resources, and more!

LIFELONG LEARNING

#FallIntoLearning

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@RUI.Aarondale