Y A B R O A D
LIFELONG LEARNING
Semester
#Study Abroad
Dear Residents, Family, and Guests,
Welcome to the #StudyAbroadWithRUIU Spring Semester! As we enter this season of exploration, RUI University is thrilled to offer a range of exciting opportunities that will broaden your horizons and inspire your curiosity. This spring, we’re offering:
A Special Lecture from the National Women's History Museum: Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to learn about the women who have shaped history and continue to impact the world today.
The Annual RUI Academic Decathlon in April: Put your knowledge to the test and compete against other RUI communities for the coveted trophy in this intellectual challenge!
Spring Break Travel Week: Be sure to check your community’s calendar for details on travel week, offering exciting opportunities for exploration and cultural discovery
We encourage all residents, family members, and guests to get involved this semester. Whether you're deepening your knowledge, meeting new people, or experiencing something completely new, RUI University offers an inclusive and engaging environment for everyone.
Spring classes are now open for registration!
For any questions or feedback, feel free to contact our engagement team at RUIUniversity@rui.net. We look forward to a spring full of learning, connection, and new experiences!
HISTORY
Stars in the Sky: Early Aviators
March 25, April 22, May 27 at 2:00 PM
In the first three decades of the 20th century airplanes went from wooden skeletons held together by wire to powerful machines crossing the continent and the Atlantic These topics focus on some of the not-so-well known aviators who pushed the boundaries, even at the sacrifice of their life. 1. Inventors and innovators.
Class 1: Inventors and innovators
Class 2: Daredevils who pushed the boundaries
Class 3: Amazing Aviatrix
Dr James Baer is an emeritus professor of history at the Alexandria Campus of Northern Virginia Community College. He received his Ph.D. in Latin American History from Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey. He was awarded a Fellowship for College Teachers from the National Endowment for the Humanities and served as the Virginia Chancellor’s Commonwealth Professor from 2003 to 2005 Dr Baer is the author of several articles on Argentine social history and Cuban Protestants His book, Anarchist Immigrants in Spain and Argentina, is a transnational study of anarchists and their impact on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean. Dr. Baer’s latest book, A Social History of Cuba’s Protestants: God and the Nation, is published by Lexington Books.
HISTORY
Women in STEM
March 13 at 10:30 AM
In this engaging virtual talk hosted by the National Women's History Museum, explore the remarkable stories of women who have defied societal and scientific barriers throughout history From Civil War doctors to pioneering astronauts, learn about trailblazing women like Mary Edwards Walker, Bessie Coleman, and Sally Ride, who broke new ground in STEM fields. This session will highlight both the challenges women in STEM have faced and the inspiring contributions they’ve made to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Discover the legacy of these extraordinary women who reshaped our understanding of what’s possible
The National Women's History Museum (NWHM) is dedicated to recognizing, honoring, and preserving the diverse stories of women throughout American history. By educating and inspiring individuals of all ages, the NWHM seeks to shine a light on the incredible contributions women have made to society, culture, and various fields, from politics and science to the arts and beyond. The museum offers a wide range of virtual programs, educational resources, and events that celebrate the lives of trailblazing women, providing a platform for reflection and learning about gender equality and empowerment Through its engaging initiatives, the NWHM strives to promote awareness of women's history and ensure their achievements are acknowledged and celebrated for generations to come.
FINE ARTS
Paint Techniques & Sip
March 26, April 23, May 28 at 2:00 PM
Join our paint and sip class that caters to artists of all skill levels! Whether you're a seasoned painter or a complete beginner, Heather Connole will guide you through! Discover a range of techniques, from fundamental to advanced methods. With personalized instruction this class is the perfect opportunity to refine your skills or embark on a creative adventure. Come paint your own masterpiece!
Heather Connole, a self-taught Impressionist oil painter with 17 years of experience, creates colorful and joyful works Her bold brush strokes bring movement to picturesque landscapes, portraits, animals, and flowers Represented in various galleries, Heather also shares her passion by teaching art classes and inspiring confidence in her student
FINE ARTS
Art from the Jewish Canon
March 19 at 2:00 PM
Since the Jewish faith forbids the making of graven images, this lecture showcases sacred items used for primarily ritual purposes See early examples of beautifully carved and decorated Menorahs, Shofars, Kiddush cups, and spice containers; elaborately embroidered prayer shawls; and brilliantly illuminated Ketubahs and Torahs. We start to see paintings by Jewish artists only from the 19th century.
The Renaissance Beyond
April 16 at 2:00 PM
See dazzling works of beauty-religious paintings, sculptural works and portraits-from the high Renaissance In addition to works by Masters Leonardo, Michelangelo, and Raphael who worked in Florence and Rome, feast your eyes on works by great Venetian painters including those by Titan, Veronese, and Tintoretto.
The Big Apple in Art
May 21 at 2:00 PM
We start this lecture with colonial-era works and then move on to images showing bridges, tunnels, famous monuments, the East River and the Hudson River-all of them painted by men and women who have lived in and loved New York City
Roshna Kapadia has a BA from Tufts University, an MA in South Asian Studies from the University of Pennsylvania, and an MA in Art History from George Mason University. She has lived in the Washington DC area for 25 years.
THEATER
Juliette Gordon Low - She's a daisy!
April 30 at 2:00 PM
Mary Ann Jung presents her fascinating show about Girl Scout Founder Juliette Gordon Low It's a fun, interactive program about how and why Low started the group with surprising stories about Scouting's earliest days Low, who was known as "Daisy", overcame serious health issues and personal tragedy to create an organization to help girls all around the United States. Learn about the evolution of the uniforms, activities, and yes even the cookies through Low's inspiring life. Daisy always trusted her Girl Scouts with important decisions and empowered them as she believed "Girls know what's best!"
Mary Ann Jung is an award-winning actress and Smithsonian scholar. You have probably already seen this this performer, scholar, writer, and director, but not in modern clothing! Ms. Jung researches and writes her own scripts, and performs in the authentic costumes, accents, and attitudes for her characters’ eras Mary Ann has appeared on CNN, the Today Show, Good Morning America, and in newspapers around the world as famous women from history. She has been a lead actress and Director of Renaissance History and Shakespearean Language at the Maryland Renaissance Festival for over 30 years. She performed as queen and was a Director with the Florida Renaissance Festival from 1994-2006 She was Director of Street Theater and Family Performances for ArtScape (the USA's largest arts festival) for ten years; in 1998 Mary Ann was awarded a citation from the Mayor of Baltimore for her work at that event
THEATER/STEM
Evolution of Broadway Musicals
March 4 at 2:00 PM
The Evolution of Broadway explores the transformative journey of the renowned theatrical district from its early roots to contemporary times. Tracing its origins in the 19th century to the present day, this lecture delves into the development of Broadway's iconic productions, theaters, and cultural impact
NASA & Space
April 1 at 2:00 PM
NASA and Space: Exploring the Final Frontier Take a journey through the cosmos and explore NASA’s pioneering missions, breathtaking discoveries, glorious photographs and technological triumphs which help us understand the mysteries of the universe. We’ll take a journey through the cosmos and discuss the future of space exploration with NASA.
Sterling Harris has had a career as an actor, television producer, trainer, public speaker, mediator and developmental coach. He is an entertainment and history buff and loves creating and delivering presentations on famous figures, events and celebrated eras in history An avid music fan as well, Sterling plays bass guitar in his jazz combo which performs at venues in the D.C. area.
LEGAL
Absurd Laws & Bans
May 6 at 2:00 PM
The lecture on Absurd Laws and Bans explores the quirky, illogical, and often humorous regulations imposed by governments around the world. From outdated laws that remain on the books to bizarre bans on seemingly mundane activities or objects, the discussion sheds light on the whimsical side of legislation Ultimately, it offers insight into the peculiarities of legal systems and the sometimes surreal intersections of law and everyday life.
Alan MacEwen is a graduate of Duke University who majored in English American Literature He is an avid student of music history In addition to the Gershwins, he has lectured on Ella Fitzgerald, Harry Belafonte, Elvis Presley and many other historical, iconic figures. He looks forward to delivering a presentation at your community!
CULINARY
Hot Chocolate Bomb Workshop
March 12 at 2:00 PM
In this class, participants will learn how to assemble milk chocolate shells, marshmallows, and cocoa powder into hot chocolate bombs Before the workshop we will review the history of cocoa This class is exclusively for residents, limited spots available
Chocolate Truffles Workshop
May 14 at 2:00 PM
Try your hands at truffles: This is an interactive class where the participants will learn about the history of truffles, various types of truffles, view the original truffle recipe from 1920, learn the difference between a bon-bon and a truffle, and how to make ganache. Participants will try their hand at rolling the ganache into balls and dipping them into their choice of milk or dark chocolate. Various toppings such as sea salt, seasonal sprinkles, red pepper flakes, cocoa powder, cocoa nibs, cinnamon, and other various toppings will be offered This class is exclusively for residents, limited spots available
Donna is a retired Navy nurse and corpsman who taught bean-to-bar chocolate classes to the public and school groups at the Hershey Story Museum in Hershey, PA for nine years In 2023, she started her own business with “The Great Chocolate Roadshow” to give those who cannot travel to the museum an opportunity to learn about chocolate Donna has taught over 300 classes about chocolate and has also toured a working cacao farm in Hawaii. Besides being with her daughter, Emily, teaching about chocolate is her most favorite thing to do!
CULINARY
Culinary Women: A Taste of Female Chefs
March 20 at 3:00 PM
Organize a tasting event featuring dishes prepared by local female chefs. Include cooking demonstrations and discussions about their journeys in the culinary world
Farm-to-Table: Connecting Food, Community, and Sustainability
April 9 at 2:00 PM
Organize a tasting event featuring dishes prepared by local female chefs Include cooking demonstrations and discussions about their journeys in the culinary world
Vegetarian and Vegan Traditions Around the World
May 7 at 2:00 PM
Investigate the vegetarian and vegan culinary practices in countries like India, Israel, and Ethiopia, and their cultural significance
CULINARY
Spring Awakening: White Wines of the World
March 18 at 2:00 PM
Dive into refreshing white wines from different regions, such as Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, and Albariño Pair with light spring dishes
Earth Day: Organic and Biodynamic Wine
April 29 at 2:00 PM
Taste wines made from organically or biodynamically farmed grapes Discuss the importance of sustainability in viticulture
The Art of Blending: Bordeaux vs. Rhône
May 20 at 2:00 PM
Compare the classic Bordeaux blends with Rhône blends. Discuss the characteristics that make each unique and their historical contexts
NOTES
LIFE LONG LEARNING
