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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 Honoring Stories September 11 and September 18, 2026 at 11:00 AM October 2, October 9, & October 16, 2026 at 11:00 AM November 6, November 20, & November 27, 2026 at 11:00 AM Honoring Stories is a writing class in which participants do 10-minute free writes, shared in an encouraging, judgement-free environment. Bring a pen and paper and an open heart.It’s a space where stories are celebrated, and each participant’s voice is valued. Whether you're an experienced writer or someone who’s just starting to explore the world of words, this class welcomes you. Through these shared narratives, we uncover connections, find healing, and honor the myriad experiences that shape our lives. Join us for an enriching experience that fosters creativity and community, and discover the power of storytelling as a tool for personal growth and reflection.

Jennifer Jurlando has been offering writing classes and grief support groups at the Barrington since 2017. She encourages participants to share, to listen, and to lean on each other for wisdom and encouragement. Jennifer is an adjunct instructor at VCU and a grief group facilitator at Full Circle Grief Center. She is the daughter of a Barrington resident, the mother of a Barrington employee, and a frequent presence in these halls!

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT The Rat Pack September 1, 2026 at 4:00 PM Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr., and the rest of the gang were the sound of suave. Explore the music and lives of the pack who helped shaped the idea of cool.

The Country Twang October 6, 2026 at 4:00 PM Johnny, Merle, Buck, George, and more. Put on your boots, it's time to go 60's country.

The Swingin' Sixties November 3, 2026 at 4:00 PM Can you dig the sounds of Miles, John, and Herbie? Jazz goes crazy in the 1960's, and Josh Urban has the scoop.

Josh Urban is a speaker, author, host, and syndicated columnist, and ultimately, a storyteller. Sometimes he uses words, written and spoken. Sometimes it's a guitar, or a telescope on a starry night, voyaging across the light years. A lifelong student of natural history and trained as a rock musician, Josh aims to bring Life to his audiences, and his listeners to life.

BUSINESS Avoiding Common Healthcare Scams October 22, 2026 at 2:00 PM 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.

HEALTH TALKS Chronic Illness & Disability: The Art of Pacing October 28, 2026 at 3:00 PM Learn about the Spoon Theory along with tips and tools to manage your energy levels and the triggers that come with a life of chronic illness and disability. Christina Brookman was an actress and teaching artist for over 15 years. She had to stop working in 2013 due to chronic illness that led to disability. Her goal is to make positive change in the disability, chronic illness and terminal illness communities. She has Ehlers Danlos, POTS, MAST Cell Activation Disorder, Fibromyalgia, Sjogren's, Trigeminal Neuralgia, Hemiplegic/MUMS Migraine, Carnitine Deficiency, Visual Impairment and other comorbidities associated with hEDS. Register for RUI University classes online at BarringtonAtHioaksByRUI.com/rui-university or by calling 804.320.1412 3

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 2, 2026 at 3:00 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 7, 2026 at 3:00 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 4, 2026 at 3:00 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 8, 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 13, 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 10, 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 Every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday in September at 11:00 AM 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 Every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday in October at 11:00 AM 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 Every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday in November at 11:00 AM 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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