LIFELONG LEARNING
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
#WINTERENRICHMENT
Dear Residents, Family, and Guests,
As we look ahead to 2026, RUI University is pleased to present our Winter Enrichment semester an inspired season designed to support lifelong learning, personal enrichment, and intellectual exploration As the vibrant colors of autumn give way to the calm and clarity of winter, this is an ideal time for learners to reflect, reset, and engage in meaningful academic pursuits
Monthly Events to Look Forward To:
December- Top Scholar Event
Celebrate the achievements of our dedicated lifelong learners at the RUI University Top Scholar Ceremony. This event honors residents who exemplify curiosity, growth, and engagement throughout the year
January – Civic Engagement
Explore the importance of informed citizenship through discussions and activities focused on civic processes, volunteerism, and community involvement. January encourages residents to stay engaged and empowered February – Global Culture & Contemporary Issues
Expand your global perspective through programs highlighting diverse cultures, current events, and worldwide trends February’s offerings spark meaningful dialogue and deepen global understanding.
Our winter curriculum has been thoughtfully developed to meet the evolving needs and interests of our diverse learning community The 2026 course offerings span a wide range of subjects, skill levels, and formats, ensuring that every participant can explore new areas of curiosity or deepen existing knowledge. From interdisciplinary seminars and creative arts workshops to skillbuilding sessions and special events, each program is crafted to encourage growth, discovery, and engagement.
RUI University remains committed to fostering an inclusive and collaborative learning environment where residents, family members, and guests can connect, share perspectives, and enrich one another’s educational journeys. These connections strengthen our community and enhance the overall learning experience.
FINE ARTS
The Art of Story Telling Workshop
Every Tuesday at 2:30 PM
The Art of Storytelling Workshop invites memory care residents to share personal memories, traditions, and life experiences through guided prompts and group conversation. This activity stimulates cognitive recall, supports communication, and helps residents feel heard and valued By encouraging connection and creativity, the workshop fosters a sense of identity, purpose, and community Join us as we celebrate each resident’s unique story and create meaningful moments together.
Maria Giraldo-Schwartz, Inspiritás Director
Bird Buddy
Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 3:00 PM
The Bird Buddy smart bird feeder brings joy, stimulation, and comfort to residents in a Memory Care Unit. Its built-in camera captures close-up photos and videos of visiting birds, which are automatically displayed on a tablet or screen for residents to enjoy This engaging, nature-based technology supports emotional well-being by sparking curiosity, evoking positive memories, and offering a sense of connection to the natural world.
THERAPY
Art Therapy w/ Mind Body and Soul
December 4, 2025 & December 18, 2025 at 11:00 am
January 8, 2026 & January 22, 2026 at 11:00 am
February 12, 2026 & February 26, 2026 at 11:00 AM
Art Therapy helps memory care residents express emotions and memories in a safe, non-verbal way. It supports cognitive function, reduces anxiety, and engages the senses through color, texture, and familiar themes. The class also promotes social interaction and boosts confidence by giving residents a meaningful, successful experience.
Beth Oliver is an art therapist and founder of Mind Body Soul Art Therapy in Fairfax, Virginia Trained at The George Washington University, she uses a gentle, neuroscience-informed approach to help individuals connect, express emotion, and find comfort through creativity. Beth is passionate about supporting older adults and those living with memory change, offering warm, thoughtful guidance that encourages confidence, calm, and meaningful self-expression
Pets on Wheels
December 9, 2025 at 10:00 AM
January 13, 2026 at 10:00 AM
February 10. 2026 at 10:00 AM
Pet visitation has been medically proven to have a calming effect. Visits by trained volunteer/pet teams help reduce anxiety, relieve depression, lower blood pressure, encourage communication, and increase socialization What’s more, touching animals helps chase away loneliness, depression, and withdrawal and encourages a meaningful connection to happier times.
The mission of Fairfax Pets On Wheels, Inc. (FPOW) is to provide companionship and improved quality of life to residents of Fairfax area nursing homes and assisted living facilities through regular pet visitation by trained volunteers and their approved pets
MUSIC
Music Therapy with Neurosound
December 18, 2025 at 2:00 PM
January 22, 2026 at 2:00 PM
February 26, 2026 at 2:00 PM
Music Therapy helps memory care residents connect with familiar songs that stimulate memory, emotion, and communication. It reduces anxiety, improves mood, and supports cognitive and sensory engagement through rhythm and melody. The class also encourages social interaction and provides a comforting, uplifting experience.
NeuroSound Music Therapy offers certified, evidence-based music therapy to senior communities in Northern Virginia. Their clinicians use live music, rhythm, movement, and reminiscence to support emotional well-being and cognitive engagement Each personalized session fosters comfort, creativity, and meaningful connection for residents.
Live Music with Adam Melia
December 5, 2025, January 16. 2026, and February 20, 2026 at 2:00 PM
Adam Melia Music with Nashville Standard Presents provides quality and uplifting vintage style musical entertainment
Live Music with Lee Jones
December 12, 2025 at 2:00 PM
A area musician who plays in a variety of musical genres, primarily on guitar, banjo, and uke
WILDLIFE
Animal Encounters with Echoes of Nature
December 9, 2025 at 10:30 AM
“Movie Goof Ups” - Animals have appeared in movies for decades, but their behavior on screen isn’t always accurate. In this lighthearted session, we explore funny and surprising moments where films get animal behavior wrong (and sometimes right!)
Animal Alphabet
January 6, 2026 at 10:30 AM
Animal Alphabet - Ever wonder where an animal’s scientific name comes from? Visit a few of our ambassadors and let us dissect their name. See which ones make sense and which ones are still baffling.
“Footwear”
February 3, 2026 at 10:30 AM
“Footwear” - Animal feet (or lack of) are designed to help animals stay safe, travel, acquire food. We shall meet animals with different types of feet and learn how their feet help them.
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.
December-Food
CULINARY
& Hospitality Traditions
December 26 ,2025 at 2:30 PM
Celebrate the season at our signature Champagne & Snowflakes Holiday Party—the most anticipated event of the year This elegant gathering welcomes residents, families, prospective residents, and industry partners for an evening that highlights the warmth, sophistication, and exceptional hospitality of our community
Savor 2026: A Culinary Discovery Series
This 12-month series is designed to engage residents in hands-on culinary learning experiences rooted in culture, seasonality, and therapeutic outcomes. Each month features a specific theme with global influence, wellness benefits, and social connection
January – Warming the Soul: Global Comfort Foods
January 30 , 2026 at 2:30 PM
Featured Cuisine: Moroccan Tagine, Thai Coconut Soup, Tuscan Ribollita
Experience global comfort foods through warming spices, rich textures, and handson exploration. This session highlights seasonal nourishment, cultural traditions, and interactive spice blending to support sensory engagement and cognitive wellness
February – Sweet & Savory: Mood Foods
February 27, 2026 at 2:30 PM
Featured Cuisine: Dark Chocolate Truffles • Oysters Rockefeller • Strawberry Balsamic Glaze
Discover how select ingredients can elevate mood, support heart and brain health, and add sophistication to your cooking This session highlights the balance between indulgence and wellness while exploring culinary creativity with naturally stimulating flavors.
CULINARY: UNCORKED
December- Cheers to the Holidays: Festive Pairings
December 30. 2025 at 3:00 PM
Discover wines that beautifully complement traditional holiday dishes, enhancing flavor and elevating each festive gathering. This session highlights warm, rich, and sophisticated pairings that bring an elegant touch to seasonal celebrations.
Uncorked 2026: A Year of Wine Discovery
Each month, this series immerses residents in the culture, science, and story of the world’s most iconic wine regions. Rooted in hospitality excellence and lifelong learning best practices, each program includes structured tastings introducing non-alcoholic wines, paired culinary elements, and multi-sensory learning
January-Uncorked Origins: Georgia: Tbilisi, Winelands & Highlands
January 5,2026 at 3:00 PM
Discover the 8,000-year winemaking tradition of Georgia and its deep cultural and spiritual significance. This session explores qvevri fermentation, natural wine techniques, and the ancient clay vessels that shaped one of the world’s oldest wine cultures.
February – Uncorked Romance: Winter in Italy Romance, Reds & Truffles
February 9. 2026 at 3:00 PM
Explore the rich flavors and styles of Northern Italian red wines while discovering how they pair beautifully with hearty winter dishes and chocolate This session highlights renowned varietals such as Barolo, Brunello, and Super Tuscans, along with regional wine customs and stories that bring Italy’s winemaking heritage to life.
HEALTH
Holiday Hits Classic
December 29, 2025 at 3:00 PM
Celebrate the season with a joyful wellness experience that blends music, movement, and festive spirit Participants will learn how to curate an uplifting, non-denominational holiday playlist featuring classics and modern covers, creating the perfect backdrop for energizing activities. The session includes a guided, low-impact exercise program set to holiday rhythms, incorporating gentle warm-ups, cardio, strength, balance, and a calming cooldown.
The Art of Everyday Vitality
January 28, 2026 at 3:00 PM
This class explores vitality as a foundation for staying strong, active, and energized Participants will learn how regular physical activity supports longevity, cognitive function, and emotional well-being, while also understanding the importance of recovery and balance. The focus is on promoting independence, improving quality of life, and building sustainable wellness through consistent, enjoyable movement.
Matters of the Heart: A Gentle Cardio Soiree
February 26, 2026 at 3:00 PM
This uplifting class introduces residents to gentle, rhythm-based movements designed to support heart health, boost energy, and encourage social connection. Participants explore how light cardiovascular activity enhances circulation, endurance, and mood, while group participation fosters emotional well-being. With an emphasis on enjoyment, consistency, and community, this session highlights how small, mindful efforts can make a meaningful impact on cardiovascular vitality
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
Go online to stay up-to-date with our monthly webinars, book recommendations, online resources, and more!
LIFELONG LEARNING
