LIFELONG LEARNING
#NotYourAvergeSummerSchool
Dear Residents, Family, and Guests,
Welcome to the #NotYourAverageSummerSchool at RUI University! As we step into the vibrant season of summer, we are excited to offer a range of interactive classes and engaging monthly events that will make this summer one to remember This summer, RUI University is focused on blending fun, learning, and community connection. This summer, we’re offering:
Interactive Summer Classes: Dive into unique, hands-on courses that blend education with creativity From culinary classes to outdoor fitness challenges, these interactive sessions are designed to ignite your passion for learning while fostering a sense of community.
Monthly Events to Look Forward To:
June - Juneteenth Outing: Join us as we celebrate Juneteenth with a special outing to a local Black-owned restaurant This is an opportunity to experience the culture, history, and delicious flavors that shape our shared heritage
July - History of Ice Cream: Cool off this summer with a deliciously sweet history lesson on the origins of ice cream. Taste different varieties, learn about its cultural significance, and explore the evolution of everyone’s favorite summer treat!
August -Trivia Tournament: Get your trivia hats on and join us for the Bistro Trivia Tournament! Test your knowledge, enjoy great food, and compete for exciting prizes in this lively and fun-filled event
We encourage all residents, family members, and guests to take part in these exciting activities. Whether you're looking to enhance your skills, connect with others or simply enjoying something new and exciting, #NotYourAverageSummerSchool at RUI University is designed to offer something for everyone
FINE ARTS
Dimensional Art and Crafts
June 10 at 2:00 PM
We will have an overview of varieties of 3-D art. Some historical information will be provided and how this art form has progressed The slideshow will provide examples of the many varieties of 3-D art and crafts: sculpture, textiles, assemblages, beading, crafts, installations, etc. Some artists will be discussed and examples of their work provided. We will briefly go over the art of drawing and painting to make images appear threedimensional. Our art project will be assembling a variety of materials together to create unique 3-dimensional mixed media pieces.
Mexican Folk Art
July 8 at 2:00 PM
There have been many craftspeople in indigenous Mexican culture with no formal art training. These people have made various beautiful and useful art forms in the context of tradition, culture and national identity. The 20th century saw a great rise in these handicrafts which became economically valuable. We will explore many varieties and styles of folk art in Mexico We will create a colorful Mexican landscape in the folk art style
Art of the Sea
July 12 at 2:00 PM
The art of the sea, or maritime art, has a long and varied history, encompassing diverse forms from early rock carvings to modern photography. The sea has been a powerful source of inspiration for artists From ancient depictions of boats to detailed seascapes and maritime battles, the sea has been a recurring motif in art. We will also explore images of sea life and all the amazing creatures of the sea We will have an option of colorful jellyfish or seahorse paintings
Emily Basto received an MS in Art Therapy from Eastern Virginia Medical School in 2009. She has her undergraduate degree in Sociology and Anthropology. Her interest in other cultures and customs influences many of her art projects. She currently works with older adults and really enjoys this community in various settings. Emily hopes to continue to promote art therapy services and highlight the many benefits
FINE ARTS
Mixed Materials Art: Exploring Creative Expression
July 8 at 2:00 PM
Discover your creative voice in this engaging mixed materials art course led by experienced artist and educator Heidi Ordaz. With a passion for guiding individuals of all ages and backgrounds, Mrs. Ordaz fosters a supportive environment where personal expression takes center stage Through hands-on exploration of traditional and experimental techniques including painting, clay, hand-press printmaking, mixed media, and crafts you’ll gain confidence in your artistic instincts and develop new ways to express your unique perspective. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned creator, this class invites you to immerse yourself in the process of making art that is truly your own.
Join us for a journey of creativity, connection, and self-discovery.
Heidi Ordaz has guided personal expression through art with a full range of ages and backgrounds. Having experienced the benefits of art herself, Mrs. Ordaz enjoys interacting with others as they create, to reveal their unique voice in the world. Artists can immerse into an art experience by using traditional or experimental hands-on techniques including painting, clay, hand-press printmaking, mixed media or crafts
BUSINESS
Common Healthcare Scams
July 3 at 2:00 PM
This informative session offers a comprehensive review of the three most common types of healthcare scams that disproportionately affect older adults and drain valuable resources from the Medicare system Participants will learn how fraudsters exploit vulnerabilities through deceptive billing practices, identity theft, and phony medical services or equipment. The class will delve into real-world examples, explore how these scams operate, and highlight the warning signs that can help protect individuals and families. Attendees will also gain practical tips on how to report suspicious activity and safeguard personal and financial information Whether you're a senior, a caregiver, or a healthcare professional, this session provides essential knowledge to help prevent fraud and promote a more secure healthcare environment
Shawn Smith is the State Director of the Virginia Senior Medicare Patrol program. He leads a team of over 100 paid and volunteer 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 His presentation will be about "Avoiding Common Healthcare Scams”. In it, he will cover the most common types of scams affecting seniors and he will share ways to prevent, detect, and report those scams. In addition to being an author and speaker, Shawn is a life coach, ordained minister, and the father of two young men, Shawn & Vaughn Shawn resides in Richmond, VA
Virginia Living Museum
June 19 , July 31, August 28 at 2:00 PM
Learning can be a life-long adventure. Join Virginia Living Museum staff biologists, naturalists and scientists to explore the natural world in special adult-oriented programs. Each activity-oriented program is presented in a relaxed, hands-on format and includes classroom instruction combined with opportunities to examine specimens from the Museum’s extensive collections and up close encounters with live animals Come and share a journey of discovery with others who have an enthusiastic desire to continue to learn about the natural world of Virginia and beyond.
The Virginia Living Museum's mission is "connecting people to nature through educational experiences that promote conservation". This means they aim to inspire knowledge, appreciation, and understanding of the natural world and its connection to the environment, ultimately encouraging conservation efforts. They achieve this through various exhibits, programs, and initiatives
Kinesthetic Learning Lab
June 20, July 8, August 12 at 3:00 PM
Put your skills into focus! Join us for monthly outings designed to help you experience the history of Newport News from what you’ve learned from your RUIU Classes. From scenic parks to historic landmarks, we’ll explore new places.
CULINARY
Art of Street Food: Global Flavors on the Go
June 23 at 2:00 PM
Take your taste buds on a world tour in this dynamic culinary class celebrating the bold, vibrant world of street food. From the sizzling stalls of Southeast Asia to the bustling carts of Latin America and the savory snacks of the Mediterranean, you’ll explore the cultural roots and creative flair behind some of the world’s most beloved on-the-go dishes This class includes a live cooking demonstration, where you'll watch and learn how to recreate authentic street food favorites using accessible ingredients and techniques you can try at home. Along the way, you'll gain insight into the history, regional variations, and global influence of street cuisine.
Food & Family Traditions
July 21 at 2:00 PM
Discover how food connects us to our heritage, our memories, and one another in this heartwarming and flavorful culinary class. Food & Family Traditions invites you to explore the rich stories behind treasured family recipes and the cultural traditions they represent. Through a live cooking demonstration, you'll experience how everyday ingredients can become powerful symbols of love, celebration, and identity Learn about the origins of classic comfort foods, the role of food in family rituals, and how culinary traditions are passed down and reinvented through generations.
Food in Literature & Film
August 18 at 2:00 PM
Explore the powerful role food plays in storytelling through this engaging and thoughtprovoking class that blends culinary culture with the arts Food in Literature & Film takes you on a sensory journey through iconic scenes, characters, and narratives where meals do more than nourish they reveal emotion, identity, and connection. From classic novels to contemporary films, we’ll examine how food shapes character development, symbolizes deeper themes, and brings stories to life. Through lively discussion and select video clips or readings, you’ll gain new insight into how writers and filmmakers use food as a narrative device
CULINARY
Summer Sips: Rosés Around the World
June 20 at 2:00 PM
Raise a glass to summer with this refreshing and educational journey through the world of rosé wines Summer Sips: Rosés Around the World is a guided wine tasting experience that explores the diverse styles, grape varieties, and winemaking traditions behind this beloved pink-hued wine. From the sun-drenched vineyards of Provence to the crisp, fruity bottles of California and the unexpected rosés of South America and beyond, you'll discover how geography, climate, and technique shape flavor and character Led by a wine educator, this class offers tips on how to taste like a pro, pair rosé with seasonal fare, and choose the right bottle for any occasion
The Heat is On: Spicy & Bold Reds
July 28 at 2:00 PM
Warm up your palate with a tasting experience that celebrates the rich, robust world of spicy and bold red wines. The Heat is On explores varietals known for their depth, intensity, and signature kick from peppery Syrahs and smoky Zinfandels to bold Malbecs and spicy Grenache blends Guided by a knowledgeable wine educator, you’ll learn how climate, soil, and winemaking techniques influence flavor profiles, tannin structure, and spice notes in red wine. Through a curated tasting, you’ll discover how to identify key characteristics, pair these powerful wines with food, and select bottles that bring the heat in just the right way.
Global Terroir: Wines by Region
August 25 at 2:00 PM
Discover how place shapes taste in this immersive exploration of wine through the lens of terroir the unique combination of soil, climate, geography, and tradition that gives wine its distinct character. Global Terroir: Wines by Region takes you on a guided tasting tour across some of the world’s most iconic wine regions, from the rolling hills of Tuscany and the river valleys of France to the high-altitude vineyards of Argentina and the coastal terroirs of New Zealand Learn how to recognize regional styles, interpret wine labels, and understand what makes a Pinot Noir from Oregon different from one in Burgundy.
HEALTH
National Men’s Health Month
June 9 at 2:00 PM
In honor of National Men’s Health Month, this informative and empowering class focuses on the unique health challenges and preventive care strategies that impact men at every stage of life. Designed to raise awareness and encourage proactive wellness, this session will explore key topics such as heart health, prostate health, mental well-being, nutrition, fitness, and routine screenings Participants will learn practical tips for reducing risk factors, improving lifestyle habits, and navigating conversations with healthcare providers. Whether you're looking to take charge of your health or support the well-being of the men in your life, this class offers valuable insights and tools to help build a stronger, healthier future—one step at a time.
Using Physical Activity to Fight Chronic Diseases
July 2 at 10:30 AM
Discover how movement can be one of the most powerful tools in preventing and managing chronic diseases In this evidence-based health and wellness class, you’ll learn how regular physical activity can help combat conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, high blood pressure, and more. We'll explore the science behind how exercise supports the body’s systems, improves energy levels, reduces inflammation, and enhances overall quality of life Participants will also gain practical guidance on choosing the right types of activity for their health goals, physical abilities, and daily routines
Vision & Hearing Care
August 5 at 10:30 AM
Our eyes and ears play a vital role in how we connect with the world yet vision and hearing are often overlooked in everyday health routines In this informative and accessible class, Vision & Hearing Care explores the changes that naturally occur with age, the early signs of common conditions, and steps you can take to maintain sensory health and quality of life. Topics include age-related vision issues such as cataracts and macular degeneration, as well as hearing loss, tinnitus, and the latest in assistive technologies Participants will learn about routine screenings, preventive habits, and when to seek professional care
LIFE LONG LEARNING
