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 - Bistro 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 eve
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 enjoy something new and exciting, #NotYourAverageSummerSchool at RUI University is designed to offer something for everyone
FINE ARTS
Watercolor Techniques
June 11, July 9, August 6 at 3:00 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 for Visual Arts, creates vibrant watercolors inspired by flowers, travel, and the joyful spirit of Haitian children She teaches workshops worldwide, exhibits regularly, and has earned numerous awards. A member of Potomac Valley Watercolorists, Marni lives in Springfield, VA, with her husband, Ron.
Exploration in Mixed Media Art
June 23, July 28, August 5 at 2:00 PM
The Mixed Media Art class is designed for students to explore a broad range of artistic techniques by combining different materials and mediums. In this course, participants will experiment with the fusion of traditional and non-traditional art forms such as painting, drawing, collage, printmaking, fabric, and found objects to create dynamic and textured works of art
Paula Roman-Leon is a versatile artist who enjoys working with various mediums, from painting and crafts to stained glass mosaics and cement sculptures She has collaborated on projects like a coloring book with artist Rita Scafidi and finds art to be a great stress reliever and problem-solving tool Paula's artistic journey began at age 8, and she studied at the Portland School of Art (now MECA) in the 1980s, majoring in Graphic Design and minoring in Drawing. With over 20 years of experience in graphic design, she later freelanced as an illustrator and designer, contributing to projects like the successful children’s show Olivia Now, Paula teaches drawing, painting, and crafts for all ages She lives in Springfield, VA, with her husband, Vladimir, and their six children Paula’s mantra is to continuously grow and explore new artistic experiences. Currently, she’s enjoying creating furniture pieces, which others also appreciate, and feels grateful for her artistic talent.
FINE ARTS
The Ecole de Nancy: the spearhead of the Art Nouveau Movement
June 30 at 11:00 AM
This class explores the École de Nancy, a pioneering collective at the forefront of the Art Nouveau movement in France. Focusing on the late 19th and early 20th centuries, students will examine how artists, designers, and craftsmen such as Émile Gallé and Louis Majorelle transformed natural forms into innovative architecture, furniture, and decorative arts. Through visual analysis, historical context, and discussion, the course highlights the group's unique contributions to modern art and design, emphasizing their fusion of artistic beauty with everyday function
Growing up amidst the artistic treasures of Northeastern France and Tuscany, Tosca’s passion for art was ignited at an early age. This enthusiasm led her to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Art History in Paris, followed by a Master’s Degree in Art & Archaeology from EPHE-Sorbonne She also holds a Master’s Degree in Arts & Cultural Management from King’s College London
Tosca’s career began with a role working for a prominent private art collector, where she honed her expertise in curating and appreciating fine art. She later expanded her experience in the art world by working in renowned galleries across
London and teaching art history at a French university
In 2021, Tosca founded Art with Tosca to share her passion and knowledge with a wider audience Based in Washington, D C , she designs and leads curated tours of the National Gallery of Art, Phillips Collection, Smithsonian American Art Museum, National Portrait Gallery and other fine arts museums, showcasing masterpieces that span the Italian Renaissance to Modern art.
Art with Tosca is dedicated to making art accessible, engaging, and inspiring Whether through virtual lectures and events that bring centuries of art history to life or in-person tours through the halls of museums, Tosca’s mission is to connect people to the stories and significance behind the world’s most celebrated works of art.
FINE ARTS
Women at Work
June 9 at 11:00 AM
Let’s trace the professions of women in art over time. Art work shows a range of livelihoods — from peasant women working as farm hands and midwives to poets, writers, suffragettes, and policy makers
American Art Portraits and Presidents
July 14 at 11:00 AM
Let’s trace the professions of women in art over time. Art work shows a range of livelihoods — from peasant women working as farm hands and midwives to poets, writers, suffragettes, and policy makers
Art of Japan
August 11 at 11:00 AM
This presentation centers on artwork in a variety of materials, including silk, paper, jade, bronze, wood, lacquer and ceramic Expect to see painting on screens, fans, and canvas; sculpture in wood, bronze, and clay; and finely carved items in ivory and jade
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.
FINE ARTS
Music History
June 12, July 10, August 14 at 11:00 AM
Join Reoberta for a captivating musical journey through the decades a lively and interactive experience that blends entertainment with history. Sing along to timeless classics as Reoberta guides you through the rich evolution of music, sharing fascinating stories behind the songs and the eras they represent. Accompanied by live piano, this engaging event brings to life the sounds and spirit of each decade, from nostalgic tunes to crowd favorites Perfect for music lovers of all ages, it's a celebration of melody, memory, and meaningful moments
Roberta is a passionate lover of both music and history, with a deep appreciation for how the two intertwine. As an accomplished pianist, she has spent years honing her craft and performing across a variety of genres. Her expertise spans from classical compositions to modern hits, with a particular fondness for exploring the historical context behind the music she plays Whether it's delving into the stories behind iconic songs or sharing the evolution of music through the ages, Roberta brings her unique perspective to every performance. With a warm, engaging presence, she invites audiences to not only enjoy the music but also discover the rich history that shaped it Her performances are a delightful blend of skill, knowledge, and passion, making every musical experience with her both educational and unforgettable.
BUSINESS
Common Healthcare Scams
June 7 at 11:00 AM
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
The Joys of Movie Musicals
July 7 & 24 at 11:00 AM
Hollywood movies have been a source of joy since 1927 when Al Jolson's voice was heard in the Jazz Singer. Since that time, there have been hundreds of great movie musicals, including ones where Fred and Ginger danced, Judy Garland went to Oz, and Gene Kelly sang in the rain. The fun class will show how movie musicals have changed over time and include many scenes from films both well-known and not so well-known You are sure to learn a lot about great movies and see some of your favorite scenes from the movies Come and be happy while learning!
Dan Sherman is an economist (Ph.D., Cornell 1985) whose interests include opera and American musical theatre Since 2010, Dan has given many talks and classes on film, film music, classical composers, and great musical theatre composers and lyricists. He has spoken to lifelong learning groups, university groups, and social groups in the Washington, DC area and more recently throughout the country via Zoom. He divides his time between Alexandria, Virginia and Williamsburg
HISTORY
The Life & Times of Mark Twain
July 30 at 2:00 PM
Mark Twain can be a refreshing break from the worries of the world, with plenty of good advice about human nature As Mark would say, “Always do right That will gratify some people and astonish the rest ” He didn’t have a high regard for some of our political institutions noting that, “A flea can be taught nearly anything a congressman can.” But he was bullish on education: “Training is everything. A cauliflower is nothing but a cabbage with a college education.” Mark Twain is an American legend -- steamboat pilot, novelist, the nation’s most celebrated storyteller. He was a man who could make anybody laugh And he always sprinkled his humorous sayings with a little vinegar “Heaven goes by favor,” Twain said “If it went by merit, I would stay out and my dog would go in.”
Gary Robertson has been a radio DJ, a college teacher and administrator and a reporter for the Richmond Times-Dispatch newspaper and Reuters He currently is a freelance writer and a Mark Twain impersonator. He is a graduate of the University of Richmond and lives in Ashland, Virginia, a small railroad town where the yogurt parlor has closed, but the feed store is thriving
CURRENT EVENTS
Navigating the News
June 2, 16, & 30, July 21, August 4 &18 at 11:00 AM
In this interactive discussion, we dive into the overwhelming flood of information we face every day It’s exhausting to stay up-to-date with the constant stream of news coming at us from all directions – whether it's through newspapers, television broadcasts, radio programs, online articles, or the endless flood of social media posts With so many different perspectives and sources, it can quickly feel like we’re being bombarded.
For many of us, it becomes incredibly difficult to sort through the noise and discern what’s truly important With various biases, agendas, and agendas shaping the way information is presented, how do we filter through the noise and separate the wheat from the chaff? How can we confidently distinguish between what’s real, credible, and trustworthy, and what’s exaggerated, misleading, or outright false?
This conversation will provide an opportunity to explore these questions in-depth, and together we’ll work to develop strategies for identifying reliable sources of information and understanding how factors such as media bias and misinformation can shape our views. The discussion will be guided by the input and experiences of the participants, helping us build better media literacy in an increasingly complex world.
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
CULINARY
Art of Street Food: Global Flavors on the Go
June 27 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 25 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 29 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 30 at 3:00 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 3:00 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.
WELLNESS
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 11 at 2:00 PM
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 12 at 2:00 PM
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
