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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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@RUI.PaulSpring

ART HISTORY Norman Rockwell, America’s Favorite Illustrator September 9, 2026 at 3:00 PM Rockwell's artwork graced the covers of magazines, most notably the Saturday Evening Post, for five decades. Let’s look at the illustrations and paintings that captured American culture from Boy Scouting, to the Depression, Sporting activity, Hollywood glitz, World War II, and the Space Race.

The Rich and Poor as depicted in Dutch Art October 14, 2026 at 3:00 PM On a per capita basis, in the seventeenth century, the Dutch were richer than their counterparts in France, Italy, England or Spain. Yet, there was poverty. In the paintings featured in this presentation, we see the contrasting lifestyles of the rich, depicted engaging in leisure activities, and the not-so-rich, shown farming, herding cattle, or practicing lowly trades.

Food Glorious Food November 11, 2026 at 3:00 PM As we prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving this month, let’s discuss food in art. What foodstuffs did the Ancient Greeks and Roman prize? How is the Eucharist presented in Christian Art? What was the staple diet for European peasants during the medieval era? Why do we fast? When do we feast? Find out the answers to these questions and more in this month’s lecture.

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 Mo Better University September 7, 2026 at 3:00 PM October 5, 2026 at 3:00 PM November 2, 2026 at 3:00 PM In this exciting session, we will explore the evolution of music across history, from ancient traditions to modern sounds. This lecture series will highlight the composers, cultures, styles, and innovations that shaped the music we know today. Mo Better University, long admired for their exceptional music and entertainment programs, has expanded their creative excellence into the realm of lifelong learning. With the establishment of Mo Better University, they now offer a rich array of high-quality lectures and programs designed to inspire, educate, and engage learners at every stage of life.

Floral Arranging Workshop September 16, 2026 at 2:30 PM October 7, 2026 at 2:30 PM November 4, 2026 at 2:30 PM Discover the art of floral arranging through hands-on workshops that explore color, texture, design, and seasonal flowers. Participants will learn creative techniques for creating beautiful arrangements while enjoying a fun and relaxing experience.

Ishmael Dean, Life Enrichment Director

HISTORY Ordinary People September 30, 2026 at 3:00 PM October 14, 2026 at 3:00 PM This 2 part presentation explores how ordinary Germans responded as democracy collapsed and Nazism rose. Were they complicit, coerced, or misled? We examine the choices citizens faced, what they knew about the Holocaust, and how they reacted to the Nazi regime.

David K. Wessel is one of six children born to Karl-Heinz Wessel, the main character of “Choosing Sides”. David is a retired elected government official and U.S. diplomat, published historian and award-winning novelist. When it comes to writing about the years leading up to World War II he relies not only on his family story, but fifty years of studying how the Weimar Republic shaped the lives of ‘ordinary Germans.

Foundations of America September 3, 2026 at 2:00 PM October 1, 2026 at 2:00 PM November 5, 2026 at 2:00 PM This three-part lecture series exploring the ideas, people, events, and institutions that shaped the United States. Beginning with the nation’s colonial roots and the founding era, the series examines the principles behind American government, liberty, self-government, and individual rights. Dr. James Baer is an emeritus professor of history at Northern Virginia Community College. Holding a Ph.D. in Latin American History from Rutgers, he has published extensively on Argentine social history and Cuban Protestants. His books include Anarchist Immigrants in Spain and Argentina and A Social History of Cuba’s Protestants: God and the Nation.

HISTORY Docuseries Every Monday and Thursday in September, October, & November at 3:00 PM In this monthly documentary series, residents gain the opportunity to explore powerful reallife stories through engaging documentary episodes that spark reflection and discussion. Each session encourages conversation, critical thinking, and connection as we learn from diverse perspectives and experiences.

Ishmael Dean, Life Enrichment Director

BUSINESS Avoiding Common Healthcare Scams September 14, 2026 at 10:00 AM 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.

SCIENCE + TECHNOLOGY Tech Time September 3 and September 17, 2026 at 3:30 PM October 1, October 15, and October 29, 2026 at 3:30 PM November 12 and November 26, 2026 at 3:30 PM Join us for Tech Time, a fun and easygoing class designed to help residents feel more comfortable using today’s technology. Whether you want to learn how to video chat with family, send photos, browse the internet, or use your smartphone or tablet, our team will guide you step-by-step at your own pace.

Ishmael Dean, Life Enrichment Director

Introduction to Forensic Science October 19, 2026 at 3:00 PM This lecture provides an introduction to the fundamental concepts, principles, and applications of forensic science. It explores how scientific methods and techniques are applied to the investigation of crime and the examination of evidence for legal purposes. The lecture introduces students to the history and development of forensic science, major branches of forensic science, types and sources of evidence, crime scene investigation. Mo Better University, long admired for their exceptional music and entertainment programs, has expanded their creative excellence into the realm of lifelong learning. With the establishment of Mo Better University, they now offer a rich array of high-quality lectures and programs designed to inspire, educate, and engage learners at every stage of life.

HEALTH Seated Zumba with Lesley Every Monday at 2:00 PM Seated Zumba offers residents a low-impact dance fitness session where participants stay seated while moving to upbeat Latin and international music, performing gentle arm, core, and leg movements that improve coordination, flexibility, and cardiovascular health.

Lesley Kim, is a certified Group Fitness Instructor through the American Council on Exercise (ACE) and she shares her passion for fitness with others. She has taught a variety of exercise formats, and developed a special connection with her 50+ adult fitness classes.

TAI CHI Every Friday at 10:30 AM Participants are sitting in chairs or wheel chairs. Movements are very slow and repeated taking into account their limited mobility, and the memory deficit. With repetition, participants may be able to extend gradually the range of their movements. To anchor the practice in their memories, the instructor may sing a brief song that intends to refresh in their attention that this is the time for Tai Chi.

Your Third Eye, LLC offers Tai Chi and Qi gong practice to seniors in nursing facilities and to those that are home bound. Tai Chi is described as “meditation in motion.” It is intended to help seniors achieve the following:

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 15, 2026 at 2:00 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 20, 2026 at 2:00 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 17, 2026 at 2:00 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 28, 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 26, 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 30, 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 September 25, 2026 at 3:00 PM 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 October 30, 2026 at 3:00 PM 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 November 27, 2026 at 3:00 PM 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

Learn more by liking us on Facebook

@RUI.PaulSpring