# 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
BRING A FRIEND + SIGN UP TODAY
#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
Learn more by liking us on Facebook
@RUI.WoodlandHills
WELLNESS TAI CHI with Dink Wiseman Every Saturday in September 2026 at 3:00 PM Every Saturday in October 2026 at 3:00 PM Every Saturday in November 2026 at 3:00 PM Dink Wiseman received her first tai chi certification in 2019 and has since obtained three additional certifications, including Tai Chi for Veterans. She offers a variety of classes, such as traditional, seated, Fusion, and FLOW. Additionally, she is certified in Hatha, Vinyasa, Yin, and Restorative Yoga. Dink's primary passion lies in working with senior citizens, and she strives to bring tai chi and yoga to those who may struggle to attend classes, including residents of senior living communities. Her classes are designed as a moving meditation, emphasizing the mind-body connection inherent in the practice. Dink shares, “One of the things I truly love about tai chi is that it brings you to this present moment. Focusing on the movement of hands and feet, there is no opportunity to ruminate about anything!”
The Art of Mindful Thinking Focus September 24, 2026 at 2:00 PM Mindfulness Meditation & Cognitive Health with the focus on healing energy from within
Register for classes online at WoodlandHillsByRUI.com/rui-university or by calling 540.682.7500 1
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT The American Sound 2 Join us for this exciting, interactive series on the music of the 1960's, hosted by Josh Urban.
The Rat Pack September 10 and September 17, 2026 at 2:00 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 8 and October 15, 2026 at 2:00 PM Johnny, Merle, Buck, George, and more. Put on your boots, it's time to go 60's country.
The Swingin' Sixties November 12 and November 19, 2026 at 2:00 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.
Register for classes online at WoodlandHillsByRUI.com/rui-university or by calling 540.682.7500 2
MUSIC Piano Concert & History With Erica Sipes Every Saturday in September 2026 at 11:00 AM Every Saturday in October 2026 at 11:00 AM Every Saturday in November 2026 at 11:00 AM Erica Ann Sipes received her bachelor's and master's degrees in piano performance from the Eastman School of Music where she studied with Rebecca Penneys and Nelita True. She has also studied cello with Irene Sharp and with Paul Katz and has studied piano collaboration and accompanying with Jean Barr at the Eastman School and with Anne Epperson at the Music Academy of the West. Ms. Sipes debuted with the Chamber Soloists of San Francisco at age 10 and has also performed with the Chelsea Chamber Players in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Music Therapy September 3 and September 17, 2026 at 10:00 AM October 1 and October 15, 2026 at 10:00 AM November 5 and November 19, 2026 at 10:00 AM Music therapy is appropriate and necessary in that it addresses a myriad of goal areas including emotional, physical, social and cognitive.
Many individuals face barriers that limit their quality of life—impacting emotional, physical, and social well-being. At Anderson Music Therapy Service, we provide evidence-based music therapy to help clients overcome those barriers and function at their highest level, both at home and in the community.
Register for classes online at WoodlandHillsByRUI.com/rui-university or by calling 540.682.7500 3
THERAPY Pet Therapy September 16, 2026 at 10:00 AM October 21, 2026 at 10:00 AM November 18, 2026 at 10:00 AM Ernie the dog will provide pet therapy sessions, bringing comfort and companionship to participants. During each session, participants will have the opportunity to interact with Ernie, enjoying his calming presence and affectionate personality. Pet therapy has been shown to reduce stress and improve emotional well-being.
Register for classes online at WoodlandHillsByRUI.com/rui-university or by calling 540.682.7500 4
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.
Register for classes online at WoodlandHillsByRUI.com/rui-university or by calling 540.682.7500 5
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.
Register for classes online at WoodlandHillsByRUI.com/rui-university or by calling 540.682.7500 6
CULINARY:UNCORKED Lobsters, Wineries & Foods of New England: Coastal Wines & Harvest Stories September 11, 2026 at 3:30 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 2, 2026 at 3:30 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 6, 2026 at 3:30 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.
Register for classes online at WoodlandHillsByRUI.com/rui-university or by calling 540.682.7500 7
HEALTH Breath of Life: Lung Vitality & Calm September 8, 2026 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 October 13, 2026 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 November 10, 2026 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.
Register for classes online at WoodlandHillsByRUI.com/rui-university or by calling 540.682.7500 8
LIFELONG LEARNING
#FallIntoLearning
Learn more by liking us on Facebook
@RUI.WoodlandHills