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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.TheWestmontAtShortPump

FINE ARTS Abundant Days Art Therapy Class Every Thursday in September at 10:30 AM Every Thursday in October at 10:30 AM Every Thursday in November at 10:30 AM Celebrate creativity & self-expression in this uplifting art class designed to inspire joy & connection. Explore a variety of aristic mediums & techniques in a relaxed, supportive environment. Whether you're a seasoned artists or just beginning, every day is an opportunity to create something meaningful and beautiful. Let your imagination flourish! Abundant Days is a family-owned organization dedicated to creating meaningful and engaging experiences for older adults in both Assisted Living and Memory Care. Led by professionals with backgrounds in gerontology, psychology, senior living, dementia education, and therapeutic engagement, their programs incorporate music, movement, creativity, sensory experiences, and meaningful connection, celebrating individual abilities while promoting cognitive engagement, self-expression, social connection, physical and emotional wellness, and overall quality of life.

Scrap RVA October 27, 2026 at 11:00 AM SCRAP RVA brings creativity and sustainability together through engaging, hands-on art experiences. Using a variety of unique and reusable materials, participants are encouraged to explore their creativity, learn new techniques, and transform everyday items into meaningful works of art. SCRAP RVA is a non-profit that diverts donated & reclaimed arts & crafts materials from the waste stream and makes them available to the community. In addition to the storefront, SCRAP also has educational offerings which aim to teach the concepts and benefits of creative reuse with the goal of behavior change - combining waste reduction and art education in fun and unique ways.

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 1, 2026 at 10:30 AM 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 6, 2026 at 10:30 AM Johnny, Merle, Buck, George, and more. Put on your boots, it's time to go 60's country.

The Swingin' Sixties November 3, 2026 at 10:30 AM 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.

WILDLIFE + HORTICULTURE Scaly Tails RVA September 15, 2026 at 10:30 AM An hour presentation that brings a medley of fascinating reptiles straight to you. Designed for maximum fun and learning, this hands-on experience provides residents with the unique opportunity to interact with these captivating creatures. We don't just bring the excitement, we also bring education! Sara and Brandon Snead’s reptile journey began with a single snake, sparking a fascination that has since grown into a thriving family of over a dozen diverse scaly friends. What started as a curiosity has transformed into a passion for learning everything there is to know about these remarkable creatures. They've enjoyed every moment of this learning journey, especially sharing their newfound knowledge with their children.

Mini Luxe Flower Arranging September 23, 2026 at 10:30 AM October 2, 2026 at 10:30 AM November 5, 2026 at 10:30 AM Mini Luxe Flower Arranging offers a hands-on floral design experience where residents learn the art of arranging fresh flowers. Participants explore color, texture, and placement while creating their own beautiful arrangement to enjoy and display.

Mini Luxe is a mobile creative experience and event decor company founded by Mr. & Miss. Sheffield. We bring thoughtfully designed experiences directly to senior living communities, organizations, workplaces, schools, community spaces and private connection, conversation, and joy.

LIFE ENRICHMENT The Art of being Present: Small Habits and Meaningful Change, Protecting your Energy September 29, 2026 at 2:00 PM October 23, 2026 at 2:00 PM November 9, 2026 at 2:00 PM Through thoughtful discussion and simple mindfulness practices, The Art of Being Present explores the importance of slowing down and appreciating the present moment. This class encourages greater awareness of thoughts, feelings, and surroundings while highlighting meaningful ways to incorporate mindfulness into everyday life.

Lily is the Memory Care Engagement Director here at Westmont at Short Pump. She earned my bachelor’s degree in Human Development from Virginia Tech and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Gerontology at VCU, with a concentration in Assisted Living Administration. Her passion for working with older adults creating meaningful experiences that bring joy, connection, and a sense of purpose to others makes her right at home at the Westmont community.

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 Soups, Stews & Seasonal Roots October 30, 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 26, 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 Germany & Austria: Rieslings and Fall Gold — Harvest Traditions & Noble Grapes October 2, 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 12, 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 Every Friday in September at 10:00 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 Every Friday in October at 10:00 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 Every Friday in November at 10:00 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.

LIFELONG LEARNING

#FallIntoLearning

Learn more by liking us on Facebook

@RUI.TheWestmontAtShortPump