Dear Lifelong Learners,
This program, being situated at Shepherd University in Shepherdstown, WV, is fortunate to be part of a community with so much heart. This is a deeply caring community, and it shows in our Lifelong Learning community. Our members are involved in the town council, Shepherdstown Shares, Shepherdstown Area Independent Living, Age-Friendly Shepherdstown, Age-Friendly Shepherd University, and so much more. They volunteer for local charities and non-profits, they’re showing up for our students and for each other, they are educating people about voting and political issues, they are creating and supporting new businesses, organizations, and movements that help our community to thrive. They are engaging in the important discussions of our time and they are actively working to make this area a healthier and safer place every day. Are you interested in deepening your skills for problem solving and addressing community challenges? Then I highly recommend taking Roger Snook’s Design Thinking class!
I am so grateful for this caring community. Our instructors and lecturers are all volunteers who make this program strong with their creativity, wisdom, and hard work. Our hybrid classes are able to function thanks to our wonderful volunteer team of class tech assistants. We have an advisory committee who is committed to keeping this program strong, and we have many generous donors whose contributions help to keep this program alive. If you have any thoughts or ideas on how this program can further support our community or how you’d like to support our program, please let me know (Lpowers@shepherd.edu).
Through this program you are connecting into that world of caring by sharing common interests, engaging in stimulating discussions, co-creating a rich learning environment, and sowing fertile ground for self-development, relationship building, and “co-opportunities.” If you have ever taken one of Jim Surkamp’s history classes, you know that this community has a long history of creativity, collaboration, and caring. This spring you can learn about the creative forces throughout history that have shaped this area in his class “Inspired, Creative Lives Affecting Jefferson County.”
If you are new to the area, our lifelong learners will welcome you with open arms and eagerly connect you with our wealth of local resources, both practical and cultural. Every year we have the American Conservation Film Festival (ACFF) and the Contemporary American Theater Festival (CATF) right here at Shepherd. Through the spring Lifelong Learning program, you can get a preview of those wonderful events through Peggy McKowen’s course (artistic director of CATF) as well as through the April 16 Brown Bag Lecture hosted by ACFF.
ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Marcy Bartlett
Roger Bernstein
Jim Broomall, Ed.D
Richard Casuccio, M.D.
Sandy Cavalier
Heidi Dobish, Ph.D.
Laraine Jimenez
Mark Kohut
Frank McCluskey, Ph.D.
COVER PHOTO
This cover photo was taken by Cindy Powers
As we close out the “Year of Civility” at Shepherd University, you can continue to explore themes of civility in politics with Eric Thompson’s “Church and State: A History of Their Separation or Lack Thereof” course, Wolfgang Prodzik’s “Nazi Germany, The Holocaust, What Lessons Learned?” course, and our two discussion groups: “The Cafe Society” and “Current International Issues Discussion Group.” I would also like to invite you to explore the inner world of civility through a course offering by senior faculty fellow for the Stubblefield Institute for Civil Political Communications, Dr. Matthew Kushin, in his course “A Coming-of Age Novel and the Search for Happiness.” Last, be sure to join us for the final President’s Lecture with Dr. Susan Hirsch on “Engaged Learning in the Midst of Conflict: Who’s Up for the Challenge?”
I wish I could fit my enthusiasm for all of our courses and lectures on this page, but that’s what the Course Preview is for! Please join us on February 11 at 5pm in the Byrd Center auditorium where you’ll get to hear all about the spring offerings from our instructors and myself. Hope to see you there!
With Gratitude,
Lucinda “Cindy” Powers Director of Continuing Education and Lifelong Learning
LIFELONG LEARNING PROGRAM
MISSION:
The Lifelong Learning Program at Shepherd University is a volunteer member-driven program dedicated to offering stimulating academic courses and activities to the community.
SUBSCRIPTION:
We’ve transitioned from a membership payment model to a simplified subscription model! You can now simply pay for individual classes and lectures, or purchase a subscription for the semester.
Subscription: $185
Includes all enrollment fees for unlimited classes and all lectures for the semester, as well as a free parking decal for lots on East and West campus.
Please note: We are no longer able to provide a spouse discount. If this impacts your ability to access our courses, please let us know. Scholarship opportunities are available (please see below).
SCHOLARSHIPS:
The Shepherd University Lifelong Learning Program is pleased to be able to provide a limited number of scholarships to participants who would not otherwise be able to attend a course. Inquire about a scholarship by emailing Cindy Powers at Lpowers@shepherd.edu.
All classes and lectures are free to Shepherd University staff, faculty, and students. There are a limited number of free seats available, so please email Lpowers@shepherd.edu to register as a SU employee or student.
BECOME AN INSTRUCTOR
Do you miss teaching? Share your passion here!
Inspire others to learn and explore. Interact and engage with peers and community members. The Shepherd University Lifelong Learning Program is looking for course instructors. Shepherd University’s Lifelong Learning educational program is centered on classes developed and taught by volunteers who share their time and knowledge. The program is an academic cooperative that provides mature adults with opportunities for intellectual development, cultural stimulation, and social interaction. To show our appreciation, we are offering free courses to instructors.
Help develop innovative, interesting, and compelling learning experiences. Join a national movement of adult learners in West Virginia. To become an instructor, please email Cindy Powers at Lpowers@shepherd.edu.
BECOME A CLASS TECH ASSISTANT
The Shepherd University Lifelong Learning Program is looking for volunteers to be class tech assistants. Class tech assistants help the instructors to ensure that announcements are made, attendance is taken, hand-outs are distributed, and manages classroom technology (zoom, powerpoint, youtube, etc.). Class assistants are essential to the smooth functioning of the Lifelong Learning Program and enjoy the benefit of becoming better acquainted with both instructors and fellow class participants, as well as invitations to special events. If you would like to volunteer to be a class assistant in one or more of your classes, please email Cindy Powers at Lpowers@shepherd.edu. Thank you for volunteering!
REQUIRED TEXTBOOKS:
Some of the courses require students to obtain books or material essential to the class. Four Season’s Bookstore is offering our students a 15% discount on most course books. Mention the Shepherd University Lifelong Learning Program to receive a discount.
INCLEMENT WEATHER POLICY:
Should an extreme weather emergency, power or water failure, or Executive Order from the Governor warrant the closing of offices, events will be cancelled for that day. Please refer to public notification via the Shepherd website. If this affects an event or course you have registered for, you will updated via email from the director or course instructors/assistants.
Course Locations: Unless otherwise noted, all in-person courses take place in the Robert C. Byrd Center for Congressional History & Education, 213 N. King Street, Shepherdstown, WV 25443. Courses listed with the classroom “& Zoom” are hybrid, meaning they are held in person and participants can join the class remotely via Zoom.
DESIGN THINKING: CREATING HUMANCENTERED EXPERINCES
MONDAYS, MARCH 17, 24, 31, APRIL 7 (4 WEEKS)
INSTRUCTOR: Roger Snook, Adjunct Faculty and Certified Enterprise Design Thinking Coach
LOCATION: Room 164 (in-person only)
TIME: 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
COST: $60 or free with the spring subscription
RECOMMENDED PRE-REQUISITE: 2 hour online course - www.ibm.com/design/thinking/page/courses/ Practitioner
If you’ve ever been frustrated at a particular experience whether it was an online shopping experience, or finding parking around town, or waiting at the DMV, attend this course to learn how to approach solving problems together with empathy and humility. Please note that this course has a recommended pre-requisite.
CATF IN CONTEXT: INTRODUCTION TO THEATER AND THE NEW PLAY PROCESS
MONDAYS: MARCH 10, 17, 24, 31; APRIL 7. 14
INSTRUCTOR: Peggy McKowen
LOCATION: Center for Contemporary Arts, Room 230 & Zoom (hybrid)
TIME: 1 - 2:30 p.m.
COST: $75 or free with the spring subscription
Interested in expanding your cultural horizons and learning what it takes to make a play? Join Artistic Director, Peggy McKowen for a six-week introductory course that will introduce you to the vocabulary and worlds of the American theater. Learn more about various artists involved in creating a play and how a play becomes a production viewed by an audience. Using play scripts from the upcoming 2025 summer festival, you will walk through the process of writing, directing, designing, and much more as you begin to embrace the world of the theater.
THE HARLEM RENAISSANCE
MONDAYS: MARCH 10, 17, 24, 31; April 7, 14, 21 (7 WEEKS)
INSTRUCTOR: Linda Tate
LOCATION: Multipurpose Room & Zoom (hybrid)
TIME: 3:30 - 5 p.m.
COST: $75 or free with the spring subscription
RECOMMENDED TEXT: ”The Portable Harlem Renaissance Reader” (ed. David Levering Lewis).
REQUIRED TEXT: “Selected Poems of Langston Hughes”
Most texts will be shared via Google Docs.
The Harlem Renaissance – also known as the New Negro Movement – was a great flowering of Black life, art, music, and literature. “The negro was in vogue,” to quote Langston Hughes, the preeminent writer of the period. This course will explore the roots of the movement in the 1910s, its cultural expressions in its heyday in the 1920s and 1930s, and its end in the 1950s. In-class multimedia presentations will feature music (jazz!) and visual art, and short out-of-class readings will include works by Hughes, Countee Cullen, Claude McKay, Jean Toomer, and Zora Neale Hurston. On Saturday, April 5, there will be an optional field trip to D.C. to the Phillips Collection for a docent-led tour of Jacob Lawrence’s “Migration Series” and to the U Street neighborhood, where the Renaissance was in full swing. The 1961 film of “A Raisin in the Sun” will be shown during an extended class session on Monday, April 14. Required text: “Selected Poems of Langston Hughes.” This class is capped at 20 participants.
COURSES
CAFÉ SOCIETY DISCUSSION GROUP
EVERY TUESDAY EXCEPT HOLIDAYS
FACILITATOR: Daniel Bennett
LOCATION: On Zoom
TIME: 8:30 - 10 a.m.
COST: Free to the public
Designed to foster a more robust civil society, more cohesive and interactive communities, greater media literacy and a more informed and engaged public through “coffee shop” conversations about contemporary social and political issues. By engaging in a meaningful exchange of ideas and perspectives, these conversations can enliven the core of democracy and empower communities and individuals.
CHARACTERS YOU’VE KNOWN AND WANT TO CREATE
TUESDAYS, MARCH 11, 18, 25, APRIL 1, 8 (5 WEEKS)
INSTRUCTOR: Pat Donohoe
LOCATION: Room 164 (in-person only)
TIME: 9 – 10:30 a.m.
COST: $75 or free with the spring subscription
A fun writing workshop focused on character development in fiction or nonfiction. Whether you write human interest stories, literary fiction, or rollicking rom-coms, the “short takes” we create and critique in this class will sharpen your skills for creating memorable characters that fascinate and inspire. This is capped at 12 participants.
MOZART ONLY MOZART
TUESDAYS, MARCH 11, 18, 25, APRIL 1, 8, 15
INSTRUCTOR: David Rampy
LOCATION: Multipurpose Room & Zoom (hybrid)
TIME: 11 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
COST: $75 or free with the spring subscription
A child prodigy named Wolfgang enchanted the musical world of Salzburg and Vienna and then the entire world. Join me as we explore the musical world of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. We will listen to pieces from all forms and genres including Symphonies, Concertos, Piano works, String Quartets, opera, and his final Requiem. No musical experience needed just a love of great music.
DEEP DIVES
TUESDAYS, MARCH 11, 18, 25, APRIL 1, 8, 15
INSTRUCTOR: Marty Amerikaner, Ph.D.
LOCATION: Multipurpose Room & Zoom (hybrid)
TIME: 1:30 - 3:00 p.m.
COST: $75 or free with the spring subscription
In this class, we use segments of recent podcast episodes, videos and written materials as sources for learning about and discussing recent research and analysis of “cutting edge” topics and issues. This spring, my intent is to focus primarily on topics within the general field of psychology- meaning, what are we currently learning about key factors influencing how we think, feel and behave? That’s a pretty big canvas, so our topics are likely to range from behavioral economics to aging brains to stress to AI and…. Our basic format for each class session is to listen to and/or watch source material, stopping periodically to discuss and question what we’ve heard. I’ll make comments based on my background in the field, while encouraging class members to do the same, based on your own backgrounds and experience.
I LOST IT AT THE MOVIES
TUESDAYS, MARCH 11, 18, 25, APRIL 1, 8, 15
INSTRUCTOR: Mark Kohut
LOCATION: Auditorium & Zoom (hybrid)
TIME: 3-4:30 p.m.
COST: $75 or free with the spring subscription
Franz Kafka woke up one morning to learn he was the first Kafkaesque writer. This led him to help create German Expressionism in films but they are all hidden and we were not allowed in. So, we told Franz we would find movies of his two major novels and he laughed. Are they as funny as when I wrote them? he asked. Come watch and judge yourself. The Trial & The Castle each shown over two classes with discussion to the max. Then, a Kafkaesque curveball, we will watch a Chekhov play, Vanya or Uncle Vanya to Franz.
I approve this message---Franz Kafka
DREAMING ARGENTINA: JOREGE BORGES AND MAGICAL REALISM
WEDNESDAYS, MARCH 12, 19, 26, APRIL 2, 9, 16
INSTRUCTOR: Frank McCluskey, Ph.D.
LOCATION: Multipurpose Room & Zoom (hybrid)
TIME: 9:00 - 10:30 a.m.
COST: $75 or free with the spring subscription
REQUIRED TEXT: “Borges. Collected Fictions” translated by Andrew Hurley, Penguin Deluxe ISBN 0-14–028680-2
A worshiped dictator, a collapsing economy, a former model who became a First Lady named Eva, and a war on the truth. Enter Jorge Luis Borges, a blind librarian who used his fiction to restore order to a mad world. Come with me to our dreamed Argentina, land of Che Guvera, the tango, gauchos and secret encyclopedias.
LIVING EVERY DAY WITH AWE
WEDNESDAYS, MARCH 12, 19, 26, APRIL 2 (4 WEEKS)
INSTRUCTOR: Carol Richmond, Ph.D.
LOCATION: Room 164 & Zoom (hybrid)
TIME: 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
COST: $60 or free with the spring subscription
RECOMMENDED TEXT: ”The Power of AWE” by Jake Eagle, LPC and Michael Amster, MD; “Abundance Now” by Lisa Nichols
Learn how to access the powerful emotion of awe in ordinary everyday living. We will discover the extraordinary yet simple mindfulness practice that turns ordinary moments into aweinducing experiences. Accessing awe is a way to help people to reduce stress, and loneliness while improving overall-wellbeing.
Participants will be empowered to find awe throughout the day, let go of filters of naming and categorizing experiences, and become open to a more receptive state of mind-to awaken the child self and take on the breadth of life’s majesty.
This participatory course uses practices from “The Power of AWE” by Jake Eagle, LPC and Michael Amster, MD, “Abundance Now” by Lisa Nichols and other resources on awe. Not required but recommended.
A PLANT-BASED DIET: THE WHAT, THE WHY, AND THE HOW
WEDNESDAYS, MARCH 12, 19, 26, APRIL 2 (4 WEEKS)
INSTRUCTOR: Anne Jones, MSW, Ph.D.
LOCATION: Room 164
TIME: 1:30 – 3:00 p.m.
COST: $60 or free with the spring subscription
Have you ever wondered what exactly people eat on a plant-based diet or what would even incline them to do without meat and eggs? Or wondered if this diet is even healthy? This course will address these questions and many others. The first class will cover the kinds of meals that people on a plant-based diet typically eat. It will address several common misconceptions about protein and other nutrient sources. The second and third classes will look at the three main reasons that people adopt a plant-based diet: (1) factory farming and animal cruelty; (2) environmental factors that include air and water pollution, fresh water depletion and deforestation and how these contribute to the climate change crisis and (3) evidence-based benefits to human health such as lower cholesterol and reduced cancer risks. The last class will focus on strategies to move toward a plant-forward diet as well as easy ways to adapt favorite recipes. The course will be interactive and will include discussion, film clips, and recipes. Warning: Classes may be accompanied by some tasty treats.
NAZI GERMANY, THE HOLOCAUST, WHAT LESSONS LEARNED?
WEDNESDAYS, MARCH 12, 19, 26, APRIL 2, 9, 16
INSTRUCTOR: Wolfgang Pordzik
LOCATION: Multipurpose Room & Zoom (hybrid)
TIME: 3:30 – 5:00 p.m.
COST: $75 or free with the spring subscription
The central question of the course will be what lessons for today’s political environment should be learned from Nazi Germany and the Holocaust. We will review the definition of antisemitism, trace discrimination of minorities and antisemitism in Europe’s history, and look at the special case of Germany.
The reasons for the collapse of the Weimar Republic, and how the Nazi Party could exploit these systemic flaws, will be discussed. The rapid and ruthless implementation of the NS dictatorship after January 1933, the power structure of the NS state, and the anti- Jewish legislation in pre-war Germany will also be at the center of discussion.
The Holocaust itself, its definition, dimension, and execution, including the international reaction during WW2, will be analyzed in considerable detail.
MEMORABLE POEMS, SINGER SONGWRITER’S POETIC LYRICS
WEDNESDAYS, MARCH 12, 19, 26, APRIL 2, 9, 16
INSTRUCTOR: Roger Bernstein
LOCATION: Zoom only
TIME: 1:30 – 3 p.m.
COST: $75 or free with the spring subscription
Song lyrics and stand-alone poems cover our human predicament. Profound poems are like other people’s snapshots in which we can recognize ourselves. Poets are driven to tell the hard truth. Our class doesn’t torture a poem by paraphrasing; instead, class focus on what’s working to trigger emotions through the force of words. We include the text of lyrics while performing songs recorded from Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, Joni Mitchell, Neil Young, Patti Smith. Poems read aloud to bring the text to life from our foremost poets, Wislawa Szymborska, Ada Limon, Sharon Olds, James Wright, Robert Frost, Dana Gioia, Kim Addonizio.
CURRENT INTERNATIONAL ISSUES DISCUSSION GROUP
THURSDAYS, MARCH 13, 20, 27, APRIL 3, 10, 17
FACILITATOR: Fred Turco
LOCATION: On Zoom
TIME: 9 – 10:30 a.m.
COST: $75 or free with the spring subscription
The discussion group will cover current events around the world. Participants are expected to provide their understanding of the current discussion subjects. Materials will be sent for extra reading, however more information is welcomed.
GETTING A GRIP ON UPHEAVAL AND CHANGE, WORKING THROUGH TRANSITIONAL TIMES
THURSDAYS, MARCH 13, 20, 27, APRIL 3, 10, 17
INSTRUCTOR: Dianne Roman
LOCATION: Room 164 & Zoom (hybrid)
TIME: 12:30 – 2 p.m.
COST: $75 or free with the spring subscription
REQUIRED TEXT: “The Way of Transitions: Embracing Life’s Most Difficult Moments” by William Bridge
Things around you have changed or turned out differently than you had wanted or wished for. You are older and not as agile as you once were, you have lost a significant other, you are facing a financial modification. Good or bad, change is not always welcomed or easy. These changes lead us to transformative periods in our lives. Often used interchangeably, there is a difference between change and transition. If you have found yourself amid transition and unclear what to do next, this is the place for you. Join me and others as we read and discuss William Bridges’ “The Way of Transitions: Embracing Life’s Most Difficult Moments,” and develop a personal strategy for successfully dealing with the varied changes that come our way.
CHURCH
AND STATE: A HISTORY OF THEIR SEPARATION OR LACK THEREOF
THURSDAYS, MARCH 13, 20, 27, APRIL 3, 10, 17
INSTRUCTOR: Eric Thompson, Ph. D.
LOCATION: Multipurpose Room & Zoom (hybrid)
TIME: 2:30 – 4 p.m.
COST: $75 or free with the spring subscription
It is most common in human history for nation-states to have an official religion. During the founding of the United States, this was a hotly contested issue and has been a struggle in law and culture ever since. But the issue has a long history. Disagreements about the separate roles of religion and government have historically divided Catholic from Orthodox Christians, Christians from Muslims, Catholics from Protestants, even ancient Egyptians from each other. In this class we will explore the history of the question through the lens of ancient and medieval examples, survey religion vs politics in the world today, and in the end make a case for the superiority, from the point of view of human flourishing, of the secular state.
AMERICAN INDIAN BURIAL PRACTICES
FRIDAYS, MARCH 14, 21, 28, APRIL 4 (4 WEEKS)
INSTRUCTOR: Matthew “Maasaw” Howard
LOCATION: Room 165 and in the field
TIME: 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
COST: $60 or free with the spring subscription
Learn how American Indians residing in this region approached the inevitable issue of death. You will not only learn about their cultural practices and burial methodology, you will see how over thousands of years, the thinking of how to bury a deceased loved one and the different ways to implement these practices would change. You will be brought to these sites on field trips to not only see firsthand for yourself how a burial ground was constructed, but you will also feel the Ancestors walking among you.
GAME OF THRONES – TALES FROM HISTORY AND MYTH
FRIDAYS, MARCH 14, 21, 28, APRIL 4, 11, 18
INSTRUCTOR: Michelle Casuccio
LOCATION: Multipurpose Room & Zoom (hybrid)
TIME: 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
COST: $75 or free with the spring subscription
Bring your enthusiasm for the Song of Ice and Fire series of books as well as the Game of Thrones TV series. (Criticisms and misgivings are also welcome.) We will be exploring some of George R.R. Martin’s major themes - and also discovering surprising but directly correlated history, myth and archeology..
INSPIRED, CREATIVE LIVES AFFECTING JEFFERSON COUNTY
FRIDAYS, MARCH 14, 21, 28, APRIL 4, 11, 18
INSTRUCTOR: Jim Surkamp
LOCATION: Multipurpose Room & Zoom (hybrid)
TIME: 3-4:30 p.m.
COST: $75 or free with the spring subscription
We introduce brief stories about persons from 1800 thru to today and examples of their creative life (poetry, history, fiction, painting, sculpture, playwriting, pottery, musical composition) to intrigue and further awaken the creative spirit in the class members. Subject creators have lived in Jefferson County or an adjacent county.
A COMING-OF-AGE NOVEL AND THE SEARCH FOR HAPPINESS
FRIDAYS, MARCH 14, 21, 28, APRIL 4, 11, 18
FACILITATOR: Matthew J. Kushin, Ph.D.
LOCATION: Room 164 (In-person Only)
TIME: 9:30 - 11 a.m.
COST: $75 or free with the spring subscription
REQUIRED TEXT: “Beware the Smart Kids” by Matthew J. Kushin
America is facing a loneliness epidemic and a mental health crisis. Social scientists have identified gaps between what we think makes us happy and what actually does. The instructor is the author of the coming-of-age novel Beware the Smart Kids. It is the story of a troubled teenager, an ex-convict, and the search for happiness. The book explores 5 lessons about happiness. The instructor was inspired to write the book after teaching an undergraduate class about happiness and media use.
In this course, we will read and discuss the book in the spirit of a book club. But we will also do a deep dive into each of the 5 lessons about happiness presented in the book. We will examine the social scientific research as well as the concepts from contemplative traditions that inspired each lesson.
SHORT STORIES BY THE QUEENS OF CRIME: THE LEGENDARY WOMEN OF THE GOLDEN AGE OF CRIME FICTION
FRIDAYS, MARCH 14, 21, 28, APRIL 4, 11, 18
INSTRUCTOR: Pam Clark
LOCATION: Multipurpose Room & Zoom (hybrid) TIME: 1-2:30 p.m.
COST: $75 or free with the spring subscription
Some of their detectives are familiar to you, like Agatha Christie’s Miss Marple and Hercule Poirot, as well as the monocled, gentlemandetective Lord Peter Wimsey created by Dorothy L. Sayers. However, Margery Allingham, Ngaio Marsh, Josephine Tey and Gladys Mitchell also wrote mysteries during the Golden Age. Detective fiction came of age in the 1920s and 1930s in both Britain and America. But in this class, we are leaving the guys—even big names like Raymond Chandler and Dashiell Hammett—in the dust. At the beginning of each session, You will learn about the era and biographical highlights of the women. You will find out (if you don’t already know) which of them disappeared for 11 days and was found in a hotel in Harrogate with complete memory loss, and which one worked for Britain’s biggest advertising agency at the time, writing copy for products including Guinness stout and Colman’s mustard. Most of the time, however, will be spent in class discussion of the short stories. This class is capped at 20 participants.
RETIREMENT PLANNING TODAY
SESSION I: THURSDAYS, APRIL 3 & 10 TIME: 6–9 p.m. OR
SESSION II: SATURDAYS, APRIL 5 & 12 TIME: 9 a.m. - noon
INSTRUCTOR: Matthew Kradel, CFP ®
LOCATION: Auditorium (in-person only)
COST: $49
Learn how to: manage investment risks, use new tax laws to your advantage, make informed decisions about your company retirement plan, and adjust your estate plan to function properly under the new laws. Money is only one aspect of retirement planning. This course blends financial education with life planning to help you build wealth, align your money with your values, and achieve your retirement lifestyle goals. The goal is to provide high-quality, generic education without any mention of specific financial products or services. Couples may attend together for a single registration fee. Class sizes are limited so register today.
DRAW YOUR DAYS
THURSDAY, APRIL 24, MAY 1, 8, 15, 22
INSTRUCTOR: Kirsten Lee
LOCATION: Multipurpose Room (in-person only)
TIME: 1 – 4 p.m.
COST: FREE
Take a deep dive into the skills, philosophy, and mindfulness of drawing! Appreciate the offerings of ordinary life through the fresh eyes of an artist. Learn the classical techniques of drawing, the principles of design, and the development of a regular creative practice. By the end of class, students will have a solid grasp of the elements and principles of art, confidence in their increased artistic abilities, and a sketchbook that chronicles their development while evoking powerful memories. All materials are provided. This program is being presented with financial assistance from the West Virginia Department of Arts, Culture and History, and the National Endowment for the Arts, with approval from the WV Commission on the Arts. This course will be capped at 12 participants. Priority will be given to first-time students.
ADVANCED OPEN LAB
JANUARY 13 – APRIL 25
INSTRUCTOR: Mike Mendez
LOCATION: FASTEnER Lab
TIME: Saturdays
COST: $260 or $200 with a spring subscription
This course is for returning students who have already taken a class in the FASTEnER Lab and are looking to continue learning a process through a self-directed project over the course of the semester. Instructors will provide instruction and advisement in areas of casting, digital fabrication, woodworking and metalworking. Students may use the lab during open hours and receive training from instructors during scheduled lab times. Lab fees go towards a variety of consumables and maintenance costs for a student to use the lab for the entire semester. Depending on the depth and duration of the project, a student may be asked to purchase additional consumables for the lab.
WILD WRITERS RETREAT AT CAPON SPRINGS & FARMS
MAY 18 – 21
INSTRUCTOR: Denise Kupiszewski
LOCATION: Capon Springs & Farms
COST: $485 or $455 for spring subscribers
The retreat offers a getaway for writers at all levels interested in developing their craft and expanding their writing community. In May, the program will provide plenty of personal writing time bookended with a morning workshop led by award-winning authors and after-dinner critique sessions for those interested in giving and receiving feedback on their work. Not only will writers have uninterrupted time to write among supportive fellow writers in a peaceful environment, the low-key mountain resort at Capon Springs & Farm is the perfect location for serious hiking, swimming, golfing, stargazing, fishing, and eating.
Don’t forget the enjoyable cocktail hour on the writers’ porch, where lively discussions prevail and close friendships begin. Please contact Denise at dehermannbooks@gmail.com for a detailed schedule of the retreat.
TOURS AND TRAVEL
DAY TRIPS
Please check the website (www.Shepherd.edu/lifelonglearning) for updated day trips. For email notifications of new day trips being offered, join the Lifelong Learning listserv by emailing Cindy at Lpowers@shepherd.edu with a request to add you to the listserv
PLEASE NOTE:
NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL TOURS
To access the full brochures and registration forms, please go to the “Tours” section of our website: www.shepherd.edu/lifelonglearning/lifelonglearning-tours
Shepherd University travel insurance is required for all national and international tours. Premier World Discovery or Collette travel protection plans are also available.
INTEREST GROUPS
Interest groups are an integral part of lifelong learning programs, providing opportunities to learn and socialize outside the classroom. Types of groups could include hiking, reading, sewing, dancing, and photography, to name a few. We would like to incorporate additional interest groups in the Shepherd University Lifelong Learning Program. If you would like to volunteer to facilitate an interest group, please contact Cindy Powers at Lpowers@shepherd.edu.
MINDFUL MEDITATION PRACTICE GROUP
CONTACT: Michael P. Kemp | jmk369@gmail.com
In this group, we explore strategies for coping with personal, social and global issues within the context of Mindfulness and Meditation. No prior knowledge or practice necessary. The approach is secular in nature and based upon Vipassanā Buddhism known as Mindfulness or Insight Meditation in the West. A different topic is covered each week followed by a meditation of 20/30 minutes also based upon that theme. Group members then discuss that week’s topic & the meditation. Led by Michael Kemp with a 45 year background in mindfulness and meditation, the group meets every Tuesday evenings at 6:30pm over Zoom. Free and open to the public.
IN CONVERSATION WITH CREATIVITY
CONTACT: D.L. Roman | romandl@alumni.vcu.edu
This new informal once-a-month gathering is for all artistic thinking individuals. Both visual and verbal creators need a space to share ideas, discuss techniques, and receive encouragement and motivation from likeminded others. As an outgrowth of the Fall 2024 “Striding Along with Julia Cameron” class, this group is open for continual discussion of the artist’s needs. Having worked with any of Cameron’s methods is not important, so join in whether you have read any of her books or not. Come willing to discuss your ideas, needs, successes, and set-backs. Each meeting will evolve due to the participants. Days and times to be arranged.
SHERLOCK HOLMES SOCIETY
CONTACT: Frank McCluskey | Frankmccluskey11@gmail.com
Around the world, the hundreds of Holmes societies have been beloved for their mix of scholarship with tongue-firmly-in-cheek (as Dorothy Sayers said of her Holmes associations). We hope to meet four times a year for a spirited discussion of Holmes, Victorian literature, and all things London of 1895. We will toast, have a short presentation, and good fellowship.
THE ARTFUL CODGERS
CONTACT: John Spears at jnsiii125@gmail.com
This group is a spinoff group from Lifelong Learning’s spring 2024 Improv Course. We were having too much fun to stop. So, we’re presenting a medley of one act plays and stories called ART, LOVE & PASSWORDS, this February 22 and 23 at the Byrd Center Auditorium. Come and see us grapple with varied themes of our common humanity. Then join our magic carpet ride starting in March. More details to follow.
‘READING PHILIP ROTH’S READING’ INTEREST GROUP
CONTACT: Mark Kohut | mark.kohut@gmail.com
The legendary-in-their-own-minds Philip Roth Special Interest Group finished all 31 of his works last year. As acclaim keeps building, we will read some authors Philip loved most: Kafka, Chekhov, Mann, like that. Zoom only. Mondays at 9 a.m.
GUITAR INTEREST GROUP
CONTACT: Marty Amerikaner | marty.amerikaner@ gmail.com
This is a group for guitarists who enjoy (or think they might enjoy) getting together with others as we strum our way through favorite tunes. We meet every Thursday afternoon at 3 p.m. The format is simple: we take turns “calling” songs from our list of tunes- classic rock, folk, pop, etc- and we play through them. Lots of laughs, nothing too hard and we learn from each other along the way- if you know the basic major, minor and 7th chords, you’re right with us. We keep our tunes in an app called Songbook Pro, so access to a tablet is useful.
LUNCHEON LECTURES
IMPROVE YOUR PERSONAL CYBER SECURITY
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12
SPEAKER:Joanie Raisovich, SU Interim CTO/CISO, Director of IT Services
LOCATION: Robert C. Byrd Center, Multipurpose Room
TIME: Noon-1:30 p.m.
COST: $15; Free for spring subscribers, Shepherd students and employees
Learn techniques you can use to protect yourself and your data online. We’ll discuss strong passwords and MFA, common scams, and protecting yourself from malware.
BARDS, DRUIDS AND SAINT PATRICK - A CONCERT CELEBRATING THE CELTIC HARP
MONDAY, MARCH 17
SPEAKER: Michelle Casuccio and Genevieve O’Loughlin
LOCATION: Robert C. Byrd Center, auditorium
TIME: 2:30 - 3:30 p.m.
COST: $15; Free for spring subscribers, Shepherd students and employees
A Concert Celebrating the Celtic Harp. Enjoy the music of Genevieve O’Loughlin as she plays ancient and modern Irish music. We will also explore the history of the Celtic Harp and how it came to be the official symbol of Ireland. PLEASE NOTE: This is a Monday afternoon lecture in the auditorium (no food is permitted in the auditorium).
TIPS FOR WRITING YOUR MEMOIR
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 19
SPEAKER: Pam Clark
LOCATION: Robert C. Byrd Center, Multipurpose Room
TIME: 12–1:30 p.m.
COST: $15; Free for spring subscribers, Shepherd students and employees
Isn’t your life story as interesting as some Gen Z “influencer” or a self-promoting politician? Heck yeah! Join us to find out how to turn your memories into engaging stories. Maybe you want to leave a record of your personal experiences for your family? Or maybe you just want to reminisce about the good times in your life? During this lunch you’ll hear how you can draw your readers in with “telling details,” as well as how to strengthen your voice and organize your stories into a unified whole. What are you waiting for? It’s time for you to shine.
GUADALCANAL: THE DECISIVE CAMPAIGN IN THE PACIFIC THEATER DURING WORLD WAR II
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 26
SPEAKER: Blane Ampthor
LOCATION: Robert C. Byrd Center, Multipurpose Room
TIME: 12-1:30 p.m.
COST: $15; Free for spring subscribers, Shepherd students and employees
Though perhaps not as well known as other battles such as Midway and Iwo Jima, Guadalcanal was a grueling sixmonth campaign between America and Japan that was the strategic turning point of the war in the Pacific Theater. The first combined air-sea-land campaign of the war, it featured several epic battles that became legendary for the US Marine Corps and the US Navy, incredible suffering on both sides, seven major sea battles and the awarding of 20 Medals of Honor. Learn the fascinating story and some of the key personalities involved in this epic struggle.
USS HOUSTON CA-30/POW EXPERIENCE
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2
SPEAKER: John Keith Schwarz
LOCATION: Robert C. Byrd Center, Multipurpose Room
TIME: Noon-1:30 p.m.
COST: $15; Free for spring subscribers, Shepherd students and employees
This presentation tells the story of Naval bravery as exemplified by the Captain and crew of USS Houston CA30. That ship served in the Asia West Pacific in the early portion of WWII against insurmountable enemy odds. Once lost, survivors of this brave warship would have to endure the remainder of the war as POW’s. The story covers account of those who were forced to help construct the ‘Burma-uThailand Death Railway’ which was depicted in the epic WWII war movie titled, ‘Bridge on the River Kwai’. Learn also what happened to the ship’s survivors following the war.
“TELLING
TWAIN
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 9
SPEAKER: Jim Surkamp
LOCATION: Robert C. Byrd Center, Multipurpose Room
TIME: Noon-1:30 p.m.
COST: $15; Free for spring subscribers, Shepherd students and employees
This lecture will dive into the lives of Mark Twain and his wife, riding the tumultuous waves of Twain’s creative surges, highs and lows, winning the world’s love, overcoming terrible blows to ego and heart and ultimately recognized to the horror of Boston’s elites and reverence of William Faulkner as “The father of American literature.” We will also have fun with an array of Twain quotes for us to revel in and think about.
THE POWER OF WALKING AND LISTENING –THE PLANETWALKER JOURNEY
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 16
SPEAKER: Pippa McCullough, Assistant Professor of Social Work
LOCATION: Robert C. Byrd Center, Auditorium
TIME: Noon-1:30 p.m.
COST: $15; Free for spring subscribers, Shepherd students and employees
Join the American Conservation Film Festival (ACFF) for a film and discussion on a contemporary conservation issue. We will show Planet Walker - a selection from ACFF 2025. It is a 31-minute award-winning story of Dr. John Francis. After witnessing an oil tanker spill in San Francisco Bay in 1971, John Francis embarked on a journey that would redefine environmental activism. He took a17-year vow of silence, renounced motorized transportation, and began walking across the US, seeking a deeper understanding of humanity’s relationship with the Earth. This transformative experience led him to become the “Planetwalker.” The film will be followed by a discussion led by faculty Pippa McCullough on the power of listening. Check out the trailer at https://www. planetwalkerfilm.com/ *PLEASE NOTE: This will be in the auditorium where food is not permitted.
THE FUTURE OF LOCAL AGRICULTURE
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 23
SPEAKER: Madison Hale, Farm Coordinator, Agricultural Innovation Center at Tabler Farm
LOCATION: Robert C. Byrd Center, Multipurpose Room
TIME: Noon-1:30 p.m.
COST: $15; Free for spring subscribers, Shepherd students and employees
Agriculture is an industry in the US that is struggling to adapt to a changing climate and economy. Join Madison Hale in an exploration of what is driving some of these challenges and what kind of solutions are being proposed right here in the Eastern Panhandle.
CONFUSED ABOUT MEDICARE?
WEDNESDAY, MAY 7
SPEAKER: Judie Marshall and Wes Hall
LOCATION: Robert C. Byrd Center, Multipurpose Room
TIME: Noon-1:30 p.m.
COST: FREE
Come learn the Medicare alphabet of parts A, B, C, and D. Detailed descriptions will be discussed for each part, eligibility, and how it applies to you or someone in your family. Handouts will also be available.
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Lecture Dates
BROWN BAG LECTURES
March
3/12 Improve Your Personal Cyber Security
3/17 Bards, Druids and Saint Patrick – A Concert Celebrating Celtic Harp
3/19 Tips for Writing Your Memoir
3/26 Guadalcanal: The Decisive Campaign in the Pacific Theater During WWII
April
4/2 USS Houston CA-30/POW Experience
4/9 “Telling the truth is the funniest joke in the world” The Embroidered World of Mark Twain
4/16 The Power of Walking and Listening - the Planetwalker Journey
4/23 The Future of Agriculture
May
5/7 Confused about Medicare?
PRESIDENT’S LECTURES
January
1/28 A Deep Dive: Ocean Currents, Politics, and Possibilities
February
2/18 Nobel Prize Topics
March
3/25 Engaged Learning in the Midst of Conflict: Who’s up for the Challenge?
Shepherd University President Dr. Mary J.C. Hendrix has created this distinguished lecture series for the campus and community, and it has become part of the Lifelong Learning Program.
All lectures, which are free and open to the public, take place in the Robert C. Byrd Center for Congressional History and Education auditorium. These lectures will also be live-streamed on the Shepherd University YouTube channel. Find the link at www.shepherd.edu/president/presidents-lecture-series.
A DEEP DIVE: OCEAN CURRENTS, POLITICS, AND POSSIBILITIES
TUESDAY, JANUARY 28 | 6:30 p.m.
SPEAKER: Craig McLean, Retired, Chief Scientist and Assistant Administrator for Research at NOAA
The ocean influences American lives daily, from the coast to the heartland of the nation, from the crops we eat, the oxygen we breathe, to the weather we endure. At the close of WWII, the United States and other nations had developed technology to reveal much about the ocean, and chose to pursue the linkage between the ocean and the atmosphere. Those decades of work have defined what we know today as climate science and has brought us better weather forecasts; if you like your seven day weather forecast, thank an oceanographer. In exploring and studying the ocean our speaker, Craig McLean, will take you on a journey of science, discovery, law, and the politics of the ocean.
NOBEL PRIZE TOPICS
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 18 | 6:30 p.m.
SPEAKER: Shepherd University Faculty
Shepherd University faculty will discuss the topics of the 2024 Nobel Prize winning awards: The Nobel Prize in Physics 2024 “for foundational discoveries and inventions that enable machine learning with artificial neural networks ”with Dr. Jeff Groff, professor of applied physics; The Nobel Prize in Chemistry 2024 “for computational protein design and protein structure prediction”with Dr. Robert Warburton, dean of the College of Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Nursing and professor of biochemistry; The Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine 2024 “for the discovery of microRNA and its role in post-transcriptional gene regulation” with Dr. Connor Sipe, Associate Professor of Biology. The Nobel Prize in Literature 2024 “for her intense poetic prose that confronts historical traumas and exposes the fragility of human life ” with Dr. Rachel Krantz, associate professor of French; The Nobel Peace Prize 2024 “for its efforts to achieve a world free of nuclear weapons and for demonstrating through witness testimony that nuclear weapons must never be used again”with Dr. Aart Holtslag, associate professor of political science; and The Sveriges Riksbank Prize in Economic Sciences in Memory of Alfred Nobel 2024 “for studies of how institutions are formed and affect prosperity” with Dr. Amanda Mandzik, associate professor of business, accounting, economics, and finance.
ENGAGED LEARNING IN THE MIDST OF CONFLICT: WHO’S UP FOR THE CHALLENGE?
TUESDAY, MARCH 25 | 6:30 p.m.
SPEAKER: Dr. Susan Hirsch, Professor of Conflict Resolution and Anthropology, Carter School for Peace and Conflict Resolution, George Mason University
How can we tackle 21st century conflicts when civility, empathy, and authenticity are in such short supply? The interdisciplinary peace and conflict field offers some hope. And some strategies for educators and learners in higher ed and beyond. Drawing on decades of research and teaching about peace, conflict, and justice, Dr. Susan Hirsch, a cultural anthropologist, advocates for engaged learning, an approach that emphasizes learning through doing. For instance, an engaged learning course might bring together students and community members to address an ongoing conflict. Engaged learning can provide insight into complex conflicts, such as migration, criminal justice reform, and systemic inequality, while also imparting the skills, techniques, and confidence needed to take on these and other domestic and global challenges in ethical and constructive ways. Research shows that engaged learning experiences are highly valuable, yet they can be controversial and hard to pull off. As Hirsch argues, successful engaged learning should: take you out of your comfort zone, cause you to think before you speak, encourage you to reflect critically, motivate you to act.
Spring 2025 Registration Form
Please complete one registration form per person. For additional registration forms, please visit www.shepherd.edu/lifelonglearning.com.
NAME: _______________________________________________________________________________________________
EMAIL:______________________________________ ___ PHONE: ____________________________
O I would like to volunteer in the Lifelong Learning Program. Please contact me.
COURSES - $75 per course OR $185 for subscription to unlimited spring courses and lectures unless otherwise noted
O Design Thinking: Creating human-centered experiences
O CATF in Context: Intro to Theater and the New Play Process
O The Harlem Renaissance
O Café Society Discussion Group (FREE)
O Characters You’ve Known and Want to Create
O Mozart Only Mozart
O Deep Dives
O I Lost It at the Movies
O Dreaming Argentina: Jorge Borges and Magical Realism
O Living Everyday with Awe ($60)
O A Plant-based Diet: The What, the Why and the How ($60)
O Nazi Germany, The Holocaust, What Lessons Learned
SPECIAL OFFERINGS
O Advanced Open Lab - $260 or $200 with a spring subscription
O Wild Writers Retreat - $485 or $455 with a spring subscription
O Memorable Poems, Singer Songwriter’s Poetic Lyrics
O Current International Issues Discussion Group
O Getting a Grip on Upheaval and Change, Working Through Transitional Times
O Church and State: A History of their Separation or Lack Thereof
O A Coming-of-Age Novel and The Search for Happiness
O American Indian Burial Practices ($60)
O Game of Thrones - Tales from History and Myth
O Short Stories by the Queens of Crime: The legendary women of the Golden Age of crime fiction
O Inspired, Creative Lives Affecting Jefferson County
O Draw Your Days (FREE)
Retirement Planning Today Workshop - $49
O Session I – Thursdays
O Session II - Saturdays
BROWN BAG LECTURES - $15 each, or free with the spring subscription
O 3/12 - Improve Your Personal Cyber Security
O 3/17- Bards, Druids and Saint Patrick – A Concert Celebrating Celtic Harp
O 3/19 - Tips for Writing Your Memoir
O 3/26 - Guadalcanal: The Decisive Campaign in the Pacific Theater During WWII
O 4/2 - USS Houston CA-30/POW Experience
O 4/9 - “Telling the truth is the funniest joke in the world” The Embroidered World of Mark Twain
O 4/16 - The Power of Walking and Listening - the Planetwalker Journey
O 4/23 - The Future of Local Agriculture
O 5/7 - Confused about Medicare?
PRESIDENT’S LECTURES -
Free
O 1/28 - A Deep Dive: Ocean Currents, Politics, and Possibilities
O 2/18 - Nobel Prize Topics
O 3/25 - Engaged Learning in the Midst of Conflict: Who’s Up for the Challenge?
REGISTRANT INFORMATION
NAME: ____________________________________________________________________________________
ALUM OF SHEPHERD? O YES O NO CLASS YEAR: _______________________
ADDRESS: _________________________________________________________________________________
O Please add me to the mailing list for the Lifelong Learning catalogs.
How did you learn about these Lifelong Learning courses, lectures and trips? (Check all that apply)
O Email O Postcard in mail O Picked up brochure in community
O Newspaper article O Word of Mouth O Other___________________
PAYMENT
O I am purchasing a spring subscription. - $185
O I am paying for individual classes and lectures.
# of courses: _________________ x $75 = ___________
# of courses: _________________ x $60 = ___________
# of Brown Bag Lectures: _______ x $15 = _________
Total for classes and lectures = __________________
Total for special offerings = ______________________
TOTAL FEE = ______________________
O Check (Make payable to Shepherd University) OR
O Credit Card: O VISA O MasterCard O Discover O American Express
Card #: _____________________________________ Expiration Date: ___________________ Security Code: ______________
Billing address: O Same as above. __________________________________________________________________________
Signature: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________
O I would like to support the Lifelong Learning Program with my tax-deductible gift.
Your gift helps us provide excellent lifelong learning opportunities. Thank you!
O Check (Make payable to Shepherd University Foundation) OR
O Donation using the above credit card information for the amount of: _______________________
Mail registration form, course schedule, and payment to: Shepherd University Lifelong Learning Program Office of Continuing Education, Attn: Cindy Powers P.O. Box 5000, Shepherdstown, WV 25443
THANKS
Many thanks to our Shepherd University Lifelong Learning Program volunteer course instructors, lecturers, class assistants, advisory committee and donors. Our hats are off to those individuals who have generously donated their money, time and talent in 2025 to the Shepherd University Lifelong Learning Program. Please join me in thanking them:
Susan Kern
Marty Amerikaner, Ph.D.
Blane Ampthor
Hillary Banachowski
Marcele Bartlett*
Stephen Bartlett
Daniel Bennett
Roger Bernstein*
James Broomall, Ed.D.*
Cindy Calhoun
Michelle Casuccio
Richard Casuccio, M.D.*
Sandy Cavalier*
Pam Clark
Larry Cumbo
Heidi Dobish, Ph.D.*
Pat Donohoe
Jeff Groff, Ph.D.
Madison Hale
Wes Hall
Donna & Bill Hiatt
Susan Hirsch, Ph.D.
Matthew “Maasaw” Howard
Geri Hunt
Laraine Jimenez*
*denotes Advisory Committee member
Mark Kohut*
Matthew Kradel
Rachel Krantz, Ph.D.
Denise Kupiszewski
Matthew J. Kushin, Ph.D.
Bruce Lapham
Claudine Lebeau
Gregory Leck
Kirsten Lee
Amanda Mandzik, Ph.D.
Judith Marshall
Craig McLean
Frank McCluskey, Ph.D.*
Justin McHenry
Peggy McKowen
Leslie Miller
Sytil Murphy, Ph.D.
Harriet Pearson
Faye Pieper
Wolfgang Pordzik
Joanie Raisovich
David Rampy
Maylene Reisbig
Carol Richmond, Ph.D.
Karen Rice
Lynne D. Riley
Michael Rock
Dianne Roman
Mary Ruos
John Keith Schwarz
Stephanie Slocum-Schaffer, Ph.D.
Nicole Smith
Roger Snook
Morgan Stanley
Jim Surkamp
Linda Tate, Ph.D.
Eric Thompson, Ph.D.
Fred Turco
Sheila Vertino
Robert Warburton, Ph.D.
Melanie Winter
Robert C. Byrd Center for Congressional History & Education
Contemporary Arts Theater Festival
American Conservation Film Festival
P.O. Box 5000
Shepherdstown, WV 25443
