The University of Hartford in West Hartford is currently accepting registration for the ‘Lifelong Learning’ program and will hold a kick-off event on Sept. 14.

Submitted

The energy and excitement on a college campus is undeniable, and local residents can join in – even if they think back-to-school isn’t typically their season.

The Presidents’ College at the University of Hartford offers the opportunity for lifelong learning, with a fresh batch of topical and classic subjects every semester, and registration is open now for this fall. Learn more and sign up at hartford.edu/pc. A special kick-off event – think art, music, presenters, wine and cheese – is also set for Sept. 14 at UHart’s Silpe Gallery at the Hartford Art School.

The program was created for adults of all ages who aren’t done learning and crave the camaraderie of classmates, as well as the debates and dialog of course discussions, or the chance to dive into an unexpected topic. It offers short, multi-day courses, along with single lectures and non-classroom-based extracurriculars.

Think of it as the best parts of college – meeting new people, exploring favorite interests, chatting over coffee – without exams, studying, or homework, says Director Michele Troy.

This fall’s course line-up includes sessions on hot topics in a pre-election year, forest fires, sustainability, spy thrillers, artificial intelligence, Jewish humor, trials that shaped America, Celtic music, and jazz, among others.

Other Presidents’ College courses take things a step further. One this fall features Melissa White, the Hartford Symphony Orchestra’s Joyce C. Willis Artist in Residence, discussing nearly forgotten composer Florence Price to prepare viewers for her performance of Price’s work at the HSO.

Another examines “Pride and Prejudice” in a class, and includes seats to a performance of the show at Hartford Stage. Then there’s the Silent Book Club, which invites guests to bring a book of their choice to unique venues (this fall will be Hartford Stage and Real Art Ways), socialize over wine and snacks, and then relax and read silently.

New this year is the Presidents’ College Café: Important Conversations Over Brown-Bag Lunch; participants can bring lunch for informal but compelling chats about trans rights and banned books.

Instructors are UHart professors or other local experts, and courses are individually priced, allowing participants to take part in as many or as few programs as they’d like. Learn more and register at hartford.edu/pc.

Like what you see here? Click here to subscribe to We-Ha’s newsletter so you’ll always be in the know about what’s happening in West Hartford! Click the blue button below to become a supporter of We-Ha.com and our efforts to continue producing quality journalism.