Lifelong Learning Programs Scheduled for Fall 2023
Several Lifelong Learning Institute courses geared to those over 65-years-old are being offered this fall at the Lock Haven Clearfield Campus. These free programs are a joing venture between Lock Haven Clearfield and Mature Resources Area Agency on Aging. (photo from Lock Haven Clearfield Facebook page)
By Julie Rae Rickard
CLEARFIELD – Mark your calendars. The Clearfield Community Lifelong Learning Programs for Fall 2023, have been announced.
The courses which are a partnership between Lock Haven University Clearfield and Mature Resources Area Agency on Aging “are geared towards the interests of older citizens”, according to a recent press release. The series began in 2015.
Most are taught by members of the Lock Haven faculty but others cover businesses and area history with experts in those areas. These courses are free and will be held at room A131 of the Academic Building at the Lock Haven Clearfield Campus.
One of the first programs this Fall will be “Lock Haven University: the First 100 Years, 1870-1970” on Tuesday, September 26 at 1:00 p.m. until 2:30 p.m.
“Mr. Joby Topper, library director at Lock Haven University, will discuss the first 100 years of Lock Haven University’s history” in the approximately 90 minute presentation.
“He will cover major milestones in the development of LHU, from its origins as a state normal school for the training of public-school teachers, to its expansion during the 1960’s into the liberal arts and sciences,” the press release states.
“Topper’s great-grandmother, Laura Hassinger, graduated from the state normal school in 1891. His slideshow will include numerous historical photographs of the Lock Haven campus and students.”
The other programs this year are:
“Population Aging and the Adult Life Course” on Tuesday, Oct. 10 at 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. will look at “the societal impact that population aging and longer life-expendency is having globally as well as in the United States,’ according to information supplied by MRAAA.
The fastest growing part of our population is the group over 65 which is impacting “broad social and economic change leading to new challenges as well as opportunities.”
Presented by Dr. Jamie Foor, Assistant Professor of the Psychology Department, this course will take a close look at these changes including the “traditional adult life course path, such as marriage, family, health, education, work and living environments.”
“Playing it Safe Online” on Tuesday, October 24 from 2:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. will review ways to be safe while online and possible threats and will be will be presented by Dr. Peter Huegler, Assistant Professor of Mathematics, Computer Science and Digital Forensics.
“We will look at internet tracking, malware, social engineering, phishing, cybersecurity software, 2-factor authentication, browser security settings, VPN’s and the best practices to stay safe.”
“Estate Planning: What Every Senior Should Know and Do” on Tueday, Nov. 7 at 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. will be presented by Kim Kesner, whose legal career has covered 45 years. He “will provide practical advice on pre and post death planning as well as debunk certain myths and misconceptions as well as pitfalls seniors too often befall.”
“More Myths and Facts Regarding Crime and Criminal Justice” on Tuesday, Nov. 21 from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. will be presented by Dr. Michael J. McSkimming, Associate Professor of Criminal Justice, Anthropology & Sociology.
This will be a continuation of an earlier program which discussed some of the common misconceptions regarding crime and criminal justice perpetuated by TV crime dramas and other media.
It will cover police coruption, criminal culpability, capital punishment and careers in criminal justice.
“It is hoped that after this informative presentation, the participants leave with a better understanding of this complex system that impacts our daily lives in one way or another.”
“What is Family Recovery and Why is it Important?” on Tuesday, Dec. 5 from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 pm., will be presentend by Bobbie McBurney-Johnston, Director of Development & Planning at MRAA.
“This program will define the disease of addiction and explore aspects of recovery, but especially dive into the important role family members play in their loved ones’ motivation for change and continued wellness.
“Family members inpacted by a loved one’s SUD did not cause it, can’t change it, can’t cure it and definitely can’t control it, but CAN make changes in their own lives to better help their loved one toward a decision for recovery and regain peace in their own lives,” it says in the provided pamphlet.
Even though the courses are focused on senior residents, anyone is able to attend, but you must register by calling 814-765-2696.