Knoxville Prepares for Exciting Fall Semester with Seniors for Creative Learning
Knoxville is buzzing with excitement as Seniors for Creative Learning (SCL) gears up for its upcoming fall semester. This nonprofit organization is all about promoting lifelong learning for individuals aged 50 and over. SCL offers a variety of informal educational and social opportunities, making it a fantastic place for seniors to expand their knowledge and meet new friends.
About Seniors for Creative Learning
Seniors for Creative Learning has been a part of the Knoxville community for over 25 years. Denise Schmoyer, the secretary of SCL’s Curriculum Committee, shared her personal journey with the organization. “I first came across SCL through the University of Tennessee’s noncredit course catalogue. I really enjoy it here. Many people have worked hard to keep SCL running for more than two decades, and I wanted to help keep it going,” she said.
SCL was founded to address the transportation challenges faced by senior students reaching the UT campus. Joe Clarke, the SCL President, explained that the organization strives to create a tailored curriculum that meets the needs of senior learners. Currently, SCL has around 80 to 100 members who are eager to learn about a wide range of topics.
Fall Classes and Guest Speakers
This fall, SCL will offer a rich lineup of classes and lectures covering various subjects. Here are some highlights:
- FBI’s Response to Terrorism – Special Agent Michelle Ernst and Detective Brandon Stryker
- The Pros and Cons of Nuclear Energy – Keith Meriwether
- Bird Love: Courtship and Pair Bonding – Stephen Bales
- History of the Tennessee Valley Authority – Henry Wilson, PhD.
- How AI is Affecting Your Healthcare – Tami Wyatt, PhD.
- Artemis Vs. Apollo Lunar Programs – Bradley Thomson, PhD.
- River and Rail Theatre Company – Kenneth Herring
- Exploring the Possibilities of Regenerative Agriculture – Benjamin Steltenkamp
- The Melungeons-Past, Present, and Future – Aaron Collins
- How Knoxville Helped Create a National Park – Jack Neely
- From Batboy to Congressman – Former Congressman Jimmy Duncan
In addition to these lectures, seniors can also look forward to field trips to unique places like Knoxville’s Jewelry TV, Elkmont, and the Appalachian Clubhouse.
Registration and Costs
Those interested in joining the SCL can register at any time during the semester, which runs from September 17 through October 31. Classes are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays at the John T. O’Connor Center, located at 611 Winona Street in Knoxville. The membership fee is $40 for one person or $65 for two, per semester, with additional costs for field trips.
If you’re curious about SCL, you can attend your first lecture for free by calling (865) 974-0150. More information can be found online at tinyurl.com/SCLInformation.
Looking Ahead
As for what’s next for Seniors for Creative Learning, Schmoyer mentioned plans to commemorate the upcoming 100th anniversary of the Scopes Trial next summer. They hope to arrange a related program and potentially a field trip to the new Knoxville stadium as well.
Overall, SCL continues to thrive as a welcoming and enriching environment for seniors in Knoxville, encouraging them to learn and engage with their communities.
