Senior University October Class Highlights and November Class Sneak Preview

Romantic Poetry

Friday, October 9 & October 16, 2:00 pm
Bristol View 1^st Floor Bowditch Room

The Romantic literary tradition marked the emergence and exploration of “the self”: the self as an agent of intellect, spirit, emotion, and reason. Romantic poets of the late 18th and early 19th centuries found a capacity to see themselves (the subject), as part of a broader landscape in society and the natural world. How might the “Self” emerge differently for women than men? Join us for a 2-part course on the poetry of “Self” from the Romantic.  This program is made possible by a generous donation to Senior University.

AI and Education

Wednesday, October 14, 11:00 am
Bristol View 1^st Floor Bowditch Room

Teach-bots? Silicon students?  Algorithmic class assistants?  AI is in education–and education, especially higher education, is trying to respond to the pervasiveness of AI.  This session will detail the latest ways that AI is changing education, both for better and for worse. This program is made possible by a generous donation to Senior University. 

The Presidency, the Courts, and the Constitution: Unprecedented Crisis or Familiar Tension?

Wednesday, October 28, 2:00 pm
Bristol View 1^st Floor Bowditch Room

In this session, we’ll explore the balance of power between the presidency and the courts — and ask whether the tensions we’re seeing today are genuinely new, or whether American history offers real precedent. Starting with the early republic and the standoffs between figures like John Marshall and Thomas Jefferson, we’ll trace how presidents and courts have tested each other’s authority at various points in American history, and ask what those episodes can tell us about the present and the future. This program is made possible by a generous donation to Senior University.

November Class Sneak Preview

Learn to Knit

Thursday, November 5, November 12, & November 19, 2:00 – 4:00 pm
Tobey Jones Multipurpose Room

Have you ever wanted to learn to knit? Have you ever wanted the perfect, cozy hobby that both relaxes your mind and makes you think, but also results in fun, cute, and practical objects to delight as gifts? This 4-part series will teach the basics and introduce you to all the tips and tricks you’ll need to create fun and practical knitted items. No previous knowledge of knitting is required.

This class has a $20 supply fee and pre-registration is required.

Tea and Revolution: How Women Helped Birth a Nation

Tuesday, November 10, 2:00 pm
MJ Wicks Wellness Center

Ever wonder what the Founding Mothers did to help America win their independence from Britain? The American Revolutionary War wasn’t fought just by the men. Women had a huge impact on the outcome of the war. They fulfilled many roles that were a major contribution to winning the War of Independence, from setting up a national boycott on British goods, to working as spies, scouts, and even a few as soldiers. Our presenter brings to life many of these extraordinary women whose cunning, courage, and creativity helped win the war and shape our country. This program made possible by a generous donation by Claire & Dick Griffin.

Book Discussion: The Coddling of the American Mind

Tuesday, November 17, 11:00 am
Bristol View 1^st Floor Bowditch Room

The Coddling of the American Mind: How Good Intentions and Bad Ideas Are Setting Up a Generation for Failure was named one of the best books of 2018, by entities as diverse as The New York Times and The Financial Times. Authors Greg Lukianoff and Jonathan Haidt write, “This is a book for anyone who is confused by what is happening on college campuses today, or has children, or is concerned about the growing inability of Americans to live, work, and cooperate across party lines.” Eight years later, what truth, if any, does Coddling offer? Come prepared to discuss this thought-provoking book! This program made possible by a generous donation to Senior University. 

American Music Series Presents Clave Cubana–Songs and Stories from the Cuban Tradition

Friday, November 20, 4:00 pm
MJ Wicks Wellness Center

We’ve heard of Cuban salsas and rumbas, but…what about changüí, son montuno, and songo? Join EJ Crocker (guitar and tres cubano), Michael Olson (percussion), and Nick Rawson (bass) in a highly dance-able tour through Cuban musics, past and present.

Registration required for all classes. To register please call 253-756-6219 or email Jana at jwennstrom@franketobeyjones.com

For a full class and activity list, click here