Lecture Series Caters to Over-50 Crowd

October 02, 2006

MESA, Ariz. - Those lifelong learners interested in returning to school without the hassle of tests, homework or grades are invited to explore an introductory lecture series sponsored by the Arizona State University Osher Lifelong Learning Institute.<separator></separator>The lecture series, tailored for those over age 50, are given by professors and professionals on topics relating to cybersecurity, music, digital photography and comparative world views. The lecture series is free and all lectures will be held at ASU's Polytechnic campus in southeast Mesa.<separator></separator>"Through the lectures, we hope to familiarize East Valley senior adults with the institute and the Polytechnic campus," said Lois Lorenz, ASU program coordinator of the lecture series and the institute.<separator></separator>The lectures for the fall semester include:<separator></separator><ul><li>"Security in Cyberspace," Oct. 23, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., Student Union Cooley Ballroom A, presented by Penny Ann Dolin, ASU Technology Management lecturer.</li><li>"The Blues: A Truly American Music Form," Nov. 9, 1 to 2:30 p.m., Student Union Cooley Ballroom A, presented by Larry Edmonds, ASU faculty associate and instructor at Scottsdale Community College.</li><li>"Getting to Know Your Digital Camera," Nov. 14, 2:00 to 3:45 p.m., Center Building, Room 152, presented by James Thomas, ASU Ph.D. student. </li><li>"Religion and Politics, War and Peace: Comparative World Views," Nov. 29, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., Administration Building, Provost Conference Room, presented by John Carlson, ASU Religious Studies assistant professor. </li></ul> The California-based Osher Foundation supports more than 60 Osher Institutes at universities across the United States. ASU Osher Lifelong Learning Institute plans to develop a program for senior adults in the East Valley and sees the lecture series as a springboard for future programming.<separator></separator>"With baby-boomers nearing retirement age, the older population in our state is growing rapidly. Arizona State University wishes to meet the ongoing educational interests and needs of this group of individuals. This fall we want to continue what was started with the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute last spring in the East Valley, with the hopes of expanding our offerings in future months," said Lorenz.<separator></separator>For more information about the series or to reserve a seat, contact Lois Lorenz at (480) 727-1153 or <a href="mailto:lois.lorenz@asu.edu">lois.lorenz@asu.edu</a>.