# S U M M E R S T A T E O F M I N D
LIFELONG LEARNING
Semester
WHAT IS RUI UNIVERSITY?
RUI University is a multifaceted curriculum that promotes purposeful living. The program supports intellectual wellness by allowing residents to critically think and examine topics from a variety of disciplines. Residents engage with peers and visitors in discourse and work through questions collaboratively.
CLASSES
Taught by RUI University Fellows and tailored to our residents’ interests Class subjects include history, music, fine arts, culinary, wine, horticulture, environmental sustainability, and more
LEARNING LABS
Activities that build upon class subjects
Learning labs engage all different types of learning styles: visual, auditory, kinesthetic, reading, and writing
#SummerStateofMind
Dear Residents, Family, and Guests,
At RUI University, we believe lifelong learning should inspire not only the mind, but also joy, connection, and community This summer, we invite you to embrace a true #SummerStateOfMind a season designed to spark curiosity, celebrate experience, and bring people together through meaningful conversation and engaging discovery.
Featuring The Vintage Advantage, our Summer 2026 series celebrates the wisdom and perspective that enrich every stage of life through thought-provoking masterclasses, wellness conversations, historical exploration, and community-centered events designed to educate, inspire, and connect
Throughout the season, residents, family members, guests, and members of the greater community can look forward to special monthly themes and celebrations designed to inspire learning and connection.
In June, we explore Facing Alzheimer’s: Knowledge, Compassion & Hope, featuring conversations surrounding Alzheimer’s research, memory care, and the science of empathy while recognizing Father’s Day, Juneteenth, and the spirit of the Alzheimer’s Association’s Do What You Love to End ALZ® initiative.
In July, we celebrate The Intellectual Legacy of History: Patterns, Power & Progress, examining revolutions, political transformation, and the great thinkers who shaped society while honoring America’s 250th birthday and the spirit of the Fourth of July.
In August, we focus on The Science of Well-Being: Designing a Life of Purpose, Vitality & Connection, exploring the neurobiology of energy, wellness, and human connection while also enjoying our annual Bistro Trivia Tournament and the final celebrations of summer
We invite residents, family members, guests, and members of the greater community to join us throughout the summer as we celebrate learning, culture, wellness, and togetherness. These shared experiences strengthen connections across generations and make lifelong learning even more rewarding.
Our summer classes and events are open to all Whether you are returning to RUI University or joining us for the very first time, we welcome you to experience a summer filled with insight, inspiration, and celebration.
ART THERAPY
Art Therapy with Mind, Body and Soul
June 4, 2026 at 11:00 AM
June 18, 2026 at 11:00 AM
July 2, 2026 at 11:00 AM
July 16, 2026 at 11:00 AM
August 6, 2026 at 11:00 AM
August 20, 2026 at 11:00 AM
Series- Art Therapy helps memory care residents express emotions and memories in a safe, non-verbal way It supports cognitive function, reduces anxiety, and engages the senses through color, texture, and familiar themes. The class also promotes social interaction and boosts confidence by giving residents a meaningful, successful experience.
Beth Oliver is an art therapist and founder of Mind Body Soul Art Therapy in Fairfax, Virginia. Trained at The George Washington University, she uses a gentle, neuroscience-informed approach to help individuals connect, express emotion, and find comfort through creativity Beth is passionate about supporting olderadults and those living with memory change, offering warm, thoughtful guidance that encourages confidence, calm, and meaningful selfexpression.
FINE ARTS
BIRD BUDDY
SERIES
Wings of Summer
Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday in June 2026 at 3:30 PM
Residents enjoy a peaceful moment watching birds and listening to gentle summer sounds. A calming experience that encourages connection, curiosity, and relaxation.
Feathers & Sunshine
Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday in July 2026 at 3:30 PM
Feathers & Sunshine Join us this July at 3:30 PM for an enchanting session where residents can bask in the warmth and beauty of summer This delightful event will feature opportunities to observe a variety of birds as they flutter and sing amidst the bright sunshine. Participants will have the chance to relax and unwind while enjoying the vibrant colors and soothing melodies that these feathered friends bring to our garden..
Golden Wings
Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday in August 2026 at 3:30 PM.
Experience a world of wonder and tranquility, where the gentle flutter of wings creates a symphony of serenity. The Golden Wings sessions inspire and entertain, encouraging participants to share bird-related stories that foster community. Whether you're a seasoned birdwatcher or new to avian observation, these gatherings promise moments of reflection and joy Join us and let the beauty of birds add golden magic to your day
The Bird Buddy smart bird feeder brings joy, stimulation, and comfort to residents in a Memory Care Unit. Its built-in camera captures close-up photos and videos of visiting birds, which are automatically displayed on a tablet or screen for residents to enjoy This engaging, nature-based technology supports emotional well-being by sparking curiosity, evoking positive memories, and offering a sense of connection to the natural world
LIVE MUSIC
Live Music with Ari Jacobson
June 12, 2026 at 2:00 PM
Live Music with Adam Melia
June 19, 2026, July 17, 2026, and August 21, 2026 at 2:00 PM
Adam Melia Music with Nashville Standard Presents provides quality and uplifting vintage style musical entertainment
Live Music with Vince Borelli
June 26, 2026, July 31, 2026, and August 28, 2026 at 2:00 PM
Vince can pack up all the energy of his band into a one-man show With a guitar and a good crowd, Vince can be the heart of any happy hour, cocktail hour, or any other event you have for him. With a HUGE book of songs available, the SOLO PERFORMER show is a winner every time!
Live Music with Alan MacEwen
July 10, 2026 at 2:00 PM
Live Music with Ro Cube
August 14, 2026 at 2:00 PM
MUSIC
Making Music Together, with Roberta A Group Music Experience
June 11, 2026 at 10:30 AM
June 26, 2026 at 10:30 AM
July 9, 2026 at 10:30 AM
July 29, 2026 at 10:30 AM
August 13, 2026 at 10:30 AM
August 28, 2026 at 10:30 AM
Series: This group music experience fosters engagement, rhythm, and emotional well-being by encouraging active participation
Roberta Comack-Kattleman is a talented music entertainer and music therapist with a wealth of experience in engaging individuals within memory care communities
She designs interactive, uplifting music sessions that promote participation through:
Singing
Rhythm activities
Instrument play
Her warm and inclusive approach not only stimulates memories but also fosters social connections, bringing joy to participants of all ability levels
Live Music Lalo Garcia
June 5, 2026 at 2:00 PM
July 3, 2026 at 2:00 PM
August 7, 2026 at 2:00 PM
Eduardo “ Lalo” Garcia is a bass player and singer from Mexico City and has played bass since he was thirteen years old A very experienced and versatile musician, Lalo can handle multiple styles of music with authenticity Lalo has played in the US with Chuck Berry, Little Richard, Wanda Jackson, Ron Holloway, and Daryl Davis, with whom he toured Europe and South America.
MUSIC THERAPY
Music Therapy with Neurosound
June 18, 2026 at 2:00 PM
July 16, 2026 at 2:00 PM
August 20, 2026 at 2:00 PM
Series - Music Therapy helps memory care residents connect with familiar songs that stimulate memory, emotion, and communication. It reduces anxiety, improves mood, and supports cognitive and sensory engagement through rhythm and melody The class also encourages social interaction and provides a comforting, uplifting experience
NeuroSound Music Therapy offers certified, evidence-based music therapy to senior communities in Northern Virginia. Their clinicians use live music, rhythm, movement, and reminiscence to support emotional well-being and cognitive engagement Each personalized session fosters comfort, creativity, and meaningful connection for residents
PET THERAPY
Pets on Wheels
June 9, 2026 at 10:00 AM
July 14, 2026 at 10:00 AM
August 11, 2026 at 10:00 AM
Series - Pet visitation has been medically proven to have a calming effect. Visits by trained volunteer/pet teams help reduce anxiety, relieve depression, lower blood pressure, encourage communication, and increase socialization. What’s more, touching animals helps chase away loneliness, depression, and withdrawal and encourages a meaningful connection to happier times
The mission of Fairfax Pets On Wheels, Inc (FPOW) is to provide companionship and improved quality of life to residents of Fairfax area nursing homes and assisted living facilities through regular pet visitation by trained volunteers and their approved pets.
WELLNESS
Facing Alzheimers: Knowledge, Compassion & Hope
June 22, 2026 at 2:00 PM
In the journey of facing Alzheimer's, communication is key to providing comfort to individuals with the condition and their loved ones It's about creating an environment where understanding and empathy thrive.
Simple gestures, like maintaining eye contact, offering a gentle touch, or speaking softly, can ease anxiety and foster security Encouraging st
Elliott J Schwartz, LCSW, is a compassionate psychotherapist and clinical social worker with over 25 years of experience, dedicated to supporting mental health. With a focus on geriatrics, he brings empathy, dignity, and hope to individuals and families, guiding them through life’s later chapters with understanding and meaningful connection
WILDLIFE
Jurassic Jaunt
June 2, 2026 at 10:30 AM
Come on an exciting trip to the past where we follow a baby dinosaur Meet and learn about some real live living fossils that would have been around in dinosaur world
Going On a Bug Hunt
July 7, 2026 at 10:30 AM
We’re going on a bug hunt. What will we find? Where will we find them? How will we get there? We’re going on a bug hunt. Let’s learn some cool, fun facts about these bugs or other creatures that we find along the way. Come along and have a great journey with us!
Fairy Tale Animals
August 4, 2026 at 10:30 AM
We are familiar with the heroes/heroines/villains of many fairy tales Some of these characters are animals But there are also animal sidekicks and characters that add to the richness of the stories Let’s meet a few of these fairy tale animals from around the world
Echoes Of Nature (EON) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to environmental education to help people of all ages better understand, appreciate, and care for wildlife and the natural environment Through multisensory teaching techniques, EON aims to connect communities to nature and to give individuals of all ages the information and skills needed to become better stewards of natural resources.
RUINFORMED
Age Well Series : The Mind Unveiled: Neuroscience of Thought & Memory- How the Brain Changes with Age and Learning
June 17, 2026 at 4:00 PM
Take your taste buds on a world tour in this dynamic culinary class celebrating the bold, vibrant world of street food From the sizzling stalls of Southeast Asia to the bustling carts of Latin America and the savory snacks of the Mediterranean, you’ll explore the cultural roots and creative flair behind some of the world’s most beloved on-the-go dishes. This class includes a live cooking demonstration, where you'll watch and learn how to recreate authentic street food favorites using accessible ingredients and techniques you can try at home. Along the way, you'll gain insight into the history, regional variations, and global influence of street cuisine
Age Well Series: Ready for Takeoff: Preparing for Travel as a Senior
July 15, 2026 at 4:00 PM
Discover how food connects us to our heritage, our memories, and one another in this heartwarming and flavorful culinary class. Food & Family Traditions invites you to explore the rich stories behind treasured family recipes and the cultural traditions they represent. Through a live cooking demonstration, you'll experience how everyday ingredients can become powerful symbols of love, celebration, and identity Learn about the origins of classic comfort foods, the role of food in family rituals, and how culinary traditions are passed down and reinvented through generations.
Age Well Series: Vision & Vitality: Eye Health, Perception & Art
August 19, 2026 at 4:00 PM
Explore the powerful role food plays in storytelling through this engaging and thoughtprovoking class that blends culinary culture with the arts. Food in Literature & Film takes you on a sensory journey through iconic scenes, characters, and narratives where meals do more than nourish they reveal emotion, identity, and connection From classic novels to contemporary films, we’ll examine how food shapes character development, symbolizes deeper themes, and brings stories to life Through lively discussion and select video clips or readings, you’ll gain new insight into how writers and filmmakers use food as a narrative device.
CULINARY
Summer Garden Bounty: Cooking with Color
June 15, 2026 at 2:00 PM
Discover how vibrant fruits, vegetables, and herbs support wellness while delighting the senses Residents will explore the nutritional benefits of colorful foods, seasonal summer produce, and garden-inspired dishes such as Ratatouille, Corn & Tomato Salad, and Fresh Basil Pesto. Through discussion and sensory experiences, participants will learn how color on the plate contributes to both health and enjoyment.
Patriotic Plates: Flavors of America
July 20, 2026 at 2:00 PM
Celebrate America's rich culinary heritage during its 250th birthday year through classic regional dishes and nostalgic food traditions Residents will explore how food tells the story of American culture, community, and family gatherings while enjoying conversations centered on BBQ Chicken Sliders, Apple Slaw, and Peach Cobbler. This session encourages storytelling, reflection, and appreciation for the diverse flavors that shape the American experience.
Spice Route: Exploring Global Seasonings
August 17, 2026 at 2:00 PM
Embark on a culinary journey around the world by discovering the history, culture, and wellness benefits of global spices and seasonings. Through dishes like Indian Dal, Moroccan Couscous, and Vietnamese Pho, residents will learn how spices connect cultures, enhance flavor, and support health This engaging discussion encourages curiosity, cultural appreciation, and sensory exploration through the aromas and traditions of international cuisine
CULINARY:UNCORKED
Uncorked World Tour- Perfecting Pinot: The Art of Wine in Oregon’s Willamette Valley
June 8, 2026 at 3:00 PM
Travel to Oregon’s renowned Willamette Valley, where cool temperatures and careful craftsmanship produce some of America’s most celebrated Pinot Noir wines. Residents will explore how climate influences flavor, discover the delicate balance that defines Pinot Noir, and learn why this region has earned international acclaim Along the way, participants will examine the relationship between tradition, sustainability, and the art of winemaking in one of North America’s premier cool-climate wine destinations.
Uncorked: West Coast-Napa
July 13, 2026 at 3:00 PM
Discover the story behind America’s most famous wine region. From mountain vineyards and rolling valley floors to the legendary Cabernet Sauvignons that helped Napa gain worldwide recognition, this session explores the geography, history, and innovation that define Napa Valley. Residents will learn how elevation shapes wine character, how the famous “Judgment of Paris” changed the wine world, and why Napa remains synonymous with excellence, hospitality, and craftsmanship
Uncorked: Australia: Barossa & Beyond: Sun-Soaked Shiraz & Sparkling Discoveries
August 17, 2026 at 3:00 PM
Journey to Australia’s celebrated Barossa Valley and beyond, where warm sunshine, historic vineyards, and innovative winemaking create wines of remarkable character Residents will explore Australia’s signature Shiraz, learn about some of the world’s oldest producing vines, and discover how climate influences wine style. The session also highlights Australia’s growing reputation for sparkling wines and its relaxed, approachable wine culture that emphasizes enjoyment, community, and exploration
HEALTH
Nature’s Rhythm: Outdoor Wellness & Renewal
June 11, 2026 at 2:30 PM
Reconnect with the restorative power of nature in this refreshing exploration of outdoor wellness Nature’s Rhythm: Outdoor Wellness & Renewal examines how fresh air, sunlight, gentle movement, and mindful time outdoors can enhance physical health, emotional wellbeing, and overall vitality. Residents will discover how spending time in nature supports balance, reduces stress, improves mood, and encourages healthy habits that nurture both body and mind
Cool, Calm & Collected: Summer Wellness Reset
July 9, 2026 at 2:30 PM
Summer offers the perfect opportunity to refresh healthy habits and embrace a balanced approach to wellness. Cool, Calm & Collected: Summer Wellness Reset explores strategies for staying energized, hydrated, and active during the warmer months. Through practical insights and engaging discussion, residents will learn how proper hydration, seasonal nutrition, gentle movement, and mindful self-care can help them maintain comfort, vitality, and well-being throughout the summer season
Balance & Brilliance: A Cognitive Fitness Affair
August 13, 2026 at 2:30 PM
Keep your mind active, engaged, and thriving through the power of cognitive fitness. Balance & Brilliance: A Cognitive Fitness Affair explores the fascinating connection between physical activity, mental stimulation, social engagement, and lifelong brain health Residents will discover practical ways to support memory, focus, creativity, and cognitive resilience while learning how everyday activities can contribute to maintaining mental sharpness and overall quality of life.
LIFELONG LEARNING