LIFELONG LEARNING
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
#WINTERENRICHMENT
DDear Residents, Family, and Guests,
As we look ahead to 2026, RUI University is pleased to present our Winter Enrichment semester an inspired season designed to support lifelong learning, personal enrichment, and intellectual exploration. As the vibrant colors of autumn give way to the calm and clarity of winter, this is an ideal time for learners to reflect, reset, and engage in meaningful academic pursuits.
Monthly Events to Look Forward To:
December- Top Scholar Event
Celebrate the achievements of our dedicated lifelong learners at the RUI University Top Scholar Ceremony. This event honors residents who exemplify curiosity, growth, and engagement throughout the year.
January – Civic Engagement
Explore the importance of informed citizenship through discussions and activities focused on civic processes, volunteerism, and community involvement January encourages residents to stay engaged and empowered.
February – Global Culture & Contemporary Issues
Expand your global perspective through programs highlighting diverse cultures, current events, and worldwide trends February’s offerings spark meaningful dialogue and deepen global understanding
Our winter curriculum has been thoughtfully developed to meet the evolving needs and interests of our diverse learning community. The 2026 course offerings span a wide range of subjects, skill levels, and formats, ensuring that every participant can explore new areas of curiosity or deepen existing knowledge From interdisciplinary seminars and creative arts workshops to skill-building sessions and special events, each program is crafted to encourage growth, discovery, and engagement.
RUI University remains committed to fostering an inclusive and collaborative learning environment where residents, family members, and guests can connect, share perspectives, and enrich one another’s educational journeys These connections strengthen our community and enhance the overall learning experience.
THERAPY
Pet Therapy with People Animals Love
December 9 & December 23, 2025 at 10:30 AM
January 13, 2026 at 10:30 AM & February 17, 2026 at 10:30 AM
Our Pet Therapy sessions with Therapy Dog Ranger offer residents meaningful opportunities for comfort, companionship, and joy. Ranger’s calm and friendly presence helps reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and boost mood. Residents enjoy petting, talking to, and interacting with Ranger, which often sparks smiles, laughter, and fond memories of past pets. These visits promote emotional wellbeing, social engagement, and a sense of connection making Ranger a beloved part of our Inspiritas community
Our Pet Therapy sessions with Therapy Dog Ranger offer residents meaningful opportunities for comfort, companionship, and joy. Ranger’s calm and friendly presence helps reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and boost mood. Residents enjoy petting, talking to, and interacting with Ranger, which often sparks smiles, laughter, and fond memories of past pets. These visits promote emotional well-being, social engagement, and a sense of connection making Ranger a beloved part of our Inspiritas community.
Music Therapy with Neurosound
December 12 & December 26, 2025 at 11:00 AM
January 9 & January 23, 2025 at 11:00 AM
February 6 & February 20, 2025 at 11:00 AM
Our Music Therapy sessions at Inspiritas provide residents with a joyful, engaging, and therapeutic experience through live and interactive music. Each session is designed to promote emotional expression, social connection, and cognitive stimulation. Residents participate by singing along, playing simple rhythm instruments, recalling familiar songs, and sharing memories associated with music The program supports overall well-being by reducing anxiety, enhancing mood, and encouraging movement and communication in a warm, inclusive environment.
NeuroSound Music Therapy is a multidisciplinary creative arts therapy center that offers music therapy and adapted music lessons in Northern Virginia
FINE ARTS
Inspiritas Caregiver Connections Cafe
December 3, 2025 at 2:00 PM
December 30, 2025 at 2:00 PM
January 27, 2026 at 2:00 PM
February 24, 2026 at 2:00 PM
The Inspiritas Caregiver Connections Café provides a welcoming space for family members and caregivers to connect, share experiences, and find support. Each session offers conversation, resources, and encouragement for those caring for loved ones living with memory loss. Guided by our team, the Café promotes understanding, stress relief, and a sense of community among caregivers who face similar challenges It’s a time to recharge, learn, and build meaningful connections in a compassionate and supportive environment
Sabrina Hartsfield is the Memory Care Director at Inspiritas, bringing a compassionate and innovative approach to supporting residents with memory loss With a background in music therapy, she integrates creative, therapeutic programming to enhance well-being, engagement, and connection. Recognized for her dedication and leadership, Sabrina is the recipient of the Virginia Assisted Living Association Diamond Best Support Staff Award, reflecting her commitment to excellence in care and her positive impact on both residents and families
WILDLIFE
Echoes of Nature
December 17, 2025 at 10:30 AM
EMovie Goof Ups: Taking a look at some movies/TV programs with animals and aside from the talking cartoons, are the animals portrayed with any accuracy? What do the movie/TV makers do to the animals to make them seem so bad? What interesting facts about the animals that are real that make them special?
January 20, 2026 at 10:30 AM
Animal Alphabet: Ever wonder where an animal’s scientific name comes from?
Visit a few of our ambassadors and let us dissect their name See which ones make sense and which ones are still baffling
February 17, 2026 at 10:30 AM
Footwear: Animal feet (or lack of) are designed to help animals stay safe, travel, acquire food We shall meet animals with different types of feet and learn how their feet help them
Echoes of Nature (EON) connects communities to nature through multisensory teaching techniques, equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills to become better stewards of Maryland’s natural resources.
CIVIC & GLOBAL ENGAGEMENT
The Life and Legacy of MLK
January 19, 2026 at 3:15 PM
Explore the remarkable journey of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., from his early years and rise as a civil rights leader to the enduring impact of his message of equality, peace, and justice. This session offers an accessible look at his life, his dream, and the legacy that continues to inspire today
Mo Better University, long admired for their exceptional music and entertainment programs, has expanded their creative excellence into the realm of lifelong learning With the establishment of Mo Better University, they now offer a rich array of high-quality lectures and programs designed to inspire, educate, and engage learners at every stage of life.
Global Cultures & Contemporary Issues
February 26, 2026 at 1:30 PM
Take a meaningful drive through Alexandria’s rich African American heritage. This tour highlights key landmarks, stories, and neighborhoods that shaped the city’s Black history from early communities and historic churches to sites of resilience, achievement, and cultural legacy Discover the people and places that helped define Alexandria
CULINARY
December-Food & Hospitality Traditions
December 16, 2025 at 3:00 PM
Celebrate the season at our signature Champagne & Snowflakes
Holiday Party—the most anticipated event of the year. This elegant gathering welcomes residents, families, prospective residents, and industry partners for an evening that highlights the warmth, sophistication, and exceptional hospitality of our community.
Savor 2026: A Culinary Discovery Series
This 12-month series is designed to engage residents in hands-on culinary learning experiences rooted in culture, seasonality, and therapeutic outcomes. Each month features a specific theme with global influence, wellness benefits, and social connection
January – Warming the Soul: Global Comfort Foods
January 20, 2026 at 3:00 PM
Featured Cuisine: Moroccan Tagine, Thai Coconut Soup, Tuscan Ribollita
Experience global comfort foods through warming spices, rich textures, and hands-on exploration. This session highlights seasonal nourishment, cultural traditions, and interactive spice blending to support sensory engagement and cognitive wellness.
February – Sweet & Savory: Mood Foods
February 17 ,2026 at 3:00 PM
Featured Cuisine: Dark Chocolate Truffles • Oysters Rockefeller • Strawberry Balsamic Glaze
Discover how select ingredients can elevate mood, support heart and brain health, and add sophistication to your cooking. This session highlights the balance between indulgence and wellness while exploring culinary creativity with naturally stimulating flavors.
CULINARY: UNCORKED
December-Cheers to the Holidays: Festive Pairings
December 19, 2025 at 3:00 PM
Discover wines that beautifully complement traditional holiday dishes, enhancing flavor and elevating each festive gathering. This session highlights warm, rich, and sophisticated pairings that bring an elegant touch to seasonal celebrations.
Uncorked 2026: A Year of Wine Discovery
Each month, this series immerses residents in the culture, science, and story of the world’s most iconic wine regions. Rooted in hospitality excellence and lifelong learning best practices, each program includes structured tastings introducing non-alcoholic wines, paired culinary elements, and multi-sensory learning.
January-Uncorked Origins: Georgia: Tbilisi, Winelands & Highlands
January 16 ,2026 at 3:00 PM
Discover the 8,000-year winemaking tradition of Georgia and its deep cultural and spiritual significance This session explores qvevri fermentation, natural wine techniques, and the ancient clay vessels that shaped one of the world’s oldest wine cultures.
February – Uncorked Romance: Winter in Italy Romance, Reds & Truffles
February 13, 2026 at 3:00 PM
Explore the rich flavors and styles of Northern Italian red wines while discovering how they pair beautifully with hearty winter dishes and chocolate. This session highlights renowned varietals such as Barolo, Brunello, and Super Tuscans, along with regional wine customs and stories that bring Italy’s winemaking heritage to life.
HEALTH
Holiday Hits Class
December 24 , 2025 at 3:00 PM
Celebrate the season with a joyful wellness experience that blends music, movement, and festive spirit. Participants will learn how to curate an uplifting, non-denominational holiday playlist featuring classics and modern covers, creating the perfect backdrop for energizing activities. The session includes a guided, low-impact exercise program set to holiday rhythms, incorporating gentle warm-ups, cardio, strength, balance, and a calming cooldown
The Art of Everyday Vitality
January 28, 2026 at 3:00 PM
This class explores vitality as a foundation for staying strong, active, and energized. Participants will learn how regular physical activity supports longevity, cognitive function, and emotional well-being, while also understanding the importance of recovery and balance The focus is on promoting independence, improving quality of life, and building sustainable wellness through consistent, enjoyable movement.
Matters of the Heart: A Gentle Cardio Soiree
February 25 ,2026 at 3:00 PM
This uplifting class introduces residents to gentle, rhythm-based movements designed to support heart health, boost energy, and encourage social connection. Participants explore how light cardiovascular activity enhances circulation, endurance, and mood, while group participation fosters emotional well-being With an emphasis on enjoyment, consistency, and community, this session highlights how small, mindful efforts can make a meaningful impact on cardiovascular vitality.
SIT BACK, RELAX, + TUNE-IN
to our monthly educational webinars where we bring in new subject-matter experts each month to share their insight on a variety of topics. Scan the QR code below to register today!
RESOURCE CENTER
Go online to stay up-to-date with our monthly webinars, book recommendations, online resources, and more!
LIFELONG LEARNING
