E N R I C H M E N T
LIFELONG LEARNING
Winter Semester 2025-2026
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
Dear 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.
HISTORY
Virginia Is for Series
December 2, 2025 at 3:00 PM
January 6, 2026 at 3:00 PM
February 3, 2026 at 3:00 PM
Join Josh Urban for a lively and engaging three-part series that celebrates the fascinating people, stories, and innovations of the Old Dominion. Each session brings Virginia’s colorful history to life through music, folklore, and invention.
December: Virginia Is for Astronomers- High above Charlottesville, a silent army of astronomers measured the galaxy. Josh Urban tells the out-of-this-world tale that hides in plain sight.
January: Virginia Is for Writers -Edgar Allan Poe, John Grisham, Willa Cather, and more lived and worked in our state. Josh Urban opens a literary chapter in this look at local legends.
February: Virginia Is for Presidents -Our state boasts the most big shots: eight US presidents are from Virginia. Josh Urban tells their stories
This entertaining series blends storytelling, music, and history for an unforgettable journey through Virginia’s unique cultural legacy.
Josh Urban is an author, storyteller, and musician residing in Lynchburg, VA. He's been presenting for the RUIU program for over five years and pens a weekly newsletter for seniors.www.JoshUrban.com
Therapy
Music Therapy
December 8, 2025 and December 22, 2025 at 1:30 p.m.
January 12, 2026 & January 26, 2026 at 2:00 PM
February 9, 2026 & February 23, 2026 at 2026 at 2:00 PM
Music therapy groups focus on using music in a social, interactive setting to promote connection, well-being, and personal growth.
Collaborative Music-Making – Participants engage in singing, drumming, instrument playing, or songwriting together.
Social Connection – Emphasis on building relationships, selfexpression, and communication through music.
Previously referred to as Healing Sounds, The Center for Creative Healing offers creative therapeutic experiences to promote wellness, change behaviors and improve quality of life for people of all ages and all walks of life. What started in 2009 as a music therapy business has turned into a multi-creative therapies practice servicing greater Richmond. Our services include music therapy, art therapy, play therapy, and counseling
CULINARY
December-Food & Hospitality Traditions
December 19, 2025 at 4:00 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 8, 2026 at 2:00 PM
Featured Cuisine: Moroccan Tagine, Thai Coconut Soup, Tuscan Ribollita
Experience global comfort foods through warming spices, rich textures, and handson 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 11, 2026 at 2:00 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, 2026 at 4:00 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 13,2026 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 10, 2025 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 10:30 AM
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 21, 2026 at 10:30 AM
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 18, 2026 at 10:30 AM
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!
