# S U M M E R S T A T E O F M I N D
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
#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
CREATIVE WRITING
Your Story Workshop: “Unleashing the Power of Life Stories”
June 15, 2026 AT 2:00 PM
In our inaugural Your Story Workshop, we will explore the significance of documenting our “life stories” and share strategies to stimulate our memories We will discuss the use of prompts to trigger recollections and how to create a personalized Memory List organized by years and events. This approach makes it unique for each individual. I will encourage everyone to continue developing their list in preparation for our next session.
Your Story Workshop: “Memory Lists”
July 13, 2026 at 2:00 PM
In our second session, we will explore participants' Memory Lists. Each individual will then choose a specific memory to write about for ten minutes, demonstrating how incremental writing can accumulate significantly over time. Additionally, we will discuss the crucial role that photographs play in enhancing our memories I will encourage everyone to continue writing from their Memory Lists and to bring their reflections to our third session
Your Story Workshop: “Sharing Your Story”
August 17, 2026 at 2:00 PM
In the third session, I will invite participants to share their writings with the group. This act of sharing not only allows for valuable feedback but also helps evoke memories in others about their own narratives. To conclude the session, I will outline ways they can further their writing journey and explain what support I can provide through my Your Story business
Theresa O’Brien has a bachelor’s degree in communication arts and English. She has worked for a major women’s magazine, several smalltown and several larger-city newspapers, and worked in the Newport News, VA, school system for 13 years, sharing her love of writing with elementary-aged students She started her Your Story business by combining her love of writing and her desire to preserve an individual’s life stories. She believes that everyone has a story to tell and share, and in this age of instant and digital communication, there is something to be said for having a written-down account of one’s life.
FINE ARTS
A Hot Chocolate From the Rainforest
June 22, 2026 at 2:00 PM
Learn about the history of chocolate, where and how chocolate grows, and how it is harvested Chocolate was a popular treat during colnial times By the middle of the 18th centurt, hot chocolate, flavored with a variety of spices, had become a favorite drink in both Europe and America.
Chocolate's Famous People.
July 20, 2026 at 2:00 PM
Chocolate has a long and interesting history, which involves a lot of famous people and characters starting in the 1502. Come learn how some of these famous men and women played a role in making chocolate the POPULAR food that it is today.
Chocolate Tasting Event
August 24, 2026 at 2:00 PM
This amount of cacao in a piece of chocolate certainly changes its flovor and depth. We would sample 4-5 diferent types of chocolate/chocolate combinations and dsuss what is really different about them.
Mary Griffith is a 1990 graduate of Christopher Newport University, with a BSBA in Management and a Communucations Certifcate She was a member of the American Marketing Association, and a student assistant in the accounting department while at CNU. Mary has been a member of Alumni Society Board in the early to late 90's , and is currently srving on the ASB again, and co-chairing the Careers Committe. Mary earned her MBA from Old Dominion University in 1991, and went on to be the Director of Marketing for a software development company In 1994, Mary startedd Virginia's Finest Chocolates, which was a student project in the Small Business Institute classes at CNU, and is still her project today.
FINE ARTS
Art from Ancient Egypt
June 23, 2026 at 2:00 PM
We will have a general overview of art from Ancient Egypt and its common themes This art was a highly structured system focusing on immortality, cosmic order, and religious devotion Common motifs included the lotus flower, papyrus, and the sun disk, which symbolized the cyclical nature of life and rebirth. We will create a painting in the traditional style and subject matter of Egyptian art.
United States' 250th Anniversary
July 14, 2026 at 2:00 PM
In 2026, the United States' 250th anniversary is being celebrated Major institutions like the National Gallery of Art and Bowdoin College Museum of Art are showcasing American history, landscapes, and diverse perspectives from colonial times to the present day. We will explore paintings and artists that focus on these themes and we will create a painting to celebrate America and Independence Day.
Traditional Chinese Art
August 11, 2026 at 2:00 PM
Traditional Chinese art focuses on capturing the essence of nature, harmony, and symbolic meaning, with key themes including landscapes, bird-and-flower painting, and animal and figure painting. We will explore these themes as well as the symbolism in many of them. The tiger in Chinese art is a significant cultural symbol representing power, bravery, and protection Our painting subject will be a colorful tiger
Emily Basto received an MS in Art Therapy from Eastern Virginia Medical School in 2009. She has her undergraduate degree in Sociology and Anthropology. Her interest in other cultures and customs influences many of her art projects. She currently works with older adults and really enjoys this community in various settings Emily hopes to continue to promote art therapy services and highlight the many benefits
HISTORY
Exploring the History of Hampton Roads
June 5, 2026 at 10:00 AM
Join historian and museum director Robert Kelly for a fascinating journey through the rich history of our region From Virginia’s early colonial days to the American Revolution, the Civil War, and beyond, Mr. Kelly will explore the people, places, and events that shaped both our community and the nation’s story.
American Revolution and the Civil War
July 10, 2026 at 10:00 AM
This course will delve into topics including the American Revolution and the Civil War, and explore how these histories connect to Fort Monroe, Gloucester, and the Marquis de Lafayette.
Traditional Chinese Art
August 7, 2026 at 10:00 AM
Join historian and museum director Robert Kelly for a fascinating journey through the rich history of our region From Virginia’s early colonial days to the American Revolution, the Civil War, and beyond, Mr Kelly will explore the people, places, and events that shaped both our community and the nation’s story.
Join historian and museum director Robert Kelly for a fascinating journey through the rich history of our region. From Virginia’s early colonial days to the American Revolution, the Civil War, and beyond, Mr. Kelly will explore the people, places, and events that shaped both our community and the nation’s story
MUSIC
HealthRHYTHMS Drum Circle
June 1, 2026 at 1:30 PM
HealthRHYTHMS Drum Circle- is a science based recreational music making time We connect the body and the mind while freely expressing ourselves through rhythm We’ll create our own beats, jam along to some familiar tunes, and reduce stress, all while having fun along the way
The Hight Note Chair Flex program
July 6, 2026 at 1:30 PM
The Hight Note Chair Flex program was created for individuals who have complications standing during a fitness regimen. This includes senior citizens, people with balance deficits, injuries, disabilities, or suffering from obesity. It is designed to keep individuals mobile and to ensure they remain progressive in daily function and/or recovery This program delivers a fun, musically driven, interactive, full body workout that uplifts people through dance and fitness movements
World Precussion Workshops
August 10, 2026 at 1:30 PM
World Precussion Workshops Explore the rhythms of the world Select from West Africa, Middle and Far East, or Latin Rhythms. Discover working together in community, increase your focus, and have fun!
Lois Reese is the founder of High Notes Rhythm and Wellness After 20 years as a classroom music teacher, it was time to move her classroom to the pool and to her church home In 2018 High Notes Music School was founded; with classes for children and youth, private lessons, and drum circles for all ages. Lois brings a vast musical background including singing with VA Opera, the VA Symphony Orchestra Chorus, VA Handbell Consort, leading church musicians of all ages, and has led numerous workshops in world percussion and handbells Lois also has a passion for helping seniors keep moving, whether it is in the water or seated in a chair. This is the core of High Notes Rhythm and Wellness, staying healthy in mind, body, and spirit.
TECHNOLOGY
Navigating Technology
June 3, 2026 at 10:00 AM
Introduce and Showcase Various Pieces of Technology to Participants Engage in a discussion about how each piece of technology can enhance the lives of residents
Brain Health
July 1, 2026 at 10:00 AM
Luminosity and Elevate Brain Training: Utilize a large screen and connection cable to showcase applications from a smartphone or tablet.
Introducing and Demonstrating Technology Across Various Categories
August 10, 2026 at 1:30 PM
Explore and showcase the technology applicable in the following areas: Grocery Shopping Transportation Reading
At Legacy Healthcare Services, we utilize evidence-based clinical care to transform the lives of residents and to empower them to live a life full of purpose, safety, and dignity Our world-class therapists are available onsite within each community
WILDLIFE
Virginia Living Museum
June 2, 2026 at 2:00 PM
July 21, 2026 at 2:00 PM
August 4, 2026 at 2:00 PM
Learning can be a life-long adventuri. Join Virginia Living Museum staff biologists, naturalists and scientists to explore the natural world in special adult- oriented programs. Each activityoriented porgram is presented in a relaxed, hands on format and includes classroom instruction combined with opportunities to examine specimmens from he Museum's extensive collections and close encounts with live animals Come and share a journey of discovery with others who have an enthusiastic desire to cotinue to learn about the natural world of Virginia and beyond
The Virginia Living Museum, its pond, forest, and grounds, offer a chance to see 200 different species of native wildlife. Visitors can get up close to photograph and view wildlife in the wild or in the museum’s exhibits
Exhibits allow close-up views of Bald Eagle, bobcat, Cedar Waxwing, Eastern Screech-Owl, Hooded Merganser, otter, and beaver, to name a few. The Museum’s natural habitat attracts warblers, woodland birds, waterfowl, Osprey, and more according to the season. The Living Museum features a native wildlife park, aquariums, living natural history exhibits, planetarium, observatory, indoor and outdoor aviaries, children’s learning garden, outdoor classroom, boardwalk at the pond’s edge, easy-to-walk woodland trail, backyard habitat display, and native botanical garden.
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 9, 2026 at 11:30 AM
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 16, 2026 at 11:30 AM
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 13, 2026 at 11:30 AM
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 9, 2026 at 11:00 AM
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 23, 2026 at 11:00 AM
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 25, 2026 at 11:00 AM
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 25, 2026 at 1:00 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 24, 2026 at 1:00 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 14, 2026 at 1:00 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
HEALTH
Why Having Fun in the Secret to Healthier Life -
Virtual
June 26, 2026 at 3:00 PM
July 27, 2026 at 3:00 PM
August 18, 2026 at 3:00 PM
Kim Boyd, MD has helped lead and found some of the most innovative organizations in healthcare, and has built a career as a strategic architect of what's next in health and wellness She was an early leader at One Medical before primary care innovation was mainstream, built metabolic health programs before GLP-1s were a cultural phenomenon, and co-founded a longevity company before longevity became an industry. As CMO of WW, a global leader in weight health with millions of members worldwide, she has helped lead through one of the most high-profile restructurings in consumer health She has also served as founding CMO at Calibrate and Caire, Medical Director at Galileo and Nurx, and advisor to numerous health and wellness companies working across ventures that have collectively raised $250M+ and collaborating with more than 70 of the world's best scientists and researchers to build models of care that leverage AI and emerging therapeutics. A TEDx Boulder speaker (Editor's Pick) and invited panelist at leading health and investor conferences globally (e g HLTH, Newsweek Women's Global Impact Forum, BMO Capital Markets Metabolic Health Summit), her expert voice has been featured in BBC, Newsweek, Reuters, Axios, and Fast Company, among others. A former national team gymnast, Kim was Phi Beta Kappa and an Academic All-American at Stanford University. After winning a Medical Scholars award at Stanford Medical School, she became board-certified in Family Medicine and completed an Integrative Medicine Fellowship through the Andrew Weil Center at the University of Arizona. Kim lives in Boulder with her husband, kids, and rascal dog.
