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
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.
ART
Abundant Days Art Therapy
December 18, 2025 at 10:30 AM
January 15, 2026 at 10:30 AM
February 19, 2026 at 10:30 AM
Celebrate creativity and self-expression in this uplifting art class designed to inspire joy and connection. Explore a variety of artistic mediums and techniques in a relaxed, supportive environment. Whether you're a seasoned artist or just beginning, every day is an opportunity to create something meaningful and beautiful Let your imagination flourish!
Dana holds a BS in Psychology from Kean University and a Master’s Degree in Applied Gerontology. She later became a Certified Dementia Practitioner, deepening her commitment to enhancing the lives of older adults
ARTS & SCIENCE
Civic Engagement & Social Justice
January 19, 2026 at 11:00 AM
# MLK Day of Service
The MLK Day of Service is a national initiative—a “day on, not a day off.” It emphasizes purpose and impact through engaging in a service project for our local community By participating in this day of service, individuals honor the legacy of Dr Martin Luther King Jr by actively contributing to the well-being and improvement of their communities. Residents can choose from a variety of projects that address local needs, This national day of service not only commemorates Dr. King's vision of equality and justice, but also encourages people to come together, fostering a spirit of unity and collective action. Through these acts of kindness and collaboration, participants build stronger, more connected communities while reflecting on the values of empathy and social responsibility that Dr. King championed throughout his life.
Randi Tate: With over four years of experiences in memory care, Randi brings heart, creativity, and grounded presence to the work of supporting older adults As an intuitive artist, musician, and death doula, Randi weaves expression, ritual, and meaningful engagement into daily life enrichment and end of life support. He believes deeply in preserving identity, honoring personal history, and creating moments that feel purposeful and real. Randi's approach centers on dignity, connection, and the belief that very individual deserves to be seen and understood- not just care for, but known Through music, art, and gentle companionship, he help residents and families navigate memory loss, and transition with comfort, respect, and humanity.
GLOBAL CULTURE STUDIES
Richmond Chinese Choir & Dance Group
February 23, 2026 at 1:30 PM
Promotes Chinese Culture through various types of performances including singing, Chinese dancing, folk music, tai chai & other forms of art. The Richmond Chinese Choir & Dance Group provides an enriching cultural experience that celebrates the diversity and beauty of Chinese heritage. Their performances are a vibrant tapestry of traditional and contemporary elements, offering audiences a glimpse into the rich artistic legacy of China Through their events, they aim to foster greater understanding and appreciation of Chinese culture, bridging communities and creating a space where cultural exchange can thrive. Join us for an evening filled with captivating performances that promise to enlighten and entertain, showcasing the elegance and vitality of Chinese arts.
Richmond Chinese Choir & Dance (RCCD) is a non-profit organization based in Greater Richmond Region of Virginia. RCCD is dedicated to promote Chinese culture through traditional Chinese songs and dance in Richmond and Central Virginia
HISTORY
League of Inquiring Minds
The League of Inquiring Minds & The Holidays
December 2, 2025 at 10:30 AM
The League of Inquiring Minds & The Holidays: The music! The food! The traditions! Josh Urban kicks off the fun with a chat about the most wonderful (and chaotic and bewildering) time of the year
The League of Inquiring Minds A Brave New Year
January 6, 2026 at 10:30 AM
The League of Inquiring Minds & A Brave New Year rolls up, and so does Josh Urban–here to make big plans for the new year, like finally writing that life story, and more.
The League of Inquiring Minds & Night Lights
February 3, 2026 at 10:30 AM
The League of Inquiring Minds & Night Lights : Beat the wintertime blues with a discussion about the lights of the night. Josh Urban stops by to talk all things astronomical.
Josh Urban is a speaker, musician, disc jockey, and musicologist. He's hosted radio and podcast programs, played and taught guitar professionally for nearly twenty years, and is an enthusiastic collector of recordings from around the world
CULINARY
December-Food & Hospitality Traditions
January 2, 2026 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 30, 2026 at 2:00 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 27, 2026 at 2:30 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 30, 2025 at 2:30 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 10:30 AM
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 24, 2026 at 2:30 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 19, 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 16, 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 Cardiac Soiree
February 24, 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!
