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
ARTS & SCIENCE
Civic Engagement & Social Justice
January 22, 2026 at 2:00 PM
# 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.
Global Culture & Social Justice
February 26, 2026 at 2:00 PM
Global Cultures & Contemporary Issues Focus: International current events, cultural literacy, empathy; Black History Month, multi-cultural program, or an excursion to a museum. These programs aim to broaden understanding and foster appreciation for the rich tapestry of global cultures. By highlighting international current events and cultural literacy, participants gain the tools to engage thoughtfully with diverse communities In honor of Black History Month, special attention is given to the achievements and contributions of Black individuals throughout history, providing an opportunity to reflect on the past and inspire future progress. Multi-cultural programs and excursions to local museums offer immersive experiences that bring these themes to life, encouraging empathy and a deeper connection to the world around us.
Corinne DeVane-Shelor, CDP, AAP-BC Inspiritás Director
HISTORY
Virginia Is For Astronomers
December 11, 2025 & December 18, 2025 at 2:00 PM
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
Virginia Is For Writers
January 8, 2026 & January 15, 2026 at 2:00 PM
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.
Virginia Is For Presidents
February 12, 2026 & February 18, 2026 at 2:00 PM
Our state boasts the most big shots: eight US presidents are from Virginia Josh Urban tells their stories
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
December 4, 2026 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 19, 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 16 ,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 5, 2025 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 2, 2026 at 4:00 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 6, 2026 at 4:00 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 2, 2025 at 11:00 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 6, 2026 at 11:00 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 3 , 2026 at 11:00 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!
