Chesapeake’s offerings go beyond traditional credit and workforce training classes. The Institute for Adult Learning is for mature learners over the age of 50 who are making the most of their retirement years.

The IAL offers lifelong learning opportunities to active over-50 students at a reduced cost. With a yearly membership, learners may take as many classes they like.

“I joined IAL after looking into similar programs in the area,” IAL Council Robin Klinefelter said. “The variety of classes and energy of this group appealed to me.”

Program Director Anne White said that student input is vital in developing the IAL course schedule.

“We strive to offer a fresh program with relevant and enjoyable classes each semester,” White said. “We have members who have belonged to the IAL since it began 15 years ago. We’re constantly evaluating our offerings to make sure that our classes are interesting and entertaining.”

The Spring 2016 schedule includes classes in art, cooking, film, languages, dance, nutrition, history, photography, horticulture, literature, Tai Chi and tennis.

The offerings include Brown Bag Lunch and Learn sessions from 11:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. This spring’s line -up includes: Genealogy with Charles Whitehead on April 4, a book discussion with Bill Peak on April 11, memoir writing with Barbara Reissert on April 18, a presentation by Holocaust survivor Ursula Marks on April 25 and a session with Scarlett Moffat of Talisman Therapeutic Riding on May 2.

Upcoming field trips include a visit to the Cryptological Museum in Ft. Meade and a tour of Paul Reed Smith Guitars in Stevensville.

A full membership is $75 per year. For more information, click here http://www.chesapeake.edu/continuing-education/institute-for-adult-learning-ial