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| History |
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| The History and Development of the Aquinas Emeritus College |
| The Emeritus College program at Aquinas College was born in 1973, the product of former Aquinas College president Dr. Norbert Hruby's vision of a center for lifelong learning. Dr. Hruby believed strongly that Aquinas had a responsibility as well as a mission to provide pre- and post-retirement education opportunities to the growing population of older adults. This insight and commitment were ahead of their time, especially when most small colleges were struggling just to maintain their traditional-aged students. The program was developed with assistance from Dr. Howard G. McClusky of the University of Michigan, Dr. Carl Pettersch, retired Dean of Graduate Studies at Western Connecticut State University and Sister Agnes Claire Thiel of the Dominican Sisters. |
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| In the fall of 1975, 115 persons enrolled in courses in the Emeritus College program, which has grown steadily ever since. In 1978, the Aquinas College Board of Trustees created the Emeritus Board to serve as an advisory body for the program. In the early years, the Aquinas College administration assisted with grant applications, feasibility studies, and the expansion of the program to Naples, Florida, and to local nursing and retirement communities. Today, more than 1,000 students participate annually in Emeritus College courses. |
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| The program boasts seven sessions offering more than 50 distinct courses per year in its on-campus program and more than a dozen programs offered at area retirement communities. Additionally, the Emeritus College has expanded its programming to include day tours to art and cultural exhibits, and partnerships with local cultural and professional institutions offering programs of wide-ranging interest. Presently, efforts are underway to appeal to the "boomer" population and minority communities by offering evening courses and addressing issues of diversity in Emeritus course offerings. |
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| Sister Mary Aquinas Weber, Chancellor Emerita of Aquinas College, has provided oversight for the Emeritus College since 1980 and continues to guide its growth and vision. Its dedicated Board, together with the Director and Program Coordinator, work toward developing curriculum, increasing the program's visibility within the community, and identifying funding sources. The success of the Emeritus College over the past 30 years is due in large part to a vibrant and generous community that has provided both leadership and financial support. |
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| Throughout its 30-year history, the Emeritus College has been dedicated to serving the interests and needs of the mature adult learner population. With its broad liberal arts curriculum and programming reflecting the unique worth, experience and desire for lifelong learning of its students, the Aquinas Emeritus College has become the benchmark for older adult education in Michigan. |
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