LEARNERS UNITE! Academy for Lifelong Learners is back after a two-year hiatus (Submitted photos)

Enjoy a day of fun-filled learning at the Academy for Lifelong Learners. After being on hold for two years, the event – previously called Senior Americans Day – is back for its 34th year. Register for June 7 at the Davies Center on the UW-Eau Claire campus for a hyped-up event filled with educational activities, sponsor exhibits, and entertainment, all aimed at people aged 55 and over. 

Cathy Reitz, retired music teacher and director of Stand in the Light Memory choir, is emcee this year, and she is excited to be a part of such a traditional and fulfilling event. “Hopefully my enthusiasm for this event and my choir and just my love of life is going to maybe spark something in someone,” Reitz said. 

Participants can choose three workshops to attend among some 50 options, so you’re sure to find something that piques your interest. Sessions include mental and physical health presentations, discovering outdoor games, creative projects like acrylic painting, and much more.

Breakfast and lunch are provided, as well as a performance by Stand in the Light Memory Choir to wrap up the day. A sponsor gallery filled with more than 50 informational exhibits from local businesses, a photo booth for picture taking, and free health screenings from HSHS Sacred Heart hospital will also be available.

An exciting addition – Dr. Zorba Pastor, physician, author, and commentator on Wisconsin Public Radio – will be hosting the keynote address for the opening session.

“The purpose of the event is to offer education and social connection for older adults in the Chippewa Valley,” said Tamara Mumm, outreach program manager at UWEC. “It’s going to be a great opportunity to learn a lot of great information on a variety of topics.”

If anyone feels uncertain about attending in-person, fear not. The opening session, three pre-planned workshops, and the choir’s closing performance will be live-streamed online.

Registration is now open for $59 by mail. Register online and you can save $5. Phone registration is not available this year, said Mumm. Three hundred people have already signed up, so don’t hesitate for a chance at invigorating interactions with some like-minded community members.

To learn more and register, go to uwec.edu.