Cumberland, SC, August 18, 2025
News Summary
Residents of Cumberland Village participated in a registration event for the Center for Lifelong Learning at USC Aiken. The event showcased a range of educational opportunities tailored for senior citizens, including a variety of engaging courses. Notable attendees included local support figures emphasizing community involvement in lifelong education. A new initiative, ‘Cumberland University’, was introduced to honor residents completing multiple courses, showcasing the center’s commitment to enriching lives through learning.
Cumberland, SC – On August 12, 2025, residents from Cumberland Village gathered at USC Aiken to participate in a registration event for the Center for Lifelong Learning (CLL). Approximately 15 residents took part in the event, which highlighted the university’s commitment to providing educational opportunities tailored to senior citizens.
Among those enrolling were Judy Hildreth and Ernestine Gillam, who received assistance from Linda Sorrels, a representative of the CLL, during the registration process. Don Jones, the executive director of Cumberland Village, was also present alongside residents Lee Connelly, Marjorie Miline, and Bill Branch, emphasizing local support for continued education.
The CLL provides a diverse offering of courses designed to pique the interests of older adults. Subjects range from local ecology, including South Carolina’s wading birds, history topics like Hadrian’s Wall and the Battle of Trafalgar, to more contemporary subjects such as an intro to artificial intelligence and nuclear medicine basics. Fall semester classes include engaging titles like “History in Headstones,” “Making Your Own Wine,” “Unlocking MS Word,” “East India Company,” “Jerusalem Travelogue,” and “Pine Lawn Cemetery.”
A significant new initiative, dubbed “Cumberland University,” was unveiled to honor residents who complete six or more classes from the CLL. Participating residents receive a diploma in a celebratory spring graduation ceremony, reinforcing the program’s dedication to enriching their lives through education.
The Center for Lifelong Learning has been operational for over 30 years, establishing itself as a go-to resource for educational advancement. Classes are available to individuals of all ages, though the primary focus remains on older adults. To support technological learning, a new technology center has been established in the USCA Business and Education Building, allowing for increased computer access and student capacity.
CLL’s membership fee stands at $35, with additional fees for varying classes. Enrollment operates on a first-come, first-served basis, emphasizing the importance of early registration. Classes for the fall semester commenced in mid-August, shortly after the spring semester concluded on April 29. Class highlights and descriptions for the upcoming semester are accessible online at aikenlearning.org, encouraging wider participation.
Through its offerings, CLL fosters strong community ties among participants while promoting a supportive environment for continuous learning and engagement, thereby fulfilling its mission to serve the educational needs of the Cumberland Village residents and beyond.
FAQ
What is the Center for Lifelong Learning (CLL)?
The Center for Lifelong Learning (CLL) at USC Aiken offers a variety of educational courses aimed primarily at older adults, though available to all age groups. Its mission is to enrich the lives of community members through education.
How can residents enroll in CLL courses?
Residents can enroll in CLL courses during registration events, such as the one held on August 12, 2025. Enrollment is on a first-come, first-served basis, and there are membership and class fees involved.
What types of courses are offered by the CLL?
The CLL offers a wide range of courses, including topics like local ecology, history, technology, and general interest classes. Specific classes include subjects like “Making Your Own Wine” and “Unlocking MS Word.”
What is the “Cumberland University” program?
The “Cumberland University” program honors residents who complete six or more classes at the CLL with a diploma awarded during a spring graduation ceremony, celebrating their educational achievements.
Key Features of the Event
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Date | August 12, 2025 |
| Participants | Approximately 15 residents from Cumberland Village |
| Notable Attendees | Judy Hildreth, Ernestine Gillam, Linda Sorrels, Don Jones |
| Classes Offered | History, ecology, technology, and general interest courses |
| Membership Fee | $35 plus variable class fees |
| New Initiatives | Cumberland University diploma program |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
USC Aiken Launches Lifelong Learning Program for Seniors
North Augusta Expands Access to Education with New Program
USC Aiken Launches Pacer $mart Financial Education Program
University of South Carolina Aiken Launches Financial Education Program
Additional Resources
- WFXG: Seniors in Aiken Embrace Lifelong Learning
- Wikipedia: Lifelong Learning
- Post and Courier: Lifelong Learning Education in Aiken
- Google Search: Lifelong Learning
- WJBF: Senior Home Partners with University
- Google Scholar: Lifelong Learning for Seniors
- Post and Courier: Center for Lifelong Learning Fall Classes
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Education for Seniors
- Post and Courier: CLL Fall Semester Catalogue
- Google News: Seniors Education
Author: STAFF HERE AIKEN
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