UpDate - Vol. 14, No. 32, Page 9
May 18, 1995
Academy of Life Long Learning celebrates 15th anniversary

     The Academy of Lifelong Learning, a part of the Division of
Continuing Education, celebrated its 15th anniversary May 12 with a
program and buffet luncheon in Arsht Hall on the Wilmington campus.
     Speakers included Irwin Engleson, who chairs the academy council;
University President David P. Roselle; Richard Fischer, associate
provost for continuing and distance education; and Albert Spivey, a
founding member.
     Providing intellectual and cultural opportunities for men and
women of retirement age, the academy was established in 1980 and has
received national recognition as a model program. Its enrollment has
grown from 83 members the first year to nearly 1,400 in 1995, with 100
currently volunteering as instructors, who are teaching more than 130
courses. The only admission requirements are interest in a continuing
education experience, participation and a membership fee. The Southern
Delaware Academy of Lifelong Learning in Lewes serves retired people
in that area.
       One of the highlights of the academy's history was the
construction of Arsht Hall, named in honor of active academy members,
Roxana C. and S. Samuel Arsht, who donated $2 million toward its
construction. Completed in 1991, Arsht Hall houses the academy, is
used for off-campus degree programs and as a conference facility.
     Other charter members honored at the May 12 luncheon included Ann
Bakiel, Glen and Gerry Barbaras, Beatrice and Joseph Bell, Miriam
Bluestone, Jeff Bowen, Aaron and Martha Brennesholtz, Holly Dianich,
Ann Herndon, Ilse Klahr, Pauline Lynch, Eleanor Niederhauser, Jane
Spivey, Isaac and Jean Whyte and Dick and Sarah Winer.
     UD staff members Bob Robinson and Jeanne Kennedy are the
coordiantor and  staff assistant, respectively, for the Academy of
Lifelong Learning.