Seniors enjoy a lifetime of learning

Jessica Jones
Contributing Writer

For senior citizens who want to partake in life-long learning, the University of West Florida's Leisure Learning Society is just the organization to join. The society provides educational opportunities in a relaxing social setting for seniors 55 and older.
“ It’s so healthy for seniors to further their education,” said Mardi McDaniel-King, the society's director. “It keeps them young.”
Members of the Leisure Learning Society Bridge Club can often be seen in the University Commons, where they sit around a table in the cafeteria, playing a fierce game of bridge. Everyone is invited to join these games, not just the group's members.
On Fridays, the society's members can be found in Building 86, heading to their TGIF classes.
There are 50 courses offered, and they include subjects of interest such as archaeology, sports, finance and computer science. But there are no tests and no grades, which most students consider the hassle of formal education.
Several courses are also offered to teach the game of bridge in its different forms. These classes range from beginner to advanced. Bob Carlton, the instructor for these classes, is an avid fan of bridge and a volunteer instructor.
Carlton said he learns to play the game better by teaching others. “I learn from the students, the situations and the constant practice of the game in all the classes,” he said.
All the instructors of the Leisure Learning classes are volunteers.
The society is always looking for citizens with knowledge about a particular subject who would be willing to instruct classes.
McDaniel-King said the instructors are glad to teach these classes as volunteers. “It makes teachers happy having a class full of students who are eager to learn the subject,” McDaniel-King said.
Another opportunity provided to the group's members is the Lunch ‘N’ Learn program.
On the first Tuesday of each month, participants have lunch from 11:30 to 12:30 p.m. at a different local restaurant and then enjoy an hour-long presentation by someone with a particular skill or ability to share.
Upcoming Lunch ‘N’ Learn topics and restaurants can be found at www.uwf.edu/leisurelearning/lunch.htm.
“ I got a call today from a man who was really excited to join the Leisure Learning Society,” said Robin Young, an assistant for the program.
Word of mouth has been the best advertisement for the group.
“ His friend had recommended the club to him, and he was calling to learn details,” Young said.
Advertisements are also put in the Pensacola News Journal and WEAR Channel 3 television. Also, McDaniel-King speaks about the society at local events.