Reimagined Partnership Delivers Learning Opportunities for Seniors
Collaborating Programming for Life-long Learning
In 1977, a group of seniors approached the University of Regina about the feasibility of providing courses to test the demand for non-credit learning for seniors. That meeting inspired the creation of the Seniors’ University Group (SUG) and a nearly five-decade-long collaboration with CCE.
This year, SUG and CCE signed a new five-year agreement that will provide and expand lifelong learning opportunities for older adults in Regina. Under the terms of the agreement, classes and lectures will continue to be held on the College Avenue Campus with registration and course scheduling managed by SUG.
Neale Partington, President of SUG says this new commitment empowers their organization to do more. “We’re able to take greater ownership of membership management and programming and we’re already seeing significant momentum.” That momentum is reflected in their growing membership numbers, from 180 in 2023 to 560 in 2024. The volunteer-led organization now develops and delivers its own wide range of programming based on the interests of students aged 50+. “From Writing Memoirs & Creative Stories to Yoga classes, we keep registration fees low to ensure accessibility,” says Partington.
With CCE providing free classroom and meeting space, our organization is able to keep courses affordable so more seniors can participate.—Neale Partington, President of SUG
For CCE, the partnership perfectly aligns with their shared goal. “We want to ensure seniors in the area have access to high-quality learning experiences tailored to their needs and interests,” says Christie Schultz, Dean of CCE. “The courses are well-attended because the students themselves are providing input on the topics being offered and we’re hearing some really positive feedback.”
Learn more about the Seniors' University Group.
Partington agrees. “Our members are very appreciative. I was talking to one student who is 94 years old. She’s taking all of the classes remotely because she can’t drive anymore and loves that she can participate from home. We offer a combination of online and in-person classes so people can choose to attend in whatever way works best for them.”
For Schultz, the new agreement has paved the way for a rewarding next chapter in this long-term partnership. “We’re excited to see the strength of the programming that SUG is creating and that the College Avenue Campus and the University of Regina continue to be a hub for learning at any age.
Banner photo credit: University of Regina