Bluestem U lifelong learning

Local seniors – both those living at Bluestem Communities and those from wider area communities – have been expanding their minds and improving their overall wellbeing with Bluestem U.

Having just finished its second semester, Bluestem U is a lifelong learning program that was launched in 2022 in partnership between Bluestem Communities and its higher education neighbors – Bethel College in North Newton, Kansas, and Hesston (Kansas) College. The program seeks to provide lifelong learning opportunities for individuals age 55 and better.

“Bluestem U is the best thing to happen recently in our community,” said Marjean Harris, local Newton, Kansas, resident who took the spring 2022 semester course offering “Slowing Down to the Speed of Poetry.”

A multitude of studies point to the benefits of lifelong learning and the overall wellness it provides participants. “Continued learning experiences are so important to every person’s quality of life regardless of age and in keeping sharp both mentally and physically,” said Julie Miller, Bluestem Communities Lifelong Learning Program Manager.

The first two semesters of Bluestem U both offered three courses, each meeting once per week for four to seven weeks. Courses are taught by current or former faculty or staff at the partnering colleges or area experts in particular subject matters. Registration for each course is $50.

Jim and Bonnie Miller, Bluestem Communities residents at Kidron Bethel Village, jumped into the Bluestem U program with both feet.

“We loved the first Bluestem U courses we took,” the Millers said. “We met so many wonderful people and enjoyed the exposure to the wide-array of topics. We took all three offered courses again in the second semester and they were equally fantastic. It’s so great to meet people and learn new things!”

Visit BluestemU.org to see details about upcoming semesters, courses offered and to register.