VOLTS

VOLTS Valparaiso Organization for Learning and Teaching Seniors is a group of seniors in the area who are intellectually curious and like to learn, particularly with a group of peers. VOLTS was organized in the Spring of 1995 with the support of the Office of Continuing Education at Valparaiso University. VOLTS is directed by its own members and now works in collaboration with the Valpo Education Department. Programs, including guest speakers and lecturers, are chosen by the interests of those involved. Topics include previews of university drama and musical productions, discussion of current events, and presentations by VU faculty or other professionals. As the name implies, the program is designed for seniors who are interested in learning and teaching. Expertise within the group naturally lends itself to an exchange of information within the group. Thus, VOLTS does not replicate a classroom setting in which members are lectured to by a speaker. Rather, VOLTS allows participants to be actively involved in both learning from and teaching fellow members.

Who can participate?

The VOLTS program is open to all senior citizens who are excited about knowledge. Participants are retired or above the age of 60.

When can I start?

Anytime! A VOLTS schedule is prepared each semester and is included in the current brochure. If you are interested in participating you are welcome to come as a guest or visitor to a session. Virtually all meetings are held on the campus at the University.

What Is the cost?

The cost per year is currently $20 per person or $35 per couple per academic year.

Register

Download and complete the VOLTS Registration Form. You may submit your registration and payment at any VOLTS meeting, or simply bring them to the Education Department in Meier Hall.

Request information

For more information please contact the The Department of Education at Valparaiso University at 219.464.5077, or you may send us an email at emma.kelley@valpo.edu or douglas.wassilak@valpo.edu.

Schedule and Parking

Click here for Directions and Parking

Click here for a Campus Map (Building Locations Starred)

Fall 2023

Monday, August 28, 3:30PM: Harre Union Ballroom A
An Introduction to New Zealand
Speaker: Ann and Al Trost

Monday, September 11, 3:30PM: Harre Union Ballroom A
The Boundary Waters and the Impact of Mining Operations
Speaker: Dr. Jon-Paul McCool, Assistant Professor of Geography, Valparaiso University

Monday, September 25, 3:30PM: Harre Union Ballroom A
Occupational Therapy Program at Valparaiso University
Speaker: Dr. Sara Story, Director, Associate Professor of Occupational Therapy

Monday, October 9, 3:30PM: Harre Union Ballroom A
Possibilities and Problems of Local Political Issues
Speaker: Lenore Hoffman, Former City Council Member, Retired Valparaiso HS Teacher

Monday, October 23, 3:30PM: Harre Union Ballroom A
American Political Parties and Elections
Speaker: Professors James Old, Political Science Department, Valparaiso University

Monday, November 13, 3:30PM: Harre Union Ballroom B
Humane Indiana Wildlife: The mission to aid injured and orphaned wildlife in NWI
Speaker: Nicole Harmon, Wildlife Center Director

Monday, November 27, 3:30PM: Harre Union Ballroom A
The People of Ukraine
Speaker: Dr. Myron Lewyckyk, Ophthalmologist/Surgeon, Mission Trip Leader to Ukraine

Monday, December 11, 3:30PM: Harre Union Ballroom A
Women’s in 2023 Saudi Arabia: The Saudi Arabia You Don’t Know
Speaker: Dr. David Rowland, Senior Research Professor in Psychology, Valparaiso University

Program Planning Committee
  • Dave Eickemeyer and Susan Livarchik – Co-chairs
  • Ann Jones
  • Michael Strayer
  • Dr. Albert Trost 
  • Ruth Bettermann
  • Phyllis Schroeder
  • Education Department Representatives: Douglas Wassilak, Emma Kelley