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