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 Wesemann Hall, 656 S. Greenwich Street.

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

VOLTS will be moving to the Education wing of Wesemann Hall for the 2024-2025 academic year! Free parking is available in Lot 50, directly across from Wesemann Hall. ADA parking is available. Once inside, you may take the elevator to 2B or take the stairs to the second floor.

Click here for a Campus Map and Parking (Building Location Starred)

Fall 2024

Monday, August 26, 3:30PM: Wesemann Hall 2nd Floor Library

  • City of Valparaiso Update
  • Jon Costas, Mayor of Valparaiso

Monday, September 9, 3:30PM: Wesemann Hall 2nd Floor Library

  • Support for Self-Sufficiency through your local Area Agency on Aging: Service Options and Social Engagement Opportunities
  • Jen Trowbridge, President and CEO at CoAction, formerly NW Indiana Community Action

Monday, September 23, 3:30PM: Wesemann Hall 2nd Floor Library

  • Establishment of Shipwreck Nature Preserves to Promote Indiana’s Maritime Heritage
  • Professor Charles Beeker, Director for Indiana University’s Center for Underwater Science and Academic Diving Program 

Monday, October 14, 3:30PM: Wesemann Hall 2nd Floor Library

  • November 2024 National General Election
  • James Old, Professor of Political Science at Valparaiso University

Monday, October 28, 3:30PM: Wesemann Hall 2nd Floor Library

  • The sound of the Alps: Everything you ever wanted to know about the Alphorn
  • Phil Hahn, South Shore Brass Band

Monday, November 11, 3:30PM: Wesemann Hall 2nd Floor Library

  • Art’s Communicative Power – The work of Ernst Schwidder
  • Rev. James Wetzstein, Valparaiso University Pastor and Executive Director of the Institute of Liturgical Studies

Monday, November 25, 3:30PM: Wesemann Hall 2nd Floor Library

  • Hilltop Neighborhood House Community Update
  • Jennifer Wright, Chief Executive Officer AND Amy Osburn, Vice President and Director

Monday, December 9, 3:30PM: Wesemann Hall 2nd Floor Library

  • Porter County Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA): Ordinary Community Members Doing Extraordinary Things For Our Most Vulnerable Children
  • Sarah Fink, CASA Program Director, Family & Youth Services Bureau

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