Rebecca Perry: WISE Proves It Is Never Too Late to Learn

“It is never too late. As a matter of fact, we have folks as old as 90 in our program.”

By-Hank Stolz
Graphic-Submitted

Questions, Concerns, Opinions?

TEXT US! >> 774-364-8255

Worcester, MA-Rebecca Perry, director of the Worcester Institute for Senior Education, stopped by The Talk of the Commonwealth on Radio Worcester to tell Hank Stolz about the longstanding program and its commitment to lifelong learning.

“It is never too late,” Perry said. “As a matter of fact, we have folks as old as 90 in our program.”

Lifelong Learning and Lasting Connections

Based at Assumption University in Worcester, Massachusetts, WISE is designed primarily for retirees and older adults seeking continued intellectual stimulation and meaningful social engagement.

“It’s not just about the intellectual stimulation, but also the social connections that you get from being part of a community,” Perry said.

The fall catalog includes 30 courses covering subjects such as history, art history, music, science, technology, literature and humor. Courses run for five weeks and meet once per week for 90 minutes.

Membership costs $185 per semester and allows participants to take as many courses as they choose.

“It is simply for the love of learning,” Perry explained. “We like to say: no quizzes, no grades, no pressure.”

Courses Available On Campus and Online

WISE offers courses both on the Assumption University campus and online. Online sessions are recorded, giving members greater flexibility and making the program accessible to people who may have difficulty traveling.

“We offer courses both on campus at Assumption, but also online,” Perry said. “For those who perhaps may not be able to travel as easily from their homes.”

A Program Shaped by Its Members

WISE has operated since 1993 and is distinguished by its member-driven structure. Volunteer members help select subjects, develop the curriculum, recruit instructors and sustain the organization.

“The members who are taking the courses, as well as teaching the courses in some cases, also actually run the program,” Perry said. “The folks who are part of the program decide what they want the program to be.”

Instructors include retired professors, active academics and working professionals from throughout the region.

Fall Registration Is Open

Registration is open for the fall session beginning September 14.

Prospective members can visit assumptionwise.org or call 508-767-7513 for information and enrollment assistance.